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.
Tucked away in Sri Lanka’s southeastern corner, Yala National Park is where wild nature meets deep tradition. Known worldwide for its leopard population, the park is also home to elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species. Beyond wildlife, Yala opens doors to a cultural landscape dotted with ancient temples, Buddhist ruins, and coastal villages. For travelers seeking more than just a safari, Yala offers a chance to explore eco-tourism, local communities, and sacred heritage sites.
Population: The Yala National Park area doesn’t have a human population.
Economy: The economy around Yala National Park thrives on a blend of eco-tourism, agriculture, and local services. Safari tours, eco-lodges, and cultural experiences drive steady income for nearby towns like Tissamaharama and Kataragama, supporting thousands of families.
Landmarks: Famous for Block I of Yala and wildlife encounters, including elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and exotic bird species.
Nestled on Sri Lanka’s southern coastline, Galle is a vibrant city where history meets the sea. Its cobbled streets, colonial architecture, and serene beaches make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Galle captivates visitors with its Dutch Fort, bustling markets, and friendly locals. Whether you’re exploring the ramparts at sunset or savoring fresh seafood by the shore, Galle promises an unforgettable journey into Sri Lanka’s heritage.
Population: Approximately 113,000 in 2023.
Economy: Galle’s economy thrives on tourism, trade, and fisheries. The city’s historic fort, colonial architecture, and coastal charm draw thousands of international visitors each year, making tourism its main economic driver. Fishing remains vital for local livelihoods, supplying fresh seafood across the region.
Landmarks: Famous for the Galle Fort, Dutch Reformed Church & Maritime Museum, and Unawatuna Beach.
Nestled along Sri Lanka’s southwestern coast, Bentota is a tropical paradise that blends golden beaches, vibrant culture, and thrilling adventures. Famous for its calm waters, luxury resorts, and scenic river estuary, Bentota has become a top destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and authentic experiences. From serene beach walks at sunrise to adrenaline-pumping water sports, this coastal town offers a perfect balance of leisure and exploration. With its proximity to Colombo and Galle, Bentota is easy to reach, making it an ideal stop for both short escapes and extended holidays.
Population: Approximately 37,000 in 2023.
Economy: Bentota’s economy thrives mainly on tourism, which drives local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and wellness retreats. The town also benefits from fishing, coconut cultivation, and handicrafts like wood carving and batik textiles. Many residents rely on the growing demand for water sports and Ayurvedic treatments, making tourism the backbone of both income and employment in the area.
Landmarks: Famous for Bentota Beach, Bentota River Safari, and Kande Vihara Temple.
Mirissa is a charming coastal town on Sri Lanka’s southern shoreline. Known for its golden beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life, it has become a must-visit stop for travelers exploring the island. Many come for whale watching, surfing, and sunset views at Coconut Tree Hill, but Mirissa offers much more than postcard beauty. The fishing boats you see anchored by the bay carry generations of stories. Local traditions, delicious cuisine, and a laid-back rhythm of life shape every visitor’s experience.
Population: Approximately 4,700 in 2023.
Economy: Mirissa’s economy is largely shaped by its coastal location. Fishing has long been the backbone of local livelihoods, with generations relying on the Indian Ocean for income. In recent decades, tourism has become the main driver of growth, thanks to whale watching, surfing, and beachside hospitality.
Landmarks: Famous for Mirissa Beach, Coconut Tree Hill, and Parrot Rock Bridge.
Tucked away in the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka, Nuwara Eliya is often called “Little England”. With its rolling tea plantations, cool misty mornings, and colonial charm, this mountain town feels like a step into another world. Travelers come here to breathe fresh air, walk through flower gardens, sip the finest Ceylon Tea, and enjoy a pace of life far from the island’s busy cities. Whether you’re drawn by scenic landscapes, heritage architecture, or the warmth of its people, Nuwara Eliya is a destination that blends nature, culture, and history in perfect harmony.
Population: Approximately 781,000 in 2023.
Economy: Nuwara Eliya’s economy thrives mainly on tea production, as it sits in the heart of Sri Lanka’s central highlands, famous worldwide for Ceylon Tea. The city also benefits from a growing tourism industry, attracting visitors with its colonial charm, cool climate, and scenic landscapes.
Landmarks: Famous for Gregory Lake, Hakgala Botanical Garden, and Victoria Park.
Nestled on the banks of the Kinabatangan River in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo, Sukau is a destination where wildlife, culture, and conservation come together. Known as one of Asia’s top spots for river safaris and eco-tourism, this quiet village offers a front-row seat to encounters with Bornean orangutans, pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, and exotic birdlife.
Population: Approximately 1,400 in 2019.
Economy: Sukau’s economy is shaped by its riverine location and natural resources. Traditionally, the Orang Sungai community relied on fishing, small-scale farming, and forest gathering for their livelihood. Today, the village has shifted toward eco-tourism, with river cruises, jungle trekking, and homestays providing income.
Landmarks: Famous for the Kinabatangan River cruises, Gomantong Caves, and Ox-bow lakes and wetlands.