Buzz
1. Vam Sat Ecotourism Area
If you're looking for the most famous ecotourism site near Ho Chi Minh City, then look no further than Vam Sat, which remains largely untouched by human intervention, preserving its pristine and mysterious beauty. From Saigon, you can take a motorbike and cross the Binh Khanh ferry to reach Vam Sat. For adventurous travelers, this route offers an unforgettable, scenic journey. Once you leave Saigon behind, you'll immediately feel the peaceful atmosphere of Can Gio.
Notable places to visit within the Vam Sat Ecotourism Area include: Vam Sat Bird Sanctuary, Doi Mangrove Forest, and Tang Bong Tower. The bird sanctuary is a natural habitat for hundreds of bird species, where preservation efforts ensure the environment remains wild and untouched. The Doi Mangrove Forest is an isolated area surrounded by wetlands, accessible by boat. The 28-meter high Tang Bong Tower offers panoramic views of the entire Can Gio mangrove forest, a favorite spot for young adventurers.
Address: Ly Nhon Commune, Can Gio District, Ho Chi Minh City
Cần Thạnh Town is a charming spot for a peaceful getaway, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. With scenic landscapes, it offers a tranquil retreat with a small park overlooking the sea. Imagine relaxing on a hammock on a sunny afternoon, gazing at the ocean. The town is not crowded, and it gives off a calm, rural vibe, making it a great spot for a quiet escape. Only 40 km from Ho Chi Minh City, it's a perfect destination for a quick getaway.
Cần Thạnh is a perfect place for couples or young people passionate about photography. The town's charm lies not in opulence, but in its serene, rustic beauty. In the season when the yellow blossoms of the diep flower bloom, the place transforms into a picturesque haven. It’s like stepping into a romantic dream, made even more special with its small seaside park. Cần Thạnh feels like a quieter version of Vung Tau, providing a peaceful, memorable experience.
Monkey Island is a well-known destination in Cần Giờ. Unlike typical wildlife parks, the monkeys here live freely in the natural environment, not confined to cages. With over 2,000 monkeys, it’s a place full of life and curiosity. Visitors are advised not to carry valuable items as the mischievous monkeys may snatch them. The monkeys are friendly, often interacting with people, but be warned that some visitors, especially children, may get frightened by their boldness. The island enjoys two main seasons—dry and rainy—and the lush greenery is a welcome escape from the pollution of the city. The trees along the walking paths create beautiful archways, perfect for photos. Cần Giờ's Monkey Island is considered one of Vietnam’s best biosphere reserves, serving as the lungs of the city, purifying the air of surrounding areas.
Monkey Island is home to more than 2,000 monkeys that roam freely in the wild. Visitors should be cautious about carrying valuables, as the clever monkeys might snatch them. The island’s natural environment makes it an ideal getaway from the city’s pollution. The lush trees lining the paths form stunning green arches, creating a picturesque setting for photos. This reserve is regarded as one of the best biosphere reserves in Vietnam and plays a crucial role in maintaining environmental balance.
Thiềng Liềng Island may have a name that is hard to remember, but when you mention the "salt island," it’s easy for people to think of Thiềng Liềng. The name comes from the fact that most of the island’s residents make their living from salt production. The sight of vast white salt fields is a common and stunning image you’ll encounter here. If you visit in a group, you can even ask the locals for permission to enter the salt fields for some memorable photos, as they are known to be very friendly. Unlike the picturesque beauty of Thạnh An Island, Thiềng Liềng offers a more rustic, simple charm. Visitors can experience the salt-making process firsthand, which is both humble and fascinating. The island is small, making it easy to explore by bike or motorbike, and its peaceful, fresh air gives you the feeling of being in a quiet countryside village. Here, you can even buy fresh seafood from the beach vendors in the morning and cook your own meal with the help of the locals. This authentic experience will surely leave a lasting impression.
The island is famous for its salt production, and the locals are known for their friendly nature. Here, visitors can experience the entire process of salt harvesting, offering a unique and authentic glimpse into local life. The island’s tranquility, combined with its simple lifestyle, makes it a great escape. You can explore the island on foot, by bike, or by motorbike, all while enjoying the fresh, clean air. Don’t forget to buy some fresh seafood in the morning, which you can cook with the help of the islanders, creating a one-of-a-kind culinary experience.
