Top 12 Famous Tourist Spots in Mong Cai City, Quang Ninh Province

If Tra Co Beach is known as the "most poetic beach in Vietnam", then Tra Co Church is regarded as the largest and most beautiful church in the northern region of Vietnam. Built in the 1880s, Tra Co Church has stood for over a century. The church features intricate architecture, with a structure made of ironwood, walls constructed from limestone mixed with seashells, and a carefully paved stone courtyard. Inside, the church is adorned with detailed reliefs on the walls, and the altar is beautifully crafted with fine floral designs.

Visiting Mong Cai, Quang Ninh without taking time to explore Tra Co Church would be a missed opportunity. The church exudes a unique charm, with a soul of its own, and every visitor leaves with unforgettable memories and stories tied to this historic site.

Address: Trang Vi, Tra Co, Mong Cai, Quang Ninh

Thien Hau Temple, also known as Tra Co Temple, is located in Tra Co Ward, Mong Cai City, Quang Ninh Province. This sacred temple was built to honor the statue of Thien Hau, a revered figure in local legend. According to tradition, the statue of Thien Hau was believed to have drifted ashore from the sea, and the locals constructed the temple to venerate this sacred figure.

Each year, Thien Hau Temple attracts numerous visitors who come to worship and admire its spiritual significance. The temple's sacredness and historical importance have made it an essential stop for those fascinated by the grandeur and mystery of cultural heritage.

In addition to the precious statue, the temple also houses a 700-year-old sacred chay tree and a mystical well next to the temple. Local legend says that drinking from this well can wash away all worries and troubles. Every year, on the 23rd day of the 3rd lunar month, a vibrant festival is held, drawing crowds of locals and tourists alike.

Address: Trang Lo, Mong Cai, Quang Ninh

Mong Cai, Quang Ninh is home to a hidden treasure of stunning natural landscapes. Far from the noisy urban hustle, Cai Chien Island gracefully stretches along the southern coast of Hai Ha. This peaceful island is known for its beautiful beaches and tranquil atmosphere. In recent years, Cai Chien has become a popular destination for young travelers looking for a serene beach getaway.

The island offers several enjoyable spots, such as: Dau Rong Beach, Van Ca Beach, Cai Chien Beach, Khe Dau Lake, Thoi Xanh Island, and a container house area. Dau Rong Beach is particularly famous for its scenic pine forest, making it a perfect spot for those looking to take beautiful photos.

Some tips for visiting Cai Chien Island:

• Since it's a relatively new tourist destination, the food here mostly features local seafood dishes like Cai Chien chicken, clam chowder, stir-fried razor clams with bamboo shoots, and more.
• Visitors can opt for beach camping or stay in local homestays. Homestay prices range from 80,000 to 100,000 VND per person per night.

Address: Cai Chien, Hai Ha, Mong Cai, Quang Ninh

The Xa Tac Temple, formerly known as the Dan Mieu Xa Tac Dai Vuong, is one of the most important historical landmarks in Mong Cai city. It stands as a cultural "milestone," symbolizing the national sovereignty and marking the historical significance of this land.

The Xa Tac Temple is not just a place that holds memories of past tranquility, but also a symbol of cultural and religious practices among the people of Vietnam in the borderlands of the nation. Over the years, it has become a sacred emblem of patriotism and the spirit of defending the country’s borders. The Xa Tac Temple is a living symbol of reverence for the cultural and historical heritage of the nation.

This temple is constructed in the shape of the Chinese character “gong.” The primary materials used are precious timber, with the roof covered in dragon scale tiles, and the walls made from brick. The temple features a two-story structure with eight roofs adorned with intricate traditional carvings and beautifully crafted tiles. If you ever visit Mong Cai, be sure to stop by the Xa Tac Temple

Address: Tue Tinh, Ka Long, Mong Cai, Quang Ninh

Tran Phu Pedestrian Street is a popular evening hangout spot in Mong Cai city. Situated in the heart of the city, this pedestrian zone consists of two streets that connect shopping areas, dining spots, and entertainment spaces, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists. It's a free, vibrant entertainment hub for everyone—from the elderly to young adults and children—offering a variety of fun activities for all ages.

