Binh Thuan, a sun-drenched province on Vietnam’s South Central Coast, is where golden sands meet rich history. From the bustling fishing hub of Phan Thiet to the wind-swept Mui Ne beaches, this region blends seaside charms with ancient traditions. Once a crossroads of Cham culture, Binh Thuan is now a favorite for travelers seeking more than just a beach holiday. Here, you can sandboard down red dunes, wander centuries-old towers, and share a meal with locals who still live by the rhythms of the sea.
Population: Approximately 1.7 million in 2024.
Economy: Binh Thuan’s economy thrives on a mix of fishing, agriculture, and tourism. The province is Vietnam’s top producer of dragon fruit and a major hub for seafood processing. Renewable energy, especially wind and solar power, is emerging as a key growth sector. Tourism in Mui Ne and Phan Thiet plays a vital role, drawing visitors with beaches, sand dunes, and cultural heritage.
Landmarks: Famous for the Mui Ne Sand Dunes, Fairy Stream, and the Po Sah Inu Towers.
Vietnam
The story of Binh Thuan begins with the Champa Kingdom, which flourished along this coast for centuries. Its legacy remains in landmarks such as the Po Sah Inu Towers, where brick spires rise against the blue sky, and in the spiritual Kate Festival, still celebrated by Cham communities today.
In the 17th century, Bình Thuận became part of Dai Viet territory under the Nguyen Lords. Later, during the French colonial era, Phan Thiet grew into a fishing and trading center, its port bustling with boats bringing in salt, seafood, and spices.
Binh Thuan’s people are known for their warmth and openness. In fishing villages, elders still mend nets under the shade of coconut palms, ready to share stories about storms survived and big catches made. Travelers can join early-morning fish markets, where bargaining is friendly and smiles are genuine. On Cham festival days, visitors are often welcomed into community spaces to witness music, dance, and rituals that have been preserved for generations.
Mui Ne Sand Dunes
One of Vietnam’s most iconic landscapes, the Red and White Sand Dunes of Mui Ne, are a surreal experience. The Red Dunes, close to the village, are best visited at sunrise or sunset when the sand glows under golden light. The White Dunes, further inland, feel more like a desert, perfect for sandboarding, jeep rides, or peaceful moments under wind-swept skies.
Fairy Stream
This shallow stream winds through limestone cliffs and red earth formations, offering a magical walk in ankle-deep water. Locals believe it has spiritual energy, and the peaceful ambiance makes it a favorite for families and solo travelers alike.
Quick tip: Walk barefoot for the full experience.
Po Sah Inu Towers
Perched on Ba Na Hill overlooking Phan Thiet, these 7th-century Cham towers are a lasting symbol of the region’s ancient civilization. Though smaller than other Cham sites in Vietnam, their elegance and spiritual energy are undeniable. The towers are still used for Cham rituals during festivals.
Ta Cu Mountain
Ta Cu Mountain is both a natural escape and a place of worship. A cable car ride or a hike through lush forest takes you to the top, where you’ll find Vietnam’s largest reclining Buddha, stretching 49 meters long. The mountain offers sweeping views of coastal Bình Thuận and nearby rice fields. This place is perfect for spiritual travelers, photographers, or those seeking quiet reflection.
Ke Ga Lighthouse
Built in 1899 by the French, this granite lighthouse stands tall on Ke Ga Island, just off the coast. During low tide, you can walk to it across exposed sand. The panoramic view from the top is worth the climb, offering vistas of rugged rocks and turquoise sea.
Cu Lao Cau Island
For those seeking escape, Cu Lao Cau (also called Hon Cau) is a remote island with crystal-clear waters, colorful coral reefs, and no urban development. It’s ideal for camping, snorkeling, and eco-tourism.
Note: You need to arrange permission or go with a tour group, as it’s part of a marine protected area.
