The aerial view of Nha Trang Beach

The Journey along Vietnam’s Central Coast

Flanked by verdant mountains on one side and the blue sea on the other, the trail along Vietnam’s Central Coast is easily the most picturesque in the country. This route stretches over 800 kilometers from Binh Thuan to Da Nang, passing through a series of astonishing beaches and bays.

Wedged between the imposing Truong Son Range and the East Sea, the narrow coastal plains of Central Vietnam are destinations in their own right. Here, the blue sea, sandy beaches, and lush mountains are harmonized, creating remarkable landscapes. Dotting along this beautiful coastline are fishing villages and legacies of the Champa – a maritime kingdom that had controlled this region for centuries.

1. Ke Ga Cape

The first stop on my Central Coast journey is Ke Ga Cape in Binh Thuan. Despite the name, it is a windswept island connected to the mainland via a strip of sand. At high tide, the “bridge” submerges and Ke Ga turns back into its isolated state. Only some bushes, Australian pine trees, and centuries-old plumerias can survive on this rocky landscape.

No plaster was used in the construction of this lighthouse.

Standing tall on the island is Vietnam’s oldest lighthouse which was built in 1899. At the time, the surrounding water was extremely dangerous for ships due to strong winds, hidden rocks, and sandbanks. Yet it links Phan Rang and Vung Tau – two vital ports along the coast. That’s why the French erected a lighthouse in this exact location.

The 35-meter tower is made entirely of imported granites. They are so resistant that little to no damage has occurred after all these years. Another interesting fact is that no plaster was used in the construction of this lighthouse. The stones are fitting together like Lego bricks, representing the excellent skill of the stonecutters.

The rocky shoreline of Ke Ga
Ke Ga Cape at sunset
Advertisements

2. Phan Thiet

A short drive down the coast from Ke Ga Cape brings me to Phan Thiet – the capital of Binh Thuan province. Many tourists tend to skip this ordinary-looking town and travel directly to the beach. But little did they know this place is one of Vietnam’s busiest fishing ports, with hundreds of boats coming and leaving daily. Despite the rise of tourism, fishery and manufacturing of fish products still serve as a source of income for many people here.

Frankly, a trip to Phan Thiet is a multisensory experience. You can hear the waves splashing against the boats and the cheerful sound of fishermen. Your eyes and hands will be amazed by the day’s catch being brought ashore. And your palate will be pleased by some truly fresh seafood. At the same time, your nose might be overwhelmed by the strong odor of fish sauce. But believe me, Phan Thiet fish sauce is among the most flavourful in the country.

Phan Thiet Bay

2.1 Thuy Tu Temple

As their life centered around the sea, people living along the Central Coast have developed some sea-related habits and traditions. One custom that I found particularly compelling is whale worshipping. According to Vietnamese fishermen, the whales and their kin are luck bringers. They are believed to guide sailors through storms and the raging sea. Therefore, hunting is considered taboo. Additionally, if a whale is washed ashore (dead or alive), it will be treated as a family member. Some whales are even worshipped as gods.

An outstanding example of this tradition is Thuy Tu Temple in Phan Thiet. Constructed in 1762, this temple is home to about 100 sets of whale bones, with the largest measuring 22 meters and weighing nearly 65 tonnes. 24 skeletons even received titles from the Nguyen Emperors, signifying the important role of whales in Vietnamese culture. These days, the whale skeleton is the source of inspiration for the Fishermen Show – a performance depicting the life and legends of Phan Thiet.

Largest whale skeleton at Thuy Tu Temple
Advertisements

3. Mui Ne

Not far from the city of Phan Thiet is Mui Ne – a popular beach destination filled with hotels and resorts. Unlike Phan Thiet which is a hive of local activity, the former fishing village is dedicated to tourists. But Mui Ne doesn’t always look like that. Before 1995, it was just a sleepy backwater ignored by both domestic and international travelers.