The street is full of lively activities, including youth-oriented entertainment, fashion stalls, souvenir shops, and a food court. Tran Phu Pedestrian Street features many food stalls selling Vietnamese and Chinese dishes, including local specialties such as white-leg shrimp, Tra Co crabs, and Mong Cai pigs. Imagine strolling along in the evening, stopping by a food stall to enjoy a scoop of ice cream or savor a hot, smoky grilled meat skewer—what a treat!

Address: Tran Phu and Hoa Lac, Mong Cai, Quang Ninh

When people think of Mong Cai, they often associate it with famous tourist destinations like Sa Vi Cape—the starting point of the S-shaped curve on the Vietnam map, Tra Co Beach, and the Mong Cai International Border Gate. However, few know that Mong Cai also offers another intriguing spot: the Vinh Thuc Island Lighthouse.

For fishermen, a lighthouse is a symbol of safety. During stormy weather at sea, the sight of a lighthouse signals security. What makes the Vinh Thuc Lighthouse unique is its French architectural style, featuring two distinct structures that blend harmoniously.

The lower auxiliary building and the white cylindrical tower above it are perfectly balanced. The curved lines of the foundation beneath the tower create a sleek and graceful look for the structure. A circular corridor surrounds the base of the tower, connecting to a rectangular building behind via a short passage. At night, the lighthouse emits a flashing white light every 5 seconds, illuminating a 360-degree radius with a range of 21 nautical miles.

Address: Tra Co, Mong Cai, Quang Ninh

Vinh Trung Island is the next hidden gem we would like to introduce. Though Vinh Trung Island has not developed mass tourism, its natural beauty is enough to captivate any visitor. The island features a pristine 2km-long beach with fine white sand, rivaling famous beaches like Tra Co - Mong Cai and Quan Lan - Van Don in the province. Here, you can find peaceful and picturesque moments, basking in the sun, feeling the breeze, and admiring the rare romantic scenery of this beautiful land.

The island is dotted with small rocky islets scattered across the sea, each creating unique shapes and adding to the island's untouched, wild beauty. Apart from its stunning landscapes, Vinh Trung Island also offers visitors the chance to explore a rich variety of flora, including Thanh Mai trees, Tu Ve plants, and Sea Pineapple. The friendly and welcoming locals make the island a warm destination for tourists year-round.

Address: Vinh Trung, Mong Cai, Quang Ninh

Along with other famous sites, Sa Vi Cape is another must-see destination for visitors to Mong Cai, Quang Ninh. Located in the Tra Co ward of Mong Cai, Sa Vi Cape marks the easternmost point of Vietnam. This cultural landmark has become a popular stop for tourists exploring Mong Cai. The site features a striking symbol of the nation at the border with a grand structure and unique architecture, including a relief depicting three pine trees reaching towards the sky.

Throughout the journey, visitors will also spot charming little houses with weathered walls, some of which stand resilient right next to the coastline. The coastal area is lined with rows of casuarina trees, which protect the land and people from the harsh winds and storms of the region. Many travelers visit Sa Vi Cape to experience the peacefulness of sunrise at the nation's frontier, fully immersing themselves in the beauty and grandeur of the land. It's also an ideal spot for taking breathtaking photos that will surely earn you thousands of likes!

Address: Tra Co, Mong Cai, Quang Ninh

When people think of Mong Cai, most often they associate it with one of two famous spots: the Mong Cai border gate or the Tra Co beach. However, recently, a new and equally popular destination has emerged in Quang Ninh: Mang Island.

Located about 6 kilometers from Tra Co beach, Mang Island has become one of the must-visit places in Mong Cai. Here, visitors can relax on smooth white stones, listen to the soothing sound of waves crashing against the shore, and hear the distant bell toll of the Tra Co Church, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere that's hard to describe.

