Vietnam's Hidden Sahara! Half Desert, Half Ocean

Mui Ne is a small fishing village located on the Mui Ne Peninsula in Binh Thuan Province, southeastern Vietnam, 22km from Phan Thiet City, 200km from Ho Chi Minh City, and 300km from Nha Trang. It boasts an incredibly long sandy coastline, coconut palms, gentle waves, crystal-clear water, and soft sand, creating a mesmerizing landscape with a slow-paced lifestyle. Best of all, it's not overcrowded with tourists, and most visitors are Europeans. That's why I highly recommend this beautiful and tranquil fishing village to my fellow travelers. If you're in Ho Chi Minh City or Nha Trang, be sure to take a side trip here. 🕘【Opening Hours】: Open all day, but it's best to visit early to avoid the intense midday sun. 🚌【Transportation Tips】: After arriving in Mui Ne, you can hire a private car for sightseeing. 👉【Itinerary】: **Day 1: Natural Wonders Tour** **Red Sand Dunes**: Located right by the ocean, separated only by a road, this is the perfect place to experience the miracle of half desert, half sea. At sunrise and sunset, the sunlight reflects off the red dunes, creating a spectacular view and a paradise for photographers. You can try sandboarding here for an exhilarating ride down the dunes, with vendors nearby selling snacks and sandboards. **White Sand Dunes**: One of Mui Ne’s iconic attractions, these snow-white dunes stretch endlessly. Visit at dawn or dusk to admire the stunning sunrise or sunset. You can also opt for a paid jeep ride to explore the vast desert landscape. **Fairy Stream**: A unique blend of sand dunes and a shallow stream with crystal-clear water, surrounded by red sand and fascinating erosion formations. Walk barefoot along the stream to marvel at nature’s artistry. The scenery is perfect for photos, but watch out for sharp rocks and keep your phone safe from the water. **Day 2: Culture & Local Life Tour** **Mui Ne Fishing Village**: This is where local fishermen work, with countless round fishing boats dotting the sea. The village is liveliest in the early morning when fishermen return with their catch, offering fresh and affordable seafood. Note that the fishy smell can be strong for some visitors. **Fish Sauce Factory**: Mui Ne is famous for its fish sauce. Visit a local factory to learn about the production process and sample authentic Mui Ne fish sauce, which makes a great souvenir. **Mui Ne Village Market**: Here, you’ll find fresh fruits and inexpensive clothing, offering a glimpse into local life and culture. **Day 3: Relaxation & Beach Fun** **Mui Ne Beach**: With its fine sand and clear water, Mui Ne Beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, and surfing. Nearby resorts and restaurants serve delicious seafood feasts. **Kitesurfing**: Mui Ne’s beaches are a hotspot for kitesurfing, attracting enthusiasts yearly. If you’re up for an adrenaline rush, take a kitesurfing lesson and experience flying over the waves. 🧡【Packing Tips】: - **Sun protection**: Mui Ne’s sun is strong—pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. - **Clothing**: Light summer wear is ideal, but bring long sleeves for cooler mornings and evenings. - **Footwear**: Comfortable sneakers or sandals for walking on dunes and in streams. - **Camera**: Mui Ne’s scenery is breathtaking—don’t forget your camera or phone to capture the moments.