Joanna James
A seaside town located along the Southeast coast of Vietnam, Mui Ne is framed by the South China Sea. A town steeped in history, and promising lots of fun, here are the best activities to enjoy there.
The red and white sand dunes of Mui Ne are very famous, not only for their size but its stunning natural beauty. Easy to reach from Hai Long, the red dunes or doi hong are quite an awesome sight, although the white sand dunes or rather doi cat trang are by far the most impressive. Located 24kms northeast of Mui Ne, these sand hills are constantly sculpted into Sahara-esque shapes by the wandering winds blowing in from the ocean. Don't expect a typical desert silence there, though, as this is Vietnam and not the deepest depths of the Sahara. The dunes are within easy reach of the best hotels and resorts of this beach resort town, and guests at Anantara Mui Ne Resort can easily organise a tour of the area.
Three times a year, Mui Ne plays host to a popular street food festival; which generally takes place in January, April and July. The festival is very popular for its selection of traditional dishes from Phan Thiet, as well as other popular national specialities and international favourites. The food festivals are vibrant fun packed affairs, which offer a well-rounded selection of entertainment including DJ's and live music.
This is a picturesque stream which flows past a group of sand dunes and some very impressive rock formations. The best experience of the Fairy Springs is the walk from the sea, along the creek right up to its source, which is a natural spring. The trek can be attempted barefoot, and is indeed quite pleasant, although one should keep in mind that, exploring the sand dunes after, requires proper footwear. Along the way are a few souvenir stalls in case you fancy picking up a memento.
Located about 6kms from any conveniently placed hotel Mui Ne, Vietnam has to offer, the Cham Towers can be found within a hillside area; it offers gorgeous views of the adjacent Phan Thiet and a cemetery, home to tombstones which uncannily look like 'candy'. The ruins of three towers, dating back to the 9th century located here may have fallen to ruin, but they offer a rustically beautiful ambience. Not to be forgotten is the small pagoda, found here as well. The ruins are open from 7.30 am to 11.30 am and again from 1 pm to 4.30 pm.
Kitesurfing is extremely popular in Mui Ne; as the wind and waves are just right over there. Along the main beach are a number of kitesurfing shops, from which you can easily rent out equipment and even book lessons if you are a first-timer. The sport comes highly recommended as the marvellous winds drifting off the ocean, offer one, quite the kitesurfing experience in Mui Ne.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
