Top 10 Essential Travel Tips for Sầm Sơn, Thanh Hóa You Need to Know

Sầm Sơn Beach: Stretching nearly 6 kilometers from Lạch Hới to the base of Trường Lệ Mountain, Sầm Sơn Beach boasts a gently sloping sandy shore, calm waves, and clear water with a balanced salt concentration, making it ideal for health and relaxation. The beach’s beauty changes throughout the day, offering different scenic experiences.

In addition to the beach, the majestic Trường Lệ Mountain rises alongside, complemented by rows of palm trees and casuarina trees. This natural setting creates stunning moments at Sầm Sơn Beach. The area is also known for its rich seafood, including shrimp, mackerel, and squid. Sầm Sơn is one of the most attractive beaches in the northern region of Vietnam.

Độc Cước Temple: Located at the peak of Cổ Giải Mountain in the Trường Lệ Mountain range near Sầm Sơn Beach, Độc Cước Temple is not only a beautiful structure but also a historical site in the area. It is a popular attraction for both domestic and international tourists visiting Sầm Sơn for leisure and relaxation.

To reach the temple, visitors must climb 40 stone steps. Inside the temple, there is a wooden statue of the god Độc Cước, depicted with one hand and one foot. The statue stands firmly on a rock, with a hammer in hand, symbolizing a battle against sea monsters. The temple also houses two bronze horse statues, stone figurines, and several poetic inscriptions praising the god's virtues.

Bà Triệu Temple: Located on Gai Mountain (also called Ai Mountain) near National Highway 1A in Phú Điền village, Hậu Lộc district, Thanh Hóa province, about 137 km from Hanoi, Bà Triệu Temple honors the heroic female general Triệu Thị Trinh. Despite its simplicity, the site is sacred and often visited by travelers on their way north or south, who stop to pay respects and admire the surrounding scenery.

Cô Tiên Temple: Situated on the southern side of Trường Lệ Mountain, this temple honors a young girl who became known for her healing abilities. According to local legend, the girl was exiled by her father for marrying a poor man, and together they helped heal the sick. One day, the couple ascended the mountain and never returned. Their home was later transformed into Cô Tiên Temple. The temple, which has been restored several times, was visited by President Hồ Chí Minh in 1960.

Vồ Market on Sầm Sơn Beach: Known for its laid-back, rustic atmosphere, the seafood market at Sầm Sơn opens early in the morning, as fishing boats return with fresh catch. The market, informally named 'Vồ Market,' gets its name from the local practice of negotiating and buying seafood quickly between tourists and vendors. The market is a must-visit for those wanting to experience the local culture and fresh seafood.

Other Seafood Markets in Sầm Sơn: Famous seafood markets in Sầm Sơn include Chợ Cột Đỏ (Lê Lợi Street, Trường Sơn Ward) and Chợ Mới (Lê Thánh Tông Street, Trường Sơn Ward), both large traditional markets in the area. Visitors can also find fresh seafood at Chợ Chùa (Trần Hưng Đạo Street, Quảng Tiến Ward) and Chợ Đón (Quảng Cư Ward).

Most hotels, guesthouses, and resorts in Sầm Sơn are located along Hồ Xuân Hương street, near beaches A, B, and C. Whether you're looking for a budget option or a luxury stay, Sầm Sơn offers a variety of accommodations to suit all preferences.

Depending on your budget and whether you're visiting for relaxation or adventure, you can choose the ideal accommodation for your trip. If you're on a budget, staying further from the beach, such as on Bà Triệu street, is a cost-effective option. These guesthouses offer decent prices, making it a great choice for affordable trips. For those who prefer to be closer to the beach and fully enjoy the coastal atmosphere, hotels along Hồ Xuân Hương street provide the best options, with beach views right from your room.

If you're planning to visit during peak seasons or holidays, be sure to book your room in advance to avoid the rush and inflated prices.

Recommended Hotels Based on Your Accommodation Needs:

Budget-Friendly Hotels: For young travelers who enjoy exploration and adventure, there are several budget hotels within walking distance of the beach. These hotels, from 2-star to higher, offer decent amenities at affordable rates. You can find these options on Bà Triệu or Hồ Xuân Hương streets.

Luxury Hotels and Resorts for Families: If you're traveling with family and prefer more comfort, luxurious hotels or resorts are available near the beach. These accommodations provide quiet, family-friendly spaces equipped with modern amenities for a relaxing stay.

Here are some trustworthy accommodations for your stay:

• FLC Luxury Hotel Samson: Located less than 3 hours' drive from Hanoi, FLC Sầm Sơn Resort offers a top-notch 5-star experience, perfect for families, leisure travelers, and corporate events. It's a premier destination in Northern and Central Vietnam, providing world-class services and a unique eco-resort experience.
• FLC Luxury Resort Samson: At Fusion Resort Sầm Sơn, visitors can indulge in a serene environment with luxury services. The resort features 83 spacious rooms in bungalow-style villas, providing an extraordinary coastal retreat. With 5-star amenities including a full-service spa, a 24/7 dining experience, and beachside relaxation, it's an ideal getaway.
• Vạn Chài Resort - Sầm Sơn, Thanh Hóa: Vạn Chài Resort blends classic charm with modern comforts. Its colonial architecture and exceptional service make it a memorable stay. Guests often return for the beautiful rooms, delicious food, and top-tier service, making it a must-visit resort for those looking for a quality experience.

