Top 10 Most Beautiful Wetlands in Vietnam

Nha Phu Lagoon is a vast area famous for its tourist islands such as Thi Island, Sam Island, Lao Island, Silver Rock Island, Lao - Monkey Island, Ninh Van Resort, and Hoa Lan Stream. Covering nearly 1,500 hectares, it lies at the junction of Nha Trang Bay and Van Phong Bay, about 15 km from Nha Trang city in Khanh Hoa province. Visitors here have the chance to explore and learn about the three islands: Thi Island, Heo Island, and Lao Island. Nha Phu Lagoon offers a beautiful combination of landscapes including streams, islands, beaches, mountains, and bays.

With its pristine beauty, sparse population, and long stretches of white sandy beaches, it has become an ideal stop for many tourists both domestic and international. Additionally, Nha Phu Lagoon is a key area for aquaculture, supporting the livelihoods of local residents. Overall, this area feels like a peaceful oasis in the vast and serene ocean.

Tam Giang Lagoon stretches over 24 km and covers an area of 52 km², running from the mouth of the Ô Lâu River to the Huong River and out to Thuận An Beach. It is considered the largest brackish lagoon in Southeast Asia and serves as the confluence of the Huong, Bồ, and Ô Lâu Rivers before they flow into the sea. This unique setting makes Tam Giang Lagoon a perfect resting place for many bird species, including storks, herons, wild geese, and ducks.

When visiting Tam Giang Lagoon, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Thái Dương Hạ fishing village, a small island surrounded by water. The ancient village, which has survived for centuries, offers a fascinating cultural experience, blending the traditional Vietnamese village style with the distinctive cultural elements of the temples and shrines of Thua Thien province.

Another highlight is the Rú Chá mangrove forest, a unique feature surrounding the lagoon. The mangrove trees form natural walls, and traveling by boat through this area makes you feel completely detached from the outside world. This area is not only famous for its rich marine life but also as a habitat for many bird species. During sunset, when flocks of birds return to their nests, the view is truly unforgettable.

Visiting Tam Giang Lagoon during sunset is an experience you won't want to miss. Between 4:00 and 5:30 pm, the lagoon is bathed in a golden-pink light, creating a picturesque scene. As the evening progresses, the sky turns purple, and boats return to shore after a day of work. The tranquil atmosphere at dusk is both serene and romantic, making it a perfect time for photos. Occasionally, the distant sounds of Hue folk songs will fill the air, adding to the poignant atmosphere of the lagoon.

Thi Nai Lagoon covers an area of approximately 5,000 hectares, stretching over 15 km in length and nearly 5 km at its widest point. The lagoon was originally named after a Cham landmark, with the Sanskrit term 'Cri Vinaya' later transcribed into Chinese as Thị-lị-bì-nại. Other names for the lagoon include Hải Hạc Lagoon and Shallow Sea Lagoon. Thi Nai Lagoon is like a miniature ocean in the heart of Quy Nhon, formed by the convergence of the Kôn and Hà Thanh rivers. These two rivers fill the lagoon with water, creating a picturesque landscape that draws visitors from near and far.

When visiting Thi Nai Lagoon, travelers can take a small boat ride, gently gliding across the waters, enjoying the vast surroundings, and discovering the lives of local fishermen. The lagoon area also features Chim Island, a nature reserve often called the "green lung of Quy Nhon." Covering nearly 1,000 hectares, Chim Island is home to a diverse ecosystem of mangrove forests and sea grass beds, with 25 plant species, 64 species of plankton, 76 species of fish, and hundreds of bird species, including 23 types of waterfowl, migratory birds, and 10 species of forest birds.

Within the lagoon, there is a small mountain topped with a shrine built by local fishermen to honor the water deity. The mountain, which resembles an ancient tower, is known as the Fortune Teller Tower. Some say the tower was constructed by a fortune teller, but after his passing, it was abandoned and destroyed by storms. Others believe the tower never existed, and the name comes from a rock formation that looks like a tower from a distance. The term 'Fortune Teller' also refers to a fish-eating bird.

The waters of Thi Nai Lagoon flow to the sea through a narrow gap known as Giã Gate, also called Thi Nai Gate. The gate is created by Mui Rua on the west and Ganh Ho on the east, with the surrounding mountains forming a natural "water mouth." No matter the time of day, Thi Nai Lagoon is always beautiful, from the soft sunlight of the morning to the enchanting crimson sunset, and the peaceful full moon that transforms the lagoon into a mystical paradise.

Tidal Lagoon is breathtakingly beautiful during the early days of the lunar new year, with a stunning landscape that blends a lagoon on one side and the sea on the other. Located about 30 km south of Nha Trang city, this lagoon stretches like a soft silk fabric across a third of the Cam Ranh Peninsula. It is one of the most beloved destinations for visitors traveling through the Cam Ranh region.

