A Local Guide To The Best Things To Do In Mui Ne, Vietnam

If Vietnam were a playlist, Mui Ne would be the breezy, beachy track you play on repeat. Tucked away along the country’s southeastern coast, this coastal town in Phan Thiet is where sandy adventures, salty winds, and sunny smiles come together in perfect harmony. From surreal sand dunes and watersports to authentic fishing village life and jaw-dropping sunsets, the best things to do in Mui Ne are equal parts adventure and relaxation. In this guide, we’re giving you the insider scoop –  from the must-sees to the hidden gems. Let’s read on.

Things To Do In Mui Ne That You Cannot Miss

Get Sandy at the Iconic Red and White Sand Dunes

Let’s start with the stars of the show. Mui Ne’s sand dunes aren’t just pretty backdrops for your Instagram stories – they’re natural playgrounds.

• White Sand Dunes (Bau Trang): Think mini-Sahara, complete with ATVs and sweeping desert vibes. You can go sandboarding, hop on a quad bike, or take a jeep tour at sunrise for golden hour views that’ll leave you speechless.
• Red Sand Dunes: Located closer to town, the reddish hue here is especially striking at sunset. It’s the perfect place for kids to slide down the hills on plastic boards (rented locally), or for couples to stroll hand-in-hand as the sky turns cotton candy pink.

Pro tip: Bring sunglasses – the sand gets everywhere, and this way you’ll look cool and protected.

>> Read More: Mui Ne Sand Dunes – Unveiling The Natural Wonder Of Southern Vietnam

Embrace the Wind at Mui Ne’s Kite Surfing and Windsurfing Hotspots 

When the winds pick up in Mui Ne, from November to April, the sea becomes a vibrant dance floor for kites and sails. This town is renowned as a kite surfing paradise, welcoming everyone from complete beginners to experienced surfers. With numerous kitesurfing schools along the beach offering lessons, gear rentals, and supportive instructors, you can embrace every tumble as part of the adventure.

If extreme sports aren’t for you, find your peace on the sand with a coconut in hand, soaking in the beauty of colorful kites painting the sky. That’s the kind of screen time that inspires!

Take a Day Trip to Ta Cu Mountain

Just a short drive away lies Ta Cu Mountain, home to Vietnam’s largest reclining Buddha. Getting there is half the fun – a scenic cable car ride that lifts you over lush forests and gives you a bird’s eye view of Binh Thuan Province.

Once you reach the top, prepare to be wowed by the 49-meter-long white Buddha resting peacefully among the trees. There’s also a pagoda, walking paths, and plenty of nature to explore.

Pro tip: Wear comfy shoes and bring snacks – this one’s an adventure, but oh-so-worth it.

Explore the Life of a Local at Mui Ne Fishing Village

To truly understand Mui Ne, you need to start at its roots: the fishing village. Arriving early in the morning, you’ll witness the organized chaos of boats unloading the day’s catch—squid, crabs, anchovies, and whatever else the ocean has provided. 

Locals interact with one another, engaging in lively conversations, laughter, and haggling in a setting that is vibrant, loud, and completely authentic. Families will enjoy watching the circular basket boats (thung chai) maneuver in and out of the shore—a rare sight that you won’t find just anywhere. 

And yes, your senses will be greeted with the unmistakable aromas of a “real-life” fish market. Embrace it; it’s all part of the charm.

Visit the Po Shanu Cham Towers

Calling all history enthusiasts! Discover the Po Shanu Cham Towers, a remarkable treasure perched on Ong Hoang Hill, dating back to the 9th century and steeped in the legacy of the ancient Champa Kingdom. 

These three small brick towers hold immense cultural significance, offering breathtaking panoramic views that inspire awe. Remember to pack a hat and plenty of water, as the sun shines brightly in this serene landscape. Embrace the challenge, for the rewards of tranquility and ancient energy are worth every drop of sweat.

This is a perfect opportunity to ignite children’s curiosity about Vietnam’s rich history, turning exploration into an unforgettable adventure.

Chill Out at Mui Ne’s Gorgeous Beaches

Sometimes, the most beautiful experiences in Mui Ne come from simply embracing stillness. The beaches stretch out long and peacefully, inviting you to unwind and recharge.

• Ganh Beach and Suoi Nuoc Beach are less crowded than the main Mui Ne strip, ideal for families or travelers who like a little more space to stretch out.
• Ong Dia Rock Beach is great for a mix of local life and beach chill – perfect for grabbing grilled seafood right by the sea.

Pack sunscreen, a book, and maybe a Frisbee. That’s your entire itinerary for the day.

Try Fresh Seafood and Local Specialties

No visit to this fishing town is complete without eating your weight in seafood. The local restaurants and night markets serve everything from grilled scallops and clams to shrimp hotpot and steamed crab.

Must-tries:

• Banh Canh Cha Ca – a hearty fish cake noodle soup
• Lau Tha – Mui Ne’s signature hotpot with pork, fish, and greens
• Banh Xeo – crispy Vietnamese pancakes filled with shrimp and bean sprouts

Many beachfront eateries even let you choose your live seafood before it’s cooked – a great way to teach the kids where food actually comes from.