Nghinh Ong Festival – Honoring the Whale God
Celebrated by coastal fishing communities, the Nghinh Ong Festival is held to honor the whale deity, who fishermen believe protects them at sea. It typically takes place in Phan Thiết and surrounding areas between the 6th and 7th lunar months. You can expect many colorful processions, ceremonial offerings, dragon boat races, and folk performances. Locals dress in traditional garments, and altars are filled with fruit, incense, and seafood.
Kate Festival – Cham New Year Celebration
Held in late September or early October, the Kate Festival is the most important celebration for the Cham ethnic minority. It takes place at historical sites like the Po Sah Inu Towers, where Cham people come to honor their gods, ancestors, and kings. Dressed in vibrant woven costumes, attendees perform traditional dances, play Ginang drums, and sing ancient Cham hymns. Tourists are welcome to observe and, in many cases, join the festivities.
Mid-Autumn Festival
While the Mid-Autumn Festival is celebrated nationwide, Binh Thuan adds its coastal flair. Fishing villages light up with lantern parades, lion dances, and performances by children. The bright moon, crashing waves, and communal laughter create an atmosphere that feels both magical and grounded. Families gather to eat mooncakes, tell stories, and enjoy the night breeze. If you’re in Binh Thuan during this event, it’s a great time to connect with local families and share in one of Vietnam’s most cherished celebrations.
Dinh Thay Thim Festival
Held in La Gi town, the Dinh Thay Thim Festival commemorates a revered couple believed to possess healing powers and spiritual wisdom. The main festival takes place in the 9th lunar month, attracting thousands of pilgrims. Ceremonies include mock battles, folk games, cultural performances, and offerings at the temple. The atmosphere is both solemn and festive, blending spirituality with celebration.
This is the best time to visit Binh Thuan. Skies are clear, the sea is calm, and the winds are perfect for kitesurfing in Mui Ne. It’s also when most festivals take place, including the Nghinh Ong Festival and Cham Kate Festival. Book early if you're planning a trip during these months, especially around Lunar New Year.
Rain usually falls in short bursts, mostly in the late afternoon or evening. The rains bring a fresh green to the countryside, especially the dragon fruit farms and Ta Cu Mountain. While beach conditions may vary, it’s still possible to enjoy indoor activities, local cuisine, and cultural tours.
On average, Bình Thuận has over 2,800 hours of sunshine annually. Daytime temperatures range between 26°C to 34°C (79°F to 93°F), with relatively low humidity compared to other coastal provinces. The region’s steady northeast monsoon winds make it ideal for windsurfing and sailing, especially from December to February.
Nestled along Vietnam’s South Central Coast, Quy Nhon is a rising star in the country’s travel scene. With its golden beaches, untouched islands, and rich cultural legacy, this peaceful seaside city in Binh Dinh Province offers a more authentic alternative to its better-known neighbors like Nha Trang and Da Nang. Far from the tourist crowds, Quy Nhơn invites travelers to explore a destination where ancient temples, local fishing villages, and stunning landscapes live in perfect harmony.
Population: Approximately 500,000 in 2023.
Economy: Quy Nhon’s economy is shaped by its strategic coastal location in Bình Định Province. The city thrives on three key sectors: fishing and seafood processing, tourism, and logistics and port services. Tourism continues to grow, fueled by its unspoiled beaches and cultural heritage.
Landmarks: Famous for the Ky Co Beach—The Maldives of Vietnam, The Wind Strait, and the Twin Cham Towers.
Binh Thuan, a sun-drenched province on Vietnam’s South Central Coast, is where golden sands meet rich history. From the bustling fishing hub of Phan Thiet to the wind-swept Mui Ne beaches, this region blends seaside charms with ancient traditions. Once a crossroads of Cham culture, Binh Thuan is now a favorite for travelers seeking more than just a beach holiday. Here, you can sandboard down red dunes, wander centuries-old towers, and share a meal with locals who still live by the rhythms of the sea.
Population: Approximately 1.7 million in 2024.
Economy: Binh Thuan’s economy thrives on a mix of fishing, agriculture, and tourism. The province is Vietnam’s top producer of dragon fruit and a major hub for seafood processing. Renewable energy, especially wind and solar power, is emerging as a key growth sector. Tourism in Mui Ne and Phan Thiet plays a vital role, drawing visitors with beaches, sand dunes, and cultural heritage.
