Exploring Phu Yen: A Complete Travel Guide

Featuring tranquil beaches, unspoiled islands, and marvelous stone cliffs, Phu Yen is a true gem of Vietnam. 

This travel guide showcases the charm and allure of Phu Yen while offering useful information for planning a trip, including location, the best time to visit, transport options, and top attractions.

Location 

Located in central Vietnam, the coastal province of Phu Yen borders the provinces of Binh Dinh (Quy Nhon) and Khanh Hoa (Nha Trang). The city of Tuy Hoa, although the largest and most populous in the province, remained relatively unknown and only began to gain attention after the release of the Vietnamese film “I See Yellow Flowers in the Green Grass” (Toi thay hoa vang tren co xanh in Vietnamese, directed by Victor Vu) thanks to its picturesque landscapes.

Phu Yen encompasses a vast variety of lagoons, fertile plains, and rivers, with over 200 kilometers of shoreline along Vietnam’s south-central coastline. Less known than the famous Nha Trang, this place is an excellent alternative for those seeking a peaceful beach getaway where thay can enjoy privacy. 

If you’re someone who’s always craving adventure, Phu Yen offers some of the most exciting experiences, from ancient relics to thrilling water sports. Nearby ports, mountains, and bays provide visitors with the opportunity to explore majestic rainforests teeming with lush vegetation and rare wildlife. Phu Yen promises one of your most memorable vacations, with all the relaxation and services it has to offer.

Brief History of Phu Yen and Why It’s Worth Visiting

Fun fact: The name “Phu Yen” translates to “a prosperous and peaceful future” in Vietnamese.

Phu Yen was once part of the Champa Kingdom, which ruled central Vietnam from the 2nd to the 17th century. The remnants of the Champa civilization can still be seen in this area, particularly through the Cham towers, stone relics, and artifacts scattered across the province. 

Aside from the remnants of the Champa civilization, some French architectural structures can still be found in Phu Yen, especially in Tuy Hoa, the province's capital. This is a result of infrastructure development and urban planning that occurred during French colonial rule in the early 20th century. 

In 1975, after the reunification of Vietnam, Phu Yen was liberated. This period marked a significant change for the region as it shifted from a war-torn area to one focused on rebuilding and development. Over time, Phu Yen became a peaceful agricultural and coastal province and a popular destination it is today.

As Phu Yen's history is deeply intertwined with Vietnam's national story, whether you're exploring ancient Cham towers or enjoying the quiet beaches, Phu Yen offers visitors a profound sense of both historical importance and natural tranquility.

Best Time to Visit Phu Yen

Being coastal, Phu Yen enjoys all the characteristics of a tropical island. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from January to mid-August. This period coincides with the region’s most exciting local festivals, making it the perfect time for tourism.

However, be mindful that from April to May, Phu Yen can become really hot due to the combination of typical Vietnamese humidity. Visitors are advised to bring sunscreen, water, and long-sleeve clothing.

If you plan to visit Phu Yen during May to July, be prepared for crowds, as this is the peak domestic tourist season. For those seeking a calm and relaxing vacation, it’s best to avoid this period.

How to Get to Phu Yen, Vietnam

Given Phu Yen’s location on the central-southern coast of Vietnam, it’s a perfect addition to any trip from Ho Chi Minh City. There are several options for reaching Phu Yen, including train, plane, or bus.

• By Bus or Private Van: For just 180,000 to 300,000 VND per ticket from the Eastern Bus Station in Ho Chi Minh City, you can travel to Phu Yen. For the utmost comfort and relaxation, a private van is a great choice.
   
• By Train: You can take the SE2 or SE4 trains from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Yen. If you take the overnight train, you will arrive the next morning fully rested and ready to enjoy your vacation.
   
• By Air: If you’re not in Ho Chi Minh City or prefer to fly, you can land at Tuy Hoa Airport, which is only 10 km from the city center. Ensure you arrange transport in advance to reach your accommodation.

What to Visit in Phu Yen?

Although Phu Yen is home to many religious and historical relics, it is primarily known for its stunning beaches and bays. You can either combine all these destinations or choose based on your personal preferences.

Bai Xep Beach 

This small beach, particularly the two rows of cliffs at each end, is so beautiful that it attracts numerous tourists who visit for photos, often shared on Instagram. 

At just 500 meters in length, the beach feels like a secluded paradise. A short hike up the cliffs offers spectacular views. The tranquility and breathtaking scenery will leave you in awe. Located in Tuy An District, Bai Xep is about 14 km from Tuy Hoa, and though it’s not within walking distance from the capital of Phu Yen, the journey is well worth it.

Bai Mon- Mui Dien 

The distinctive charm of Bai Mon Beach lies in its tranquility and comfort, stemming from its untouched nature. You can expect total freshness and relaxation while watching the crystal-clear water and golden sand stretching along the shore. Bai Mon Beach is located at the far east of the country, making it the first land to welcome the sunrise in Vietnam. This brings us to an activity that shouldn’t be missed in Phu Yen: sunrise watching. The sunrise here, especially at Dai Lanh Cape, is a must-see, attracting many visitors.

