Top 10 Must-Visit Destinations in Phu Yen, the Land of Golden Flowers

Phu Yen is home to three major plateaus: Van Hoa Plateau, An Xuan Plateau, and Tra Khe Plateau. Among them, Van Hoa Plateau is situated in the golden triangle formed by the three communes of Son Xuan, Son Long, and Son Dinh, at an elevation of 400 meters. Due to its oceanic climate, this area is characterized by plenty of sunshine, misty fog, and cool breezes, especially in the autumn, when the weather is cooler than the city of Tuy Hoa, giving it a feel similar to Da Lat. If you're visiting Van Hoa Plateau for relaxation, you may not be completely satisfied with the services, but the serene atmosphere, fresh air, stunning mountainous views, and the warmth of the local people make it an unforgettable experience. It's a perfect destination for those seeking tranquility and the beauty of nature.

As a fertile land with red basalt soil, Van Hoa Plateau boasts a vast expanse of greenery, exotic plants, and fruit trees such as avocados, bananas, and various industrial crops like coffee and pepper. The region is also famous for its delicious, crispy, sweet market durians, fragrant pineapples, and the eye-catching fruit of the starfruit tree. The area is dotted with beautiful lakes and waterfalls, and its fresh, cool air makes it an ideal weekend getaway, as refreshing as a countryside retreat in France or the Scottish Highlands. The DT643 road leading to Van Hoa is often talked about among adventure enthusiasts, who claim it’s a journey that will make any traveler’s heart race. The 30 km road winds through sugarcane fields and lush acacia forests, and during autumn, golden rice paddies and vibrant cassava fields are a sight to behold, making anyone want to leave the city and experience the rural charm of the countryside.

Ghenh Da Dia is located in An Ninh Dong Commune, Tuy An District, Phu Yen Province. It is famous for its unique landscape, where the rocks are either round or square, creating a natural scene that seems almost deliberately arranged by nature itself. According to numerous surveys and studies, it is believed that about 200 million years ago, during volcanic activity in the Van Hoa Plateau region, lava flowed into the sea. Upon contact with the cold seawater, and due to tectonic forces, the lava solidified and cracked, forming rocks with various shapes. From above, the ghenh (rocks) resemble a giant beehive, dark and rugged, or like discs piled up in a kiln. This place is a natural wonder, offering a breathtaking, harmonious blend of mountains and water, resembling a watercolor painting. Ghenh Da Dia is a truly magnificent sight, drawing and captivating visitors.

You must visit this place in person to truly appreciate the incredible beauty nature has bestowed upon it. The rocks, shaped in various forms, are scattered like dishes or plates in ceramic kilns. The waves here are unusually strong, crashing against the shore day and night, creating a frothy white foam across the area. Along Ghenh Da Dia, you will occasionally come across small depressions, which fill with seawater after rain, transforming the area into natural pools. You can lean against the stones, relax in the seawater, enjoy the fresh air, and observe marine life such as crabs, starfish, and stranded jellyfish. Beneath the rocks, there is a large cave that leads deep into the mountain, a relic from wartime. Not far from here is the Ganh Den lighthouse, where you can get a panoramic view of the beach and Ghenh Da Dia. Despite the winds and waves, even after the bombings, Ghenh Da Dia remains steadfast, mysterious, and timeless. If you have the chance to visit Phu Yen, don't miss Ghenh Da Dia, where the wind tells stories and the waves compose poetry.

Located about 22 kilometers north of Tuy Hoa City on National Highway 1A, O Loan is a 1570 km² brackish lagoon that lies close to the sea, known for its peaceful, rustic, and serene beauty. Situated at the foot of Quan Cau Pass, when viewed from above, the lagoon resembles a phoenix spreading its wings across the region. The area is also steeped in mystical legends, including one about ‘Cao Bien Awakening the Mountains’ and a natural sand dune that locals consider to be ‘Cao Bien’s Tomb’. However, the most famous tale is that of a fairy named Loan. According to legend, a beautiful fairy, who loved to play and was mischievous, rode on the back of the celestial bird O Thuoc and descended to Earth to explore various lands. When they reached Tuy An, the bird became tired and landed, and both the bird and the fairy transformed into the lagoon we see today. Hence, the lagoon was named O Loan, after the fairy and the bird.

