Things To Do
in Phan Thiết
Phan Thiết sits on Vietnam's southeast coast in Bình Thuận Province as a busy fishing port and growing tourism hub. The city blends a working harbor, lively markets, and beaches with easy access to dramatic red and white sand dunes, lighthouse viewpoints, and nearby fishing villages. Its warm, humid climate and approachable seafood scene make it a comfortable base for sun, sea, and short day trips.
Nearby natural wonders like the Ke Ga Lighthouse and Fairy Stream offer scenic exploration and photo opportunities as you sample regional flavors.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early with a breathtaking sunrise over the red and white sand dunes just outside of Phan Thiết. Take a thrilling ride on a sand board or slide down the dunes for an exhilarating experience. Breathe in the fresh morning air and capture stunning photographs of the colorful dune landscape bathed in the first light of day.
After a hearty breakfast, head to the nearby fishing village to witness the traditional methods of fishing and see local fishermen hauling in their catch. Explore the vibrant market where you can sample fresh seafood and local delicacies, immersing yourself in the local culture. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach, enjoying the sun, and taking a dip in the warm waters of the South China Sea.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delicious dinner at a beachfront restaurant, sampling local seafood dishes while listening to the sound of the waves. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the shore, where the moonlight reflects on the water. Consider visiting a local bar or café to enjoy live music and mingle with locals and fellow travelers.
Visit the ancient Po Sah Inu Cham Towers, an impressive relic of the Cham civilization, to learn about the rich history of the region. Wander through the surrounding gardens, taking in the serene atmosphere and capturing the intricate designs of the towers. Engage with local artisans who may be crafting traditional Cham handicrafts nearby.
Head to the local market for lunch, where you can taste authentic Vietnamese dishes like Bánh Mì and Pho, made with fresh ingredients and local flavors. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby Mui Ne Fishing Village, where you can see colorful boats and bustling fish markets. Take the time to chat with the fishermen and understand their daily lives and traditions.
Enjoy a sunset dinner at a local seafood restaurant, where the catch of the day is guaranteed to be fresh. Savor your meal while watching the sky turn brilliant shades of orange and pink over the ocean. After dinner, consider joining a cooking class to learn how to prepare Vietnamese dishes yourself.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🍝Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🛏️1-night in budget hotel | $15-40 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride within town | $2-6 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at a local cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to world-class dunes and seafood
- Relaxed beach vibe and friendly locals
- Affordability and easy regional travel from HCMC
- Wide range of outdoor activities (kite surfing, dune tours)
- Heat and humidity can be intense in peak season
- Beachfront development can feel touristy in places
- Limited upscale nightlife compared to major cities
- Some rural roads can be bumpy or crowded during peak times
- "Xin chào" - Hello
- "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
- "Bao nhiêu tiền?" - How much is this?
- "Ở đây có món nào chay?" - Do you have vegetarian dishes?
- "Bạn có thể giúp tôi được không?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Phan Thiết
Visit one of these nice places.
Tall, wind-sculpted dunes with orange-red sands; best at sunrise or sunset for dramatic shadows.
Bright white dunes with rolling shapes; buggy and quad rides are common but the sands glow in late afternoon light.
A shallow red-sand canal winding through a rocky wash; photographers seek the canyon walls and turquoise water reflections.
Historic lighthouse perched on a cape; dramatic seascapes at sunrise or sunset with the island and boats in frame.
Colorful fishing boats, fishermen preparing nets, and early morning light over the water makes for atmospheric harbor scenes.
Food in Phan Thiết
Phan Thiết Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Mini savory rice pancakes cooked in clay molds, served with fish sauce, herbs, and a dipping sauce.
Must-Try!
Squid quick-marinated and stir-fried with tamarind, chili, and garlic for a tangy, slightly sweet bite.
Whole grilled fish (often sea bass or grouper) brushed with herbs and served with rice paper, greens, and dipping sauces.
A comforting noodle or porridge dish made with seafood broth and fresh herbs; great for a light meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for grilled seafood, noodles, fresh fruit, and sweet treats after dark.
Coastal lanes with snack stalls offering grilled shrimp, squid, bánh căn stalls, and fresh coconut water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite hello is 'Xin chào' with a light handshake or a nod; address people with appropriate titles where possible.
Dress modestly and remove hats or shoes where required; ask for permission before taking photos of worshippers.
Bargaining is common in markets; be friendly and respectful, and avoid loud arguing.
Safety
Tipping in Phan Thiết
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not mandatory; leave small tips for good service in restaurants and for hotel staff as you feel comfortable.
Cash in VND is widely used; many places accept credit cards in hotels and larger restaurants; mobile wallets like ZaloPay or MoMo are common in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with intense sun; ideal for dunes and sea swims; carry sun protection and stay hydrated.
Risk of occasional rain showers and short squalls; still warm, good for photography before sunset.
Milder daytime temps, cooler evenings; comfortable for city walks and coastal sightseeing; seas can be choppy on certain days.
Humidity high; occasional brief downpours; good wind for kitesurfing and water sports in Mui Ne.
Phan Thiết at Night
Hiking in Phan Thiết
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible by cable car or hike; summit offers panoramic views and a giant reclining Buddha statue.
Rural trails near the coast and hills offering scenic overlooks and village life photography.
Airports
How to reach Phan Thiết by plane.
Main international gateway in Ho Chi Minh City; about 4-5 hours by road to Phan Thiết.
Nha Trang area airport; usually requires a road transfer of ~3-4 hours to Phan Thiết.
Da Lat airport; additional road transfer to Phan Thiết is possible via road trip; less convenient for quick access.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of coastal fishermen communities, farmers from the hinterland, and urban residents.
Domestic and international visitors attracted by dunes, beaches, and seafood.
A historical presence in the region with heritage sites and temples in nearby areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Mui Ne is famous for consistent coastal winds, with equipment rentals and schools along the beach.
Boat trips to nearby reefs around Ke Ga and surrounding islands.
Casual games often held on public beaches and resort areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Phan Thiết.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Opt for vegetable stir-fries, tofu dishes, and noodle soups; request fish-free broths and avoid meat-based sauces; many places will prepare simple veggie meals on request.