There was nothing here, except the beach, endless lines of coconut trees, and vendors selling seafood. Things started to change in 1995 when the solar eclipse was visible in Vietnam, and Mui Ne had the optimal viewing spots. Thousands of visitors flocked here to witness the once-in-a-lifetime experience, leading to the development of tourism.

3.1 The Sand Dunes

But the beauty of Mui Ne is not limited to the beach. This coastal land also boasts two majestic sets of sand dunes: the Red Sand Dunes and the White Sand Dunes. As its name implies, the Red Sand Dunes are of an amber color. They are formed as a result of high wind carrying fine sediments landward. The dunes look most magnificent during sundown as they radiate a fiery red tone.

Meanwhile, the White Sand Dunes display a vanilla color. They stretch for several kilometers and can reach as high as a three-story building. These dunes were created in the same way as the Red Sand Dunes. But instead of sediments, the wind transports more sand. The White Sand Dunes also look impressive in the afternoon when the sun casts shadows on the desert-like landscape. They undulate down over a blue lake, creating an awe-inspiring scene.

The amber-colored sand dune
White Sand Dunes
Sand waves
Advertisements

4. Phan Rang

Leaving the sand dunes of Mui Ne behind, my Central Coast journey continues on to the capital of Ninh Thuan province, Phan Rang. The name is the Vietnamese pronunciation of Parang, an acronym for Panduranga – the last capital of Champa. This kingdom of seafarers had dominated the Central Coast for centuries before it was annexed by Vietnam in the early 19th century.

Today, Phan Rang closely resembles an enclave of Cham people, with the largest Cham community in Vietnam residing here. They own lands, orchards, and cattle, and maintain much of their traditional living style, including the matriarch system.

4.1 Bau Truc Village

Before reaching the city of Phan Rang, I made a brief stop at Bau Truc – the oldest extant pottery village in Vietnam. This settlement of Cham crafters is believed to be formed before the 12th century and even possibly before the 9th century. It is known as Pali Hamui Craok in the Cham language and comprises more than 400 households.

As the whole strenuous process is done completely by hand, the production capacity is minuscule in comparison to that of other pottery villages. However, Bau Truc has established a niche market, with many gardens, cafes, hotels, and seaside resorts in Vietnam furnished with this pottery. Recently, a new generation of artisans has breathed new life into pottery with contemporary designs. Yet their works still reflect the essence of Cham culture and belief.

Bau Truc Pottery

Bau Truc pottery is known for its unique making method which involves only five simple materials: clay, sand, firewood, straw, as well as rice husks for firing. It is only fired outside, and thus kilns are not necessary. Most of the clays come from the nearby Quao River. The supply never runs low thanks to the sustainable use of the residents. Unlike other pottery villages, artisans in Bau Truc don’t use the rotating table to make their products. Instead, the clay is kept in a stationary position as the artisans walk countless concentric circles around it, carefully shaping it with their fingers. The crafters then utilize wet cloths to smoothen the surface before decorative patterns are added.

Advertisements

4.2 Po Klong Garai Towers

Rising dramatically above Phan Rang is Po Klong Garai Towers – the greatest legacy of the Panduranga principality. It was constructed at the beginning of the 14th century to honor the legendary Po Klong Garai. According to local lore, this man started life as a lowly cowherd but became a hero and then the king of Champa by destiny. Under his reign (1151 to 1205), the kingdom was able to fend off the Khmer invaders. Therefore, he is worshipped as a guardian of the Cham people, as well as a water deity thanks to his immense contribution to the irrigation system.

Though this never attained the flamboyance of Angkor, Po Klong Garai Towers is an architectural masterpiece of the Champa kingdom. The complex consists of three brick structures: a smaller gate tower, an elongated repository with a saddle-like roof, and the 25-meter kalan (main sanctuary). All of them are well-preserved and characterized by solid outlines. They are also simply adorned, with bas-reliefs of Shiva and other deities etching around the kalan, and wing-formed clay works framing the arches and roofs.

