Experts advocate for balancing tourism development and public space on Nha Trang beaches

Nha Trang is a popular beach destination located in Khanh Hoa Province, south-central Vietnam.

Assoc. Prof. Le Chi Cong, dean of the tourism faculty at Nha Trang University, asserted that beaches are public assets and all government policies related to beach tourism must serve the broader community, not just private businesses.

He emphasized that tourism development must go hand in hand with conservation to preserve Nha Trang’s natural charm.

Cong highlighted global examples of successful beach economies like Bali in Indonesia and Phuket in Thailand, which offer well-planned beach bars, night markets, dining, and even midnight swimming.

"These experiences extend tourist stays, diversify services, and create jobs. I believe that Nha Trang can learn a lot from this," he said.

Dr. Do Thi Mai Doan Thuc, dean of the tourism faculty at Thai Binh Duong University, emphasized that sustainable beach management must include economic development, environmental protection, social order, and job creation.

The interests of local communities must be respected and protected alongside fair competition among tourism service providers, she added.

“A well-managed beach means tourists have a better experience, and locals aren’t pushed aside,” she said.

She urged clear zoning for beach services, prioritizing businesses that comply with sustainability policies and ensuring public access for residents.

Thuc also suggested organizing cultural events and traditional activities on the beach to boost visitor engagement while preserving local heritage.

Echoing this sentiment, Cong said that local communities must be the first to benefit from tourism development if they are expected to support and protect beach resources.

“Beach tourism should first and foremost serve the community -- only then can it be truly sustainable,” Cong continued.

To balance tourism growth with public access, Cong recommended this coastal province create transparent zoning plans, taking into account the opinions of stakeholders such as locals and businesses to ensure consensus and avoid future conflicts.

Cung Quynh Anh, deputy director of the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, expressed support for allowing four- to five-star hotels to rent beachfront spaces for umbrellas and lounge chairs to serve tourists.

He said authorities already aim to maintain public beach access while allowing such activities under strict monitoring.

“Hotels can only operate within assigned zones. If they comply, we can achieve a balance between tourism services and public space,” Anh said.

Given the limited beachfront space in Nha Trang, he proposed open bidding to ensure fairness among businesses seeking access to beach zones, noting that transparency would help manage demand and expectations.

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