3 Days and 2 Nights in Sầm Sơn, Thanh Hóa

What makes Sầm Sơn, Thanh Hóa such a popular destination for holidaymakers? Check out these 3-day, 2-night and 2-day, 1-night itinerary suggestions for a memorable trip to Sầm Sơn.

Day 1: Hanoi – Sầm Sơn Beach

• 9 AM: Take a bus from Hanoi to Sầm Sơn, Thanh Hóa.
• 2 PM: Check in to the Vinpearl Hotel Thanh Hóa. After settling in, enjoy lunch at the hotel restaurant, which offers a wide variety of fresh and tasty dishes.
• 4 PM: Head to the beach for a relaxing walk and snack. The weather is perfect for a swim and plenty of beachside photos.
• 7 PM: Dinner at a seafood restaurant on Hồ Xuân Hương street.

Day 2: Hòn Trống Mái – Trường Lệ Mountain – Cô Tiên Temple

• 7 AM: Breakfast at the hotel.
• 8 AM: Travel to Hòn Trống Mái (The Rooster and Hen Rocks). The natural beauty here offers excellent photo opportunities. Continue to Trường Lệ Mountain, known for its lush greenery and fresh air.
• 12 PM: Enjoy a local lunch with Thanh Hóa's famous bánh cuốn (steamed rice rolls) and nem chua (fermented pork).
• 1 PM: Visit the Cô Tiên Mountain and explore the temple.
• In the afternoon, head back to the beach for more relaxation, and stop by the local market to pick up some dried seafood and nem chua as souvenirs.

Day 3: Adventure Park in Sầm Sơn – Return to Hanoi

• 7 AM: Breakfast at the hotel.
• 8 AM: Visit the Sầm Sơn Adventure Park on Nguyễn Du street for an adrenaline rush.
• 11 AM: Lunch, followed by snacks for the bus ride back to Hanoi.
• 1 PM: Rest and prepare to check out for the return trip.

2 Days and 1 Night in Sầm Sơn, Thanh Hóa

Day 1: Hanoi – Sầm Sơn Beach

• 9 AM: Depart from Hanoi to Sầm Sơn, a 5-hour journey.
• 1 PM: Arrive in Sầm Sơn, check in, and have lunch at the hotel restaurant.
• 3 PM: Enjoy the beach and indulge in some local seafood.
• 6 PM: Try Thanh Hóa's special dishes like grilled snails, crab, and oysters, then visit the local market for souvenirs.

Day 2: Sầm Sơn – Trường Lệ Mountain – Hanoi

• 7 AM: Breakfast at the hotel, then head to Trường Lệ Mountain for scenic views, including attractions like the Độc Cước Temple, Hòn Trống Mái, and Cô Tiên Temple.
• 11 AM: Have lunch, check out, and return to Hanoi.

Sầm Sơn is not only famous for its stunning landscapes but also for its exceptional local dishes. When visiting, don’t miss the opportunity to try some of the region’s famous delicacies such as fresh seafood, nem chua (fermented pork), and more.

Seafood in Sầm Sơn: Known throughout the northern region for its freshness, Sầm Sơn offers a wide variety of seafood including shrimp, crab, fish, and snails. Tourists often choose seafood as the top option, with specialties like sun-dried squid and wrapped fish that are difficult to find elsewhere.

Egg Squid: A rare seafood delicacy from the waters around Sầm Sơn. The grilled egg squid is succulent and sweet, with a chewy texture and a rich, savory flavor. Served with spicy sauce, it's a delicious treat that will leave you wanting more.

Thanh Hóa's Nem Chua: While nem chua is popular across Vietnam, Thanh Hóa's version stands out for its perfect balance of sweetness and spiciness. The distinctive taste of this local delicacy is truly unique, offering a different experience from the nem chua found in other regions.

Chè Lam from Phủ Quảng: Chè Lam is a beloved treat in many parts of Vietnam, but Phủ Quảng, in Vĩnh Lộc, Thanh Hóa, offers a unique version. This crunchy, caramelized snack is known for its rich flavor and satisfying crunch, and it’s a must-try when in the area.

Eel Porridge: A familiar dish for those visiting Sầm Sơn’s beaches. While it’s called porridge, the consistency is more like a thin broth. Unlike porridge from Ninh Bình, this dish is made with whole rice grains, giving it a delicate texture that is soft but not overly mushy.

Bánh Răng Bừa: This traditional Thanh Hóa dish is made with thick, grilled squid stuffed with savory fillings. The combination of crispy squid and fragrant stuffing makes Bánh Răng Bừa a truly unique and satisfying experience.

