Ky Co Beach Quy Nhon
A crescent of turquoise and gold.
π₯ Highly Recommended
4.4 β (1.8K)
Introduction
Ky Co Beach Quy Nhon (BΓ£i Kα»³ Co) is a coastal destination on the Nhon Ly peninsula, about 25 km northeast of Quy Nhon's city center. Characterized by its crescent-shaped shoreline, clear blue water, and surrounding rock formations, the beach is accessible only by sea via a short canoe trip or by a dedicated shuttle bus down the mountainside. Its unique geography separates it from the mainland, creating a distinct seaside environment.
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The Main Beach
The primary draw is the stretch of fine white sand that meets calm, turquoise waters, making it an excellent spot for swimming and relaxing. The water here is known for its clarity and displays multiple shades of blue depending on the depth and sunlight.
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Rock Pools and Caves
At the southern end of the beach, low tide reveals a series of natural rock pools and small caves. These shallow pools are calm enough for anyone to sit in and observe small marine life trapped by the receding tide.
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The Wooden Pier
Extending out over the rocks and water, this wooden walkway was built specifically as a viewpoint and photo location. It offers an excellent vantage point for capturing the entire sweep of the bay and the contrast between the sea and the rocky cliffs.
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Snorkeling at Bai Dua
Most canoe tours to Ky Co include a stop at the nearby Bai Dua, or "Pineapple Beach", which is actually a shallow-water reef. Here, you can snorkel to see the local coral and fish, though the quality and visibility can vary with the season and water conditions.
Getting there
From Quy Nhon City Center to Nhon Ly Pier (approx. 22 km):
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π Taxi: 35-45 mins | 300,000 - 400,000 VND ~ $12 - $16 USD
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π Ride-Hailing App (Grab): 35-45 mins | 250,000 - 350,000 VND ~ $10 - $14 USD
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π΅ Motorbike: 40-50 mins. A popular option for confident riders, offering scenic views along the Thi Nai Bridge.
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From Nhon Ly Pier to Ky Co Beach:
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π€ Canoe/Speedboat: This is the most popular method. The 10-minute ride is scenic and often part of a tour package (350,000 - 450,000 VND ~ $14 - $18 USD) that includes the entrance fee, lunch, and a snorkeling stop.
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π Shuttle Bus: If you travel to the Ky Co entrance by road, you must park and take a dedicated shuttle bus down the steep final section to the beach. The shuttle fee is around 50,000 VND ~ $2 USD per person.
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β οΈ Renting a motorbike is the most flexible way to reach the Nhon Ly area, but be prepared for coastal winds on the bridges. Booking a package tour from a reputable operator at the pier is often the most convenient and cost-effective way to experience Ky Co and its surroundings.
Hours & Admission
π Opening hours:
- Monday - Sunday: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
- Notes: Canoe services are subject to weather conditions and may be suspended during the rainy season (typically October to January) or on days with rough seas. The road access remains open year-round.
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π« Ticket prices:
- Adults: 100,000 VND ~ $4 USD per person
- Children (1m-1.4m): 50,000 VND ~ $2 USD per person
- Children (under 1m): Free
- Notes: This is the entrance fee to the beach area only. It does not include the mandatory canoe or shuttle bus transport required to reach the beach itself. These are often purchased as part of a package tour from Nhon Ly pier.
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πΆ Best time to visit:
- Plan your visit between March and September when Quy Nhon experiences its dry season, with calm seas and sunny skies. To avoid large crowds, arrive early on a weekday morning. Low tide offers the best conditions for exploring the rock pools.
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β Recommended duration:
- Allow for at least half a day (3-4 hours) to fully enjoy the beach, have a meal, and potentially visit the nearby snorkeling spot.
Tips from locals
Local tips
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π The method of arrival changes the experience. The canoe trip offers dramatic sea views and is faster, but it is weather-dependent and not ideal for those prone to motion sickness. The road journey provides a stunning cliff-top perspective of the beach as you descend but requires transferring to a shuttle bus for the final steep portion.
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βοΈ There is very little natural shade on the main beach area. While there are huts and umbrellas for rent from the restaurants, it's essential to bring your own sun protection, including a hat, high-SPF sunscreen, and sunglasses.
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π Wear appropriate footwear. While flip-flops are fine for the sand, the rocky areas around the natural pools are sharp and slippery. A pair of water shoes or sandals with a good grip is highly recommended if you plan to explore beyond the main swimming area.
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π‘ Check the tide schedule before you go. The unique rock pools and small sea caves at the edge of the beach are only accessible and safe to explore during low tide. Arriving as the tide is going out will give you the maximum time to see this feature.
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Be aware
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π₯ As one of Quy Nhon's top attractions, Ky Co can become extremely crowded, particularly on weekends and during the peak domestic travel months of June through August. The high volume of visitors can diminish the feeling of a secluded paradise.
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π° The beach is a self-contained tourist area where prices for food, drinks, and activities like jetskiing are significantly higher than in Quy Nhon city. It is best to bring sufficient cash, as digital payments may not always be available, and manage your budget accordingly.
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π The snorkeling experience at nearby Bai Dua is often included in boat tours but receives mixed reviews. Water clarity and the health of the coral can be inconsistent. Set expectations accordingly; it is a brief activity rather than a primary snorkeling destination.
FAQs
What is the best way to get to Ky Co Beach Quy Nhon?
The most popular and scenic way is by canoe from Nhon Ly pier. Alternatively, you can go by road to the Ky Co gate and take a mandatory shuttle bus down to the beach, which is a better option during rough seas.
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How much does it cost to visit Ky Co Beach Quy Nhon?
The entrance ticket is 100,000 VND (~$4 USD) for adults. This does not include the cost of transport (canoe or shuttle bus) to the beach, which must be paid separately or as part of a tour package.
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Can I visit Ky Co without joining a tour?
Yes, you can. You would arrange your own transport to Nhon Ly, then hire a canoe or pay for the shuttle bus service and buy your entrance ticket directly. However, package tours are often more convenient.
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What is the best time of year to visit Ky Co?
The dry season, from March to September, is the best time. The weather is sunny, and the sea is calm, which is ideal for the canoe trip and swimming.
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Are there restaurants and facilities on the beach?
Yes, Ky Co is a developed tourist area with several restaurants serving fresh seafood, as well as restrooms, changing rooms, and fresh-water showers (for a small fee).
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Is Ky Co Beach Quy Nhon suitable for families with children?
The beach itself, with its calm, shallow water, is very suitable for children. However, parents should consider if the open-top canoe ride is appropriate for very young kids, especially on a windy day.
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What should I bring for a day trip to Ky Co?
Sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a swimsuit, a towel, and cash are essential. Water shoes are also highly recommended for exploring the rocky areas.
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How much time should I spend at Ky Co?
A half-day trip, typically lasting 3 to 4 hours, is usually sufficient to enjoy swimming, take photos, and have lunch.
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Is the water at Ky Co Beach Quy Nhon clean?
Yes, the water is known for being exceptionally clear and clean, which is one of its main attractions.
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Can I stay overnight at Ky Co?
No, there are currently no overnight accommodation options directly on Ky Co Beach. It is operated exclusively as a day-trip destination.
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