Co Thach Beach Guide: Exploring Phan Thiet’s Seven-Color Stone Paradise in Lam Dong

A Coastal Gem with Unique Geological Beauty

Co Thach Beach, located in the Binh Thuan ward of Lam Dong province following Vietnam’s administrative reform, is a captivating coastal destination 90 km from Phan Thiet and 300 km from Ho Chi Minh City’s Ward 1. Attracting over 30,000 visitors annually, this 1 km-long beach is renowned for its vibrant seven-color pebbles, moss-covered rocks, and the historic Co Thach Pagoda (Hang Pagoda). With activity costs from $0–$10 (0–250,000 VND), it’s a must-visit for nature lovers, photographers, and eco-tourists exploring Vietnam’s south-central coast.

Set in a tropical climate (dry season: November–April, 24–33°C or 75.2–91.4°F; rainy season: May–October, 25–35°C or 77–95°F), Co Thach Beach embraces sustainability with community-led cleanups, eco-friendly trails, and local seafood markets, aligning with Lam Dong’s green initiatives. Legend Travel Group’s eco-tours offer immersive experiences in this unique landscape. Book via the links in this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com for a seamless adventure.

Administrative Update

Vietnam’s reform merged Binh Thuan into Lam Dong province, with Binh Thuan and Phan Thiet now wards of Lam Dong. Navigation uses “Binh Thuan, Lam Dong” or “Phan Thiet, Lam Dong” to locate Co Thach Beach, ensuring ease for international travelers.

With over 17 years leading sustainable tourism in Southeast Asia, Legend Travel Group crafts eco-conscious tours to Co Thach Beach for nature enthusiasts and cultural explorers. Our low-impact tours use electric vehicles or bicycles, guided by English-speaking locals sharing insights into the beach’s geology and cultural heritage. Supporting local communities, we align with Lam Dong’s green goals. Enjoy transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page for a responsible journey!

Co Thach Beach, in Binh Thanh commune, is famed for its “seven-color stone beach,” where thousands of polished pebbles in white, black, yellow, brown, pink, gray, and blue shimmer under the sun and waves. From late January to March, the beach’s rocks don a vibrant green moss coat, creating a surreal backdrop for photographers during the “moss hunting” season, best at low tide (5:00–6:00 AM). The nearby Co Thach Pagoda, built in 1835 at 64 meters above sea level, adds spiritual depth with its Buddhist architecture and cliffside caves. Sustainable practices, like restricted access and local conservation, preserve this pristine environment. Activities such as pebble spotting, moss photography, and seafood dining make Co Thach a highlight for eco-conscious travelers.

These budget-friendly activities ($0–$10) blend nature, culture, and relaxation:

1. Photograph the Seven-Color Stones

Capture the vibrant pebbles along the 300m rocky shore, best at 6:00 AM during low tide, for free, creating stunning coastal shots.

• Cost: Free.

• Hours: Daily, 5:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Stay on paths to protect pebbles; minimal impact activity.

• Tip: Visit in March for mossy rocks; included in Co Thach Eco Tour ($55–$85).

2. Explore Co Thach Pagoda

Visit the historic Co Thach Pagoda (Hang Pagoda), best at 10:00 AM, for free (donations $0.50–$1 or 12,500–25,000 VND), admiring Buddhist statues and cave murals.

• Cost: Free; donations encouraged.

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Walkable trails; supports cultural preservation.

• Tip: Dress modestly; included in Co Thach Cultural Tour ($55–$85).

3. Moss Hunting Photography

Chase the green moss-covered rocks at low tide, best at 5:00–6:00 AM (January–March), for free, capturing the surreal “moss hunting” season.

• Cost: Free.

• Hours: Daily, tide-dependent (check tide schedules).

• Eco-Friendly Note: Avoid touching moss to protect ecosystem; low-impact activity.

• Tip: Check tide times; included in Co Thach Eco Tour ($55–$85).

4. Savor Local Seafood

Dine on fresh seafood like grilled scallops at nearby night markets, best at 6:00 PM, for $3–$8 (75,000–200,000 VND).

• Cost: $3–$8.

• Hours: Daily, 5:00 PM–9:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Local sourcing; biodegradable packaging encouraged.

• Tip: Try with coconut water ($0.60); included in Co Thach Food Tour ($55–$85).

5. Relax with a Hot Spring Bath

Enjoy a mineral hot spring or mud bath at a nearby eco-resort, best at 2:00 PM, for $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND), promoting relaxation and health.

• Cost: $5–$10.

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Eco-friendly facilities; supports local tourism.

• Tip: Book via resorts; included in Co Thach Coastal Journey ($130–$190).