Bánh Cuốn: A popular dish in Sầm Sơn, these soft and chewy rice rolls are served with flavorful dipping sauce, making them a beloved snack along the beach.

Sầm Sơn, Thanh Hóa offers a variety of local products that make perfect souvenirs. Here are some recommendations to consider:

• Various Seafood: Being a coastal destination, Sầm Sơn, Thanh Hóa offers a wide range of fresh and dried seafood. Dried squid, shrimp, and crab are among the most popular choices for visitors to take home.
• Nem Chua: Nem Chua is a signature delicacy of Thanh Hóa, blending the sweet and sour taste of fermented pork with a hint of garlic, chili, and pepper. It's traditionally served with guava or fig leaves and tastes unforgettable when paired with chili sauce.
• Thanh Hóa Shrimp Paste (Mắm Tép): Shrimp paste is another must-buy souvenir from Sầm Sơn, Thanh Hóa. Historically, it was considered a royal delicacy. Made from shrimp caught in the waters of Sầm Sơn, this fermented delicacy is usually mixed with salt and rice powder, then aged for a month. It’s best enjoyed with fried shallots, thinly sliced pork belly, and hot rice.
• Nga Sơn Rice Wine: In addition to famous local wines like Cẩm Thủy rice wine, Bá Thước rice wine, and Hoa Vàng sticky rice wine, Nga Sơn rice wine stands out with its delicate fragrance and unique blend of sweet and spicy flavors. A sip of this wine is sure to leave an impression.
• Thọ Xuân Gai Cake: A well-known specialty of Thanh Hóa, Thọ Xuân gai cakes have a chewy exterior and a flavorful filling. Available in various types such as green bean, coconut, lotus seed, or pork, these cakes are best enjoyed within a week if stored properly.
• Tiến Vua Pomelo: As its name suggests, Tiến Vua pomelo is a regal fruit, boasting vibrant red skin, a juicy and sweet interior, and an irresistible fragrance. When ripe, simply spritzing a bit of wine on it will enhance its aroma, making it a fragrant and flavorful souvenir.

Things to Remember When Traveling to Sầm Sơn, Thanh Hóa:

• When visiting the sandcastles on the beach, be prepared to pay a small fee for taking pictures. Negotiate a price of around 5,000 - 10,000 VND before snapping a shot.
• Similar to photos, if you ride a cyclo, always ask for the fare beforehand to avoid being overcharged.
• A good tip for dining in Sầm Sơn is to always confirm prices before ordering any dishes.
• Be cautious when dining at restaurants recommended by taxi drivers, as their prices could be 20% higher than those elsewhere.
• If you're looking for a diverse range of meals, from Western to Asian, consider dining at the Vinpearl Hotel Thanh Hoá, where local Thanh Hóa specialties are carefully prepared.

Sầm Sơn, Thanh Hóa's tourist area is located 17 kilometers from the city center. It is one of the most beautiful beaches in the North-Central region, often referred to as the 'ideal vacation spot in Indochina.' The area boasts a 6-kilometer stretch of coastline, with gentle slopes and moderate salinity, making it perfect for beach activities and relaxation.

The clear, cool sea water and the fine white sand under the sun create a peaceful retreat for visitors. Here, you can immerse yourself in nature, listen to the soothing sound of waves, and feel the gentle rustle of the casuarina trees in the breeze. As French scholar Le Breton once said: 'Sầm Sơn is the best beach for health recovery.'

Summer is the peak season for tourism in Sầm Sơn. From May to August, the area welcomes millions of visitors for sightseeing and relaxation, with the busiest period being the 30th April - 1st May holiday. Fall offers cooler weather, ideal for a peaceful getaway, and the benefit of less crowded beaches with more affordable services compared to the summer months.

Besides enjoying the water activities, Thanh Hóa’s coastal tourism offers plenty of other exciting spots to explore. You can visit year-round for sightseeing, shopping, and fun. Based on my experience, during peak season, Sầm Sơn tends to get quite crowded with tourists.

If you're looking to travel to Sầm Sơn on a budget, consider taking a coach. You can find several buses operating the Hanoi - Thanh Hóa route from Mỹ Đình or Giáp Bát bus stations, with tickets priced between 100,000 to 120,000 VND. For a 3-day, 2-night trip, the coach is a convenient and affordable option.

If you prefer to enjoy scenic views along the way, a train ride is another option. The train ride from Hanoi to Thanh Hóa costs around 70,000 VND, departing from either Hanoi or Long Biên stations.

If you’re traveling independently, you can drive to Sầm Sơn by car or motorbike. The journey from Hanoi to Thanh Hóa is about 160 km and takes roughly 4.5 to 5 hours. The easiest route is to follow National Highway 1, pass through Phủ Lý, then take National Highway 10 towards Ninh Bình, Tam Điệp, and Bỉm Sơn before reaching Thanh Hóa. Sầm Sơn is another 18 km away from the city center. To make the most of your time, it's advisable to leave early, around 4-5 AM.