With its inherent tranquility and the sight of fishing boats of local fishermen, this lagoon is a perfect spot for photographers looking to capture the beauty of Phu Yen. Don’t worry if you’re not a professional photographer; with a few simple tips and the right timing, you can still capture stunning photos. The best times to visit are during sunrise and sunset when the sunlight bathes the lagoon in a golden glow. This is also when the fishermen begin their daily work, heading out to sea for their catch and returning with an abundant bounty. As a brackish lagoon near the coast, the seafood here is particularly flavorful, and one of the most famous delicacies you must try is the oysters, a signature dish of the area.

Located in Hoa Xuan Nam Commune, Dong Hoa District, Phu Yen, Vung Ro Bay forms a natural boundary between Phu Yen and Khanh Hoa provinces. This untouched bay, spanning over 16 square kilometers, is surrounded by majestic mountain ranges like Deo Ca, Da Bia, and Hon Ba. Despite its modest size, the bay offers serene beauty and a picturesque landscape, resembling a watercolor painting with its calm shoreline and gentle waves. To explore Vung Ro Bay, you can either take the dramatic Deo Ca Pass or approach from Phu Yen. Driving through Deo Ca Pass, with its breathtaking curves, you will marvel at the stunning natural scenery – vast grassy plains and lush trees, with glimpses of the enchanting bay inviting visitors to explore. Alternatively, from Phu Yen, after passing Bai Mon and Mui Dai Lanh, you will also have the chance to admire the bay from above, revealing its unspoiled beauty that is both peaceful and poetic.

Upon arrival, Vung Ro Bay appears like a giant mirror, reflecting its surroundings in the still waters. The short beach is surrounded by jagged rocks and towering hills, creating a striking natural landscape. The harmony of nature here – the land, mountains, forests, and clouds – come together beautifully, forming a dreamlike and majestic view that captivates visitors. In this tranquil and serene setting, you can stroll along the beach, drift with the floating clouds, and enjoy the refreshing air as soft breezes sweep across the calm bay. Whether at dawn, dusk, on a scorching summer afternoon, or in the stillness of the night, Vung Ro Bay’s beauty will always capture your heart.

Hon Yen is located in An Hoa Commune, Tuy An District, about 15 kilometers from Tuy Hoa City in Phu Yen, accessible by coastal concrete roads. From Tuy Hoa, visitors can rent a motorbike or car to reach the Nhon Hoi Village, where they can hire local fishermen's boats to visit Hon Yen Island. The name Hon Yen originated from the large number of swallows that once nested here. These birds thrived in the area, but over time, due to changes in climate and weather, they gradually left. Despite this, the locals still refer to the mountain as Hon Yen. From Nhon Hoi Village, you will see two small islands close to each other. Over time, the waves have worn down the mountains, leaving two islands about 100 meters from the shore. The larger one, shaped like a giant conical peak, is called Hon Yen, while the smaller one is called Hon Sun.

If possible, visit during the early or mid-month. During this time, in the afternoon when the tide recedes, a rocky seabed and a golden sandy beach will emerge, stretching all the way to the foot of Hon Yen. You can walk out to the sea, taking in the surrounding views of fishermen's homes under the shade of tall coconut trees. When the tide is low, the area reveals a hidden world full of marine life. You will be amazed by the stunning beauty of the underwater world, with delicate coral reefs and a vibrant marine ecosystem. On the shore of Hon Yen, the striking red color of the mangrove trees stands out near the Lăng Ông area, which is home to a shrine dedicated to Nam Hải Đại Tướng Quân, the protector of fishermen on their sea voyages.

