7 Hidden Gems of Vietnam’s Coastal Region Beyond Da Nang and Hoi An
7 Hidden Gems of Vietnam's Coastal Region Beyond Da Nang and Hoi An - Secret Beach Caves at Ly Son Island for Underwater Photography
Ly Son Island, roughly 30 kilometers off the Quang Ngai coast, draws underwater photographers with its intriguing beach caves and vivid reefs teeming with life. Forget crowded tourist traps; here, less-traveled shores and hidden inlets create ideal settings for capturing the underwater world. It's not just about what's beneath the surface, either. The island's overall scenery is worth exploring, making this a noteworthy location along Vietnam's coast. Expect a different pace, more relaxed and closer to nature.
The secret beach caves at Ly Son Island, sculpted by volcanic activity, present intriguing underwater environments for photography. Visibility can extend to 30 meters, particularly during the dry season, which is between November and April, making it ideal for capturing detailed underwater scenes. The area is teeming with marine life, including over 200 coral types and numerous vibrant fish that create a visually striking contrast against the clear blue waters, a draw for those seeking exceptional underwater imagery. Formed approximately 25 million years ago, these caves showcase unique geological features like arches and tunnels, producing a range of lighting conditions dependent on the time of day that offers photo challenges. These geological features provide habitats for species like clownfish and sea turtles, adding an element of wildlife to capture in their natural settings, if one manages to encounter one. A relatively short and affordable ferry ride from the mainland will get you to Ly Son Island with a variety of budget tour and ferry options, but be prepared for sometimes less than well oiled or maintained machinery. For best results, note the lunar calendar to visit the caves during low tide for a broader underwater terrain for that shot. Local diving centers confirm a good degree of marine diversity here, useful intel when preparing any shoot. Aerial mapping shows complex underwater patterns of the caves, enhancing not only what can be shot but the potential for composition in underwater photography - this can be hard to achieve, even with a pro level setup, however the setting will help and compensate. Wide-angle lenses are recommended to effectively capture the scale and depth of the underwater structures.
What else is in this post?
- 7 Hidden Gems of Vietnam's Coastal Region Beyond Da Nang and Hoi An - Secret Beach Caves at Ly Son Island for Underwater Photography
- 7 Hidden Gems of Vietnam's Coastal Region Beyond Da Nang and Hoi An - Nam Du Archipelago and its Fresh Seafood Night Markets
- 7 Hidden Gems of Vietnam's Coastal Region Beyond Da Nang and Hoi An - Lang Co Beach Direct Train Access from Hue
- 7 Hidden Gems of Vietnam's Coastal Region Beyond Da Nang and Hoi An - Con Dao Islands New Direct Flights from Hanoi Starting March 2025
- 7 Hidden Gems of Vietnam's Coastal Region Beyond Da Nang and Hoi An - Phu Yen's Ganh Da Dia Rock Formations and Local Food Scene
- 7 Hidden Gems of Vietnam's Coastal Region Beyond Da Nang and Hoi An - Whale Island Research Center and Marine Life Watching
- 7 Hidden Gems of Vietnam's Coastal Region Beyond Da Nang and Hoi An - Quan Lan Island Traditional Fishing Villages and Beach Camping
7 Hidden Gems of Vietnam's Coastal Region Beyond Da Nang and Hoi An - Nam Du Archipelago and its Fresh Seafood Night Markets
Located in the southern Vietnamese coastal area, the Nam Du Archipelago offers a mix of natural beauty and engaging culinary experiences with its well-known seafood night markets. Nam Du Island, the largest of 21 islands, is the hub for both local life and fresh seafood, enticing visitors with busy markets filled with the smells of grilling seafood. Easily reachable via fast ferry, the island provides a relaxed atmosphere away from more heavily visited places, boasting peaceful beaches and beautiful views. The area's charm comes from this combination of local traditions, with a unique dining culture that has a focus on freshly caught and prepared dishes. Nam Du Archipelago is a strong option for those looking for a less standard Vietnamese beach trip.
