8 Best Hotels in The South-Central Coasts and Highlands, Vietnam

A project initiated by World Wildlife Fund, the traditional Ma ethnic bamboo longhouse is a great base for adventurous travelers to experience all that Cat Tien National Park has to offer, all while supporting the local ethnic minority communities; 30% of the rate goes to a community development fund. The accommodation is communal, with individual sleeping areas comprising of a comfortable mattress, quality linens, and mosquito nets (bamboo screens can be installed for extra privacy). The two communal bathroom blocks have modern showers, and tasty set meals are served in a covered outdoor dining hall. The longhouse, managed in collaboration with local Ma, S’tieng, and Tay communities and WWF offers a range of activities, from kayaking, mountain biking, bird-watching, trekking (including an early morning gibbon trek), and tours to local villages, lakes, and wildlife rescue centers.

Across the river from the national park, the family-owned Green Hope Lodge has basic but comfortable bungalows, either brick or wood, with mosquito nets, spacious clean bathrooms, a good restaurant, and a range of tours and excursions in the park. The helpful and kind staff can arrange bus tickets or private transfer to/from nearby cities Dalat and Ho Chi Minh. The hammocks by the river are perfect for recovering from jungle adventuring.

Located on the beach in the fishing village of Bai Xep, Haven underwent a major renovation in 2020 and now offers clean, comfortable rooms, many with sea views and balconies, and a minisuite. Their beachfront Big Tree Bistro is the perfect hangout to meet other independent travelers and take in the local scenes at its doorstep. They helpfully can arrange boat tours with a local boat, motorbike rental, transfers, and bus tickets.

For budget-conscious travelers, the draws of this family-run guesthouse north of the river are the simple rooms, swimming pool, sweet little breakfast terrace in the garden, ground-floor cafe/restaurant, and the distance to low-key Hon Chong Beach, just a five-minute walk away. Expect a warm welcome from Mr. Bu and his sons, who can help with tours, motorbike rentals, bicycle rentals, ticket bookings, and laundry.

On the north shore of Lak Lake, choose from glamping tents with en suite bathrooms, bungalows with private balconies, a dorm, and a campground; though this place has grown a little tired, it commands stunning views of the water. There are bikes, kayaks, and a gong performance, but there's not much else to do except dine at its restaurant "Y Lak," an ornate longhouse, which has a terrace over the water.

In 2014, two British guys fell in love with the small fishing village of Bai Xep and opened a rustic homestay, which has grown to include a range of accommodations, from a 12-bed air-conditioned dorm room and glamping to deluxe rooms with private bathrooms, all on a secluded beach. Fill your days with beachside relaxation, exploring the local village and the nearby waterfall, or going fishing with locals. End the day with a communal dinner and bonfire on the beach.

At this budget boutique hotel, backpackers can look forward to superclean, modern rooms, helpful staff, a cheap breakfast, and a great location that's steps to bars and restaurants—and only two city blocks from the beach. 

This small, tranquil family-owned resort has lovely views of the valley, comfortable large rooms with modern bathrooms, and an excellent in-house restaurant. The hotel is a peaceful and relaxing retreat, with friendly staff who can assist with tickets and tour bookings, as well as motorbike hire and luggage storage.