PHAN THIET ATTRACTIONS

MUI NE & PHAN THIET ATTRACTIONS

WHAT TO SEE IN MUI NE & PHAN THIET

Vietnam’s landscape is a source of endless fascination, with a huge variety of climate and scenery ranging from long beaches and endless rice paddy to the cool mountains of the Central Highlands.

In the Mui Ne-Phan Thiet area alone, you can see stunning beaches, tropical forest, Sahara-like sand dunes, a beautiful harbor and ancient buildings such as the Hindu Cham towers and the Van Thuy Tu Temple.

All of these create unique opportunities for visitors to explore in and around the area. 

The Sand Dunes of Mui Ne

Many visitors enjoy a trip to these surprisingly Saharan-like sand dunes located not far from Mui Ne’s important beaches. There are the two fascinating spots to check out; the white and the red sand dunes.

The White Dunes are by far the larger dunes and are known by locals as Bau Trang or White Lake. There are quite a few small stands selling food and drinks to visitors within the area along with pine trees offering much-needed shade.

The Sand Dunes of Mui Ne Highlights

The Red Dunes, as the name suggests, features reddish-brown sand that makes them a more popular place for photography. Smaller than White Dunes, they are easier to reach. Sand-sledding is a common (and fun) activity here, but it is hard to nail down where the best location to do so is as the sands shift from season to season so it’s best to look around. Dry sand is much more enjoyable to sled on.

Visitors can rent plastic sleds and it is a wise idea to check the price and agree on it beforehand. Some travelers have had unpleasant experiences with the youngsters renting them out so be alert and keep cool. Another interesting activity is kite flying as well as catching the beautiful sunset here. These dunes are a popular picnic place for locals too.

Opening Hours: All year round. Best time to visit is either early in the morning or late afternoon as the sand can get very hot during the day. Take lots of water. 
Location: Mui Ne in Central Vietnam

Phan Thiet Harbour

Phan Thiet Harbour is at the mouth of the Ca Ty River (formerly known as the Phan River). The harbour, with its hundreds of colourful fishing boats, is a delight for photographers.

Also, check out the bridges and parks around the harbor, which are delightful, especially at night. Exploring the town’s many good shops and restaurants will occupy at least half a day. 

Takou Mountain

Takou Mountain is a must for any visitor. About one hour’s drive from Mui Ne, it has its own special magic. Hike up the mountain or take the gondola through beautiful tropical rain forest full of birds and wildlife to the Mountain Pagoda at the peak. Here you can see tomb towers, a cave and what is said to be the largest reclining Buddha in Vietnam, measuring 49 meters in length. 

The Phan Thiet Water Tower

The Phan Thiet Water Tower was built between 1928 and 1934 and was designed by Prince Suphanouvong of Laos who, at that time, was chief engineer for the Vietnamese government. The elegant tower is the most important landmark in Binh Thuan Province. 

The Prince's Castle

The Prince’s Castle is on a hill overlooking Phan Thiet. The “castle” is in fact the ruin of a large French estate house built in 1911. On the hills in the same area are Cham towers (built in the late 8th century AD), a pagoda and the tomb of a famous poet. From the hills there are fine views of the town and the surrounding countryside. 

Van Thuy Tu Temple and Whale Museum

Van Thuy Tu Temple, built in 1762, has a special claim to uniqueness: it is the final resting place of more than 100 whales, whose skeletons are on display, the largest being 22 meters long. Whales were believed by local fishermen to be helpful and benevolent animals, and whenever one became stranded on the beach, its body was taken to the temple, which is on Ngu Ong St (Fisherman St).