Watch the Sunset from a Rooftop Café

Mui Ne knows how to end the day in style. Head to one of the local rooftop cafés or beach bars in the late afternoon for a view that’s straight out of a painting.

Deja Vu Restaurant & Bar, Line Up Bar, or Joe’s Café are top picks for sunset drinks, laid-back vibes, and maybe even live music.

Sip on a passion fruit mojito or an iced Vietnamese coffee as the sky shifts from gold to purple. Your camera roll’s about to get crowded.

Discover Forgotten Castles and French Villas

In Vietnam, you can discover castles that hold stories of the past! On Ong Hoang Hill, near the Cham Towers, stand the remnants of a colonial-era French villa, often beautifully referred to as the “Castle of the Duke.”

Though time has weathered this structure, its walls are alive with local lore and literary magic. The renowned Vietnamese poet Han Mac Tu supposedly roamed these grounds, crafting verses and gazing at the sea, drawing inspiration from its breathtaking beauty.

While your visit may be brief, this enchanting spot adds a poetic touch to your journey, inviting you to embrace the mystery woven into the fabric of your travels.

Witness the Magic of the Fairy Stream

The “Fairy Stream” may evoke images from a storybook, but that’s precisely its magic. This shallow creek winds gracefully past towering limestone formations and vibrant orange cliffs, crafting a scene so surreal that it feels like a dream.

As you walk barefoot through the warm waters, take a moment to appreciate the stunning natural “sand sculptures” around you. Your children may even find themselves inspired to recreate their own fantasy adventures. With a 30 to 40-minute round-trip, you’ll treasure every splash and every breathtaking view along the way.

>> Read More: Fairy Stream Mui Ne – A Walk Along A Peculiar Nature Wonder

Bonus: Other Options For The Unique Activities In Mui Ne

For those who love to keep the adventure going, here are a few more gems to squeeze into your trip:

• Visit the Wine Castle at Sea Links City: A European-style wine cellar by the beach? Why not!
• Browse Phan Thiet Market: Just 30 minutes away, it’s one of the region’s biggest and liveliest markets.
• Relax with a spa day: Several resorts and massage spots offer kid-friendly services and mom-approved treatments.

Plan Your Mui Ne Adventure Like a Pro

From knowing the best time to visit to figuring out the easiest way to get there, let’s map it all out.

Best Time to Visit Mui Ne, Vietnam

Don’t let Mui Ne’s sun-kissed reputation fool you-it’s got its own moods and rhythms. Choosing when to go can make or break your vacation.

The best time to visit Mui Ne is between November and April, during the dry season. Expect endless blue skies, low humidity, and a steady coastal breeze. This window is especially ideal if you’re into water sports like kite surfing or sailing; the winds here are world-class.

If you’re visiting between May and October, be prepared for the wet season. That said, it’s not a monsoon-style downpour every day-more like short, sudden showers that cool things down. Bonus? Fewer crowds, cheaper stays, and super lush landscapes.

Monthly breakdown at a glance:

• November – April: Best for beach days, dunes, and adventure sports
• May – October: Green season, fewer tourists, good for chill vibes and deals
• January/February: Lunar New Year (Tet) celebrations take the town to a whole new festive level with dragon dances, fireworks, and food stalls
• Mid-Autumn Festival (usually September): A family favorite with lantern parades and mooncakes

Pro tip: If you’re kite surfing, aim for December to February, when the wind conditions are most ideal.

How to Get to Mui Ne: Your Travel Options Explained

Sure, Mui Ne looks like paradise, but getting there takes a bit of planning-especially if you’re bringing along kids or coordinating a group tour.

Flying In

Mui Ne doesn’t have its own airport yet, so most travelers fly into Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat Airport). From there, you’ve got several choices:

• Train to Phan Thiet Station: A scenic and relaxing 4-5 hour ride, with comfy seats and countryside views. Once you reach Phan Thiet, Mui Ne is just a short taxi ride away.
• Private car or van: The most convenient option for families or small groups. You’ll get door-to-door service and can stop for snacks or sightseeing along the way. Total time: around 4.5 hours.
• Sleeper or tourist bus: Budget-friendly and efficient. These run regularly from central Saigon and take around 5 hours.

From Other Cities

If you’re traveling from Hanoi or Da Nang, your first step is to fly to Saigon. From there, you can choose one of the routes mentioned above. Alternatively, if you have some time to spare, consider taking the Reunification Express train all the way down south for a complete cross-country adventure.

Driving Tips

Planning a self-drive trip? Just be warned: Vietnamese roads can be chaotic if you’re not used to them. If you’re up for the thrill, you can rent a car with a driver to enjoy the journey without the stress of navigating.

Ready To Discover The Best Things To Do In Mui Ne?

Whether you’re exploring sand dunes, surfing waves, savoring delicious food, or soaking in the coastal vibes, Mui Ne is a Vietnamese gem that has it all. It’s fun, relaxing, and bursting with local flavor—awaiting your discovery.

The best part? You don’t have to navigate it alone. At Asia Pioneer Travel, we tailor your Mui Ne adventures to align with your pace, style, and aspirations. Whether you’re traveling with kids or as a couple, we’ll take care of everything from the beach to the jeep. Contact our travel designers today and begin your journey towards a sun-soaked Mui Ne escape filled with sandcastles and lasting memories!