Coastal Getaways from Phu My Port: Beaches for Day Trips and Longer Stays

International cruise ships frequently call at Phu My Port, offering passengers a chance to explore the southern coast of Vietnam. While many visitors opt for excursions to Ho Chi Minh City or the Mekong Delta, the region also boasts numerous beaches suitable for shore excursions. These coastal areas provide opportunities for relaxation, water activities, and insights into local life, whether you have a few hours or several days.

Phu My Port: A Gateway for International Cruises

Situated on the Thi Vai River in Phu My Town, Ba Ria – Vung Tau Province, Phu My Port holds a strategically important position as a maritime entry point to the East Sea. Established in 1993, it was the first deep-water seaport in southern Vietnam. Industry experts recognize Phu My as a premier port facility in Southeast Asia, possessing advantages not commonly found elsewhere in the country.

Beyond its role in cargo handling, Phu My serves as a regular stop for many prominent cruise lines, including Volendam Cruise (Holland America), Celebrity Millennium (Celebrity Cruises), Ovation of the Seas and Quantum of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International), and Silver Spirit (Silversea Cruises). Unlike the Saigon River port, which accommodates smaller vessels closer to Ho Chi Minh City, Phu My is a large international seaport spanning 26.5 hectares, capable of hosting ships up to 70,000 DWT. This capacity allows an increasing number of large cruise liners to dock here during their voyages across Southeast Asia. Additionally, Ho Chi Minh City is approximately a one-hour drive from Phu My Port via the modern Ho Chi Minh City – Long Thanh – Dau Giay highway.

Day Trip Beach Destinations Near Phu My

For cruise passengers with limited time, several appealing beaches are within a reasonable driving distance for a day excursion from Phu My Port. These locations offer a mix of amenities and natural settings.

Thuy Van Beach (Vung Tau Back Beach)

Thuy Van Beach, known locally as Back Beach or Bãi Sau, is located in Vung Tau City, Ba Ria – Vung Tau Province. It is approximately 44.4 kilometers from Phu My Port, requiring about a 56-minute drive. This extensive beach stretches for around 8 kilometers from the base of Tao Phung Mountain to Cua Lap, recognized as one of Vietnam's most expansive and attractive beaches.

The area features a selection of hotels, dining establishments, and beach clubs. Local vendors also provide umbrellas and chairs for rent. During the south wind season, the sea at Thuy Van Beach is generally calm with gentle waves, making it suitable for swimming and various water sports. On weekends and public holidays, the beach typically sees a higher number of local visitors. A notable landmark near Thuy Van Beach is the Statue of Jesus Christ on Tao Phung Mountain. Visitors can ascend 800 steps to reach the statue, which stands 32 meters high on a 4-meter platform, with arms extending 18.3 meters. Climbing to the top of the statue's arms offers expansive views of Vung Tau City.

Long Hai Beach

Long Hai Beach, situated in Long Dien District, Ba Ria – Vung Tau Province, is approximately 37.7 kilometers from Phu My Port, a drive of about 51 minutes. This beach has largely maintained its serene character, remaining less impacted by extensive tourism development. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, swim in the cool waters, and stroll along the shore to observe local daily life.

Along the western coast, fishing boats are a common sight, and local fishermen can be seen preparing for their daily work. Several coastal restaurants offer fresh seafood at reasonable prices, providing an opportunity to relax with a drink and watch the sunset. A visit to Long Hai Beach can be combined with Dinh Co Temple, also known as Lady Temple, a religious site located along the coastline. The temple is recognized for its distinctive architecture and its importance in local spiritual traditions. Legend states that a young woman named Le Thi Hong Thuy died at sea approximately 200 years ago, and her spirit subsequently assisted local fishermen. The temple was constructed in her memory, and she is revered as the “Long Hai Goddess.” Accommodation options in Long Hai Beach are fewer, but include Long Hai Beach Resort, Anoasis Resort, and Oceanami Villas & Beach Club.

Ho Tram Beach

Ho Tram Beach, located in Xuyen Moc District, Ba Ria – Vung Tau Province, is about 50 kilometers from Phu My Port, with a driving time of approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. This beach boasts 10 kilometers of clear waters, fine sand, and palm trees, and has been recognized by a prominent American television channel as one of the world's most pristine beaches. Ho Tram offers a distinct environment compared to Long Hai or Vung Tau, featuring smooth white sand, clear green water, and a consistent breeze from its casuarina forest.

