Sunny, windswept Ninh Thuan (now part of Khanh Hoa province) looks unlike anywhere else in Vietnam: rocky mountains plunging into the sea, cacti, vineyards and strange rock formations. It's the best road trip to take from Nha Trang or Phan Rang.
The Vinh Hy coastal road
A winding seaside road below the mountains linking Ninh Chu – Vinh Hy – Binh Tien pass, considered one of Vietnam's most beautiful coastal drives. Stop at the Binh Tien pass for views from above.
Vinh Hy Bay
A small bay of crystal-clear water ringed by rocky mountains, within the Nui Chua National Park area. Take a glass-bottom boat over the coral, swim and eat seafood in the fishing village.
Hang Rai
A rocky shore covered in fossil coral of all shapes, where a small stream spills into the sea as a waterfall. Most beautiful in slanting afternoon light or at sunrise.
Thai An vineyards
Ninh Thuan is famous for grapes. Visit a vineyard to see the vines and taste fresh grapes, wine and grape syrup.
Po Klong Garai Towers
Ancient Cham towers on Trau hill in Phan Rang, built around the late 13th – early 14th century, among the best-preserved and most beautiful Cham towers.
Suggested itinerary
- From Nha Trang: leave around 6:30 a.m. → Binh Tien pass → Vinh Hy Bay → vineyard → seafood lunch → Hang Rai → Po Klong Garai → back in Nha Trang in the evening.
- From Phan Rang: shorter distances, so you can take it slower.
Tips
- The sun is fierce: bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and water.
- Wear shoes with good grip on the Hang Rai rocks.
- The best time is the dry season, roughly January – August.
Book Minh Hy Travel's Vinh Hy Bay – Hang Rai – vineyards tour by private car from Nha Trang or Phan Rang.
Cover photo: Karel Bilek · CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
