7 Irresistible Reasons to Make Phu Yen Your Next Destination!

1. Phu Yen: Wild Beauty on Vietnam's South-Central Coast

Phu Yen is located conveniently close to the famous Vietnamese coastal towns of Quy Nhon and Nha Trang; it takes just a roughly 3-hour drive to get there. If you are thinking about a stunning new summer place, then Phu Yen is another choice to be added to your bucket list. This seaside town will surely amaze with its wild and awesome beauty, contributing truly authentic experiences.

In Vietnam, there is Phu Yen Province, also known as "the land of yellow flowers on green grass"—a name familiar to a popular Vietnamese movie. This name appeared because of the amazing beauty of the area's nature: wild beaches, calm lagoons, and green rice fields—together making a special landscape.

One will not only be in a position to appreciate the aesthetic value of the province's seafront landscapes but also discover a rich cultural legacy, which includes monuments and historical sites linked with an old Cham civilization and churches that date back to the twentieth century, both having contributed greatly to the history of Vietnam.

With its geographical position, the province holds a seasonal tropical climate by the oceanic climate, hot and humid. The average temperature in Phu Yen ranges between 26.5°C to 30°C, making this place an ideal location to escape the scorching heat of Saigon and enjoy a gentle getaway from the cold of the northern provinces.

2. Top Things to Do in Phu Yen

2.1 Ganh Da Dia 

Among the prominent places in the list of Phu Yen's key sites of interest, there is one of the most remarkable geological formations in Vietnam, often called the Stone Slab Cliff, namely Ganh Da Dia. The place is sited by the sea in An Ninh Dong Commune, some 35 kilometers from the city center of Tuy Hoa in Phu Yen Province.

These geological wonders are a collection of thousands of regular hexagonal basalt columns that fit together to resemble a huge mosaic.

The basalt columns are about 2000 meters long along the coast and have a width of about 50 meters. It is estimated that there are many of these columns, totaling about 35 000. Heights vary, with the tallest about 0.8 meters, while the shortest is about 0.3 meters.

According to research carried out by geographers and scientists, these basalt columns were formed by ancient volcanic eruptions which happened on the Van Hoa Plateau around 200 million years ago. Seen from a distance, Ganh Da Dia looks like a massive honeycomb-like structure emerging from the blue sea.

For an unforgettable experience during your visit, it is ideal to take note of the dawn or dusk times. The scenery in front of you will be dramatic and utterly bewitching.

Practical information:

• Price of an adult entrance ticket: 20,000 VND, or approximately $0.82 USD

• Price of a child entrance ticket: 10,000 VND, or approximately $0.41 USD

• Opening hours: From 7 am to 6:30 pm every day of the week, including weekends and public holidays

Tips:

It is quite possible to have a picnic in Ganh Da Dia. So, if you wish, you can prepare delicious food and drinks to fully enjoy this experience while listening to the soothing waves of the sea.

Don't forget to bring resistant trainers, hiking or trekking shoes, as access to some places can be difficult and the stones tend to heat up quickly under the intensity of the sun.

2.2. Cape Dien

Cape Dien is also known as Dai Lanh and is a part of the very hilly region of the Truong Son mountains-the biggest range in Vietnam.

Historically known as the easternmost point of the country, it is famous for its stele which says: "The place to welcome Vietnam's first sunrise".

As such, finding Cape Doi in Khanh Hoa Nha Trang raised controversy regarding the correct name of the easternmost tip of Vietnam, thereby debunking earlier claims. Be it as it may, Cape Dien still draws people to visit year after year in its peaceful and stunning natural beauty.

Topping Cape Town, nobody should miss the Mui Dien Lighthouse. Built in the late nineteenth century during the time of French colonization, it started working in 1997 after a very chaotic history. For those who want serenity, a quiet atmosphere, a view off the beaches at Cape Town, I recommend visiting Bai Mon Beach. Crystal clear waters now merge into powdery white sands, and the gentle lapping of waves with a mild sea wind provide that fresh feeling. It is perfect for a real break from reality.

