Top 10 Tips for an Unforgettable Trip to Can Gio

You might not know it yet, but Cần Giờ is home to numerous fascinating destinations just waiting for you to explore. Here are some of the most beloved tourist spots in Cần Giờ, highly recommended by the travel community.

If you visit Cần Giờ, you can't miss these locations:

• Cần Giờ Beach: Located in Cần Thạnh town, this is the only beach in Ho Chi Minh City. The sand here is black, which makes the beach less picturesque and romantic compared to other beaches in Vietnam. However, it's only about 70 km from the city, making it an easy trip to enjoy the ocean's beauty. Don't forget to snap some stunning photos while you're there.
• Vàm Sát Ecotourism Area: As one of the country's largest biosphere reserves, Vàm Sát's mangrove forest is perfect for those who want to “get lost” in vast, majestic forests, observe flocks of birds hunting for food, and enjoy the fresh, airy atmosphere. You can also engage in activities like crab fishing, fishing, or kayaking.
• Monkey Island: Monkey Island is essentially a forest with lush, green trees on both sides, providing a home to thousands of playful monkeys. Here, you can have fun with the mischievous monkeys, feed them, and enjoy the cool, fresh air. However, be cautious not to carry too many valuables or get too close to them, as the monkeys have a habit of snatching your belongings and running off.
• Thiềng Liềng Island: It takes about an hour by boat from Thạnh An Island to reach Thiềng Liềng Island, which is nestled amidst dense forest and river mouths. This pristine, peaceful island is rare in its beauty, surrounded by a maze of rivers and canals and home to traditional salt-making villages.
• Thạnh An Island: This island, 70 km from Ho Chi Minh City, is not only a great travel destination with unique cuisine but also a popular spot for young people to take photos. To get there, travel along Huỳnh Tấn Phát Street (District 7), cross the Bình Khánh ferry, and head to Cần Thạnh pier to purchase a 10,000 VND ferry ticket for a quick 30-minute ride. You can even bring your motorbike along to explore the island. Once there, you can experience the life of local islanders, take pictures of vast mangrove forests, and enjoy fresh seafood. If you prefer, you can also rent a boat to eat on floating platforms, with prices starting from 100,000 VND per person.
• Phương Nam Beach Resort: Located at 1227/65 Duyên Hải, Đồng Tranh, Long Hòa, Cần Giờ, this eco-resort is a unique getaway just 60 minutes by motorbike from Ho Chi Minh City. The resort offers a spacious area with an artificial pool and 70 fully-equipped rooms. Regular tickets cost 50,000 VND per person, while on holidays, the price increases to 75,000 VND. The famous Nam Hải Bridge provides a stunning backdrop for photos. While food and beverages are available at the resort, they can be pricey, so you might want to buy from the nearby Hàng Dương market to save money (though a small fee applies).
• Hàng Dương Seafood Market: Hàng Dương Seafood Market is a popular spot for both locals and tourists in Cần Giờ. It offers a variety of fresh seafood at affordable prices. As you enter the market, you'll be overwhelmed by the sight of live seafood and delicious-smelling dishes. The market is known for its wholesale seafood prices, and you can select fresh catches to have them cooked right there to enjoy by the beach. Popular items include crabs, shrimp, snails, and clams.
• April 30 Beach: April 30 Beach is the most famous beach in Cần Giờ due to its relatively clean sand compared to other beaches. To get there, drive towards Tân Thuận Bridge, turn into Nguyễn Văn Linh Street, and then to Huỳnh Tấn Phát Road. Continue until you reach Bình Khánh ferry, cross it, and drive along Rừng Sác Road to reach the beach. The black sand might initially seem off-putting, but it's a unique feature of the area, not a sign of pollution. In fact, it is known as the most beautiful black sand beach in Vietnam. This spot is perfect for activities like team-building and offers great photo opportunities with its untouched, natural scenery. There are also several seafood restaurants along the beach, but remember to check prices before ordering.

Morning: Saigon - Cần Giờ - Cần Giờ Beach

• Start your journey from Saigon, taking about an hour to reach Cần Giờ.
• Once there, enjoy the fresh air and peaceful surroundings at Cần Giờ Beach. This beach is less crowded, making it perfect for sunbathing, taking photos, or enjoying water activities.

Lunch: Hàng Dương Market

• What to eat in Cần Giờ? Head over to Hàng Dương Market, just 850 meters from the beach, to indulge in fresh seafood. Must-try dishes include snails, crabs, shrimp, and more. The market offers on-site cooking services for a small fee, or you can bring your own ingredients or rent cooking equipment to prepare food right on the beach.

Afternoon: Visit Vàm Sát Ecotourism Area - Monkey Island

• Cần Giờ offers a lot of fun activities! A must-visit is the Vàm Sát Ecotourism Area, the largest biosphere reserve in Vietnam, situated between the Vàm Sát and Lòng Tàu rivers. Here, you can immerse yourself in the stunning natural scenery, engage in activities like fishing, kayaking, and even try the thrilling experience of feeding crocodiles.
• Another great spot to visit is Monkey Island, about 32 km from Vàm Sát. It’s a perfect place to relax and unwind, offering a peaceful escape from daily stress. You can easily combine both Vàm Sát and Monkey Island in one day.
• If you have more time, consider extending your trip to explore more of the nearby attractions in a two-day, one-night itinerary.