From a distance, whether viewed from the shore or from the submerged path below, Nhat Tu Son in Phu Yen appears as a green island, with its lush forest blending seamlessly into the surrounding ocean. As you get closer, the island's pristine and untouched beauty becomes even more evident. The name 'Nhat Tu Son' originates from the island's shape, which resembles the Chinese character for 'one' ('Nhất'), symbolizing unity and strength. The island serves as a natural shield, protecting the nearby fishing villages of My Thanh and Hai My from the harshest storms and waves. On Nhat Tu Son, you'll find a sacred temple, believed to have been built centuries ago. Locals revere the island as a divine protector of the seas, and many come to pray and honor the island's spiritual significance. After offering incense at the temple, you can explore the island's rich and diverse forest.

Beyond the lush greenery, the island features mysterious caves, deep crevices, and towering cliffs shaped by centuries of erosion. It’s an island where you can truly immerse yourself in nature, feeling as though you’ve become part of its wild, untamed beauty. On the western slope, the terrain is gentler with vibrant purple-flowered Lagerstroemia trees and other indigenous plants. The southern slope, however, is steeper, with rugged cliffs and ancient yellow apricot trees scattered around. On the eastern side, you'll find fascinating rock formations—some stacked like seats, others rising from the sea, creating small water channels. Climb to the highest point on the island, and you’ll be rewarded with an awe-inspiring panoramic view of the ocean stretching out before you.

Mang Lang Church is located about 35 km north of Tuy Hoa City, Phu Yen, and is one of the oldest churches in both Phu Yen and Vietnam. The church is most famous for its distinct Gothic architecture, which dates back over 1200 years. The design of Mang Lang Church will likely remind you of many European churches you’ve seen in films or magazines. This Gothic style is so renowned worldwide that many buildings following this design have been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Gothic elements are particularly evident in the two bell towers on either side of the church and the central cross. The church is primarily painted in a muted grayish-green, which blends harmoniously with the surrounding fields. In front of the church, there is a small but intricately crafted crypt, with carvings depicting the story of Saint Andre Phu Yen.

Visitors to the church, after admiring the classical Gothic architecture, often wonder about the origin of its name. The name 'Mang Lang' may sound unusual, but it has a simple, rustic origin. According to local elders, over a century ago, the area was sparsely populated and mostly covered with trees, including a beautiful purple flower similar to the Lagerstroemia, which was called 'Mang Lang' by the locals. When the church was built in the An Thach area, the name 'Mang Lang Church' naturally followed. Today, although the Mang Lang trees have disappeared, a 1.7-meter diameter wooden table made from Mang Lang wood still remains inside the church. The church is also known for housing the first book printed in the Vietnamese national script, “The Eight-Day Sermon,” written by missionary Alexandre de Rhodes. You can view this historic text in the church's cave-like space on the artificial hill.

Dai Lanh Cape, also known as Mui Dien, is one of the most important tourist destinations in Vietnam. Located in Hoa Tam commune, Dong Hoa district, Phu Yen, Dai Lanh is a place of stunning beauty, where the sky, mountains, and sea blend harmoniously, creating a peaceful paradise. This is the first place in Vietnam to receive the first rays of the morning sun, which is why it is also called the Easternmost Cape, the easternmost point of the country. The cape is situated on a rocky promontory that juts out into the sea, part of the Truong Son mountain range, and is about 35 km from Tuy Hoa city center. When visiting this 'beginning of the sunrise' destination, visitors are immersed in a poetic landscape where land meets sky, clouds meet mountains, and the sea kisses the sand, all exuding the essence of the ocean breeze. The Dai Lanh lighthouse, built by the French in 1890, is a prominent feature here, standing tall with its majestic presence in the vast ocean.

