Things to do in Mui Ne, One of The Best Beaches in Vietnam

Mui Ne is a popular coastal destination in the district of Phan Thiet and home to some of the best beaches in Vietnam.

A 15 km long southern strip of white sand beaches is dotted with high end resorts, shopping venues and an array of fabulous dining options.  At the northern end of Mui Ne Bay, a traditional fishing village provides valuable insight on the day to day life of the locals.

Then there is the sand dunes of Mui Ne. One of Mui Ne’s biggest attractions. 

Best Things to do in Mui Ne

Here are some of the fabulous activities you can experience in the picturesque coastal town of Mui Ne.

Mui Ne Beach

Mui Ne Beach is the home of shopping, quality food, jewellery, handicrafts and some luxurious resorts but one of the most popular things to do in Mui Ne is kite surfing. The large number of kite surfing schools along the beach are evidence of the growing popularity of the sport. 

The beach also lures those just wanting to surf, kayaking or relax. November to March is the best time to visit Mui Ne Beach.

Sand Boarding on the Red Sand Dunes

Just three kilometres to the north of Mui Ne, reddish dunes, a unique geological formation reminiscent of a scene from the Sahara Desert are one of the most popular attractions in Mui Ne.

Head to the dunes for some sledding fun on the sand with plastic sleds. For the thrill-seeker, take a dune buggy or quad bike for a spin on the sandy slopes. 

The White Sand Dunes of Mui Ne

The white sand dunes of Mui Ne are entirely different from the red dunes and not just in colour. These dunes formed as a result of ancient iron mines which existed in the area for hundreds of years.

The white dunes rise to nearly 100 feet in places which is fantastic for sandboarding. Or, you can hire an ATV to traverse the ivory mountains past a beautiful lotus filled lake surrounded by a pine forest. 

Explore Mui Ne by Bike

There is no better way to explore some of the most offbeat places in Mui Ne than by bicycle.  Renting a bike is also the cheapest and most flexible option to get around and to take you to hidden coves and local areas which you may not otherwise reach by foot. 

Take a Balloon Ride Over the Mui Ne Dunes

While at around $165, a 3-hour hot air balloon ride tour may be considered expensive, but it is a must-do experience in Mui Ne.  Take a once in a lifetime flight over the white dunes, offering views of a desert lake and swamps.

The package includes two-way transfers from the hotel, light breakfast after the flight, champagne and a Hot Air Balloon flying certificate. Find out more here and don’t forget to ask about group discounts. 

Spend a Day at Fairy Springs

Grab a bicycle and ride ten minutes to a spot between the beach and the fishing village. Here you will find the Grand Canyon of Vietnam.

The unique limestone formations and the waterfall at the very end offer great photography locations and a fun hike in a shallow stream over a bauxite trail. Look out for local vendors in the area selling fresh coconuts and fruit. It is recommended to climb to the top to enjoy the beautiful views.

Enjoy the Atmosphere of the  Local Fishing Village

The locals of Mui Ne are fishermen by heart, and it is fascinating to watch the daily catch in action. Brightly coloured boats, freshly caught fish and the spectacular sunrise make an early morning visit to the fishing village a breathtaking experience.

If early morning is not your thing, wander in after lunch and enjoy the fresh sea breeze till the sun sets over the horizon. When the fishing boats return, stand by to watch as the entire family spring into action to sort the catch. For seafood lovers, this is where to shop for fresh fish overflowing in the baskets and fishnets. 

Escape to Hon Rom Beach

The Hon Rom Beach is a secluded piece of paradise, located a bit beyond the red dunes and towards the white dune region. Hon Rom is best reached by scooter. It is a lovely ride with beautiful scenery, beach views and pleasant driving avenues.

Rent a Scooter and Explore the Coast

Driving is the best way to see the wonders of Vietnam and the same could be said for Mui Ne Beach. Hire a scooter to explore areas around Mui Ne. The roads are surprisingly smooth and extend for miles along the coast. Or, head up the hills and towards the dunes.

Scooter hire is very cheap in Mui Ne and can be done either from your hotel or scooter rental in town. 

Eat your fill of seafood

For a tourist destination, the restaurants in Mui Ne are incredibly cheap, even on the main strips of Nguyen Dinh Chieu road. A good seafood meal with a glass of wine or beer will set you back around $6.

Take a stroll along the beach to find your favourite place and enjoy sea views and some of the cheapest restaurant quality food in the world. You may even see your meal being pulled from the net. 

Places like Mui Ne, which remain relatively off the tourist radar will stay with you long after you have left. The secret beaches of Mui Ne are easily reached from the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh city. The perfect addition to any Vietnam itinerary.