An Bang Beach vs Cua Dai Beach: Best Beach for Photos in Hoi An
If you’re planning a beach photoshoot in Hoi An, you’ll quickly run into this question:
An Bang Beach or Cua Dai Beach — which one is better for photos?
Both beaches are beautiful, but they offer very different photographic moods. As a local photographer, I choose between them based on light, weather, crowd levels, and the story my clients want to tell.
This guide compares An Bang Beach vs Cua Dai Beach so you can choose the best beach for photos in Hoi An.
Overview: Two Beaches, Two Very Different Styles
| Beach | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| An Bang Beach | Lively, lifestyle, cozy | Couples, casual travel photos |
| Cua Dai Beach | Open, dramatic, quiet | Romantic, cinematic photos |
Both are only a short drive from Hoi An Ancient Town, but they photograph very differently.
An Bang Beach: Lively & Lifestyle-Focused
📍 An Bang Village
An Bang Beach is the most popular beach near Hoi An — and for good reason.
Why photographers love An Bang Beach
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Clean, soft sand
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Palm trees and beach cafés
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Casual, relaxed atmosphere
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Easy access and facilities
Photos here feel warm, friendly, and full of life.
Best photo styles at An Bang
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Couple photoshoots
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Casual walking shots
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Coffee-by-the-beach moments
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Lifestyle travel photography
Best time to shoot at An Bang
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Sunrise: calm water, minimal crowds
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Late afternoon: warm light, more energy
Things to consider
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Gets busy during peak hours
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Backgrounds can be visually busy
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Less ideal if you want a minimal, empty look
👉 Best for travelers who want photos that feel natural and joyful.
Cua Dai Beach: Open, Quiet & Cinematic
📍 Cua Dai
Cua Dai Beach is wider, more open, and less crowded — especially on weekdays.
Why photographers love Cua Dai Beach
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Wide, open shoreline
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Clean horizon lines
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Fewer people in the background
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Strong sunsets and silhouettes
Photos here feel romantic, emotional, and cinematic.
Best photo styles at Cua Dai
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Romantic couple photos
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Anniversary or honeymoon shoots
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Silhouettes at sunset
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Editorial-style portraits
Best time to shoot at Cua Dai
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Sunrise: soft light, peaceful mood
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Sunset: dramatic skies and reflections
Things to consider
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Fewer cafés and facilities
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Wind can be strong
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Less “lifestyle” detail
👉 Best for couples who want timeless, story-driven images.
Light & Mood Comparison
| Aspect | An Bang | Cua Dai |
|---|---|---|
| Morning light | Soft & friendly | Calm & emotional |
| Sunset light | Warm & casual | Dramatic & cinematic |
| Crowds | Medium–high | Low–medium |
| Background style | Cafés, palms | Open sea, sand |
| Overall mood | Relaxed & lively | Quiet & romantic |
Which Beach Is Better for Couple Photos?
Choose An Bang Beach if you:
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Want relaxed, lifestyle photos
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Enjoy cafés and casual moments
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Prefer a lively travel vibe
Choose Cua Dai Beach if you:
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Want emotional, romantic photos
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Prefer minimal backgrounds
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Love sunset silhouettes and open space
Many couples choose An Bang for morning and Cua Dai for sunset — a perfect balance.
Outfit Tips for Beach Photoshoots in Hoi An
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Light, flowing fabrics
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Neutral colors (white, beige, soft blue)
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Barefoot works best
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Avoid heavy patterns and dark colors
Simple outfits let the beach atmosphere shine.
Local Photographer Tips
From real shooting experience:
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Check wind conditions before sunset shoots
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Schedule sunrise shoots for the cleanest look
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Move with the light — not against it
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Keep the shoot short and relaxed
Beach photography is about flow, not posing.
Final Verdict: Which Beach Is the Best for Photos in Hoi An?
There’s no absolute winner — only the right choice for your story.
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An Bang Beach = warm, lively, lifestyle photos
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Cua Dai Beach = quiet, romantic, cinematic images
If photography is important to your trip, a local photographer can help you choose the right beach on the right day.
📸 Planning a Beach Photoshoot in Hoi An?
If you’re looking for a local photographer in Hoi An who knows when and where to shoot at An Bang or Cua Dai Beach, feel free to get in touch.
I’d be happy to help you create beautiful, natural beach photos that truly reflect your travel experience.