Phu Yen Vietnam: 10+ Best Places for First-Time Visitors

Tucked away on Vietnam’s central coast, Phu Yen Vietnam remains one of the country’s most serene and underrated destinations. With untouched beaches, charming villages, and quiet landscapes rich in culture, Phu Yen invites travelers to slow down and explore at their own pace. This complete guide of  Vietnam Motorbike Tour Expert will reveal the best places to visit, tips for planning your trip, and must-try local specialties, everything you need for a meaningful journey off the beaten path.

1. Overview of Phu Yen Vietnam

Phu Yen is a coastal province in south-central Vietnam known for its captivating natural beauty, rich history, and tranquil atmosphere. Nestled between Bien Dong to the east and the Truong Son mountains to the west, the province stretches across nearly 190 km of coastline, offering a mosaic of sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, and freshwater lagoons. Geographically, it shares borders with Binh Dinh to the north, Khanh Hoa to the south, Gia Lai and Dak Lak to the west, while its capital city is Tuy Hoa.

Phu Yen has a humid tropical monsoon climate, featuring two distinct seasons. The dry season lasts from January to August, with average temperatures around 26.5 °C, while the rainy season spans September to December, typical of monsoon-influenced regions. 

Culturally, Phu Yen hosts about 84 historical sites and 185 intangible cultural heritage assets, including the UNESCO-listed Bai Choi singing style. The landscape forms a major draw: pristine beaches, coral lagoons, dramatic basalt formations like Da Dia Reef, Nhạn Tower, O Loan Lagoon, and Hon Yen Island are must-see attractions. This compelling combination of nature and heritage makes Phu Yen an authentic and increasingly popular destination for travelers seeking the true essence of Vietnam’s central coast.

2. 10+ Hottest Destinations in Phu Yen for 2025

Located along the serene central coast of Vietnam, Phu Yen Vietnam is a hidden treasure trove of natural wonders and cultural heritage. In 2025, the province continues to attract adventurous travelers with its raw, untouched beauty. Here are some of the most captivating destinations you shouldn’t miss:

2.1. Da Dia Reef 

No trip to Phu Yen Vietnam is complete without visiting the breathtaking Da Dia Reef. Often compared to the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland, this unique geological wonder features over 35,000 polygonal basalt columns stacked tightly together like pieces of a grand natural puzzle. Created by ancient volcanic activity, these hexagonal rock formations stretch along the shoreline and disappear into the sea, creating a surreal, almost alien landscape.

What makes Da Dia Reef so remarkable isn’t just its rare geological structure — it’s the way it contrasts with the pristine blue sea, the distant fishing boats, and the quiet surroundings. The site is not only a natural heritage of national significance, but also a beloved symbol of Phu Yen’s identity.

2.2. Ganh Den Lighthouse

Just a short ride from Da Dia Reef, Ganh Den Lighthouse is one of those quiet, lesser-known spots that captures the spirit of Phu Yen Vietnam. Perched on a rocky cape surrounded by large granite boulders, this red-and-white lighthouse has watched over the coastline for decades, guiding fishing boats through the open waters.

What makes Ganh Den special is its raw, untouched charm. There’s no ticket gate, no fences — just the wind, the sea, and the sound of waves crashing on the rocks. From the lighthouse, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the Bien Dong and rugged coastlines dotted with wildflowers and scattered fishing boats.

2.3. Dien Cape

Known as the easternmost point of mainland Vietnam, Dien Cape is a destination that touches both the sky and the sea. It’s the very first place in Vietnam to catch the sunrise, making it a meaningful and symbolic location for many Vietnamese travelers. Reaching Dien Cape feels like standing on the edge of the country, and looking out into the vast, open Pacific Ocean.

Aside from its poetic significance, the cape is also home to a historic French-era lighthouse that has been carefully restored. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of dramatic coastal cliffs, crashing waves, and the peaceful fishing villages tucked in the coves below. At the base of the cape lies Mon Beach, a secluded white-sand beach ideal for swimming or simply enjoying the sound of the surf.

