Buzz
Escape the crowds and indulge in beach vibes, capture the stunning seven-color rock beach in Tuy Phong district.
Embark on a 48-hour adventure to discover the untouched beauty of Binh Thuan with a budget of 700,000 VND.
When it comes to traveling in Binh Thuan, most people think of Phan Thiet and Mui Ne. However, Tuy Phong district (90 km north of Phan Thiet) is captivating travelers with its unique beauty. In 48 hours, you can explore Cù Lao Câu, the seven-color rock beach, Cổ Thạch mossy reef, and the giant windmill field within the district.
Cù Lao Câu
Cù Lao Câu, also known as Hon Cau, is a small untouched island in Tuy Phong district. The pristine island is perfect for nature enthusiasts. Allocate at least a day to fully experience this hidden gem.
The island boasts silky white sandy beaches, crystal-clear tranquil waters, and diverse, vibrant coral reefs. Contact the boat owner to experience a glass-bottom boat ride and immerse yourself in snorkeling adventures, or try your hand at fishing and enjoy a barbecue by the campfire.
During the day, explore various attractions on the island such as Ba Hon Cave, Tien Well, Tien Beach, Love Cave, Sung Suong Crevice, Suot Fish Beach, Nam Hai Shrine, and especially Swallow Cave, home to hundreds of swallows nesting.
The ideal time to explore the island is from the 4th to the 8th lunar month, during the calm south sea breeze when boat travel is easy. However, occasional waves may occur during this period, so check the weather forecast before heading out. From September to March of the following lunar year, there are strong north waves, and travel to the island takes more time. Nevertheless, the weather on the island is generally sunny and windy, with little to no rain even for half a year.
To reach Cu Lao Cau from the mainland, you can depart from various points: Lien Huong town, Phuoc The Fishing Port, Vinh Tan commune. Here are two fastest transportation options:
- If departing from the Lien Huong town ferry terminal (Tuy Phong district), book a glass-bottom boat from the Marine Conservation Center for 250,000 VND per person round trip, taking about 40 minutes in calm seas and 75 minutes on rough days.
- If leaving from Phuoc The Fishing Port, tourists can inquire about a ride on a wooden boat owned by fishermen or a boat carrying fresh water and food supplies to the island, taking approximately 30 minutes.
Experience the untouched beauty of the military-managed islands, where no accommodation exists. If you plan to stay overnight, bring your own camping gear, stock up on provisions, and seek permission from the island's military authorities.
On the island, you'll find only a few eateries that open and close irregularly. Must-try delicacies include lady nipple snails, moon crab, and razor clam (considered the specialties of Cu Lao Cau).
The Seven-Colored Rock Beach and the Green Mossy Beach of Co Thach
Co Thach Sea (Binh Thanh commune) boasts a kilometer-long beach that has long attracted many Binh Thuan tourists. Recognized by the Vietnam Record Book, this place features uniquely shaped and colored rocks. The area is rich in smooth, shiny pebbles formed hundreds of years ago through the sea's erosion process.
Not far from the rocky beach is Co Thach Mossy Beach, adorned with strangely shaped rocks covered in soft, smooth green moss. The scenery might make visitors feel like they're on an alien planet. The mossy beach only appears from February to April each year.
The ideal time to explore Co Thach's rocky beach is early morning when the sun is rising, and the tide is receding. The sunlight glistens on the still-damp rocks, creating a sparkling treasure trove along the coast.
Discover the charm of Cổ Thạch's coastal area with budget-friendly accommodations and local eateries. Indulge in fresh seafood caught by fishermen at dawn, brought to the hotels for delicious preparations.
Tuy Phong Wind Power Plant
A prominent wind power site in the country, located in Bình Thạnh commune. It features massive wind turbine blades arranged in rows across vast, windy landscapes. The picturesque Western-style scenery makes it a popular check-in spot for young travelers exploring Bình Thuận tourism.
The wind farm along National Highway 1A is easily visible from a distance, with large pathways leading to the turbine columns. Be cautious with personal belongings and secure your motorcycles due to the strong winds in the area.
Sample Itinerary:
Opting for personal transportation, journey 280 km from Ho Chi Minh City on National Highway 1A to Liên Hương town (Tuy Phong district, Bình Thuận). Take a break in the town center for meals before heading to the three locations, all within reasonable distance.
If you choose to travel by bus, purchase a night bus ticket from Ho Chi Minh City to Lien Huong town, arriving in the early morning. The ticket price is around 100,000 - 200,000 VND one way. Afterward, consider renting a guesthouse to store your belongings and rest. As the day breaks, head to the town's ferry terminal to board the boat to Cu Lao Cau.
Whether you plan a day trip or an overnight stay, coordinate with the boat owner for the pickup schedule to avoid communication issues due to weak phone signals on the island. Most tourists only stay on the island for the day.
If you opt for a day trip, return to enjoy the lively food stalls in Lien Huong town in the evening. The next morning, visit the wind-eroded fields and the seven-color stone beach in Co Thach, and by noon, take a bus back to Ho Chi Minh City. In Lien Huong town, there are direct buses to Ho Chi Minh City; contact them the night before to reserve your ticket.
Round-trip train tickets from the mainland to Cu Lao Cau cost around 200,000 - 300,000 VND per person. The cost of guesthouse or hotel accommodation in Lien Huong town varies from 150,000 - 300,000 VND per room. The food expenses in the town are approximately 200,000 - 300,000 VND per person for two days.
According to Tâm Linh/Vnexpress
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Explore: Travel guide by Mytour
MytourApril 26, 2019
