Top 9 Beach Resorts in the South China Sea

While Vietnam, China, Malaysia, and the Philippines may quarrel over a few remote, uninhabited atolls and guano-covered islands in the South China Sea, most of the region's islands still offer breathtaking sunrises and sunsets.

At these premier resorts, you'll be treated like royalty – whether you're a Hollywood celebrity or a high-ranking official. So pack your bags and head to these paradise escapes:

Vietnam

1. Six Senses Con Dao

Once infamous for its prison history, Con Dao has transformed into one of Southeast Asia's most exclusive resort destinations. A protected national marine park, this pristine island is most easily accessed by a 45-minute flight from Ho Chi Minh City. Six Senses Con Dao is the first five-star resort on the island, with 50 villas, each featuring a private pool, spread across a mile of secluded beach.

Six Senses Con Dao, Dat Doc Beach, Con Dao District, Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province; +84 64 383 1222

2. Phu Quy Island

Available accommodations include: Anh Tuan Guesthouse, +84 62 376 9245; Minh Tan Guesthouse, +84 90 732 9006; and Thanh Thao Guesthouse, +84 90 944 6311.

3. Vinpearl

Occupying the entire Hon Tre Island, just off the coast of Nha Trang, Vinpearl offers a unique combination of a resort, theme park, golf course, and aquarium. Visitors can reach Vinpearl by a 10-minute speedboat ride from Nha Trang or by what is reputed to be the longest over-sea cable car in the world.

Vinpearl Resort Nha Trang, located on Hon Tre Island, Nha Trang; +84 58 359 8598

4. Whale Island Resort

Whale Island Resort offers a rustic charm, nestled among the emerald waters. Situated two hours north of Nha Trang, the island gets its name from the whales and whale sharks that visit regularly to feed. The island is home to whale temples where local fishermen honor these majestic creatures. Whale Island Resort features a National Geographic dive center for world-class diving experiences. Its 23 bamboo bungalows sit directly on the beach, shaded by tall coconut palms.

Whale Island Resort, 2 Me Linh, Nha Trang, Khanh Hoa Province; +84 58 3707 118

5. Catba Island Resort & Spa

Home to the critically endangered golden-headed langur, Catba Island is located at the southwestern tip of Ha Long Bay. Catba Island Resort & Spa is the island’s premier hotel, featuring a large water park, an underground “Pirate Bar,” and impressive war-era gun turrets that are creatively displayed.

Catba Island Resort & Spa, Catco 1 Beach, Catba Island, Halong Bay; +84 31 350 8796

China

6. Sheraton Sanya

Hainan, China’s largest island, is also its smallest and southernmost province. Often referred to as China's own version of Hawaii, the island boasts luxury resorts, stunning natural landscapes, and rare wildlife like the Hainan black-crested gibbon. Sheraton Sanya Resort spans 300 meters of private beach along Yalong Bay and features five swimming pools. With seven bars and restaurants, guests can enjoy a variety of dining options without leaving the resort.

Sheraton Sanya Resort, Yalong Bay National Resort District, Sanya Yalong Bay, Hainan; +86 898 8855 8855

7. Ritz-Carlton Sanya

The Ritz-Carlton Sanya is a luxurious golf resort offering eight dining options, bars, and a private beach. Further along the coastline, it also provides a family-friendly retreat with a tailored kids' program. This includes a dedicated children’s butler, Uncle Martin’s Secret Garden (an educational garden with playful animals), a deluxe kids’ pool with water slides, and Petit VIP – a program designed to keep children entertained and happy all day long.

Ritz-Carlton Sanya, Yalong Bay National Resort District, Sanya, Hainan; +86 898 8898 8888

The Philippines

8. El Nido Resorts

El Nido Resorts features four luxurious properties across different islands, each offering cozy cottages that overlook pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs. Palawan, an archipelago of 1,780 islands located in the western Philippines, is renowned for its dramatic limestone cliffs and rich biodiversity, both above and below the water.

El Nido Resorts; +63 (2) 902 5934

Malaysia

9. Gaya Island Resort

Gaya Island Resort is located just a 15-minute boat ride from Kota Kinabalu, Borneo. Nestled within the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, it boasts breathtaking views of Mount Kinabalu. The resort features 120 villas set on a lush rainforest hill. Guests can indulge in a variety of dining options, including Fisherman’s Cove with panoramic views of the bay. For a more secluded experience, enjoy a picnic at the private Tavajun Bay, only five minutes away by boat.

Gaya Island Resort, Malohom Bay, Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah; +60 3 2783 1000.

Adam Bray has authored over 15 guidebooks on Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand.