How to Travel to Phan Thiet & Mui Ne: Your Guide to Lam Dong’s Coastal Gems

A Coastal Escape with Sustainable Access

Phan Thiet and Mui Ne, vibrant wards of Lam Dong province following Vietnam’s administrative reform, are iconic coastal destinations 180–200 km northeast of Ho Chi Minh City’s Ward 1. Attracting over 600,000 visitors annually, these wards offer pristine beaches, sand dunes, and Cham cultural sites, accessible through eco-friendly transport options costing $14–$150 (350,000–3,750,000 VND). These destinations are perfect for beach lovers, adventure seekers, and cultural enthusiasts 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), Phan Thiet and Mui Ne prioritize sustainability with electric vehicles and community-led initiatives, aligning with Lam Dong’s green goals. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly tours ensure a seamless, responsible journey to these coastal havens. Book via the links in this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com for a tailored travel experience.

Administrative Update

Vietnam’s reform merged Binh Thuan into Lam Dong province, with Phan Thiet and Mui Ne now wards of Lam Dong. Use “Phan Thiet, Lam Dong” or “Mui Ne, Lam Dong” for navigation to ensure easy access for international travelers.

With over 17 years leading sustainable tourism in Southeast Asia, Legend Travel Group offers eco-conscious transport and tours to Phan Thiet and Mui Ne, designed for nature lovers and cultural explorers. Our low-impact options, including electric taxis and private tour buses, are guided by English-speaking locals sharing insights into coastal culture and ecosystems. Supporting local communities, we align with Lam Dong’s sustainability 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 adventure

Phan Thiet, a bustling fishing hub, and Mui Ne, a kite-surfing paradise 22 km apart, are easily accessible via modern highways, trains, and eco-friendly transport. From Phan Thiet’s fish markets to Mui Ne’s Red Sand Dunes, these wards offer diverse attractions reachable by sustainable means like electric taxis and bicycles. With community-driven transport initiatives, such as local xe om services, travelers can explore responsibly while supporting the local economy.

These cost-effective transport options ($14–$150) ensure a sustainable journey:

1. Electric Taxi (Xanh SM)

Travel eco-friendly with Xanh SM electric taxis from Ho Chi Minh City’s Ward 1, ideal for direct trips to Phan Thiet or Mui Ne, best booked via the Xanh SM app.

• Cost: $55–$70 (1,375,000–1,750,000 VND) one-way; $110–$140 (2,750,000–3,500,000 VND) round-trip.

• Duration: 3.5–4 hours to Phan Thiet; 4–4.5 hours to Mui Ne.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Zero-emission vehicles; supports green initiatives.

• Tip: Book in advance; included in Legend Travel Group’s Coastal Tour ($85–$130).

2. Private Car

Drive comfortably via Ho Chi Minh City–Long Thanh–Dau Giay Expressway, perfect for groups, with drop-offs at Phan Thiet or Mui Ne accommodations.

• Cost: $65–$85 (1,625,000–2,125,000 VND) round-trip for 4 people.

• Duration: 3.5–4 hours to Phan Thiet; 4–4.5 hours to Mui Ne.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Carpooling reduces emissions; book via Legend Travel Group.

• Tip: Ideal for families; request hotel drop-off.

3. Private Tour Bus (Legend Travel Group)

Join a group bus from Ward 1, with English-speaking guides, ideal for day trips or multi-day tours to Phan Thiet and Mui Ne.

• Cost: $18–$25 (450,000–625,000 VND)/person round-trip for 20+ people.

• Duration: 4–4.5 hours.

• Eco-Friendly Note: High-capacity buses lower per-person emissions.

• Tip: Book 24 hours ahead; included in Mui Ne Coastal Adventure ($85–$130).

4. Public Bus + Xe Om

Take a public bus from Mien Dong Bus Station to Phan Thiet, then a xe om (motorbike taxi) to Mui Ne or local resorts, best for budget travelers.

• Cost: Bus $6–$8 (150,000–200,000 VND); xe om $2.50–$3.50 (62,500–87,500 VND); total $17–$23 (425,000–575,000 VND) round-trip.

• Duration: 4 hours (bus) + 20–30 minutes (xe om).

• Eco-Friendly Note: Supports local drivers; high-capacity buses reduce emissions.

• Tip: Use Phuong Trang or Kumho buses for direct Mui Ne drop-offs; agree on xe om fares upfront.

5. Train + Taxi

Ride an express train from Ho Chi Minh City to Muong Man station, then a taxi to Phan Thiet or Mui Ne, ideal for scenic travel.

• Cost: Train $7–$10 (175,000–250,000 VND); taxi $5–$7 (125,000–175,000 VND); total $24–$34 (600,000–850,000 VND) round-trip.

• Duration: 4 hours (train) + 20–30 minutes (taxi).

• Eco-Friendly Note: Trains lower emissions; book eco-taxis for sustainability.

• Tip: Choose SPT trains for morning departures; book at Saigon Station.

From Hanoi

Fly from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City (2 hours, $50–$100 or 1,250,000–2,500,000 VND), then use a private car ($55–$70 or 1,375,000–1,750,000 VND) or bus ($6–$8 or 150,000–200,000 VND) to Phan Thiet/Mui Ne. Total cost: $70–$130 (1,750,000–3,250,000 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 take a private car (3 hours, $50–$65 or 1,250,000–1,625,000 VND) to Mui Ne. Total: $90–$155 (2,250,000–3,875,000 VND) one-way.