The Sác Forest Guerrilla Base is another popular tourist destination in Cần Giờ. This historical site is perfect for those interested in history and nature, offering a cool, refreshing atmosphere. Known as the legendary guerrilla base of Cần Giờ, it allows visitors to step back in time and explore the old revolutionary headquarters. The best way to visit is by boat or canoe, which offers a relaxed experience at an affordable price of less than 40,000 VND. It’s a great place to learn, unwind, and enjoy nature. The Sác Forest Guerrilla Base appeals to tourists of all ages, making it a great spot for family or group trips.
The Sác Forest Guerrilla Base is a well-known destination in Cần Giờ, ideal for history buffs and nature lovers. Visitors can travel back in time to the revolutionary era while experiencing the serene natural beauty of the area. The base is accessible by boat or canoe, which is both an affordable and relaxing way to visit. This destination is great for travelers of all ages, whether you’re exploring with friends or family.
Located in Cần Thạnh Commune, the Whale Tomb (Lăng Cá Ông) is a sacred shrine for the fishermen of the coastal region. The tomb houses the skeleton of a giant whale, measuring 12 meters long, which washed ashore in 1971. If you visit Cần Giờ during the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, you can experience the Whale Worship Festival, a unique and long-standing cultural tradition of the area. Visiting the Whale Tomb also offers a chance to learn about its origins and the myths surrounding it.
The Whale Tomb is a popular tourist destination, attracting many visitors both from within the country and abroad each year. Despite its popularity, the site has maintained its original, mystical charm. Its simple, serene beauty continues to captivate tourists, leaving them eager to return after their first visit.
Cần Giờ Beach, located in a mangrove forest, has a dark, muddy appearance due to the abundance of silt in the water. However, this doesn’t mean it’s overlooked. Most visitors come to Cần Giờ Beach for its tranquility and calm atmosphere. Unlike the busy and crowded Vung Tau, Cần Giờ is peaceful and serene. Sitting here with friends, chatting and singing, you’ll find all your worries melting away.
Cần Giờ Beach remains pristine and clear, with few visitors and no entertainment or resort facilities nearby. In the early morning, you can stroll along the beach, feeling a deep sense of peace even as the waves crash. This is one of the most beautiful and untouched beaches in the area, and a must-visit for anyone seeking natural beauty and simplicity.
Hàng Dương Market is a famous seafood market in Cần Giờ, attracting many visitors who come here to buy fresh seafood. The market is not only known for its wide variety but also for its reasonable prices. If you don’t want to cook, you can find ready-to-eat dishes that are absolutely delicious. Hàng Dương Market is a seafood paradise, offering the freshest and most flavorful options. The market is well-organized, with clearly divided sections for different types of products, making it easy for visitors to find what they need.
Hàng Dương Market supplies seafood to many local restaurants and hotels in the area. Most of the seafood is bought directly from fishing boats that arrive in the morning, ensuring its freshness. The vendors here are friendly and accommodating, and with a little charm, you might even get a better price. Whether you’re buying seafood to enjoy on-site or as souvenirs, Hàng Dương is the perfect place for both.
Thạnh An Island, still relatively untouched, attracts visitors with its cool, peaceful ambiance. In recent years, it has gained more attention, yet it has managed to maintain its original, unspoiled beauty, as tourism services have yet to develop fully. On Thạnh An Island, you can enjoy snorkeling to explore coral reefs, or simply walk along the shoreline and enjoy the beauty of the crystal-clear waters. The shallow areas are so clear that you can see the sand, seashells, and even your own feet.
Visiting Thạnh An Island is an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, allowing you to relax and breathe in the fresh, salty sea air. It has become a favorite destination for young people seeking tranquility. While many flock to popular cities like Da Nang or Ho Chi Minh City during holidays, others prefer the charm of this serene island. Many couples also come here for wedding photos and honeymoon retreats, making it a memorable experience they will never forget.