Mang Island offers many picturesque spots perfect for photography, making it a great place for couples to capture memorable moments. The beach is exceptionally smooth, allowing visitors to ride motorbikes or bicycles along the coastline without worrying about sinking into the sand. Besides the stunning natural scenery, Mang Island also offers a variety of fresh seafood dishes at affordable prices, cooked in diverse styles for visitors to enjoy.

Address: Tra Co, Mong Cai, Quang Ninh

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and embark on a boat trip to Vinh Thuc Island, where you’ll be amazed by its untouched beauty. Unspoiled by mass tourism, this island offers an authentic experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature’s simplicity and serenity.

Take a walk along Dau Dong and Ben Hen beaches, feeling the cool, clear waters and soaking in the breathtaking views that nature has gifted this island. If you’re looking for luxury resorts, Vinh Thuc isn’t the place for you. The island doesn’t offer high-end accommodations or expensive services. Instead, it’s more of a “backpacker’s haven,” where you can stay in local homes or camp on the island. This gives you the perfect opportunity to connect with the island’s culture and people, who are known for their warm hospitality.

Don’t forget to savor the island’s delicious local dishes — true island specialties!

Tips for visiting Vinh Thuc Island:

• A round-trip ticket from Mong Cai to Vinh Thuc costs 50,000 VND per person (which includes a bus ride from the station to the ferry terminal and ferry fare). The island is about 20 km from Mong Cai, and the ferry ride takes about 10 minutes.
• Motorbike rentals on the island are around 250,000 VND per bike. You can rent a bike to explore the island and make your own memories of this paradise.

Address: Vinh Trung, Mong Cai City, Quang Ninh Province.

Tra Co is often referred to as "the most poetic beach in Vietnam" due to its soft white sands and crystal-clear water. It’s a place where visitors can experience peace, romance, and let their spirits drift with the wind. The cool climate, the fresh scent of the sea, and the tranquil environment make Tra Co an irresistible destination for many travelers. Similar to Vinh Thuc, Tra Co remains free from commercial tourism, with few shops or street vendors. If you’re craving fresh seafood, you can buy it directly from the fishermen who return with their catch right on the beach — a unique experience you won’t find at just any beach.

If you visit during the summer, you may even have the chance to join the vibrant "Tra Co Festival" held at the beginning of the sixth lunar month. This is one of the largest and most festive events for the coastal people of northern Vietnam.

Tips for visiting Tra Co Beach:

• Accommodation in the area can be quite expensive, ranging from 350,000 to 400,000 VND per night. Prices may increase on weekends and holidays.
• The local cuisine is similar to other coastal regions, with an emphasis on fresh seafood. Notable dishes include grilled fish, sea snails, stir-fried shrimp, crabs, squid, and the famous Tiên Yên chicken. Don’t miss the region’s traditional snacks like bánh gật gù and cà sáy.

Address: Tra Co, Mong Cai, Quang Ninh Province

When exploring the northernmost reaches of Vietnam, Black Stone Beach (also known as Ngoc Son Beach) is a must-visit destination for travelers. The beach gets its name from the unique black stones that stretch across the sand in long, sweeping formations. These stones create an unusual and captivating landscape, resembling the outstretched fingers of Mount Ngoc reaching out to embrace the clear blue sea. One remarkable feature of this beach is its incredibly clear water, where the sea appears so transparent that you feel like you can see all the way to the ocean floor.

After a refreshing swim and a photo session on the beach, visitors can relax by lying in hammocks under the pine trees or enjoy refreshing coconut water at the rustic huts set up by local vendors. For fishing enthusiasts, Black Stone Beach is also a great spot, as the area is teeming with various types of fish. Local fishermen claim that it only takes a moment to hook a catch.

Address: Binh Ngoc, Mong Cai, Quang Ninh