From Tan Son Nhat Airport

• Private Car: $75–$95 (1,875,000–2,375,000 VND), 4 hours to Phan Thiet; 4.5 hours to Mui Ne.

• Xanh SM Taxi: $70–$85 (1,750,000–2,125,000 VND).

• Airport Bus + Car: Airport bus to Ward 1 ($0.60 or 15,000 VND, 30–45 min) + private car ($55–$70 or 1,375,000–1,750,000 VND).

• November–April (Dry Season, 24–33°C or 75.2–91.4°F): Ideal for smooth travel, kite-surfing, and dune tours, with clear roads and sunny skies. Moderate crowds (1,200–2,500 daily visitors). Book transport 1–2 weeks ahead.

• May–October (Rainy Season, 25–35°C or 77–95°F): Suitable for lush scenery and fewer crowds (600–900 daily visitors), with occasional showers. Last-minute bookings often available.

• Festival Seasons: Spring (February–March) for Cham Kate Festival, increasing transport demand; summer (June–August) for Mui Ne’s Whale Festival. Avoid Lunar New Year (January/February) for less congestion (6,000+ visitors during Tet).

• Timing Tip: Depart early (5:00–8:00 AM) for cooler travel and less traffic; afternoon trips (2:00–4:00 PM) for relaxed arrivals.

Pack these essentials for a sustainable trip:

• Clothing: Lightweight attire, sturdy sandals for beaches; waterproof jacket ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND) for rainy season; hat for sun.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses.

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

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

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

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for essentials ($1–$3); biodegradable wipes.

• Extras: Cash for xe om or vendors; small backpack for day trips.

Transportation Costs

Inter-City Transport (Round-Trip, from Ward 1)

• Private Car: $65–$85 (1,625,000–2,125,000 VND).

• Xanh SM Electric Taxi: $110–$140 (2,750,000–3,500,000 VND).

• Private Motorcycle: $34–$48 (850,000–1,200,000 VND).

• Public Bus + Xe Om: $17–$23 (425,000–575,000 VND).

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

• Train + Taxi: $24–$34 (600,000–850,000 VND).

• Airport to Phan Thiet/Mui Ne: $75–$100 (1,875,000–2,500,000 VND).

• Hanoi to Phan Thiet/Mui Ne (Flight + Car/Bus): $140–$260 (3,500,000–6,500,000 VND) round-trip.

Local Transport in Phan Thiet/Mui Ne

• Xe Om: $1–$3.50 (25,000–87,500 VND) per ride.

• Bicycle Rental: $3–$6/day (75,000–150,000 VND).

• Local Taxi: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND) per trip.

• Parking: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

• SIM Card: $7–$13 (175,000–325,000 VND).

Total Daily Transport Cost (Per Person)

• Budget: $5–$15 (public bus, xe om, bicycle).

• Mid-range: $20–$35 (private car, local taxi).

• Luxury: $60–$75 (Xanh SM taxi, private car).

• Tip: Budget for inter-city ($17–$150) and local transport ($1–$6); carry cash (cards rarely accepted).

• Timing: Depart at 5:00–8:00 AM for cooler travel; November–April for clear roads. Weekdays for less traffic (600–900 vs. 1,200–2,500 daily visitors). Avoid Lunar New Year for smoother trips.

• Booking: Book Xanh SM taxis or private cars via apps; reserve Legend Travel Group’s buses or tours 24–48 hours ahead. Buy train tickets at Saigon Station or online.

• Sustainability: Choose electric taxis or group buses; support local xe om drivers. Use bicycles for short distances to reduce emissions.

• Navigation: Save “Phan Thiet, Lam Dong” or “Mui Ne, Lam Dong” in offline maps; confirm drop-off points with drivers. Avoid night travel on rural roads.

• Safety: Wear helmets on motorcycles; secure valuables. Confirm fares before rides.

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

• Cultural Respect: Greet drivers with “xin chào”; respect local traffic customs.

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

Our eco-friendly tours make traveling to Phan Thiet and Mui Ne effortless:

• Mui Ne Coastal Adventure ($85–$130/person, 1 day): Travel by private tour bus, kite-surf, tour Red Sand Dunes, and visit Fairy Stream, with seafood lunch ($3–$7). Includes guide, transport.

• Phan Thiet Cultural Journey ($130–$190/person, 2 days): Use eco-taxis, explore Po Shanu Cham Towers, fish markets, and homestay ($15–$25/night). Includes meals, guide.

• Lam Dong Coastal & Highland Adventure ($320–$470/person, 3 days): Travel by eco-bus to Phan Thiet, Mui Ne, and Da Lat’s highlands, with homestays. Includes meals, transport.

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

Phan Thiet and Mui Ne, vibrant wards of Lam Dong, captivate over 600,000 visitors yearly with their beaches, dunes, and cultural treasures, just 180–200 km from Ho Chi Minh City. Accessible via eco-friendly options like Xanh SM taxis and private tour buses, these destinations are preserved by sustainable practices supporting local communities. Legend Travel Group’s Phan Thiet Tours ensure a seamless, responsible journey, ensuring a sustainable Phan Thiet Travel experience whether you’re heading to Phan Thiet’s fish market or Mui Ne’s kite-surfing beaches. Don’t miss out—plan your eco-friendly trip and browse our featured tours to book your Lam Dong coastal adventure today!
Ready to travel to Phan Thiet and Mui Ne? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group for an authentic coastal adventure!

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