A significant natural feature is the long sandbar on the western side, formed by the Ray River, where the East Sea meets the river and mangrove forest. Near the Ho Tram fishing villages, seafood restaurants provide affordable meals. Visitors can rent deck chairs on the beach and utilize camping facilities offered by these establishments. Nature enthusiasts might consider a short trip to Binh Chau – Phuoc Buu Nature Reserve, located just a 10-minute drive from Ho Tram Beach. This reserve, Vietnam's only remaining coastal primary forest, was designated a national forest in 1984. Spanning 11,293 hectares, it supports a diverse array of flora, including coastal dipterocarpus species and valuable woods such as rosewood and wild almond. It also hosts various rare animal species listed in the Red Book, notably the parthenogenetic sand iguana. If time permits, a stop at the nearby Binh Chau Hot Springs is recommended for relaxation in natural pools and mud baths. The area between the road and the beach on the eastern side has seen rapid development in accommodation, from mid-range to luxury resorts, including Ho Tram Beach Boutique Resort, The Grand Ho Tram Resort & Casino, and Melia Ho Tram Beach Resort.

Ho Coc Beach

Ho Coc Beach, also in Xuyen Moc District, Ba Ria – Vung Tau Province, is approximately 60 kilometers from Phu My Port, a drive of about 1 hour and 15 minutes. This beach, extending nearly 10 kilometers north of Ho Tram, features golden sands, inland dunes, and clear waters. While it has become increasingly popular with visitors from Ho Chi Minh City, it generally remains peaceful on weekdays. Activities here include relaxing on the beach, kayaking, and exploring the Minera Forest. Adjacent to Ho Tram, Ho Coc shares similar natural characteristics. Accommodation options directly on Ho Coc Beach include Ho Coc Beach Resort and Huong Phong Ho Coc Beach Resort.

Extended Stays: Beaches for 2-3 Day Excursions

For cruise passengers with a longer stopover or those planning a multi-day trip from Phu My Port, several destinations offer more extensive experiences and a chance to truly unwind.

Cam Binh Beach

Cam Binh Beach, located in Lagi Town, Binh Thuan Province, is approximately 90 kilometers from Phu My Port, a drive of about 2 hours. Positioned near National Road 55, it serves as a convenient stop for travelers journeying between Ho Chi Minh City and Phan Thiet City. While considered one of Lagi's most appealing beaches, Cam Binh is less widely known among both domestic and international visitors. It presents an appealing choice for those seeking a beach that retains an authentic and unspoiled character.

Recently, local investments have introduced camping sites and beach-related recreational activities to attract more tourists. While tourism services at Cam Binh Beach are not as developed as those in nearby Phan Thiet and Vung Tau, the area offers unique local experiences. Waking early provides an opportunity to participate in the local fish market directly on the beach, which is most active between 5:30 AM and 7 AM as fishing boats return with their catches. Visitors can select fresh seafood and have local vendors prepare it. A distinctive activity available here is renting a buffalo-cart for rides along the coastline. For overnight stays, accommodation is primarily in camping sites or bungalows near the beach, offering a memorable experience. Evenings at Coco Beach Camp can be lively, with activities such as beach or pool parties featuring live music, seaside BBQ events, and sea-view coffee shops.

Ke Ga Beach

Ke Ga Beach, situated in Ham Thuan Nam District, Binh Thuan Province, is approximately 125 kilometers from Phu My Port, requiring a drive of about 2 hours and 40 minutes. Known locally as Ke Ga Cape, it features uncrowded sandy areas and proximity to a lighthouse on a nearby islet. The beach at Ke Ga is characterized by its warm, clean water, long stretches of white sand, gentle waves, and scattered rock formations with unique shapes. It is an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, or leisurely strolls. Ke Ga is generally not suited for those seeking a lively nightlife or prominent attractions, making it a fitting choice for couples or older travelers desiring a quieter, less tourist-centric beach destination.

A key landmark at Ke Ga is its lighthouse, constructed in 1898 based on a design by a French architect. All construction materials, including granite stones, the electric generator, and the searchlight, were sourced from France. With its distinctive architecture and a height of 60 meters, Ke Ga Lighthouse is recognized as the tallest lighthouse in Vietnam. Ascending the 184 steps to the top provides panoramic views of the ocean and sky, particularly striking during sunset. In recent years, the Ke Ga Cape area has seen a gradual increase in accommodation options across various budgets, including Azerai Ke Ga Bay Resort, Starlight Villa Beach Resort & Spa, Golden Lotus Resort, and Eco Spa Village.

