Phu Yen Travel Guide 2024: Discover the Best Destinations
As a stunning coastal province in Vietnam’s Central Highlands region, Phu Yen offers a unique blend of mountain landscapes and diverse natural features, including rivers, lagoons, bays, and islands. Known for its unspoiled and mysterious beauty, Phu Yen is a hidden gem promising travelers an unforgettable adventure.
Best Time to Visit Phu Yen
Phu Yen experiences two distinct seasons. The rainy season lasts from September to December, making the best time to visit Phu Yen from January to August. Visitors can also enjoy local festivals featuring Bai Choi, a national intangible cultural heritage. The summer months are ideal for beach relaxation and are particularly appealing to photographers and adventure enthusiasts.
Getting to Phu Yen
Phu Yen is located approximately 1,200 km from Hanoi and 500 km from Ho Chi Minh City. Travel options include:
- By Plane: Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airways, and VietJet Air operate flights to Tuy Hoa from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, with round-trip fares ranging from 1.5 to 5 million VND depending on the season. The airport is about 10 km from Tuy Hoa city center.
- By Train: Train fares range from 400,000 to 1,000,000 VND depending on the class and departure location.
- By Car: Sleeper bus tickets from Ho Chi Minh City cost about 540,000 VND per person, with a travel time of around 12 hours.
Many travelers opt to rent cars or motorbikes to combine their travel between Phu Yen and Quy Nhon, which are about 90 km apart.
Hotels and Accommodation
Phu Yen, especially Tuy Hoa, currently has limited high-end resorts and hotels. Budget hotels in the city cost from 150,000 to 300,000 VND per night. Luxury resorts such as Rosa Alba Resort, Sala Grand Tuy Hoa Hotel, and Saigon Phu Yen Hotel have room rates from 700,000 to 5,000,000 VND per night. Far from the center, Zannier Hotels Bai San Ho in Song Cau town has rates starting at 10,000,000 VND per night.
Attractions
- Da Dia Reef: Da Dia Reef is one of Phu Yen’s famous landmarks, featuring closely packed hexagonal columns that create a giant beehive extending into the sea. It’s an ideal spot for photos and relaxation by the shore.
- Den Lighthouse: About 1 km north of Da Dia Reef, Den Lighthouse stands 22 meters tall, guiding ships in and out of Xuan Dai Bay. From here, you can observe the vast sea and fishing boats.
- Bai Xep: Located in An Chan commune, Tuy Hoa city, Bai Xep is known for its 500-meter-long beach, golden sand, and dramatic cliffs. This spot served as the setting for the film “I See Yellow Flowers on the Green Grass.”
- Dai Lanh Cape: Dai Lanh Cape is the first place on Vietnam’s mainland to welcome the sunrise. The 100-year-old Dai Lanh Lighthouse is still operational, and you can climb the lighthouse for panoramic sea views.
- Vung Ro Bay: Vung Ro Bay is an interesting stop on your way back to Tuy Hoa. You can learn about the Ho Chi Minh Sea Trail and the local lobster fishing methods.
- Xom Ro Reef: Xom Ro Reef, located in Phu Dong ward, Tuy Hoa city, is famous for its green moss-covered concrete blocks. It’s a beautiful spot for photography with the vibrant colors of moss and the silver waves.
- Nui Nhan: Nui Nhan resembles a swallow in flight. On the mountain, there’s an 800-year-old Cham-style tower, offering panoramic views of Tuy Hoa city from the summit.
- Mang Lang Church: Mang Lang Church is one of the oldest churches in Vietnam, situated by the Ky Lo River with Gothic architecture. It also houses the first Vietnamese book printed in Quoc ngu script.
- O Loan Lagoon: O Loan Lagoon is a national scenic site famous for its oysters and blood clams. It’s also an excellent place to enjoy sunsets.
- Ong Cop Bridge: Ong Cop Bridge is the longest wooden bridge in Vietnam, serving as both a tourist attraction and a shortcut to many of Phu Yen’s famous sights.
- Nghinh Phong Square: Nghinh Phong Square features twin towers inspired by Da Dia Reef, providing an ideal space for photography and sightseeing. The twin towers offer 3D mapping and laser light shows in the evenings.
- Hon Yen: Hon Yen is renowned for its coral reefs above the water and stunning scenery. Visitors can view corals at low tide or go snorkeling to explore the underwater reefs.
- Nhat Tu Son: Nhat Tu Son, known as the “Diep Son of Phu Yen,” features a sea path that appears only during low tide. It’s a perfect destination for those who love exploring unique landscapes.
- Vuc Hom Waterfall: Vuc Hom Waterfall is set among basalt columns, creating a majestic scene. It’s a great spot for camping and photography.
- Dieu Hoa Ho Son Lake: Dieu Hoa Ho Son Lake is located along Tran Phu Street, Tuy Hoa city, with a bridge and picturesque scenery. It’s an ideal spot for photography and relaxation.
- Van Hoa Plateau: Van Hoa Plateau, with its cool climate and lush green landscapes, is often likened to “Da Lat of Phu Yen.” You can visit the Uncle Ho Church, the Ede village, and other attractions.
Suggested Itinerary
- Day 1: Nhan Tower, Long Thuy Beach, Bai Xep
- Day 2: Da Dia Reef, Den Lighthouse, O Loan Lagoon, Dai Lanh Lighthouse – Dai Lanh Cape, Bai Mon
- Day 3: Dai Lanh, Vung Ro, Diep Son Island
- Day 4: Mang Lang Church, Tuy An Wooden Bridge, Xom Ro Reef
Phu Yen Specialties
- Tuna: Tuna eyes stewed with Chinese herbs, tuna belly salad, tuna wrapped in mustard greens.
- Oysters from O Loan Lagoon: Grilled, stir-fried with tamarind, steamed, or made into salad.
- Phu Yen Chicken Rice: Tender, crispy chicken with little fat.
- Steamed Mackerel: Served with rice paper and fresh vegetables.
- Oyster Porridge: Oysters stir-fried with onions, salt, and pepper, creating a unique flavor.
Shopping for Souvenirs
- Seaweed: Fresh and priced from 80,000 to 150,000 VND per kg.
- Rice Paper: Various types of grilled or rolled rice paper are available.
- Dried Squid: A specialty of Phu Yen’s coastal region.
- Seafood Specialties: Such as dried seafood, dried shrimp, and dried squid.
Phu Yen is an ideal destination for those who love pristine beauty and unique experiences. From stunning beaches and unique natural landmarks to rich cuisine, Phu Yen promises to offer unforgettable memories for your trip. Plan your visit to explore this remarkable region on your next journey!