Moving away from Ly Son, the Nam Du Archipelago, located off the southern coast, provides a compelling look at Vietnam's less-explored maritime landscape. This chain of islands, twenty-one in total, is not merely another beach destination; its volcanic origins some 25 million years ago underpin a complex underwater ecosystem, which a biodiversity survey suggests harbors over 300 fish species.
Nam Du's night markets, which offer fresh catches at competitive prices, serve as an accessible example of the local culture. Traditional fish processing techniques used here, like fermentation and drying, are not only crucial for preserving food, but they also infuse dishes with flavors distinct to this location. The seasonal nature of seafood available is also worth noting: expect a variety driven by local fishing cycles. The use of indigenous herbs in local cuisine— for example braised fish ("cá kho tộ") and grilled octopus, point to a unique blend of agricultural practices and culinary traditions.
Recent improvements in ferry services, have shortened travel times from the mainland to under two hours and might have contributed to a shift in the local economy. The upswing in tourism and thus an increase in seafood consumption, potentially pushes for sustainable fishing techniques for long-term use. The night markets, unlike typical tourist traps, allow for direct interaction with vendors, offering a good view of traditional fishing practices and local ways of preparing seafood. The preservation areas which now cover portions of the surrounding waters are not just there to protect reefs; they also secure a sustainable source of marine life, a point where tourism and conservation must meet.
7 Hidden Gems of Vietnam's Coastal Region Beyond Da Nang and Hoi An - Lang Co Beach Direct Train Access from Hue
Lang Co Beach offers a peaceful retreat, neatly positioned between the more well-known Hue and Da Nang, a mere 60 kilometers south of Hue and 25 kilometers north of Da Nang. With improved train connections, accessing this scenic spot is straightforward via a direct one-hour train ride. The train line, running four times per day, winds through stunning coastal and mountainous scenery, turning the trip itself into a highlight. Once in Lang Co, visitors can take in the calm vibe, explore the unspoiled beach, and enjoy local food within the easy-going atmosphere. Often overlooked in favor of its bustling neighbors, this place is becoming a necessary stop for anyone seeking Vietnam’s coastal beauty at a slower pace.
Lang Co Beach is located roughly equidistant between Hue and Da Nang and acts as a useful point for travel along Vietnam’s central coast. The train from Hue offers direct access to Lang Co, roughly 30 minutes travel time, showcasing the country's efficient rail infrastructure. The location of the beach at the base of the Hai Van Pass, a 500 meter elevation, results in very variable weather with quick temperature shifts, something curious for geologists and meteorologists alike.
The train route passes close to the shore, with direct sea views against a mountainous backdrop; a showcase of the region’s complex geological landscape. The beach itself, with its fine sand, meets shallow waters suitable for both casual and advanced swimmers. The interaction between the sea and mountains around Lang Co also creates a very unique local weather. Summer breezes have a noticeable effect, and local fish populations adjust to these variable water conditions. The large, 22,000 hectare Tam Giang Lagoon, a major ecosystem, borders the beach, offering a complex and varied area for environmental researchers, as it sustains several fish types.
One unique local culinary experience is the dish "Hến" (small clams), demonstrating how the local environment contributes to tradition and economy. Increased visitor numbers, especially during peak travel, test the limits of train operations with capacity and service reliability being points of consideration. The area around Lang Co shows evidence of historical activity, with signs indicating use by traders during the old Champa civilization, suggesting a millennia of maritime trade. Data suggests the beach's popularity causes a doubling in tourist traffic during weekends and holidays, illustrating how good transport has an effect on regional economies.