The Tidal Lagoon is a vast saltwater lagoon nestled behind the white sand dunes of the Cam Ranh Peninsula, beneath the Cù Hin mountain. The lagoon’s depth ranges from 3 to 7 meters, depending on the location, covering an area of approximately 12,000 hectares. Its waters are home to around 1,500 species of aquatic life.

Such tidal wetlands often form along coastlines or river mouths, where the ebb and flow of the tide supports the growth of aquatic plants, creating wetland habitats. Based on the salinity of the water, wetlands can be classified into freshwater, brackish, or saltwater types. Tidal Lagoon is a saltwater wetland by the sea.

This saltwater lagoon is rich in natural seafood, with blood cockles being one of the most famous products, often compared to the ones found in Ô Loan Lagoon (Phu Yen) and Tam Giang (Thua Thien Hue). The blood cockles from the Tidal Lagoon in Cam Lam, Khanh Hoa are a popular delicacy known for their high nutritional value, often considered the 'king' of shellfish. They can be prepared in various ways, such as grilled, steamed with beer and lemongrass, cooked in tamarind sauce, grilled with onion butter, or grilled with garlic butter. To enjoy the best cockles, choose ones that are neither too big nor too small.

An Khe Lagoon is the largest lagoon in Quang Ngai Province, located on the coastal region of Sa Huynh, straddling the two communes of Pho Khanh and Pho Thanh (Duc Pho). With a water surface area of 347 hectares, the lagoon stretches km in length and approximately 1 km in width. The lagoon remains filled with water year-round, with the deepest section reaching up to 4 meters.

The lagoon connects to the sea through a narrow 3 km-long channel known as the Lo Gate, which is often obstructed by sediment. During the rainy season, when the lagoon fills with water, the sandbanks at the mouth of the Lo Gate are pushed further out to sea. On some occasions, local residents have to clear the entrance to allow water to flow out to the sea and prevent flooding in the surrounding areas.

The waters of An Khe Lagoon provide a rich habitat for various aquatic species. The lagoon is primarily home to freshwater species such as carp, snakehead fish, gobies, catfish, eel, grass carp, tilapia, shrimp, snails, and others. Notably, the lagoon once housed a species of fish called 'uc' (a type of local fish), which has become increasingly rare in recent years. A few marine fish species, including mullets, gobies, and six-striped croakers, can also be found in the lagoon, although in smaller numbers.

Historically, this lagoon was an integral part of the Sa Huynh ecosystem, providing essential conditions for the local communities' livelihood. It also played a crucial role in the formation and development of the Sa Huynh culture, one of the three ancient cultures that once thrived in Vietnam, with strong connections to various regions of Southeast Asia.

Thi Tuong Lagoon (also known as Ba Tuong Lagoon) is the largest natural lagoon in the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam, often referred to as the "sea-lake of the plains." According to local legend, the name Thi Tuong is derived from a woman named Ba Tuong, one of the first settlers in the Ca Mau region. As the story goes, despite being a woman, Ba Tuong was exceptionally brave. She drove away a flock of birds sent by Lord Tiger to collect stones and fill the sea. Lord Tiger's anger stemmed from the King of the Sea refusing to marry his daughter to him. To this day, the site where Ba Tuong repelled the birds is still marked. Thanks to her actions, the lagoon flourished with abundant aquatic life, providing a vital source of livelihood for the local poor communities. In honor of her efforts, the lagoon was named after Ba Tuong.

The lagoon is home to a diverse and unique ecosystem characteristic of the wetlands in Ca Mau province. Influenced by the semi-diurnal tidal regime, the lagoon lies at the confluence of two tidal currents—one from the western sea and the other from the eastern sea around the Ca Mau Peninsula. As a result, Thi Tuong Lagoon experiences distinct seasons of salty and fresh water, with ecosystems of saltwater, freshwater, and brackish water. During the salty season, the lagoon is abundant with shrimp, crabs, and various types of mollusks. In the fresh water season, fish such as snakehead, tilapia, catfish, and eel thrive. The lagoon also supports other aquatic species, including catfish, snapper, bass, giant snakehead, and the highly abundant species of giant snakehead fish.

The local residents primarily rely on the aquatic resources of the lagoon for their livelihood. However, due to overfishing and indiscriminate harvesting, the aquatic resources have significantly dwindled. In response, people have begun large-scale farming of blood cockles in the lagoon. Unfortunately, this practice poses a threat to the natural ecosystem, as the lagoon needs to maintain salinity for the cockles to thrive, causing the water to remain saline for most of the year.

Lam Binh Lagoon spans over 200 hectares and serves as a crucial fishing ground for more than 50 households, generating an annual income of around 5 billion VND. It also functions as a water reservoir to irrigate hundreds of hectares of rice fields surrounding the lagoon. During the dry season, the lagoon's banks become a haven for many species of birds. They flock here to forage, socialize, and nest, ensuring the continuity of their species. As the cool winds of late autumn arrive, the birds hurry to migrate in search of warmer climates to escape the harsh winter.