The lighthouse, which stands 110 meters above sea level, is 5 meters tall and covers an area of 320 square meters. It is one of the 45 national beacons, with a signal that can be seen up to 27 nautical miles. Climbing the 110 steps to the top of the lighthouse offers panoramic views of the endless waters and lush landscapes surrounding the area. At the foot of the lighthouse lies the tranquil Bai Mon beach, with its blue sea, white sand, and golden sunshine – a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty. Watching the sunrise here is an unforgettable experience, especially in this remote eastern corner of the country. Be sure to visit Dai Lanh Cape to capture beautiful photographs of the stunning scenery. You can also follow the Phuoc Tan - Bai Nga coastal road, which is equally scenic and much safer, with many beautiful spots to stop and admire the view along the way.

Located in Dong Be village, Hoa Tam commune, Dong Hoa district, Phu Yen, Bai Mon Beach stretches about 400 meters beneath the towering Dai Lanh Cape. This beautiful beach lies between two mountains, forming a massive bow shape from a distance. When the waves crash against the shore, they create swirling patterns that might appear daunting, but with a little care, it's perfectly safe. The beauty of Bai Mon Beach has captivated countless visitors, with its long stretch of soft white sand, crystal-clear water reflecting the sky, and an overall serene atmosphere. With few residents and mainly fishing boats in the area, the landscape retains its untouched, natural charm. Blessed with stunning natural beauty, a pleasant climate, and clean air, Bai Mon offers the perfect escape for those wishing to immerse themselves in nature, swim in the refreshing sea, and capture unforgettable memories.

The beach is at its most mesmerizing at dawn, around 5 AM, when the first golden rays of sunlight light up Vietnam's coastline. At this time, Bai Mon Beach sparkles as the sunlight reflects off the vast ocean, creating a breathtaking sight. When you visit Bai Mon, don't miss the opportunity to see the Dai Lanh lighthouse at Mui Dien, the easternmost point of Vietnam, where you can enjoy spectacular views of the beach and the surrounding area. To the west of Bai Mon, a stream meanders through rocky cliffs, crossing the lush forest of Bac Deo Ca before flowing into the ocean. This picturesque location is a favorite among tourists who seek both natural beauty and a peaceful retreat. With its harmonious landscapes and fresh air, Bai Mon Beach is not only a popular tourist spot but also a fantastic place for outdoor activities and picnics.

Bai Xep is a beach located in An Chan commune, Tuy Hoa city, Phu Yen. Though the beach spans only 500 meters, it is home to a variety of natural wonders, including golden sand that meets jagged rocks, massive black stone promontories rising from the sea, and vast expanses of grass and pine forests. To reach Bai Xep, take the smooth, paved Le Duan road towards Tuy An. The scenic coastal road, flanked by green pine groves, gives you a refreshing, calming sense even before you arrive. Bai Xep became more widely known after being featured in the popular movie “I See Yellow Flowers on the Green Grass.” Despite this, the beach has not been overdeveloped for tourism, allowing it to maintain its original, untouched charm. Bai Xep is the perfect example of a beautiful beach, with bright golden sands curving gently into crystal-clear turquoise waters.

As you gently step into the cool, crystal-clear water, it feels almost like entering a pristine freshwater lake, instantly refreshing and washing away any fatigue or stress. Along the soft sandy shore, dramatic black rocks rise out of the sea, adding an air of mystery and grandeur to the setting. The waves crash and create sprays of foam, blending beautifully with the vast expanse of sky and ocean. Follow the paths that wind up the steep stone ledges and you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of Bai Xep’s pristine landscapes—verdant hills and shimmering waters—captivating in their natural beauty. From the towering stone cliffs, dense cactus patches and sun-drenched grasslands create a striking contrast against the sea, while the sound of the waves crashing on the shore and the wind rustling through the trees make for a serene and peaceful atmosphere. Perhaps the most memorable feature of Bai Xep is the vast, lush grassland on top of Ganh Xep, resembling a small meadow. Visiting here is not just about admiring the stunning scenery, but also experiencing the peaceful and simple way of life of the local fishermen.