Barefoot luxury by the sea

If you're dreaming of a beachy escape in Vietnam where the Wi-Fi is reliable, fresh coconuts come with a view, and the only soundtrack is the sound of waves, Pax Ana Doc Let Resort & Spa might just be what you’re looking for. Tucked away along the untouched shores of Doc Let Beach—about two hours from Cam Ranh International Airport—this laid-back coastal retreat spreads across 12 hectares of swaying palms, powdery sand, and pure chill. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, and all you're expected to do is RELAX!

Doc Let Beach, which by the way is pronounced as “yop” Let Beach, is one of Vietnam’s hidden gems—ranked among the country’s top 10 beaches for good reason, made of soft white sand, crystal-clear water, and a wide, crescent-shaped shore that feels like your own private slice of paradise. It’s peaceful, unspoiled, and pairs perfectly with the laid-back charm of Pax Ana.

The vibe at Pax Ana is more “barefoot luxury” than flashy resort glitz, rooted in traditional Vietnamese charm with a modern, eco-conscious twist. No marble lobbies or booming club music here. Instead, you're welcomed with genuine smiles, a refreshing lemongrass-scented towel, and a honey-ginger welcome drink that instantly won us over—it was simple, soothing, and absolutely addictive– we even called for a second round!

We stayed in one of Pax Ana’s Seaview bungalows, and it felt like our own little slice of coastal calm. Just a few barefoot steps across a soft green lawn and you’re at the edge of the sea—it doesn’t get more beachfront than that.

Inside, the space was airy and bright, with a large king-sized bed framed by a bamboo curtain setup that gave off traditional Vietnamese countryside vibes. The perfect blend of nostalgic, simple, and grounding. The living room featured a cozy sofa and a tea table thoughtfully topped with a basket of fresh fruit and sweet treats—just the kind of welcome that makes slow, sleepy mornings feel extra indulgent. There was even a cozy reading nook by the window, which doubled as the perfect little bed for kids (or for spreading out all your beach snacks and books—guilty). The semi-open-air bathroom was a personal favorite—private yet open enough to let in the ocean air and background soundtrack of waves and nature.

I literally lay in a hammock, right outside our bungalow, one afternoon, sipping iced Vietnamese coffee and watching people play a suspiciously long game of volleyball. That was the moment I realized I hadn’t checked my phone in over five hours. That, my friends, is the magic of this place.

When it comes to food, Pax Ana really shines with its thoughtful dining options. You’ve got two main spots to enjoy: The Bamboo House, serving up a cozy mix of Asian and international dishes with plenty of vegan-friendly choices, and Ana Beach House, a family-friendly spot right by the sea where you can savor international flavors with a traditional touch.

If you’re feeling adventurous, don’t miss the Grill & Hotpot Combo—a fun and interactive way to enjoy fresh ingredients grilled or simmered just how you like. And for a laid-back afternoon, their classic or the deluxe afternoon tea, which we had the chance to experience, sets are a sweet treat to pause and soak in the peaceful beach vibes.

Whether you’re starting your day with a hearty breakfast or winding down with a relaxed dinner by the water, the dining here feels thoughtfully crafted to make every meal memorable.

And then to give our little retreat the perfect ending, we treated ourselves to an aromatherapy massage at the Ana Mandara Spa, and it was pure bliss. Set amidst lush greenery, the spa offers a serene escape where skilled therapists use essential oils derived from local natural ingredients to melt away stress. The gentle sea breeze and tranquil surroundings enhanced the relaxation, making it an unforgettable highlight of our stay.

So, if you're looking for a glitzy mega-resort with seven pools and an all-you-can-eat buffet that could feed a small nation, Pax Ana isn’t it. But if you want a slice of barefoot luxury, lovingly crafted with local materials, warm hospitality, and a strong sense of place, this is your jam.

Would I go back? In a heartbeat. Would I consider quitting my job and learning to make clay pots in their garden? Also, yes.

Pax Ana Doc Let isn’t just a resort. It’s a hug from Mother Nature with a mint-lime garnish.

☀️ Ready to unplug and unwind? Book your stay here!