7 Hidden Gems of Vietnam's Coastal Region Beyond Da Nang and Hoi An - Con Dao Islands New Direct Flights from Hanoi Starting March 2025
New direct flights from Hanoi to the Con Dao Islands are scheduled to begin in March 2025, providing a much faster route to this southern archipelago. Two airlines, Bamboo Airways and Vietnam Airlines, will operate these flights, cutting travel time to around 2.5 hours. Previously, a direct connection was not available, so this marks a step up in accessibility for this destination, known for its combination of beaches and history. The new service is likely to draw more visitors who are looking for a mix of relaxation and cultural engagement, but it will also be interesting to see if prices stay competitive, given the current promotional offers of double bonus miles by Vietnam Airlines. While this new route opens up the Con Dao islands, it continues a general trend of Vietnam moving beyond its already popular locations.
Direct flights between Hanoi and the Con Dao Islands are scheduled to begin in March 2025. This development should cut travel time to around 2.5 hours, a noticeable improvement over current indirect routes, which can stretch up to 5 hours with transfers. The introduction of these direct services, with routes by Bamboo Airways and Vietnam Airlines, should provide more streamlined access to Con Dao, known both for its scenery and historical context. These islands feature former penal facilities such as Con Dao Prison, a site with an essential, albeit grim, role in the Vietnam War, attracting history buffs.
The Con Dao archipelago comprises 16 islands in total, surrounded by waters teeming with marine life - over 1500 species identified, which has made it a draw for divers and marine biologists. There are also specific beaches that act as large turtle nesting sites, an interesting case of species preservation, each year drawing naturalists and conservationists for specific turtle nesting events, with large number of turtle nesting yearly. Local cuisine here should not be missed; for example, "Biển Mặn," a fish preparation unique to the area, showcases the area's fresh seafood. The new flight routes also seem to have pushed an increase in hotel investment, with new openings on the horizon, offering options for varied budgets.
The new Hanoi routes will most likely increase tourist revenue for the island. It might also drive infrastructure improvements in public facilities to better accommodate growing numbers, a point of interest for urban planning. Declared a national park in 1984, Con Dao's preserved ecosystems form a basis for tourism and scientific studies, appealing for the ecotourists out there. With the option of kayak and snorkeling, among other marine activities, the islands might become attractive to those not only looking for relaxation. It might also make sense to book in advance, especially for high season, given the high likelihood of popularity for the new connections with prices being something worth watching.
7 Hidden Gems of Vietnam's Coastal Region Beyond Da Nang and Hoi An - Phu Yen's Ganh Da Dia Rock Formations and Local Food Scene
Phu Yen’s Ganh Da Dia, also called the Sea Cliff of Stone Plates, is a geological curiosity featuring roughly 35,000 basalt columns, a reminder of ancient volcanic activity. The coast stretches around 250 meters and the site offers views of oddly shaped hexagonal and pentagonal rock structures, very good photo ops included. Located about 35 kilometers from Tuy Hoa, Ganh Da Dia is a worthwhile stop for travelers looking beyond Vietnam’s well-trodden paths.
Coupled with the landscape, Phu Yen’s food scene is rich with fresh seafood. The local options, ranging from grilled fish and steamed crab to seafood hotpots, reflect the area's coastal flavors. Markets and food stalls present local dishes such as banh xeo and nem nuong. This mix of unique natural formations and local cuisine makes Phu Yen an area for those wanting an interesting journey beyond the usual.
Phu Yen's Ganh Da Dia rock formations present a distinct geological story, where cooling lava has formed hexagonal basalt columns, a process unfolding over an estimated 200 million years. The site stands out for its visual appeal but seems to be relatively untouched, which provides a calmer experience in contrast to more established tourist spots. The surrounding ocean environment benefits from this, as the rock structures act as a natural refuge, supporting over 150 marine species like fish, mollusks and crustaceans. Divers exploring these waters could discover the remains of old shipwrecks, relics of historic trade routes which have plied these coasts for centuries, adding to the site’s appeal beyond the geological aspect.
