A corner of Vinh Hy Bay   Photo_ Tuan Minh.jpg
A corner of Vinh Hy Bay - Photo: Tuan Minh

When nature creates a masterpiece

Rarely in Việt Nam are the sea, mountains, and forests so closely intertwined as in Vĩnh Hy. Three sides of the bay are embraced by the rocky mountain ranges of Núi Chúa National Park, while the remaining side opens up to the vast Biển Đông (East Sea), creating a sheltered body of water whose shade of blue transforms throughout the day. Looking down from the mountain slopes, the entire bay unfolds like an ink-wash painting, evoking a beauty that is both majestic and gentle.

 Unlike many coastal areas heavily impacted by urbanization and tourism development, the landscape in Vĩnh Hy retains its original character. The space here is not overwhelmed by concrete structures or large-scale resorts; instead, it is defined by rocky mountain slopes, small sandy beaches, coastal rock formations, and fishermen’s boats quietly anchored in the bay.

High speed canoes serving tourists at Vĩnh Hy Bay   Photo_ Tuan Minh.jpg
High-speed canoes serving tourists at Vĩnh Hy Bay - Photo: Tuan Minh

* Top 5 unmissable experiences

*      Take a glass-bottom boat tour to admire the coral reefs. 

*      Explore the panoramic views of Vĩnh Hy Bay by speedboat. 

*      Go scuba diving / snorkeling to view the coral. 

*      Catch the sunrise at Vĩnh Hy fishing village. 

*      Enjoy fresh seafood on floating raft restaurants.

Ancient coral reef   Photo_ Tuan Minh.jpg
Ancient coral reef - Photo: Tuan Minh

The value of a unique ecosystem

What makes Vĩnh Hy alluring is not only its scenery, but also its unique ecological value. Crystal-clear sea waters alongside near-shore coral reefs have formed a living museum beneath the ocean waves. Hundreds of marine species coexist in this ecosystem, reflecting the vitality of nature when properly protected. Therefore, each diving trip in Vĩnh Hy is not merely a recreational activity, but an opportunity to better understand the value of biodiversity and human responsibility toward the environment.

Not far from Vĩnh Hy lies Hang Rái - a famous geological site featuring layers of ancient coral rock stacked over millions of years of formation. Shaped by ocean waves and tides, these rock formations take on unique structures, making it one of the finest spots to watch the sunrise along the South Central Coast.

Bãi Thùng, a fairly pristine beach along the Vĩnh Hy   Bình Hưng coastal route   Photo_ Tuan Minh.jpg
Bãi Thùng, a fairly pristine beach along the Vĩnh Hy - Bình Hưng coastal route - Photo: Tuan Minh

The local people of Vĩnh Hy remain dedicated to traditional seafaring occupations as a way to continue the age-old connection between humanity and the ocean. Their rhythm of life unfolds simply across generations, helping shape the cultural identity of this coastal community.

For visitors, the most memorable experience is sometimes not famous check-in spots, but the moment spent sitting on a floating raft, enjoying freshly caught seafood from the sea, and listening to fishermen's stories about fishing seasons, tides, or how the bay has changed over the years. It is precisely these everyday stories that make the journey of exploring Vĩnh Hy warmer and more emotional.

A complete journey by the blue sea

To fully experience the beauty of Vĩnh Hy, the period from March to September each year is considered ideal. This is the season of calm seas, clear water, and favorable weather for sightseeing, coral reef snorkeling, or exploring coastal roads.

From Hà Nội or Hồ Chí Minh City, visitors can fly to Cam Ranh Airport and then travel for about an hour along coastal route ĐT702 (60 km). This road is often likened to one of the most beautiful coastal routes in Việt Nam, where every bend opens up a different view of the sky and sea of Khánh Hòa.

Bustling fleets of boats on Vĩnh Hy   Photo_ Tuan Minh copy.jpg
Bustling fleets of boats on Vĩnh Hy - Photo: Tuan Minh

A trip will be more meaningful if visitors spend about 2 days and 1 night experiencing Vĩnh Hy: visiting the fishing village early in the morning, watching the sunrise over the bay, stopping by Hang Rái, exploring Núi Chúa National Park, visiting Mũi Cá heo, Hòn Rùa, Hòn Gấu, Hang Yến, Bãi Cóc, and enjoying seafood on floating rafts. Especially memorable is the experience of snorkeling to view the coral reefs. It is not merely a sightseeing itinerary, but a journey to feel the rhythm of life and culture of the coastal inhabitants.

Every visitor to Vĩnh Hy can contribute to preserving its beauty through small yet practical actions: not littering in the sea, not taking coral or marine life as souvenirs, limiting single-use plastics, and adhering to regulations during water activities. This civilized behavior is the responsibility of all of us enjoying these wonderful natural assets preserved across generations.

 Amid the flow of modernity, Vĩnh Hy Bay still retains its inherent, rustic beauty. Perhaps that is why many people, upon leaving this place, bring back not only beautiful photos, but also a sense of peace, tranquility, and unforgettable memories of a sea region where nature and humanity continue to coexist in harmony. This is also the most enduring value Vĩnh Hy offers to every traveler - not just a trip, but an opportunity to listen to nature, slow down, and cherish the rich, beautiful lands of Vietnam.

Ancient coral reef at Hang Rái Ecotourism Area   Photo_ Tuan Minh.jpg
Ancient coral reef at Hang Rái Ecotourism Area - Photo: Tuan Minh

* Estimated price list

Service Estimated Price
Glass-bottom boat for coral reef viewing 100.000 VND/ person
Glass-bottom boat including swimming & snorkeling 160.000 VND/ person
Shared speedboat tour & snorkeling 200.000 VND/ person
Private speedboat (1-2 guests) 900.000 VND/ trip
Private speedboat (3-5 guests) 1.100.000 VND/ trip
Núi Chúa National Park conservation fee 20.000 VND/ person

HONG VAN

Vietnam Destination Review - Special Issue No. 2 (July 2026)