• November–April (Dry Season, 24–33°C or 75.2–91.4°F): Ideal for pebble spotting, pagoda visits, and hot springs, with clear skies and calm seas. Moderate crowds (100–200 daily visitors). Book tours 1–2 weeks ahead.

• May–October (Rainy Season, 25–35°C or 77–95°F): Suitable for lush scenery and fewer crowds (50–100 daily visitors), with brief showers. Last-minute bookings often available.

• Moss Hunting Season (Late January–March): Best for photographing mossy rocks at low tide (5:00–6:00 AM), drawing photographers. Book early for this peak period.

• Festival Seasons: Lunar New Year (January/February) for Co Thach Pagoda pilgrimages, increasing crowds; summer (June–August) for fishing festivals. Avoid Tet for quieter visits (300+ visitors).

• Timing Tip: Early mornings (5:00–8:00 AM) for moss photography and cool weather; afternoons (2:00–5:00 PM) for relaxed dining and hot springs.

Co Thach Beach, 90 km from Phan Thiet and 300 km from Ho Chi Minh City’s Ward 1, is reachable in 5–6 hours from Ward 1 or 1.5–2 hours from Phan Thiet:

• From Ho Chi Minh City:

  • By Private Car: Drive via Ho Chi Minh City–Long Thanh–Dau Giay Expressway to Binh Thanh, costing $80–$100 (2,000,000–2,500,000 VND) round-trip for 4 people. Book via Legend Travel Group.

  • By Electric Taxi (Xanh SM): Eco-friendly taxis, $70–$85 (1,750,000–2,125,000 VND) one-way; $140–$170 (3,500,000–4,250,000 VND) round-trip. Use Xanh SM app.

  • By Public Bus: Bus from Mien Dong to Phan Thiet (4 hours, $6–$8 or 150,000–200,000 VND), then taxi to Co Thach (90 km, $15–$20 or 375,000–500,000 VND), totaling $42–$56 (1,050,000–1,400,000 VND) round-trip.

  • By Private Tour Bus (Legend Travel Group): Group bus from Ward 1 to Phan Thiet, $18–$25 (450,000–625,000 VND)/person for 20+ people, then taxi to Co Thach ($15–$20).

  • By Train: Train to Phan Thiet station (2.5–3 hours, $7–$10 or 175,000–250,000 VND), then taxi to Co Thach (90 km, $15–$20 or 375,000–500,000 VND), totaling $44–$60 (1,100,000–1,500,000 VND) round-trip.

  • From Tan Son Nhat Airport: Private car ($85–$105 or 2,125,000–2,625,000 VND, 5 hours); Xanh SM taxi ($80–$95 or 2,000,000–2,375,000 VND); or airport bus to Ward 1 ($0.60 or 15,000 VND, 30–45 min) + private car ($70–$85 or 1,750,000–2,125,000 VND).

  • From Hanoi: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City (2 hours, $50–$100 or 1,250,000–2,500,000 VND), then private car ($70–$85 or 1,750,000–2,125,000 VND) or bus ($6–$8 or 150,000–200,000 VND). Total: $80–$140 (2,000,000–3,500,000 VND) one-way. Alternatively, fly to Cam Ranh Airport (Nha Trang, 1.5 hours, $40–$90 or 1,000,000–2,250,000 VND), then private car (2.5 hours, $45–$60 or 1,125,000–1,500,000 VND). Total: $85–$150 (2,125,000–3,750,000 VND) one-way.

• From Phan Thiet: Taxi ($15–$20 or 375,000–500,000 VND, 1.5–2 hours) or motorbike rental ($6–$10/day or 150,000–250,000 VND, Vietnamese license required) via Highway 1A to Tuy Phong.

• Navigation Tip: Save “Co Thach Beach, Binh Thuan, Lam Dong” in offline maps (Maps.me); follow signs from Tuy Phong to Binh Thanh commune. Parking: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Note: Xanh SM taxis and group buses reduce emissions; bicycles ideal for nearby exploration.

• Safety: Wear helmets on motorbikes; confirm fares. Avoid unlicensed driving to prevent fines ($100–$200 or 2,500,000–5,000,000 VND).

Pack these essentials for a sustainable trip:

• Clothing: Lightweight beachwear, sturdy sandals for rocky shores; waterproof jacket ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND) for rainy season; modest attire for pagoda visits.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, hat.

• Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($3–$7), mosquito repellent ($0.60 or 15,000 VND), hand sanitizer ($0.60).

• Tech Gear: Smartphone with Vietmap/Maps.me, offline maps, portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($7–$13 or 175,000–325,000 VND).

• Outdoor Gear: Small backpack, waterproof camera for mossy rock shots.

• Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for souvenirs ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND); biodegradable wipes.

• Extras: Cash for vendors; swimsuit for nearby beaches.

Costs for Co Thach Beach Activities

Activity Fees

• Beach/Pagoda Entry: Free; donations $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).

• Hot Spring/Mud Bath: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Seafood at Night Market: $3–$8 (75,000–200,000 VND).

• Homestay in Binh Thanh: $15–$25/night (375,000–625,000 VND).

• Drinks (Coconut, Tea): $0.60–$2 (15,000–50,000 VND).

• Souvenirs (Pebbles, Crafts): $2–$6 (50,000–150,000 VND).

• Guided Cultural Tour: $22–$32 (550,000–800,000 VND).

Transportation (Round-Trip, from Ward 1)

• Private Car: $80–$100 (2,000,000–2,500,000 VND).

• Xanh SM Electric Taxi: $140–$170 (3,500,000–4,250,000 VND).

• Public Bus + Taxi: $42–$56 (1,050,000–1,400,000 VND).

• Private Tour Bus: $18–$25 (450,000–625,000 VND) + taxi ($15–$20).

• Train + Taxi: $44–$60 (1,100,000–1,500,000 VND).

• Airport to Co Thach: $85–$105 (2,125,000–2,625,000 VND).

• Hanoi to Co Thach: $160–$280 (4,000,000–7,000,000 VND).

• From Phan Thiet to Co Thach: $15–$20 (375,000–500,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost (Per Person)

• Budget: $10–$20 (bus, entry, snacks).

• Mid-range: $35–$55 (private car, hot spring, homestay).

• Luxury: $90–$130 (Xanh SM taxi, guided tour, premium stay).

• Tip: Budget for activities ($0–$10) and transport ($15–$170); carry cash (cards rarely accepted).

• Timing: Visit at 5:00–8:00 AM for moss photography (January–March); November–April for dry weather. Weekdays for fewer crowds (50–100 vs. 100–200 on weekends). Avoid Lunar New Year for quieter visits.

• Booking: No entry tickets required; reserve Legend Travel Group’s tours 24–48 hours ahead for guided or cultural tours. Book hot springs via nearby resorts.

• Sustainability: Support local vendors with seafood purchases ($3–$8); use reusable bottles. Avoid collecting pebbles to protect the beach; stay on paths to preserve moss.

• Navigation: Save “Co Thach Beach, Binh Thuan, Lam Dong” in offline maps; follow signs from Tuy Phong. Check tide schedules for moss viewing.

• Safety: Wear sturdy shoes for slippery rocks; secure valuables. Avoid climbing mossy rocks during high tide.

• Weather: Dry season (November–April) for clear conditions; rainy season needs rain gear ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND) and waterproof bags ($5–$9 or 125,000–225,000 VND). Check AccuWeather.

• Cultural Respect: Dress modestly at Co Thach Pagoda; greet locals with “xin chào.” Respect fishing traditions during festivals.

• Health: Drink bottled water ($0.60); carry mosquito repellent and hand sanitizer.

Our eco-friendly tours showcase Co Thach Beach and Phan Thiet’s highlights:

• Co Thach Eco Tour ($55–$85/person, 1 day): Photograph seven-color stones, visit Co Thach Pagoda, and enjoy a seafood lunch ($3–$8). Includes guide, eco-transport.

• Co Thach Coastal Journey ($130–$190/person, 2 days): Explore Co Thach, Ke Ga Lighthouse, and homestay ($15–$25/night). Includes meals, guide.

• Lam Dong Coastal & Highland Adventure ($320–$470/person, 3 days): Visit Co Thach, Mui Ne’s dunes, and Da Lat’s highlands, with eco-stays. Includes meals, eco-transfers.

• Prices include guides, eco-transports, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links!

Co Thach Beach in Binh Thuan Province captivates over 30,000 visitors yearly with its shimmering seven-color pebbles, mossy rocks, and historic Co Thach Pagoda, located in Tuy Phong district, just 300 km from Ho Chi Minh City. From photographing the moss hunting season in March to relaxing in nearby Vinh Hao mineral hot springs, these experiences are enhanced by sustainable practices like community-led conservation. Legend Travel Group’s Phan Thiet Tours guide you through this coastal paradise, ensuring a sustainable Phan Thiet Travel experience that’s immersive and responsible. Whether exploring the 19th-century pagoda or savoring fresh seafood, Co Thach Beach promises an unforgettable adventure. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly journey today!
Ready to explore Co Thach Beach in Binh Thuan? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and dive into an authentic coastal adventure!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Sources:

• Co Thach Beach Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamdiscovery.com, originvietnam.com, vietnam.vn, viettravelmagazine.com