Joanna James
While Mui Ne in Vietnam is the perfect spot for a laidback getaway by the sea, it's also a great destination for some thrilling escapades. This includes those on a family vacay; some of these activities are suited for older kids, while others are great even for younger explorers.
Amongst the most popular things to do in Mui Ne is to go kitesurfing and the coastline here offers some of the best conditions in Asia for this activity. Those staying at resorts by the beach are perfectly placed to try kitesurfing and there are many operators in and around the shore that offer lessons for beginners and kids (for older ones). Apart from the main beach in Mui Ne, you also get other spots that have ideal wind conditions such as Ganh Beach (also known as Malibu Beach) and Suoi Nuoc.
Another activity for families who love adventure sports, sandboarding or sand-sledding is not to be missed either. The best place for this is the Red Sand Dunes, within easy reach of properties such as Anantara Mui Ne Resort. As you would expect from its name, the dunes here are reddish and come sunset, offers spellbinding vistas as well. Of course, the dunes are ideal for sandboarding too; you can bring your own sandboard, though you also get makeshift sleds that can be rented out.
An exciting adventure that even younger children can enjoy, hot air ballooning is well worth experiencing while on a stay at a resort in Mui Ne. A popular location for this activity is the White Sand Dunes; another picturesque spot in the region, it offers a typical desert landscape that is made even more magical at sunrise. An early morning hot air balloon ride here is thus a truly unforgettable experience; you can not only take in views of the vast sand-filled landscapes but also other areas like swamps and a desert lake.
If you and your family members love the great outdoors and a good hike, then make your way to the summit of Ta Cu Mountain. Do keep in mind the hike will take around two hours and includes a section with a steep stairway; if you have young kids, opt to take the cable car to the top instead. Those traversing by foot will come across enchanting rainforests, small shrines and even some wildlife. At the summit, you will be greeted by stunning panoramas over the area; here, you will also find the Linh Son Truong Tho Pagoda and an impressive statue of a reclining Buddha that is around 49 metres in length.
You can plan a captivating tour of the Mui Ne fishing village which will give the whole family a chance to witness traditional fisher communities and their livelihood. Early morning is the ideal time to see such sights and get some great photos of fishermen out in their boats. Once the fish is caught, it's brought ashore and sold; the catch can include groupers, scallops, stingrays and crabs. You will also find open-air restaurants and many food stalls in and around the beach area where you can sample grilled seafood and other culinary delights.
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