Soi Sim Beach, located in the core zone of Ha Long Bay, has been named among the world’s top 100 most beautiful beaches for 2026 by Corona Beach 100.
The annual guide, compiled by the U.S.-based global beach ranking initiative, highlights 100 exceptional beaches across 22 countries. This year's list features 27 new destinations making their debut appearance.
According to the organizers, the ranking aims to inspire people to reconnect with nature and appreciate the world's most remarkable coastlines.
Soi Sim Beach is the only Vietnamese destination to make the 2026 list. Situated on Soi Sim Island within the heart of Ha Long Bay, the beach remains relatively unknown to many travelers due to its secluded location and limited tourism infrastructure.
Soi Sim Beach, Ha Long Bay. Photo: Nguyen Hung.Covering approximately 7.8 hectares, Soi Sim Beach is known for its unspoiled beauty and is often described as a hidden gem within the World Heritage Site. The island takes its name from the abundant sim (rose myrtle) trees growing on its hillsides. Between May and August, visitors can enjoy purple sim flowers blooming across the landscape.
Under normal conditions, tourists reach the island by boat via Ha Long Bay's sightseeing Route No. 2, a journey of about 90 minutes. The island is currently closed to visitors while infrastructure upgrades are underway.
In 2011, authorities in Quang Ninh Province established the Ha Long Bay Flora and Fauna Conservation Area on Soi Sim Island. The island's forest ecosystem, along with its terrestrial and marine wildlife populations, is strictly protected to preserve the area's biodiversity.
Other Southeast Asian beaches featured in the 2026 ranking include destinations in the Philippines, Thailand, and Indonesia, such as Alegria, Cloud 9, Nacpan, Koh Mak, Railay, Padar, and Pink Beach.
The Corona Beach 100 ranking is produced annually through a collaboration between the Corona brand and travel experience company WINK. Beaches are evaluated based on three key criteria: local coastal culture, connection with nature, and scenic beauty. The initiative is released each year around World Oceans Day and also seeks to raise awareness about the conservation of coastal and marine ecosystems worldwide.