2.4. Bai Xep Beach 

Nestled between rolling green hills and the endless blue sea, Bai Xep Beach is one of the most charming and cinematic spots in Phu Yen Vietnam. This golden-sand beach gained national fame after being featured in the acclaimed Vietnamese film “Yellow Flowers on the Green Grass”, directed by Victor Vu. Since then, Bai Xep has become a symbolic representation of Phu Yen’s serene and poetic landscape.

What sets Bai Xep apart is its peaceful atmosphere — it’s not crowded with resorts or vendors. Instead, visitors are greeted with wide, untouched sands, crystal-clear waters, and black rock formations at either end of the beach. Behind the beach lies a meadow where wild cactus plants grow among windswept grass, making it a popular location for photo shoots and film settings.

2.5. Mang Lang Church

For history and architecture enthusiasts, Mang Lang Church offers a spiritual journey into Phu Yen’s past. Built in 1892 by French missionaries, this church is one of the oldest Roman Catholic structures in Vietnam and an exceptional example of Gothic architecture in a rural setting.

Mang Lang is not only architecturally striking — with its pointed arches, stained-glass windows, and twin bell towers – but it also holds immense historical value. It is the resting place of Father Alexandre de Rhodes, a French Jesuit who created the Romanized Vietnamese alphabet (quốc ngữ), which remains in use today. Inside the church, visitors can find copies of one of the first books ever printed in Vietnamese using the Latin script.

2.6. Nghinh Phong Square 

A modern icon in the heart of Tuy Hoa City, Nghinh Phong Square stands as a bold architectural statement and a celebration of Phu Yen’s natural beauty and cultural identity. Opened in late 2020, the square features a striking art installation inspired by the famous Da Dia Reef — twin stone pillars standing tall against the coastal skyline.

More than just a public space, Nghinh Phong Square is designed to welcome both locals and travelers alike. It serves as a venue for festivals, evening performances, and night markets, while also functioning as a peaceful place for morning walks or sunset watching by the sea. The square is especially stunning at night when its lighting system illuminates the sculpture in shifting colors.

2.7. O Loan Lagoon 

Among the most picturesque and tranquil spots in Phu Yen Vietnam, O Loan Lagoon offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty and culinary richness. Spanning over 1,200 hectares, this brackish-water lagoon lies peacefully at the foot of Quan Cau Pass, framed by green hills and dotted with traditional fishing boats. The calm water reflects the changing sky throughout the day, creating a peaceful and poetic landscape that’s especially stunning at sunrise or sunset.

O Loan is also considered the culinary heart of Phu Yen’s seafood scene. Local delicacies like blood cockles, grilled scallops, steamed clams, and fresh oysters are harvested right from the lagoon and served at rustic eateries along its shores.

2.8. Nhan Tower 

Rising above Tuy Hoa City on a hill overlooking the Da Rang River, Nhan Tower is a sacred relic of the ancient Cham civilization. Built between the 11th and 13th centuries, this red-brick tower is a rare and well-preserved example of Cham architecture in central Vietnam.

Standing at 23.5 meters tall, the tower has four sides tapering to a lotus-shaped peak, representing a symbolic connection between heaven and earth. It was dedicated to worshipping the goddess Po Nagar, a prominent deity of the Cham people. Today, Nhan Tower is a spiritual and cultural landmark in Phu Yen Vietnam, hosting annual festivals and serving as a peaceful spot for both reflection and sightseeing.

2.9. Hon Yen Island 

Hon Yen Island is one of the most visually striking coastal destinations in Phu Yen Vietnam. Located about 20 km from Tuy Hoa, this small island cluster includes Hon Yen and its neighbor Hon Sun, both surrounded by crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. What makes the experience unforgettable is the phenomenon of the sea path, which appears during low tide, allowing visitors to walk directly across the seabed from the mainland to the island.

The area is also known for its marine biodiversity. During the coral season (April – August), the reefs are exposed at low tide, revealing a stunning kaleidoscope of colors and textures. To protect this fragile ecosystem, travelers are encouraged to observe rather than touch.