2.3 Bai Xep Beach

Bai Xep Beach is among the most beautiful coastlines in this area, located in a small fishing village about 14 kilometers far from Tuy Hoa, the central urban center of Phu Yen province. This 500-meter-long beach features its cactus line that covers the coastline.

On the other hand, one can think of a desert containing cacti and a lot of sunshine; on top of that, the exciting part of it would be this fantastic beach nearby, where one can enjoy the sea and the sandy shores.

This beautiful seaside location offers visitors the opportunity to unwind, make the most of swimming, and appreciate the unbeatable scenery of the area.

>>> Read more: The most beautiful beaches in Vietnam: North, Central, South

2.4 O Loan Lagoon

The Loan Lagoon features a pattern formed by the division of the land into closely packed squares or rectangles that has a most fascinating natural design. Its aesthetic value and serenity of its landscape are unchallenged by any other coastal municipality.

The place covers an area of about 17.5 square kilometers with an average depth of about 1.4 meters, which can rise to 3 meters in the rainy season. The quiet and clear waters of O Loan are in sharp contrast with the surrounding hills and stretching rice fields. It is a habitat for many species of migratory birds and aquatic creatures, thus making it a richly biodiverse environment. In addition, the place is ranked as a national relic.

2.5 Vung Ro Bay

Next on the deliberation is Vung Ro Bay, which is nestled at the foothills of the Deo Ca mountain pass and has been recognized as one of the most dramatic passes in Vietnam. Crossing this pass and looking down at the bay is an unforgettable experience. On one side will be the radiant azure sea that will make you wonder, and on the other side, a rugged and deep pass rises with majesty. In addition, Vung Ro Bay also offers a wide range of exciting water sports.

Vung Ro Bay is a place of great historical value, bringing back memories of a fierce war in the past. Under the water is a shipwreck that has no name, which implies the heroic contribution that the soldiers made during the resistance war from 1964 to 1965. From 1997, Vung Ro Bay was officially recognized as a national historical and cultural heritage site.

2.6 Ong Cop Bridge (Tigris Bridge)

According to local legend, there was a unique midwife in this area at some time in the past. Once, a tiger brought her up the hills to give birth to her cubs.

As a token of her help, the tiger brought a wild boar to the midwife's garden. Even after the midwife's death, the tiger still visited her grave. The community in the area later built the Ong Cop Temple in honor of those who have acted out of love. The name of the Tiger Bridge (Ong Cop) originates from this mysterious story.

Presently, the Ong Cop Bridge is the longest wooden bridge in Vietnam and has become a significant symbol of Phu Yen province, a place that should be visited while in the area. Being built entirely out of wood, it has a semicircular shape. However, due to its narrow width and insufficient support strength, traffic across this bridge is unfortunately limited to scooter or pedestrian use only.

>>> Explore the journey of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam

2.6 Yen Islet (Hon Yen)

The small Yen islet is located close to the city center, which can be reached by heading to Nhon Hoi village and taking a boat to Yen Islet.

Yen Islet is surrounded by crystal clear turquoise blue waters, renowned for its diverse ecosystem and variety of colorful corals. In addition to admiring the beautiful seascapes, it is possible to practice unforgettable underwater activities on this islet. Diving remains a popular activity for most visitors arriving in Hon Yen.

The beauty of the colorful coral reefs will leave you stunned, especially during low tides when the reefs get closer to the water's surface. Their mystery blends with the light of the sunset, creating an extraordinary spectacle.

>>> Read also: Where to do the most beautiful dives in Vietnam?

2.7 Mang Lang Church

If you want to add more to your list of places that fascinate tourists in Phu Yen, it's worth taking a look around the Mang Lang Church. Being among the older churches in Vietnam and dating back over 120 years ago, this was identified by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage Site.

Mang Lang was built in the early twentieth century and represents one of the most beautiful French colonial architectural examples, because its neo-Gothic style is quite imposing. A white façade, with signs of time passing through it, its colorful stained-glass windows, and the presence of green moss on the walls add an artistic dimension to its design.