Evening: Return to Saigon

• A helpful travel tip: Leave Cần Giờ before 5 PM. Some roads back to Saigon are poorly lit, so to ensure safety, it’s best to leave around 4-5 PM. On your way back, stop by the small stalls at the foot of Rạch Đôn Bridge for a refreshing coconut drink.

Besides transportation, finding a good place to stay in Cần Giờ is also a key concern for many travelers.

• Eco Homestay Can Gio: Located in Cần Giờ District, Eco Homestay offers air-conditioned accommodations with a balcony and free Wi-Fi. This B&B features a garden and free private parking. The homestay includes an indoor patio, garden views, one bedroom, a living room, flat-screen cable TV, a fully equipped kitchen, and two bathrooms with bidets and showers.
• Can Gio Resort: Just a 5-minute drive from Monkey Island and Cần Giờ Mangrove Forest, Can Gio Resort offers cozy rooms with flat-screen TVs. Free Wi-Fi, a restaurant, and a variety of entertainment options are available. The traditional Vietnamese-style rooms feature large windows for natural light, with views of the beach and forest. The Carrot Restaurant serves both local and international cuisine.
• Nhạn Trắng Hotel & Restaurant: Located at 139 Duyên Hải, Cần Thạnh, Cần Giờ, Ho Chi Minh City, Nhạn Trắng is a one-star hotel that blends classic and modern designs to create a comfortable, elegant atmosphere for guests. The rooms are well-equipped with amenities like TVs, wardrobes, laundry service, Wi-Fi, and a restaurant, ensuring a pleasant and unforgettable stay.
• Khanh Vân Hotel: Situated at 281 Tắc Xuất, Cần Thạnh, this newly built hotel is close to the beach, park, and fresh seafood restaurants. The rooms are equipped with all essential facilities, and the location makes it convenient for beach walks and seafood dining. The price range is incredibly affordable, from just 250k to 400k VND!
• Tâm Ngọc Resort: Located in Duyên Hải, Long Hoà, Cần Giờ. If you're visiting Cần Giờ, why not unwind at Tâm Ngọc Resort? Surrounded by lush greenery and flowers, the resort offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere. In addition to comfortable rooms, guests can enjoy fresh seafood like shrimp, crab, and fish, making for a delightful experience.

Cần Giờ's rich biodiversity ensures that visitors will always find local dishes that reflect the region's unique culture. Don't miss these must-try specialties:

• Crum Crab: When in Cần Giờ, don't miss the irresistible crum crab. Found mostly in mangrove forests, crum crabs are known for their meaty and firm claws. Many dishes are made from this delicious crab, but the best way to enjoy it is by having it steamed, or perhaps, with a spicy salt and chili stir-fry. The sweet, fresh taste of the crab meat mixed with the salty and spicy seasoning is simply addictive.
• Garlic Grilled Sea Prawns: These large prawns are tender, with a sweet flavor, and are perfectly grilled with garlic to enhance their natural taste. The aroma of garlic combined with the sweetness of the prawns creates a mouth-watering treat.
• Thoi Loi Fish Salad with Lim Kim Leaves: A famous dish in Cần Giờ, the thoi loi fish is a soft, sweet fish found in the mangrove waters. Although not the most beautiful fish, its unique flavor shines when mixed with the tangy lim kim leaves and a sweet-sour dipping sauce. It’s simple, yet delicious and unforgettable.
• Pressed Rice with Dried Ca Du Fish: A simple yet delicious local dish, this pressed rice served with golden-fried dried ca du fish offers a crunchy texture, perfectly complementing the soft rice wrapped in banana leaves. A must-try during your visit.
• Grilled Sam Eggs: A unique dish you may not have encountered before, grilled sam eggs are marinated in a rich blend of spices and topped with green onions and roasted peanuts for a fragrant, savory flavor. After grilling, the sam meat is dipped in fish sauce, giving you a truly unique culinary experience.
• Sour Soup with Khoai Fish: Khoai fish is known for its translucent white flesh and soft texture, perfect for a light and refreshing sour soup. Paired with a tangy, sweet broth, this dish is ideal for cooling off during a hot day, offering the perfect balance of flavors.

For those traveling to Cần Giờ independently, finding great places to eat is a top priority. Visitors can head to local markets to enjoy fresh, delicious seafood at affordable prices. Many accommodations also offer on-site restaurants serving a variety of tasty dishes in different styles. Plus, small local eateries around the area serve traditional specialties.