Vung Ro Bay

Located in Dong Hoa District, Vung Ro Bay benefits from a prime location, overlooking many beautiful beaches and oceans, supported by wooded mountains like Hon Ba, Ca Pass, and Da Bia Mountain. Covering an area of 16.4 square kilometers, Vung Ro Bay is a popular tourist destination, nestled between the Ca Pass and the road to Dong Hoa.

When you visit Vung Ro Bay, you will enjoy a panoramic view of tranquil fishing villages, lush green mountains, and white sandy beaches. The small beach of Bai Chinh is where many fish farms, wooden fishing boats, and floating houses are located.

Don’t forget to enjoy a cold beer while floating on the jade lagoon. There are several seafood restaurants serving freshly caught dishes, and centers offering recreational activities such as snorkeling, jet skiing, and visiting historical relics for interested visitors.

Van Hoa Plateau

Situated at an altitude of 400 meters in Son Hoa District, the Van Hoa Plateau offers a tropical forest with a variety of flora and fauna, including trees, wild animals, and even the gentle sunlight and wind, making you feel like you're in paradise on Earth.

History enthusiasts can explore national historical relics such as the Ho Chi Minh Memorial House and the unique Go Thi Thung Tunnel System.

Da Dia Reef

The name "Da Dia" literally means “stone plates.” You definitely should not miss this incredible destination.

Da Dia Reef is a natural masterpiece made up of millions of basalt rocks of inconceivable shapes, stacked together to form an extraordinary array of high, vast columns.

The rocky reef stretches over one kilometer along the coastline, with some referring to it as a giant black beehive. Its unique structure results from volcanic eruptions millions of years ago. When the hot lava met the cold water, it cooled and solidified, forming the rocky phenomenon we see today.

Besides Phu Yen, only three other places in the world have this magnificent natural wonder. It’s no surprise that so many people visit this famous reef to take photos and admire its magical scenery. Some couples even come here for wedding photos, while others want to capture the unusual landscape for their Instagram. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, and water to protect yourself from the sun and heat.

Nhan Mountain

At the summit of Nhan Mountain, you will undoubtedly have an expansive view of Tuy Hoa city with its lush rice fields and verdant forests. The fascinating scene of the sunset, with a panoramic view from this peak at 64 meters above sea level, is absolutely breathtaking. Tourists will also have the opportunity to explore Nhan Tower, an ancient Cham relic built on top of the mountain in the 11th century.

Mang Lang Church

Built in 1892 by Father Joseph de La Cassagne, Mang Lang Church is one of the oldest churches in Vietnam and all of Indochina. With its long and mysterious history, this church is one of the most popular tourist sites in Phu Yen.

Located about 10 minutes by car from Da Dia Reef, you will immediately understand why this church is so famous at first glance. Its gothic structure, with its gray tones throughout, is inspired by the artistic styles of many poets and artists. The church houses the missionary Alexandre de Rhode and, more importantly, the first book in modern Vietnamese script. This book is preserved in a glass case along with other important historical artifacts over 120 years old. With its unique beauty and historical and artistic charm, Mang Lang Church is a must-see for anyone visiting Phu Yen.

Xuan Dai Bay

Spanning 13,000 hectares, Xuan Dai Bay is an ideal destination for tranquility seekers, as it is still relatively unknown to the public. Located 50 kilometers from Tuy Hoa, the capital of Phu Yen province, this bay is full of charming small beaches and untouched landscapes. Visitors can explore several captivating sites from here, such as Mu U Peninsula, Ong Xa Islet, and Da Mai Mountain. You can also visit the famous Da Dia Reef from here.

A unique feature of this bay is that after enjoying the natural beauty, tourists can also observe the daily life of local fishermen by simply visiting Om Beach, a perfect spot for camping. You can camp here to enjoy the peaceful twilight or have an unforgettable experience watching the work of Vietnamese fishermen while listening to the region's stories and legends.

Ong Cop Bridge

Also known as Tuy An Bridge, it is the longest wooden bridge in Vietnam, connecting Tuy An District to Song Cau District. The bridge, 400 meters long, started to gain attention from international media when it appeared in the 2007 Vietnamese reality TV show Vietnam Amazing Race. Despite its age and simple structure, the bridge is well-maintained, so don't hesitate to walk across it! The bridge only takes about 10 minutes to cross, but if you bring a camera, you may need a little more time to capture all the aesthetic scenes!

Chop Chai Mountain

Another mountain offering an aerial view of the charming Tuy Hoa city is Chop Chai Mountain. However, since there is a military unit guarding the mountain, you’ll need to ask the soldiers for permission to enter and take photos.