Po Klong Garai Towers
Advertisements

5. Nha Trang

Following Nation Highway A1 northward, I made my way to Nha Trang – the last leg of this Central Coast journey. The route passes through vineyards, shrimp farms, and photogenic salt flats which reflect sunrays like giant mirrors. It then winds along the beautiful bay of Cam Ranh before reaching the lively coastal city. Here, a sweeping crescent of soft yellow sand appeared in front of my eyes. It embraces the aquamarine bay dotted with several tropical islands. The shoreline is backed by a leafy promenade where locals and tourists mingle for sports, drinks, or simply socializing.

That magnificent setting is the icon of Nha Trang. Since the French era, this place has been among the top resort towns in Vietnam. It is big enough to bustle but small enough to retain a relaxing atmosphere. For those who want to escape the crowd, there are beautiful coastlines just outside of the city. Many of these remain relatively untouched, for example, the beaches along Ninh Van Bay.

Sunset on the salt flats
Nha Trang Beach
Sunrise on Nha Trang Bay

5.1 Po Nagar Towers

Apart from the heavenly beaches, Nha Trang is also home to the sacred Po Nagar Towers. Built between the 7th and 12 centuries, this hilltop tower complex is dedicated to the Cham goddess Yan Po Nagar who is said to have taught agricultural and weaving skills to the locals. However, present-day historians identify her as another version of the Hindu deity Durga, the Mother Goddess.

Po Nagar consists of three levels, with the highest encompassing two rows of towers. Originally, there could be six or seven structures, but only four are still standing. They are made entirely of red bricks, just like those in Phan Rang. Yet decoration is more elaborate, with bas-reliefs and sculptures at nearly every corner. Their shape is also varied, ranging from humans, and animals to celestial beings.

Unfortunately, many artworks were lost throughout history and they were replaced by featureless cement figures. Aside from its role as a worship place, Po Nagar Towers serves as a source of knowledge of the bygone kingdom. The towers still house multiple engraved steles depicting life and important events from various Cham dynasties.

Po Nagar Towers serves as a source of knowledge of the bygone kingdom.

Po Nagar Towers

To be continued…


Advertisements
Advertisements

17 thoughts on “The Journey along Vietnam’s Central Coast”

  1. Bama – Jakarta, Indonesia – Based in Jakarta, always curious about the world, always fascinated by ancient temples, easily pleased by food.
    Bama says:

    Hi Len. May I know when were the photos from Po Klong Garai and Po Nagar taken? I’d love to visit more Cham temple ruins in Vietnam, but I’m not sure which month is the best weather-wise, and from your photos it looks like you went just at the right time when it was mostly sunny. When I visited My Son in April 2017, it was rather cloudy.

    1. Ouch. That was rather unusual… Normally, March and April are the best months to travel this region. I took these photos in mid-April. It’s the middle of the dry season, with little to no rain. May to August is still ok, but expect some afternoon showers 🙂

      1. Bama – Jakarta, Indonesia – Based in Jakarta, always curious about the world, always fascinated by ancient temples, easily pleased by food.
        Bama says:

        So I actually went at the right time. But I wasn’t so lucky with the weather at My Son.

  2. Sreejith Nair – Kannur, Kerala – I am from the south indian state of kerala, and now living in Bangalore. My passion is travelling and photography.
    Sreejith Nair says:

    Hello Len, this is truly an incredible post !!!

    Great images and captivating notes. I am sure many will be tempted to explore this trail after seeing this post.

    I am so happy to see the white flower in one of the photos, it’s something special here in Kerala as well.

    Thank you so much for sharing and I really appreciate the effort behind this post 🙂

    1. Thank you for the very kind words 😀
      My guide told me those white flowers have been there for over 100 years. They are the only flowers that can grow on that rocky island. In Vietnamese culture, this flower symbolises resilience. Does it have the same meaning in Indian culture?

      1. Sreejith Nair – Kannur, Kerala – I am from the south indian state of kerala, and now living in Bangalore. My passion is travelling and photography.
        Sreejith Nair says:

        Here in South India it’s mostly associated with Hindu religious practices. This flower is called ‘Champakam’ in Malayalam language (my mother tongue) and it’s English name is Frangipani.