Here are some must-visit spots if you're looking for great food:

• 100% Natural Restaurant: 10/82 Phan Đức, Long Thạnh, Long Hòa, Cần Giờ
• Chú 5 Lùn Seafood: Thạnh Bình, Thạnh An Island, Cần Giờ
• Hàng Dương Seafood Market: Thạnh Thới Road, Long Hòa, Cần Giờ
• Review Hangout: 205 Duyên Hải Road, Cần Thạnh, Cần Giờ
• Thanh Lịch Restaurant: Duyên Hải, Cần Thạnh, Cần Giờ
• Cát Biển Restaurant: Duyên Hải, Cần Giờ, HCMC
• Chị Út's Eatery: 30/4 Tourist Area, Cần Giờ, HCMC
• Chị Hai's Chicken Rice: Right at the entrance to Cần Thạnh Church, Đào Cử Road
• Chị Út's Thai Dessert: Near Cần Thạnh Church, Cần Giờ
• Cô Lê’s Grilled Pork Noodles: 12 houses row, Đào Cử Road, Cần Thạnh
• Cần Thạnh's Bánh Khọt Restaurant: Duyên Hải, Cần Thạnh, Cần Giờ

Another way to save while having an authentic experience is by shopping at the market and cooking your own meals. You can pick out the seafood you love at the market, then borrow cooking tools from locals to prepare your meal. And if you’re up for it, a BBQ on the beach is a fantastic idea!

When you're out exploring, you’ll need to think about what to bring back as gifts for family and friends. Don't worry, Cần Giờ has got you covered:

• Sour Shrimp: A box of sour shrimp will surely please everyone. Made from fresh shrimp marinated with spices and packed in plastic containers, the vibrant orange and yellow color alone will get your taste buds excited.
• Water Coconut: A local specialty in Cần Giờ, this refreshing drink provides a natural energy boost, perfect for travelers during the day. There's nothing better than enjoying a cool coconut drink while nibbling on crunchy coconut pieces and watching the vendor skillfully cut open the coconuts.
• Seafood: Be ready to indulge in fresh and affordable seafood when you visit Cần Giờ. If you're not satisfied with seafood in the city, this is the place to be. From shrimp to oysters, squid, and fish, the variety is both fresh and delicious.
• Fried Rice with Shredded Pork: Unlike fried rice from Ninh Bình or other places, Cần Giờ’s version is quite unique. After cooking the rice, it's flattened and wrapped with a filling of stir-fried snails and spices, then shaped into pillows and deep-fried to a perfect golden crisp. When served, it's topped with fried shallots, crushed peanuts, and a generous sprinkle of shredded pork (ruốc). It's absolutely delicious!

• If you're planning to travel by motorbike, make sure to check your bike thoroughly before you set off. Fill up the gas tank and don't forget to bring a portable pump and spare tire.
• The roads can be quite deserted, so finding a repair shop might be challenging. Even though the area is quiet, don't let your guard down. Drive at a moderate speed and ensure your rearview mirrors are intact, as there are often police checkpoints along the way. Be cautious or you might find yourself pulled over unexpectedly.
• Don't forget to bring your ID and driver's license, as you might need them at some point during your trip.
• When eating out or using any service in Cần Giờ, always ask and negotiate prices beforehand to avoid being overcharged.
• If you plan to visit water-based tourist spots, be sure to follow all safety guidelines to protect yourself. Also, pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, and choose appropriate clothing if you plan to visit spiritual sites.

Cần Giờ Beach Resort is located in a district on the outskirts of Ho Chi Minh City, just 50 kilometers away, a 1.5-hour drive from the city center. Unlike the bustling urban area, it offers a tranquil environment without skyscrapers or the noise of the city.

With its exceptional natural location, Cần Giờ attracts many visitors. The district is divided by a network of canals, lacks fresh water, but boasts beautiful beaches and islands, home to a variety of rare flora and fauna found in the Red Book. These unique natural features make Cần Giờ stand out from other places in Saigon.

Designated by UNESCO as one of the world’s top biosphere reserves, Cần Giờ is known as the “Green Oasis” and is a significant tourist destination in Vietnam.

According to Mytour, you can visit Cần Giờ at any time of the year. The area has a tropical monsoon climate with two distinct seasons: the rainy season and the dry season, similar to other southern provinces. The rainy season typically lasts from May to October, while the dry season, from November to April, is characterized by hot weather with stable temperatures. The average temperature here ranges from 25 to 29°C, with plenty of sunshine, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

However, the rainy season, although not as prolonged as in northern or central Vietnam, can still interfere with travel plans. Heavy rain can cause difficulties in transportation and strong waves at the beach, so it's best to avoid visiting during this period. Sunny days remain the most ideal time for a trip.

Cần Giờ beach is a popular destination for tourists, especially on weekends or during holidays like Tet. If you plan to visit during peak seasons, expect crowded spots and increased service fees.

Choosing the right transportation is essential to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

• By motorbike: With a distance of just over 50km, traveling by motorbike is a great option to easily access various attractions in Cần Giờ and have more flexibility in your journey. The roads are quiet, but fuel stations are scarce, and some areas may be bumpy, so make sure to fill up your tank, check your bike, and avoid speeding.
• By bus: From Ben Thanh Market, take bus number 20 to Nha Be and get off at the Binh Khanh ferry terminal. After crossing the ferry, catch bus number 90 to reach the beach. If you want to stop at any points along the way, feel free to ask the driver to drop you off, and once you're done sightseeing, take another bus to continue your journey. You can also rent a motorbike at rental shops along the way.