Things To Do
in Sầm Sơn

Sầm Sơn is a charming coastal city located in Thanh Hóa Province, Vietnam, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant tourist culture. It is a popular destination for both domestic and international visitors seeking relaxation and adventure by the sea. The city boasts a rich cultural heritage and is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including mountains and lush greenery.

Sầm Sơn offers a delightful mix of leisure activities, local cuisine, and friendly hospitality.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Beach Relaxation and Local Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a beachfront café and then enjoy some sunbathing or swimming at Sầm Sơn Beach.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic Doc Cuoc Temple and take a stroll along the promenade, soaking in the coastal views.

evening
:

Dinner at a local seafood restaurant followed by a walk along the beach to enjoy the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Culture
morning
:

Head out for a hike to the nearby Truong Le Mountain for breathtaking views of the coastline.

afternoon
:

Explore the local market for souvenirs and try street food specialties, then visit the nearby fishing village.

evening
:

Experience Sầm Sơn's nightlife at a local bar or night market, enjoying live music and local drinks.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Pho$2
🥡Street Food Meal$1.50
Coffee$1
🏨Budget Hotel Night$15
🚕Taxi Ride (5km)$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful beaches and scenic views.
  • Rich local culture and delicious seafood.
  • Variety of activities from relaxation to adventure.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist season.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Language barrier may be a challenge.
  • "Xin chào" - Hello
  • "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
  • "Xin lỗi" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "Bạn có thể giúp tôi không?" - Can you help me?
  • "Tôi muốn ăn" - I want to eat

Places to Visit in Sầm Sơn

Visit one of these nice places.

Sầm Sơn Beach

A picturesque beach perfect for capturing stunning sunrise and sunset shots.

Doc Cuoc Temple

A historical site with beautiful architecture and scenic views, ideal for cultural photography.

Truong Le Mountain

Offers panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding hills, perfect for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sầm Sơn

Sầm Sơn offers a delectable array of local dishes that reflect the rich culinary traditions of Vietnam, especially seafood.

Sầm Sơn Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sò Điệp Nướng Mỡ Hành

Grilled scallops served with green onion oil, a must-try for seafood lovers.

Must-Try!

Bánh Xèo

Vietnamese savory pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Sầm Sơn Night Market

A vibrant market offering a variety of street food, local snacks, and fresh seafood.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sầm Sơn experiences a tropical monsoon climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season (November to April) features cooler temperatures, while the wet season (May to October) brings high humidity and rainfall. Summer months can be hot, often exceeding 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 15°C (59°F).

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to older individuals, addressing them politely and offering assistance.

Dress Code

Dress modestly when visiting temples and local homes; swimwear should be reserved for the beach.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal and use chopsticks properly; do not stick them upright in rice.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sầm Sơn is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur, so keep valuables secure. It's also wise to avoid swimming in rough seas and to stay informed about local weather conditions.

Tipping in Sầm Sơn

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; however, some establishments also accept credit cards, especially in tourist areas.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (March - May)

Mild weather, blooming flowers, and ideal for outdoor activities and beach visits.

Summer (June - August)

Hot and humid; peak tourist season, perfect for beach activities but expect crowds.

Autumn (September - November)

Cooler temperatures and less rain, great for hiking and exploring local culture.

Winter (December - February)

Cool and dry, with fewer tourists; good for quieter beach walks and local experiences.

Nightlife Guide

Sầm Sơn at Night

Sầm Sơn's nightlife is lively, with numerous bars and beachfront lounges offering a relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy local music, dance, and various events, especially during peak tourist season. Night markets are also popular, where you can sample street food and shop for local handicrafts.

Hiking in Sầm Sơn

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Truong Le Mountain Trail

A popular hiking trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and coastline, suitable for intermediate hikers.

Ham Rong Mountain

Located a bit further away, this trail is suitable for adventurous hikers seeking a more challenging route with rewarding vistas.

Airports

How to reach Sầm Sơn by plane.

Thọ Xuân Airport (THD)

Located about 50 km from Sầm Sơn, this airport serves domestic flights and is the nearest airport for international travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sầm Sơn is moderately walkable, especially around the beach and central areas where most tourist attractions are located. Sidewalks are available, but some areas may be crowded during peak times. It's advisable to wear comfortable shoes and be cautious of traffic when crossing roads.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Fishermen

A significant demographic, providing seafood for local markets and restaurants, reflecting the city's coastal culture.

Tourists

Comprising both domestic visitors from around Vietnam and international tourists, contributing to the local economy and cultural exchange.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Widely played and followed in Vietnam, with local teams and matches often bringing the community together.

Beach Volleyball

Popular among both locals and tourists at the beaches, often seen in action during the day.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Sầm Sơn can be busy during the tourist season, especially near the beach and market areas. Motorbikes are the most common form of transport, but be cautious when crossing streets. Public transportation options are limited, so many visitors prefer to walk or use taxis and ride-sharing services.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sầm Sơn.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While seafood is prevalent, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes upon request.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Sầm Sơn is basic, with a few local clinics and hospitals available. For more serious medical needs, it is recommended to travel to larger cities like Thanh Hóa, which offer better facilities. Travelers should ensure they have travel insurance and access to necessary medications.

Discover Vietnam

Read more in our Vietnam 2025 Travel Guide.

Vietnam Travel Guide