If you are looking for a unique and adventurous beach getaway, you might want to check out Hòn Đỏ in Ninh Thuận province. Unlike the typical white sand beaches, Hòn Đỏ offers a stunning landscape of rocks and moss that change colors with the tide. You can explore the fascinating marine life in the coral reef, enjoy the spectacular sunrise and sunset, or camp under the starry sky.
Hòn Đỏ is located about 20km from Phan Rang city, and can be reached by motorbike through a scenic route along the casuarinas forest. You will need to walk for about 20 minutes on a golden sand beach before you reach the destination. There are no tourism services or facilities here, so you will need to bring your own tents and food if you plan to stay overnight. But that’s part of the charm of this place: it’s a perfect spot for nature lovers who want to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
One of the main attractions of Hòn Đỏ is the fossilized coral reef that covers the shore. The coral reef has various shapes and colors, creating a beautiful contrast with the blue sea and the green moss. You can walk on the reef and discover the hidden treasures of the ocean, such as sea urchins, crabs, starfish, and seaweed. The reef is also a great place for fishing enthusiasts, as you can catch some flying fish that live near the coral.
Another highlight of Hòn Đỏ is the sunrise and sunset that paint the sky with amazing hues. You can watch the sun rise from behind the mountains and set into the sea, creating a romantic and peaceful atmosphere. You can also enjoy the night sky full of stars, and listen to the soothing sound of the waves. If you are lucky, you might even see some fireflies around your tent.
Of course, no trip to Hòn Đỏ is complete without trying some local delicacies. The most famous one is nhum (sea urchin), which has a spiky black shell and a sweet and creamy flesh. You can eat it raw with some lemon juice or wasabi, or grill it with some fried onions and oil. Another specialty is cá đối (flying fish), which can be fried, grilled, or cooked in a sour-sweet broth. You can pair these dishes with some garlic wine made from tỏi mồ côi (orphan garlic), which is a type of garlic that has only one big clove per bulb. This garlic is fragrant and spicy, and goes well with seafood.
Hòn Đỏ is a hidden gem of Ninh Thuận that offers a different and exciting beach experience. It’s a place where you can connect with nature, have fun, and relax. If you are looking for a new destination to explore, you should definitely give Hòn Đỏ a try!