        We used to make flower carpets with this flower during a festival named “Pooram’ in Kerala, in veneration to the god of ‘Love’.

        Thank you so much for your reply and it really helped me to learn more about this beautiful flower 🙂

  3. Alison and Don – Occupation: being/living/experiencing/travelling In our sixties, with apparently no other authentic option, my husband Don and I sold our apartment and car, sold or gave away all our stuff and set off to discover the world. And ourselves. We started in Italy in 2011 and from there have travelled to Spain, India, Bali, Australia, New Zealand, SE Asia, South America, Egypt, Japan, etc. - you can see the blog archive. We travelled full-time for nearly six years, and then re-established a home in Vancouver. We now travel 2-3 months per year. We are interested in how the world works, how life works, how the creation of experience works, how the mind works. As we travel and both "choose" our course, and at the same time just let it unfold, we discover the "mechanics" of life, the astounding creativity of life, and a continual need to return to trust and presence. Opening the heart, and acceptance of what is, as it is, are keystones for us both. Interests: In no particular order: travel, photography, figure skating (as a fan), acceptance, authenticity, walking/hiking, joy, creativity, being human, adventure, presence, NOW. Same for Don except replace figure skating with Formula One motor racing.
    Alison and Don says:

    Oh I had no idea! I would love to go back to Vietnam and explore this part of your country, especially the Cham towns, though those beaches look pretty darn nice too, and that fishing village would be sure to win me over, smell and all. Lovely post Len.
    Alison

  4. Mabel Kwong – Melbourne, Australia – Writer and multicultural blogger based in Melbourne. Writing to help you navigate cultural identities and confidently pursue creative passions.
    Mabel Kwong says:

    I thoroughly enjoyed this tour of the South Central coast of Vietnam, Len. There is so much to see and do, and on a good day the sky and waters do really look blue. Stunning. Mui Ne has stunning sand dunes, both of amber and vanilla colour. Looks so smooth from afar. Wonderful shots all round and you make Vietnam seem like such a great place to visit 🙂

    1. The sand dunes are also my favourite. But gliding from the top of those dunes are pretty scary 😛 I sat in a 4×4 vehicle but my hands were all wet. I didn’t expect it to be that high haha.
      Thanks for visiting, Mabel 🙂 Have a pleasant Sunday!

  5. Jane Lurie – Hello! Berenice Abbott said, “Photography helps people to see.” It is satisfying when someone looks at one of my images and remarks that they now see something in a new way. I hope that my photographs delight and surprise you.
    Jane Lurie says:

    Wonderful images, Len. You have a great eye for composition – love your classic temples, the sand dunes are magnificent and as an avid collector of pottery, I loved your portrait of the woman at the wheel. Great tour of this area- we didn’t see these places on our trip to Vietnam. I’d love to go back. 🙂

    1. Thanks for the very kind words, Jane! I really appreciate that. As a collector, I guess you will like the Cham pottery. It is unique, from the patterns to the making method 🙂 Hard to find even in Vietnam. That lady is one of the eldest artisans in the village. She told me she had made pottery for over 65 years. Though she doesn’t participate in the production anymore, she loves to demonstrate the process to visitors.

  6. justbluedutch – Bavaria, Germany – Expat- lifestyle Blogger from the land of Lederhosen & Dirndls. A self-taught Aquarelle & Mixed Media visual artist.
    justbluedutch says:

    Wow Len.. you always surprised me.
    This place exist in Vietnam????
    Oh my God, sand dunes in South East Asia?
    it´s so beautiful…on the other side stretches a beautiful beach then on the other side sand dunes and then these ancient temples; the Po Gar towers looks like the ones in Cambodia!
    there´s too much beauty in this world left unexplored.
    I would definitely go back to your posts when we travel there.

    Another hands up to your photography skills.

Leave a ReplyCancel reply