Hoi An to Mui Ne Itinerary & Guide: Coastal Hidden Gems

From Ancient Cobbled Streets to Desert Dunes

If you are visiting Vietnam for your holidays, you are more than likely to make Hoi An one of your stops. That's absolutely fine and a well worthy place to visit. But, where do you then go after the ancient cobbled streets? Down to Saigon, or Phu Quoc even? That's probably for certain if you are pushed for time. But perhaps one thing to think about when you come the next time with Travel Agent Hanoi, is the South Central coastline.

South Central Coast Odyssey

Just south of Hoi An is a world of culture, spectacular landscapes, dramatic cliffs and stunning coast views. If you want off the beaten path, where very few tourists venture, then do sit back with a cup of tea or coffee or even a cold beer and read on for this epic journey south of Hoi An.

1.Tam Ky: Hidden Tunnels & Mural Fishing Village

Tam Ky is just 50km south of Hoi An and if you stick to the usual spots through Vietnam, you would most certainly miss it. But it's such a shame as it has so much to offer. We have been sending our guests to Tam Ky from Hoi An for a few years now. We are still surprised (and glad) it hasn't become too busy...which is the charm of it all.

A city of murals and memories, this is different to its high profile neighbour Hoi An. But ever so quaint and its where we start your south central coast odyssey.

• What to see & Do: We begin in Tam Thanh Mural Village, a small humble fishing village which has been transformed into an art gallery for houses and walls. Very visual street artwork has made this small community a talking point along the Odyssey trail south of Hoi An. Next up is a deep look into history at the Vietnamese Heroic Mother Statue or the raw & non touristy hidden tunnels at Ky Anh Tunnels.
• Hidden Gem: Check out the cool reservoir offering boat tours & camping at Phu Ninh Lake. Then, at sunset, watch thousands of storks return to their nests at this unique find in Tam Ky. The Dam River Reed Fields is the perfect stop at the end of your day in Tam Ky.
• Hotels: We do know of a stunning beach front private house owned by one of our tour operators in Hoi An, contact us to include in your journey. Other possibilities are Tam Thanh Beach Resort & Spa, Ba Co Boutique hotel.

2.Quang Ngai: History & Volcanic Isles

Quang Ngai is next down the coast on this epic trip with Travel Agent Hanoi. Quang Ngai is known for its history and a gateway to the volcanic isles.

• What to see & Do: The main attraction here is the Son My (My Lai) Memorial. This is quite a poignant place to visit to understand the deep history in Vietnam in the last century. A great view point is found overlooking the Tra Khuc river. With panoramic views all around, this stop at Thien An Pagoda, is a must for scenic view chasers. Sa Huynh Salt fields are an iconic place to visit in Quang Ngai. Between March - August, you will see farmers in conical hats, harvesting this white gold and creating a shimmering mirrored landscape.
• Hidden Gem: If you fancy taking a hike, head over to Ly Son Island by ferry and explore the garlic fields and ancient craters. Climb the Thoi Loi Volcano for impressive views down the coastline.
• Hotels: A couple of beachfront hotels & resorts are dotted along this coastline at Quang Ngai. Hoang Yen Boutique Hotel, Le Domaine De Tam Hai Resort and slightly in to the city is the Harmonia Hotel. This has been said to be a large and spacious hotel with modern design.

3.Quy Nhon: The Coastal Crown Jewel

This will be the better of the many stops you will take on this trip along the coastline. A place here is often called the "Maldives of Vietnam" and possibly the most beautiful of all the places you will visit down this way. One of the most famous photos taken in Quy Nhon is the crescent bay with a hundred fishing boats moored for the day. It's a place I have been to on a couple of occasions while I was backpacking through Vietnam many years ago. It has changed hugely since then though!

• What to see & Do: Visit the Twin Cham Towers at Thap Doi, an ancient set of structures preserved since the 12th Century. Ky Co Beach must be visited, the so called "Maldives of Vietnam" gets its name for the turquoise coloured waters and stunning crescent shaped bay. This is accessible by kayak or steep roads and is around 25km from Quy Nhon.
• Hidden Gem: A true gem, although now in the guide books, how hidden it is? But with clear waters for swimming, basket boat hire, local seafood restaurants and a slow paced atmosphere. Head to Bai Xep fishing village and explore the narrow alleyways and local vibe.
• Hotels: Thousands of hotels in this area due to it being a popular Vietnamese holiday spot. If travelling yourself, check them out online. Notable high quality resorts which we use for our clients are Maia Resort Quy Nhon, Anantara Quy Nhon & Avani Quy Nhon Resort. To get the best rates and also include the logistics of this trip, let Travel Agent Hanoi deal with it all...stress free!