At 391 meters high, you’ll see everything from peaceful paddies to the crystal-clear ocean, and even several historical and religious temples in the area, such as Minh Son, Hoa Son, Khanh Son, and the Bao Lam Pagoda at the foot of the mountain.

Da Trang Pagoda and Mountain

Da Trang Mountain is a great place where visitors can explore both the beauty of nature and the myths surrounding historical temples. One of the most famous religious sites here is Da Trang Pagoda, which attracts many visitors and pilgrims every year and serves as the perfect spot to rest after a challenging mountain hike.

For history and culture enthusiasts, the pagoda has much to explore. The Da Trang Pagoda is over 100 years old and was honored by the Vietnamese emperor in 1889 but was completely destroyed by fire in 1929. Thanks to the large number of Buddhists across Vietnam, the pagoda was restored and recognized as a crucial cultural heritage site.

Hon Yen Islet

Though modest in size, Hon Yen Islet offers travelers a stunning panorama of itself. The wind, water, and humidity of this islet make it an ideal place for tourism and coral diving. You can also rent a canoe for a small tour around this beautiful gem.

What to Do in Phu Yen?

Phu Yen offers a wide variety of activities for travelers, from outdoor adventures to cultural explorations. Whether you're looking to explore nature, immerse yourself in history, or simply relax, there's something for everyone. Here's a closer look at what you can do in Phu Yen:

1. Explore Tuy Hoa City

As the capital of Phu Yen, Tuy Hoa is full of life and offers much to discover. Walk through the vibrant streets, observe the daily lives of the locals, and visit the unique temples and pagodas that dot the city. The local markets offer great opportunities to shop for local crafts, and you’ll get a feel for the pace of life here compared to other Vietnamese cities. Don’t miss the Ngoc Lang commune, home to lush fields of vegetables like cabbage, lettuce, and coriander.

2. Visit Tuyet Diem Village

For a deep dive into local tradition, head to Tuyet Diem Village, famous for its centuries-old salt-making practices. The village’s salt ponds have been in operation for over 300 years, offering a unique opportunity to learn the salt production process. You can even try your hand at making salt yourself—an engaging experience that connects you to the region’s history.

3. Camping on Mai Nha Islet

If you're an adventure enthusiast, Mai Nha Islet is a must-visit. Situated just 4 km from O Loan Lagoon, this small islet is an untouched paradise, perfect for camping. The natural beauty here, with its jade-colored beaches and peaceful atmosphere, makes it an ideal spot for a unique outdoor experience. Fish on the beach, enjoy the sunsets, and immerse yourself in the serenity of nature.

4. Water Sports – Swimming, Kayaking, Sailing

Phu Yen’s beautiful coastline is perfect for water activities. Whether you’re a swimmer, a kayaker, or a sailor, there’s something for you. Popular beaches like Mon and Long Thuy offer great swimming opportunities, while Lao Mai Nha Islet and Xuan Dai Bay are perfect for sailing and kayaking. Don’t miss out on the chance to try these activities while taking in the stunning coastal scenery.

5. Cycling and Coastal Driving

For those who love the outdoors, cycling or driving along the picturesque coastal highways of Phu Yen is a must-do. You’ll pass stunning beaches, winding mountain roads, and scenic viewpoints. Rent a bike or take a drive to enjoy panoramic views of the coastline, lush landscapes, and fishing villages. It’s the perfect way to take in the beauty of the region at your own pace.

6. Hike Nhan Mountain

Nhan Mountain is a popular hiking destination that offers breathtaking views of Tuy Hoa city, its rice fields, and surrounding forests. At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic view of the entire region, including a glimpse of the Nhan Tower, a Cham relic dating back to the 11th century. The hike is a bit challenging, but the scenic reward at the top makes it worthwhile.

7. Phu Yen’s Nightlife

While Phu Yen isn’t known for its bustling nightlife, there are still plenty of places to enjoy a quiet evening. Visit one of the local pubs or cafes for a drink and live acoustic music. If you’re looking for something more lively, the luxury hotels in Tuy Hoa have rooftop bars where you can sip tropical cocktails while gazing out over the city’s skyline. The relaxed, laid-back vibe of Phu Yen’s nightlife is perfect for those who prefer a slower pace.

8. Shopping in Phu Yen

For souvenir hunters, Tuy Hoa’s Tran Hung Dao Street and the Tuy Hoa Market are the places to go. Here, you’ll find a variety of locally-made goods, including crafts, food, and clothing. If you prefer shopping in a more modern setting, head to Phu Vuong Street, known for its shopping centers. Don’t miss the chance to buy swallow’s nest soup, a local delicacy once reserved for royalty, or other traditional products from nearby villages.

Pro Tip: If you’re a fan of local seafood, Phu Yen offers some of the freshest and most unique seafood dishes, including grilled tuna, steamed tuna eyes, and freshly cut sashimi. It’s a true seafood lover’s paradise!

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