The local food here provides another perspective of Phu Yen's coastal position. Dishes like "bánh xèo," a local version of savory pancakes with shrimp, show off culinary habits with long traditions. The ebb and flow of tides directly influence the kind of seafood on offer and how it’s prepared, with some unique catches like the local "ghẹ" blue crab changing with the seasons, usually flavored with indigenous herbs. Local food festivals are organized here with some frequency, giving chefs and cooks the ability to showcase historical culinary techniques alongside more creative approaches to cooking. The development of better transport is in discussion here, with improvements planned for both road and rail networks. The new infrastructure could change how quickly it is to reach from bigger cities, which may also bring more visitors and help with local jobs and income. The local airline industry seems to respond with new and increased connections to Phu Yen and with the introduction of lower cost fares, it could become a much more common holiday destination. This region should not just be seen as a tourist stop but also for its vibrant culture, especially the local fishing villages. Engaging with fishermen may provide more insight into traditional practices kept alive over several generations, an essential part of Phu Yen’s identity.
7 Hidden Gems of Vietnam's Coastal Region Beyond Da Nang and Hoi An - Whale Island Research Center and Marine Life Watching
Whale Island, situated roughly 100 kilometers from Nha Trang, presents a less explored, mostly uninhabited space offering a mix of calmness and outdoor activity. Here, the Whale Island Research Center works on marine preservation, and invites visitors to participate in marine life observation. The underwater environment has quite a bit of variety, including abundant macro species and many coral types, all of which create an interesting setting for diving. Also offered is an opportunity to experience fishing traditions of the local communities in Van Phong Bay. For those seeking a calmer coastal trip beyond the usual Vietnamese tourist areas, this island provides a useful getaway that combines quiet exploration with marine focused activities.
Off the coast near Nha Trang, Whale Island and its associated Research Center is a locale centered around marine conservation. The research center plays a role in regional conservation, conducting studies and supporting preservation practices in the area. One can partake in guided activities that allow for viewing a broad variety of underwater life, an interesting glimpse into these natural habitats.
Whale Island’s surroundings seem geologically interesting, with complex coral reef formations and sharp seafloor drop offs, creating varied underwater environments. This makes the location a draw for marine researchers as the deep and shallow water variations support diverse marine life. Over 500 species have been recorded here, including rare nudibranchs and pelagic fish, marking it as an important place for diving as well as scientific studies. Furthermore, Whale Island sits near historical trade routes that go back to the Champa civilization, adding an additional layer of cultural value.
At certain times of the year, bioluminescent plankton can be spotted along the shore, offering a surreal view of this natural phenomenon. This, together with the island's remote location, provides a less conventional experience for those looking to escape the well-trodden tourist paths. Ongoing marine biology research is also done at the Whale Island Research Center. Focusing on underwater ecosystems and coral restoration efforts, the center creates a link between travel and science.
Also interesting is how tidal patterns change the viewing conditions in the area, altering how much marine life is visible during specific times of the day. Observing how the species interact with these changes can provide marine scientists crucial insight in their breeding and feeding behavior. Local cuisine seems to feature fresh seafood, with options such as grilled squid and local fish soup, using regional herbs, showcasing an old connection between fishing and food preparation. Access to less known diving sites from Whale Island provides for further exploration, offering dives to remote locations and the possibility of encountering less familiar marine creatures. Periodic surveys of marine life by the Research Center monitor the reef and local species numbers, an important indicator of ecological conditions in the Southeast Asia region, highlighting the need for continuous scientific work in these regions.
The local weather conditions have been noted as unique, driven by coastal proximity and surrounding islands. These environmental factors impact fish migratory paths and breeding seasons, making the planning of visits for divers and fishermen somewhat sensitive to these patterns.
7 Hidden Gems of Vietnam's Coastal Region Beyond Da Nang and Hoi An - Quan Lan Island Traditional Fishing Villages and Beach Camping
Quan Lan Island, situated about 45 kilometers from Ha Long Bay, presents a less-visited alternative with fishing villages that showcase traditional coastal life. Expect to see small, family homes and fishermen using methods passed down through generations. Fresh seafood is a given, providing an authentic culinary experience with the locals. Beyond the villages, Quan Lan has beaches that are suited for camping. Its best beach, Quan Lan, is notable for fine white sand, while others like Minh Chau offer a tranquil setting, however in the low season some can look neglected. A boat trip from Cai Rong or Ha Long is how you get to Quan Lan Island, so while it's not too remote, plan ahead. It's a more authentic place than the more common areas, but it comes with a less maintained infrastructure as one might expect. It certainly is not something for the those seeking resort style comfort.
