Visit Vietnam’s NOX Beach Club for daytime escapes and after-dark events

If there’s one tropical beach club where you can soak up the sun by the pool, topped with cocktails and an impressive variety of cuisines – without having to leave the premises – this place is it. Launched earlier this year, NOX Beach Club is touted as the first and largest multi-experiential destination in central Vietnam. It’s set amid prime beachfront land overlooking the ocean.

The lifestyle concept nestled within Hoiana Resort & Golf is about 45 minutes from Danang and just 15 minutes from Hoi An. If you want to go for a stroll in the charming town, you could do  so for several hours, and come back in time for sundowners and dinner at one of the six dining outlets, followed by lively evening entertainment. This immersive beach club within the resort boasts a large freeform swimming pool, cosy cabanas, sun loungers, a small retail space and more.

What’s excellent are the different cuisine choices which you can savour while soaking in the lively beachside vibe. For a casual lunch, pop by Banh Mi & Noodles which presents the local flavours of Hoi An with reimagined street food classics like bánh mi – crisp baguette filled with fresh ingredients. Go for the traditional one with crispy roasted pork belly, pate and pickles, or the option with Vietnamese charcuterie, cucumber and coriander. There’s also a variety of noodles to slurp up, from the classic beef pho to the bun rieu – tomato and crab noodle soup.

At the Seafood Shack, the freshest catch is infused with South American and Asian flavours. The team at the crudo bar whips up dishes like hamachi tataki with ponzu, jalapeno, pomelo   and pork crackling for textural contrast, or refreshing ahi tuna crudo with pickled watermelon and yuzu vinaigrette.

For dinner, the Grill is a sophisticated setting  to feast on premium steaks (ranging from 300g striploin to 1kg Cape Grim Black Angus T-Bone) masterfully cooked over a charcoal fire. There are other proteins like iberico pork, dover sole and fresh lobster to boot. Pair these large platters with a fine wine from the diverse list. Over at Osteria, you’ll find authentic Italian pizzas and pastas, and other robust Mediterranean-style dishes.

The Beach Club Bar is a perfect spot to chill out and savour classic and signature cocktails. The bar team has created inventive ones with local flavours like sour mango, jackfruit and guava. Sip unconventional concoctions made with Earl Grey gin, melon liqueur and basil  espuma or the potent Ca Phe Phin comprising Jasmine Johnny Walker Black Label Whisky with caramel fish sauce, cold brewed Vietnamese coffee and citrus.

Beyond the beach

For recreation, there’s a championship golf course within the  complex. But do make time to visit the ancient town of Hoi An –  a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1999. Wander around the town lined with old buildings bathed  in a distinctive golden yellow hue (the auspicious colour symbolises luck and prosperity). Some of these properties are residences but many of them now house galleries, shops and cafes.

Take a breather at Lenco cafe and bar, one of the eateries facing the main square and people-watch while you sip iced coffee. If you are peckish, join the queue at Madam Khanh for the most delicious freshly made banh mi. Alternatively, if it’s too humid to walk, take a quick tour on one of the gold coloured electric taxis. The car loops around the photogenic town whose streets are festooned with colourful lanterns and pink bougainvillea.

After your day out, head back to the resort to relax. The luxurious rooms with views of the ocean come with plush furnishing and upscale amenities, as well as spacious bathrooms with walk-in rain shower rooms and separate deep soaking bathtubs. For more pampering, make a booking at the spa which boasts temperature-controlled pools, steam rooms and relaxation area.

Besides NOX, there are plenty of food options within the resort. Breakfast at the sprawling restaurant Blend includes hearty bowls of noodles and French pastries. Wash them down with potent Vietnamese style coffee. Just as delicious are the dinner offerings. Regional Vietnamese, Chinese and Southeast Asian dishes are rolled out from several open kitchens. Dishes like fresh spring rolls, rock lobster with XO sauce and braised beef brisket with radish are perfect for sharing.

Finally have a nightcap at the beautifully designed Quang Nam House Lounge & Bar. Those staying in the Premier or Deluxe Ocean View Suite get full access to Quang Nam House, which offers all-day refreshments and evening cocktails. There’s even a chocolate buffet (from 530 to 730pm) for those who want even more indulgence. It’s US$40 per person but free for guests who book suite rooms. If the night is still young, head back to NOX for more partying till late.