Mui Ne Beach

Mui Ne Beach, located in Phan Thiet City, Binh Thuan Province, is approximately 180 kilometers from Phu My Port, a drive of about 3 hours and 15 minutes. Mui Ne is the most developed coastal resort area in Phan Thiet, boasting a 15-kilometer sandy beach. The coastline is characterized by swaying palm trees, colorful fishing boats, and traditional fishing villages, making it a popular retreat for both tourists and locals. Due to its calm waters and consistent wind conditions during the dry season, from November to March, Mui Ne is a premier destination for windsurfing, kitesurfing, sailing, and kayaking. For those planning a visit, understanding medical services in Mui Ne and Phan Thiet can be a useful part of trip preparation.

Beyond its watersports, Mui Ne is also renowned for two impressive sand dunes easily accessible from the town center: the White Sand Dune and the Red Sand Dune. These natural formations offer a unique landscape, presenting desert-like environments adjacent to tropical beaches. Often referred to as Vietnam's resort capital, Mui Ne provides a wide array of accommodation options to suit any budget. Examples include Anantara Mui Ne Resort, Sailing Club Resort Mui Ne, The Cliff Resort & Residence, Victoria Phan Thiet Beach Resort & Spa, Bamboo Village Resort, Seahorse Resort, Pandanus Resort, Meraki Oasis Hotel, and Cesar Homestay.

Essential Tips for Planning Your Phu My Shore Excursion

When planning a shore excursion from Phu My Port, several practical considerations are important to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. The port area itself is primarily industrial, meaning walking is not permitted, and pre-arranged transportation is essential to reach any points of interest. Tour buses typically wait in designated parking zones to transport cruise passengers to their chosen destinations.

Excursions booked directly through cruise lines often involve large buses and benefit from priority passenger pick-up. However, these tours may offer a limited selection of classic itineraries, such as Ho Chi Minh City sightseeing, Cu Chi Tunnels exploration, Mekong Delta day trips, or Vung Tau city tours. Additionally, passengers on these group tours may experience delays while waiting for others to complete Vietnam Visa Stamp procedures, potentially reducing time available for sightseeing. It is crucial to remember that all ocean cruise ships operate on strict schedules, and passengers must adhere to these timings to avoid missing their embarkation. Failure to return to the ship on time can result in significant costs to rejoin the cruise at its next port. For those interested in other coastal destinations in Vietnam, exploring Halong Bay's best beaches can offer additional travel inspiration.

Opting for private shore excursions with an independent travel agent can offer a more personalized and flexible experience. Such services typically include a driver and tour guide who manage arrangements from disembarkation until your return to the ship. Experienced travel consultants can also tailor trip details to align perfectly with the cruise timetable and individual travel preferences, ensuring a hassle-free visit. This information is current as of 2020.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of activities can I do at beaches near Phu My Port?

Activities vary by beach but commonly include swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying fresh seafood. Some beaches like Thuy Van offer water sports, while others like Mui Ne are ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Cultural sites such as Dinh Co Temple or natural reserves like Binh Chau – Phuoc Buu are also accessible near certain beaches.

Is transportation readily available from Phu My Port?

No, walking within the industrial port area is not allowed. Pre-arranged transportation is necessary. Cruise lines offer bus tours, or you can book private excursions with independent travel agents who provide dedicated vehicles and guides.

How far are the beaches from Phu My Port?

Beaches range from approximately 37 kilometers (Long Hai Beach) to 180 kilometers (Mui Ne Beach) from Phu My Port. Drive times can vary from under an hour for closer destinations to over three hours for those further afield.

Are there options for overnight stays near Phu My Port?

Yes, several beaches like Long Hai, Ho Tram, Ho Coc, Cam Binh, Ke Ga, and Mui Ne offer a range of accommodation, from resorts and hotels to bungalows and camping sites, suitable for 2-3 day excursions.

What should I consider when booking a shore excursion from Phu My Port?

Key considerations include the strict cruise ship schedule, the need for pre-arranged transport due to the port's industrial nature, and potential visa requirements. Group tours may face delays, while private tours offer greater flexibility and tailored itineraries to match your interests and the ship's timetable.