Quan Lan Island, situated roughly 45 kilometers northeast of Halong Bay in the Bai Tu Long Bay, presents a different view of Vietnam's coastal culture, far from the well-trod paths around Da Nang and Hoi An. Spanning about 11 square kilometers, the island merges untouched natural beauty with culturally rich communities and presents another coastal option for the curious traveler. Getting there, via boat from either Cai Rong (approximately 1 hour) or Hong Gai Port in Ha Long (1.5 to 2 hours) is a crucial starting point, but also a good indication of the more remote locations accessible.
Here, traditional fishing methods remain a core part of the local culture, in contrast to the shift towards industrial practices elsewhere in the region. Fishing villages across the island employ old techniques, from bamboo traps to unique net casting methods. These local approaches are tied to centuries of tradition and a knowledge of how local weather systems and marine life interact; an interesting example of local solutions in action. These methods not only underscore the practicalities of catching seafood but also reflect the interplay between the community and their surrounding environment.
Quan Lan Beach, known for its fine white sand and clear water, is an ideal point to set up a temporary camp. It's one of a few beaches, and a little less traveled. Minh Chau Beach, for example, is known for its tranquil atmosphere. A simple coastal beach camp allows for immersion in the local environment, away from artificial distractions, and with the option to simply and directly cook with freshly sourced local seafood, something not so often possible. There's a rawness to it, and in its own way is more attractive for that.
The geology of Quan Lan Island is also worth noting, being part of the Bai Tu Long Bay, a formation shaped over millions of years. The island primarily consists of sedimentary rocks, which gives rise to a mix of coastal cliffs and calm beaches, something that shows that geological history has a direct effect on both the coast's shape and the local ecology. The surrounding waters are high in nutrients, the result of upwelling, which attracts a range of marine species. These nutrient rich waters directly help the local fishing communities and the visitors are also able to get the chance to enjoy freshly caught seafood - which is plentiful here.
Local seafood is directly tied to the tidal variations, something worth considering. The local fishing methods, heavily reliant on specific tide patterns and lunar cycles, illustrate the practical know how of the local population and how they apply this natural information. Local fishing villages use these shifts to optimize their catches by timing it with the feeding patterns of specific fish species. It also determines the availability of specific seafood such as “Mực nhúng” (squid hot pot) and “Cá nướng” (grilled fish). This demonstrates that the unique local culinary choices are shaped by direct links to the available local resources.
Unlike other more visited destinations on the Vietnamese coast, Quan Lan Island receives fewer tourists, meaning the fishing villages here remain relatively unchanged. This reduced influx maintains the integrity of traditional ways of life and keeps it much less commercial. It does have a drawback, where some beaches, if not properly maintained in the lower tourist season, may appear neglected. As such this can show how the local economy depends heavily on fishing, and maybe is less dependent on tourists for jobs and economic activity. However for the curious tourist, this also may be a point of interest, showcasing its authenticity compared to other more developed beach regions.
From a biological perspective, Quan Lan and its surroundings seem quite promising, although there are less formal research documents available for this region compared to other coastal regions in Vietnam. Initial surveys indicate a significant level of marine diversity, with over 300 recorded species. This could present a great chance for more study into the biology of this part of the coast. Its historical value adds another layer, since it is an area with links to ancient trade routes. Traces of trading posts suggest that the island was once a center of commerce and its interaction with the fishing communities shows a direct history of regional growth over centuries. All together, Quan Lan Island is a combination of natural, cultural, and historical features. It presents a view of how fishing communities interact with their environment and suggests there is still some unique and untouched cultural heritage in Vietnam yet to be discovered.