Phan Thiet, Vietnam: A Coastal Wonderland
Traditionally known for its fish sauce, Phan Thiet, Veitnam is a busy fishing village on the south central coast. It has a harbor decked with brightly colored boats, outdoor market and seafood eateries. It also serves as a gateway to the nearby Mui Ne where glistening beaches and verdant mountains abound. Its most stunning attraction however are the red and white sand dunes. Still idyllic despite the growing number of tourists discovering it, Phan Thiet is an ideal retreat from the hustle and bustle of Saigon and Hanoi.
Best Time to Visit
Phan Thiet’s tropical climate is best enjoyed between September and May. Mui Ne, Phan Thiet’s most popular beach, has a dry climate that remains almost rain-free throughout the year. Accommodations are affordable almost all year round but be sure to schedule your tour early on to get the best deals. The end of May brings in the hurricane and monsoon season so it’s not wise to go on a beach holiday during this period.
What to Do & Area Attractions
Visit the Vạn Thủy Tú Temple, a whale temple in Phan Thiet with skeletal remains of whales on display. Fairy Stream’s crystal clear waters allow you a glimpse to its deepest depths. Ta Kou Mountain has lush rainforest and limestone caves and towering Buddhist statues. Aside from all these, seafood restaurants offering scrumptious meals are aplenty. Good hotels are haven for tourists like the Mia Resort Mui Ne, a small and exclusive boutique resort located in the center of Mui Ne and the Blue Ocean Resort, a 4 star resort along a quiet beach.