Landmarks: Famous for the Mui Ne Sand Dunes, Fairy Stream, and the Po Sah Inu Towers.
Nestled in the heart of Vietnam’s Central Highlands, Lam Dong Province is a refreshing escape from the heat and hustle of the lowlands. Best known for Da Lat, its charming capital city, Lam Dong offers rolling pine-covered hills, cascading waterfalls, and flower-filled valleys. This cool-climate region draws nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those craving a cultural immersion into highland life. It’s a perfect blend of past and present, city and nature, tradition and transformation.
Population: Approximately 1.8 million in 2024.
Economy: Lam Dong’s economy is driven by agriculture, tourism, and forestry. The province is Vietnam’s leading producer of vegetables, flowers, tea, and Arabica coffee, thanks to its cool highland climate and fertile volcanic soil. Tourism plays a major role, with millions of visitors drawn to its landscapes, festivals, and cultural heritage.
Landmarks: Famous for the Province capital—Da Lat City, Lang Biang Mountain, and the Pongour Waterfall.
Tucked along Vietnam’s North Central Coast, Quang Tri Province is often overlooked, but for the curious traveler, it offers a journey like no other. Here, deep history meets cultural resilience, and quiet beaches give way to stories carved in time. Quang Tri is not just a place on the map; it’s a living testament to Vietnam’s strength, spirituality, and hospitality. From ancient relics and wartime landmarks to rural villages filled with warm smiles and proud traditions, this destination invites you to slow down, reflect, and connect.
Population: Approximately 630,000 in 2019.
Economy: Quang Tri, with its long coastline, has an economy primarily based on agriculture, aquaculture, and forestry. In recent years, renewable energy (especially wind and solar) and cross-border trade via the Lao Bao International Border Gate have contributed to economic growth.
Landmarks: Famous for the Quang Tri Ancient Citadel, Vinh Moc Tunnels, and Cua Tung Beach.
Battambang is the soulful heart of northwest Cambodia. This is a city where time slows down and stories unfold at every turn. Known as the country’s second-largest city, it charms travelers with a rare blend of French colonial architecture, vibrant art spaces, and lush countryside landscapes. Unlike the tourist bustle of Siem Reap or Phnom Penh, Battambang offers a gentler rhythm, inviting visitors to cycle past rice paddies, meet local artisans, and soak up the authentic Khmer way of life.
Population: Approximately 120,000 in 2019.
Economy: Battambang’s economy is rooted in agriculture, earning it the title “Cambodia’s rice bowl.” Beyond farming, small-scale industries like rice milling, fish processing, and handicrafts support local livelihoods. Tourism is an expanding pillar, with visitors drawn to cultural sites, art spaces, and eco-tourism experiences.
Landmarks: Famous for The Bamboo Train, Phnom Sampeau, and the Wat Banan Temple.
Set on the banks of the Tonlé Sap River, Kampong Chhnang is one of Cambodia’s most enchanting provinces, a place where the Khmer Empire’s legacy, floating villages, and pottery traditions meet. Only 90 km from Phnom Penh, this riverside town offers travelers a glimpse of authentic Cambodia far from the bustle of tourist hotspots. Known as the country’s “Pottery Capital,” Kampong Chhnang draws visitors with its handcrafted ceramics, vibrant river markets, and sweeping views of rice paddies.
Population: Approximately 600,000 in 2024.
Economy: Kampong Chhnang’s economy revolves around agriculture, fishing, and traditional crafts. The fertile plains along the Tonlé Sap River support rice farming, making the province one of Cambodia’s key rice producers. Fishing and aquaculture thrive thanks to the river and nearby Tonlé Sap Lake. Small-scale trade, markets, and growing eco-tourism add to local income
Landmarks: Famous for the Andong Russey Pottery Village, Floating Villages on the Tonlé Sap, and the Phnom Santouch Hill.