4.Tuy Hoa: Lighthouse & Yellow Flowers

Tuy Hoa sparks memories of my motorbike journey through Vietnam, many years ago. Albeit just an overnight stay to reach Quy Nhon, it did seem to have a very local vibe to it. An off the beaten path destination, many travellers are looking for these days. So one we will visit on our journey south. Known for its powdery white sandy beaches and volcanic formations, it's no wonder it has to be on the list of stops.

• What to see & Do: Ganh Da Dia is one of those spots you must see albeit if on a weekend, you most likely won't get it to yourself. It is quite a journey away from Tuy Hoa, around 30 km, but quite a spectacle when you arrive. Its a unique spot with thousands of basalt columns interlocking with each other to form a Stone Plate Reef. It was formed millions of years ago from volcanic eruptions and a unique photo opportunity. A nice viewpoint is up at Nhan Tower, overlooking the river Da Rang.
• Hidden Gem: Mui Dien Lighthouse is the easternmost point in all Vietnam. So arrive early, and you can be one of the first to see a sunrise in all Vietnam.
• Hotels: Sala Grand Hotel is known to be a good spot to stay overnight. It is beachfront and popular with guests enjoying a floating breakfast!

5.Nha Trang: Nightlife & Island Hopping

Nha Trang again brings back fond memories visiting on my motorbike trip. I stayed here for about 5 days I believe and enjoyed the nightlife, island hopping and a cruise. Although its predominantly visited by Russians, many people visit this place for its fresh seafood and quality white sandy beaches.

• What to see & Do: Firstly, for families with kids, a trip across the bay by cable car to VinWonders is an absolute must. A full days activities on the water slides and amusement rides, to tire the kids out is definitely something you should consider while here. For a more cultural and religious vibe, head to see the ancient Po Nagar Cham towers on the hill. After that day at WinWonders, the parents could very well do with some deep relaxation. Plonk yourselves in to one of many mud bath resorts in the city. Using mineral rich mud, it detoxifies your skin & soothes muscles. A day here and you are in dreamland!
• Hidden Gem: About 25 km away from the city are a set of three waterfalls called Ba Ho Waterfalls. Originating from Hon Son peak, a series of lakes on three levels has been naturally formed and is a great place to enjoy cooling down in the heat. It is also a destination for adventure seekers, with hiking, swimming and the ultimate cliff jumping!
• Hotels: Amiana Resort is one we have used for our guests before, but it is outside the city centre so a bit of a trip to get in and out. So if you wish to stay close to the action, choose from the many beachfront hotels such as Star City Bayfront or Vinpearl Beach front.

6.Phan Rang - Dunes & Kings

Phan Rang or as it used to be called, Phan Rang Thap Cham is the driest region in Vietnam. Along with that brings a unique landscape of vineyards, cactus & sand dunes. Described by locals as "wind like a fan, sun like a toaster" gives you the impression it could be quite different here. With stunning coastal landscapes and ancient Champa culture. This has to be a great stop on your journey down the coast.

• What to see & Do: Po Klong Garai Cham Towers are the best well preserved brick towers, standing since the 13th century. Vinh Hy Bay, said to be the most beautiful bay, is perfect for coral and boating trips and is surrounded by Nui Chua National Park.
• Hidden Gem: Mui Dinh & Nam Cuong sand dunes. Most people go to Mui Ne sand dunes, but a visit here is met with less tourists and stunning landscapes. Visit the Thai An Vineyard and pick the famous red and green grapes of Ninh Thuan.
• Hotels: A massive resort at Long Thuan Resort just next door to Binh Son Sea Park which is right on the beach. TTC Resort Ninh Thuan is further up and has its own beachfront space.

7.Mui Ne - Desert Finale

The final stop before heading down to Saigon & home is Mui Ne. A windy coastal city which attracts the adventurous kite surfers to its shores. I have laid on the beach here and a wall of sand built up by the side of me in just 30 minutes...so it's windy guys, very windy! This is where the famous sand dunes are where kids used to help you slide down on plastic home made boards.

• What to see & Do: The Red & White Sand dunes are the places to be. The red dunes, many years ago, were the quietest and smallest of the two. The White sand dunes were best visited by jeep, many tours operator offer this option. If you are riding a motorbike without a licence, which we don't advise, beware of Police who will be prominent around these parts. Be prepared to pay a fine or lose your bike & pay a larger fine to get it back. The Fairy Stream is also one on the list of things to see in Mui Ne. A small stream where you can walk along barefoot in amongst red canyon like formations.
• Hidden Gem: Mui Ne Fishing Village is a place where you can see dozens of basket boats returning to shore. After all night fishing, the fishermen return with their horde of seafood to sell to the locals.
• Hotels: Pandanus Resort, Anantara Mui Ne & Mui Ne Bay Resort are just a few hotels which would be our recommendations to stay at during this trip.