2.10. Van Hoa Plateau

Often called “the Da Lat of Phu Yen,” the Van Hoa Plateau is a cool-climate highland located at an altitude of 400–600 meters above sea level. Covered in misty pine forests and fertile farmlands, Van Hoa offers a refreshing contrast to the coastal heat and a tranquil escape into nature.

This plateau is also steeped in revolutionary history — it was once a strategic base during the resistance war against the French. Today, visitors can explore heritage sites like the Uncle Ho Memorial, as well as local fruit orchards, pepper farms, and winding scenic roads that are perfect for motorbike rides.

3. Travel Planning Guide for Phu Yen Vietnam

Traveling to Phu Yen Vietnam is not just about reaching a destination — it’s about discovering a way of life that’s calm, genuine, and connected to nature. With golden beaches, cultural heritage sites, and quiet fishing villages, the province invites travelers to slow down and savor every moment. To truly enjoy your journey, it helps to understand the seasonal rhythm of the region, how to get there smoothly, and which local treasures are worth bringing home as a reminder of your trip.

3.1. Best Time to Visit Phu Yen Vietnam

The charm of Phu Yen Vietnam, is closely tied to its natural climate. The province enjoys a warm, tropical monsoon weather pattern that brings dry sunshine for much of the year. Travelers often find the months from February to August most pleasant, as the skies are clear, the sea is calm, and landscapes like Bai Xep and Hon Yen Island show off their best colors. Springtime wildflowers bloom across the hills, while summer reveals coral reefs and golden beaches in their full glory. While the rainy season from September to November brings fewer crowds and lower prices, it also comes with occasional storms and cloud cover.

3.2. How to Travel to Phu Yen

Reaching Phu Yen Vietnam has become easier in recent years, opening doors to a province once known only to locals and seasoned explorers. Tuy Hoa Airport now connects Phu Yen to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City in under two hours, offering a convenient entry point just minutes from the city center. 

For those who prefer to see the land unfold slowly, the Reunification Express train glides through coastal and countryside scenery, stopping in Tuy Hoa along its north-south route. From neighboring provinces, buses and motorbikes offer flexible travel options, allowing visitors to explore coastal roads and hidden villages at their own pace.

3.3. Local Phu Yen Specialties to Bring Home

Exploring the markets and coastal stalls of Phu Yen Vietnam, travelers often discover a delightful variety of local specialties that reflect the region’s flavors, craftsmanship, and coastal lifestyle. These products make meaningful gifts or souvenirs, offering a taste of Phu Yen long after the journey ends. 

• Sun-dried beef with golden ant salt: A truly unique delicacy, this chewy sun-dried beef is best enjoyed with the region’s signature golden ant salt — a tangy, spicy dipping blend that has become a hallmark of Phu Yen’s cuisine.
• Hoa Da rice paper: Thin, aromatic rice paper made in Hoa Da village, known for its crisp texture and fragrant flavor when grilled over an open flame.
• Phu Yen fish cake: Fragrant and tender, this fish cake is made from fresh coastal fish and seasoned with traditional spices — a staple in local meals and often served with noodles or steamed rice.
• Shrimp spring rolls: Made from thin rice paper, shrimp, and pork belly, these light and flavorful rolls are perfect for picnics or as a gift for food lovers.
• Dried seafood: Coastal villages in Phu Yen Vietnam produce a wide range of sun-dried specialties, including squid, shrimp, and anchovies. These are often vacuum-sealed for freshness and are popular among both tourists and locals.

Whether you’re bringing home a taste of the sea or a handcrafted treat from a village market, Phu Yen’s specialties offer a delicious way to extend your travel memories.

If you’re curious to see more of Vietnam’s hidden beauty, not just in Phu Yen Vietnam, but along the open roads and lesser-known towns, follow Vietnam Motorbike Tour Expert. You’ll find helpful travel tips, unique motorbike routes, and local insights to help you explore Vietnam in your way.