Vietnam

Why Vietnam

Let's be straight about this one, because a lot of travel writing isn't: Vietnam is a marginal surf destination, and that's fine if you know it going in.

Da Nang's My Khe (China Beach) picks up a soft, seasonal swell on the northeast monsoon. It's a friendly, sandy beach break, and there are three genuine surf schools running lessons. What there isn't: a week-long surf camp worth flying for, or anything for an experienced surfer.

So: come to Vietnam for Vietnam. If you're already in Da Nang between October and March, take a lesson — it's a lovely place to learn. Don't book a surf trip around it.

When to go

• **Oct–Mar:** the swell window, such as it is. October and November are usually the most consistent.Oct–Mar: the swell window, such as it is. October and November are usually the most consistent.
• **Apr–Sep:** essentially flat. Beautiful beach, no waves.Apr–Sep: essentially flat. Beautiful beach, no waves.

Getting around

Fly into Da Nang (DAD). The beach is a ten-minute taxi from the city, and the schools sit right on the beach road. Everything is walkable from the An Thuong district.