The lagoon feeds into the Truong River, merging with the lower reaches of the Lo Bo River, and eventually flowing into the Thoa River before emptying into the sea via the My A estuary. The water in the lagoon is mildly saline, supporting a rich array of aquatic life that supplies fish and shrimp to the local communities. The catch from the lagoon is used to prepare a variety of delicious dishes, each with a distinctive taste. One notable dish is the fried fish, particularly the carp. The fresh carp is brought home, its fins and gills removed, and the belly gutted, before being cut into chunks and cleaned. The fish is then simmered in boiling water with a pinch of salt and a few slices of spicy chili to eliminate any fishy odor, followed by the addition of seasonings. The unique taste of this carp is believed to come from its foraging in the lagoon and nearby rivers, giving its meat a distinct sweetness and richness that is hard to replicate anywhere else. The flavors meld perfectly with the spices and fresh herbs, creating a taste sensation that words can hardly describe.

Van Long Lagoon is located in Ninh Binh province, just over 80 km from Hanoi. It is the largest wetland nature reserve in the northern delta of Vietnam, home to a rich and unique ecosystem. This tranquil and picturesque lagoon is a sanctuary for a wide variety of plants and animals, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers looking to explore and immerse themselves in serene surroundings. The lagoon remains relatively untouched, preserving its pristine beauty and providing a haven for diverse wildlife, including a population of white-headed langurs listed in the world’s Red Book.

As you drift in a boat, you’ll see Van Long Lagoon unfold before you like a stunning oil painting, with towering mountains surrounding a still, clear body of water. Beneath the surface, lush aquatic plants and algae create a breathtaking coral-like display in various hues. The water is so clear that you can easily spot creatures swimming below, and the reflection of the clouds and mountains on the surface adds a magical touch. The surrounding reeds sway gently in the breeze, and flocks of white storks, herons, and other birds glide through the air or forage along the water’s edge.

In addition to its scenic beauty, Van Long Lagoon also offers the chance to explore its captivating caves, where stalactites hang down in mesmerizing formations. The limestone mountains and eroded caves are home to a variety of interesting and rare animals. Some of the famous caves you can visit include: Ca Cave, Bong Cave, Turtle Cave, and Lime Cave.

Lap An Lagoon, also known as An Cu Lagoon, is beautifully situated at the foot of the Phu Gia Pass, surrounded by the majestic Bach Ma Mountains. In front lies the tranquil Lang Co Bay with its stunning turquoise waters. This picturesque location makes Lap An Lagoon a dreamlike destination, particularly in the late afternoon when the last rays of sunlight cast a romantic, peaceful glow over the area. The view at sunset offers a striking contrast of grandeur with a special ‘Hue’ charm that captivates visitors.

In addition to its natural beauty, the lagoon is home to a diverse range of aquatic plants and animals, with oysters being the most abundant. The local population relies heavily on fishing, especially harvesting oysters. The oysters from Lap An are particularly famous for their rich, creamy taste, and visitors can enjoy them in various dishes such as grilled, in soup, stir-fried with onions, or in fresh salads. The flavors of these dishes are unforgettable, making them a must-try for anyone visiting the lagoon.

Located about 22 km north of Tuy Hoa City along National Route 1A, O Loan Lagoon spans 1570 km² and is a brackish water lagoon close to the sea. It is famous for its serene and unspoiled beauty. Situated at the base of the Quan Cau Pass, from above, the lagoon takes the shape of a majestic phoenix with its wings spread wide across the area.

The lagoon is also steeped in local legends, particularly the story of “Cao Bien Awakening the Mountains” and a natural sand dune, believed by the locals to be the “grave of Cao Bien.” However, the most popular legend is the one about the fairy maiden named Loan. According to the tale, this fairy, with extraordinary beauty and a playful nature, rode a celestial bird called Ô Thuoc to travel the world. When she arrived in Tuy An, the bird grew tired and landed here, and both the fairy and the bird turned into the lagoon. The people then named the lagoon after the fairy and the bird, calling it O Loan.

With its tranquil charm and the sight of fishermen's boats, the lagoon is a perfect spot for photographers. Don’t worry if you're not a professional—just capturing the right moments at sunrise or sunset will result in stunning photos. These times bring the lagoon to life, with the soft glow of the sun turning everything golden, while the fishermen begin their day and return with the bounty of the sea.

O Loan Lagoon exudes a peaceful and idyllic beauty, with its expansive, clean, and refreshing atmosphere. Being a brackish water lagoon, it’s teeming with marine life, including oysters, crabs, clams, and other shellfish. The mangrove forests along the shore sway in the breeze, like dancers performing their own unique routines. The lagoon is also home to a variety of birds like ducks, herons, and the elusive le le. As evening approaches, the landscape becomes even more enchanting, especially at sunset when the sky and water create a perfect harmony of nature. Truly, watching the sunset at O Loan Lagoon is a soul-soothing experience.