2.8 Nhan Tower (Swallow Tower)

On the bank of the Da Rang River, the biggest river in central Vietnam, one can observe with pride an ancient Cham tower standing against the blue sky. Nhan Tower-"Swallows' Tower"-built in the end of the 11th and the beginning of the 12th centuries is a typical architectural work of the ancient Cham people in Phu Yen District.

Nhan Tower is associated with a myriad of swallows that fly and nest here in great numbers. Over time, locals started naming the tower after the bird. This place also has a holy dimension, where over generations, the ancient Cham people have worshiped their gods here in this holy place.

2.9 Nghinh Phong Tower

The new landmark, with great historical value, highlights the development of Phu Yen province, especially in the field of tourism. Nghinh Phong Tower, located in the center of Nghinh Phong Square in downtown Tuy Hoa, is inspired by the Da Dia stone slab cliff.

If you stand in the space between these two towers, you will definitely be surprised. Indeed, the construction of the tower has been carefully calculated so that with every breath of wind through the gaps, a unique musical sound is created. It is definitely worth experiencing.

2.10 Discover local specialties

• The eye of the tuna

One of the specialties of Phu Yen is tuna eye. This dish was voted by the Association of Records as one of the 10 most famous seafood specialties in 2014.

The tuna eye can be cooked in different ways, such as steaming, grilling, and boiling into soup with aromatic herbs. It is generally served with fresh vegetables and condiments to spice up the dish.

• Chicken rice

Seafood is not your thing? Yet another option would be some species of chicken rice, originating from the region of Phu Yen. This area has a different method of processing chicken rice, which can leave a mark on the taste of any person.

Phu Yen chicken rice is well-known for blending a set of delicious flavors. Fresh ingredients include vegetables, which give freshness to the dish. The soy-based sauce mixed with spices gives it a savory flavor. Its simplicity and ease of tasting make it a preferred dish among the locals and visitors to the area.

• Vietnamese chive noodle soup

Something with broth? Yes, it is "bánh canh hẹ", the Vietnamese chive noodle soup. This specialty is made from thick, gelatinous rice flour noodles and utilizes the herb Hẹ- Vietnamese chives, providing a distinct flavor.

The broth is usually made from pork and seafood like shrimp and squid. It is served while hot in a bowl, with chili peppers, lime, and fish sauce.

>>> Learn more about Vietnamese cuisine  

2. How to get to Phu Yen?

Located about 1200 km from Ha Noi to the south and 560 km from Ho Chi Minh City, there are many options available to you in terms of means of transport (plane, train, rental car, bus or motorbike).

• By plane

The easiest way is to fly to Tuy Hoa Airport, located in Phu Yen province.

The price of a round trip for one person can vary between approximately $171 USD (4,100,000 VND) and $321 USD (7,600,000 VND), depending on the period and the airlines.

• By train

It is possible to take the train from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Yen. The trains offer pleasant comfort and allow you to enjoy a magnificent view of the coast. The official website for booking tickets is dsvn.vn. Learn more about trains in Vietnam

• By sleeper bus

If you want to take the sleeper bus, it is recommended to travel from Da Nang, Quy Nhon, or Nha Trang, as the distance is not too long. On the other hand, if you are coming from Saigon or Hanoi, it is better to opt for the train or plane, which are the best means of transport.

3. Best time to visit Phu Yen

Vietnam lies within the tropical and subtropical regions characterized by monsoon seasons, abundant rainfall, and high humidity. Nevertheless, it does receive a lot of sunshine, which to voyagers is magic.

The best time to visit Phu Yen is from February to August in the dry season. However, traveling in Phu Yen during the rainy period of the year, from September to January, may mean flooded roads-a factor that would either limit or nullify any outdoor activities.

Our Final Words

You're already familiar with many beaches in Hoi An, Nha Trang, and Mui Ne, but this time, why not check out Phu Yen? This beautiful place is sure to impress you!

>>> Discover Vietnam's other beautiful coastal cities:

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• What to do in Mui Ne Vietnam? Top 10 Best Things You Can't Miss
• Is Nha Trang Worth Visiting? 7 Key Facts About Vietnam's Coastal City
• Con Dao Island Travel Guide: 6 Must-Ask Questions Before Your Trip