Vung Ro Bay Eco-Tourism Guide: Sustainable Adventures in Phu Yen

A Pristine Coastal Haven in Phu Yen

Vung Ro Bay, a serene 1,640-hectare coastal gem in Hoa Tam Commune, Phu Yen, nestled 50 km southeast of Tuy Hoa and 490 km northeast of Ho Chi Minh City, enchants with its calm waters and white sandy beaches. Following Vietnam’s 2025 administrative merger with Dak Lak Province, this National Historical Relic, framed by Deo Ca, Da Bia, and Hon Ba mountain ranges, draws over 25,000 visitors annually, especially during the summer seafood season. With free beach access and activities costing $2–$15 (50,000–375,000 VND), Vung Ro is a must-visit for eco-tourists and nature lovers seeking Phu Yen’s tranquil beauty.

Surrounded by lush forests and vibrant coral reefs, Vung Ro Bay blends Phu Yen’s maritime heritage with sustainable practices like eco-friendly boat tours and biodegradable dining. Its tropical climate (dry season: January–August, 22–30°C or 71.6–86°F; rainy season: September–December, 20–28°C or 68–82.4°F) ensures year-round appeal. Legend Travel Group’s eco-tours immerse you in this coastal paradise, supporting local fishers and sustainable initiatives. Book via links in this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!

Administrative Note

Vietnam’s 2025 restructuring merged Phu Yen into Dak Lak Province, with Phu Yen and Tuy Hoa now wards. Vung Ro Bay, in Phu Yen, is easily navigated using ward-based maps, with Tuy Hoa as a key hub 50 km away.

With over 17 years as Southeast Asia’s leading sustainable tourism operator, Legend Travel Group crafts eco-friendly tours to Vung Ro Bay, blending adventure with cultural immersion. Our low-impact transport (electric boats, scooters) and English-speaking guides share insights on marine ecosystems, local fishing traditions, and green practices. Supporting Phu Yen’s communities, our tours align with Vietnam’s sustainability goals, as seen in initiatives like UNDP’s green transport stations in Tuy Hoa. Enjoy transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support. Sign up for a Legend Travel Group account to track our guides and book eco-tours via links on this page

Vung Ro Bay, a historic site tied to the Ho Chi Minh Sea Path during the Vietnam War, spans 13,000 hectares of water and 50 km of coastline, featuring 12 small beaches like Lach, Mu U, Chua, and Bang. Its coral reefs, hosting over 20 species, and surrounding forests make it a biodiverse haven. Recognized as a National Historical Relic for its role in the 1965 Vung Ro Bay Incident, it includes the Unnumbered Ship Monument, a tribute to wartime resilience. Sustainable features like regulated fishing, eco-friendly diving, and local-guided tours preserve its pristine charm, making Vung Ro a cornerstone of Phu Yen’s eco-tourism.

These sustainable activities, costing $2–$15, blend nature and culture:

1. Snorkel Coral Reefs

Snorkel vibrant reefs, best at 8:00 AM, with gear rentals at $4–$7 (100,000–175,000 VND). Spot colorful marine life at Mu U Beach.

• Cost: $4–$7; beach access free.

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Use reef-safe sunscreen; avoid touching corals.

• Tip: Rent gear at Vung Ro docks; included in Legend Travel Group’s Vung Ro Coastal Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

2. Kayak Along the Bay

Paddle through calm waters, best at 9:00 AM, with kayak rentals at $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND). Explore Chua and Lach beaches.

• Cost: $3–$5; beach access free.

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Use hand-powered kayaks; avoid disturbing wildlife.

• Tip: Book kayaks at Vung Ro; included in Legend Travel Group’s Vung Ro Coastal Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

3. Visit the Unnumbered Ship Monument

Tour the historical monument, best at 10:00 AM, with guided visits at $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND). Learn about the Vietnam War’s sea path.

• Cost: $2–$4; entry free.

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Respect historical sites; avoid littering.

• Tip: Combine with a Vung Ro tour; included in Legend Travel Group’s Phu Yen Cultural Eco-Tour ($100–$150).

4. Stay in an Eco-Homestay

Overnight in sustainable homestays near Vung Ro, best at 6:00 PM, for $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND), with seafood dinners ($2–$5).

• Cost: $10–$15; meals $2–$5.

• Hours: Check-in 2:00 PM; check-out 12:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Supports local families; uses biodegradable amenities.

• Tip: Book via Legend Travel Group for cultural dining; included in Vung Ro Overnight Eco-Tour ($100–$150).

5. Seafood Dining on Floating Rafts

Savor fresh crab or shrimp on fishing rafts, best at 5:00 PM, costing $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND). Enjoy bay views.

• Cost: $2–$5; raft access $3–$5.

• Hours: Daily, 4:00 PM–8:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Choose rafts with sustainable practices; support local fishers.

• Tip: Book at Vung Ro docks; included in Legend Travel Group’s Vung Ro Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

Visit from March to September for dry, sunny weather (22–30°C or 71.6–86°F), ideal for snorkeling, kayaking, and seafood dining. The rainy season (October–December) enhances greenery but brings rough seas, requiring caution. Weekdays (Monday–Thursday) see 50–100 visitors daily, compared to 200–600 on weekends and holidays like April 30 and May 1, when hotels reach 100% occupancy. Early mornings (6:00–9:00 AM) offer calm waters and soft light, while late afternoons (4:00–7:00 PM) suit dining with sunset views.

Vung Ro Bay, in Phu Yen, is 50 km from Tuy Hoa (1–1.5 hours) and 490 km from Ho Chi Minh City (7.5–8.5 hours):

• By Private Car: Drive 1–1.5 hours from Tuy Hoa via National Highway 1A, costing $15–$20 (375,000–500,000 VND) round-trip for 4 people. Book via Legend Travel Group.

• By Electric Taxi (Xanh SM): Eco-friendly VinFast taxis, 1–1.5 hours from Tuy Hoa, $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND) one-way. Use Xanh SM app.

• By Motorcycle: Ride via National Highway 1A from Tuy Hoa, 1–1.5 hours, $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND) fuel; rental $7–$12/day (175,000–300,000 VND). Helmets mandatory (fines up to $40 or 1,000,000 VND).

• By Public Bus + Xe Om: Bus from Tuy Hoa to Vung Ro (50 min, $1–$1.50 or 25,000–37,500 VND), then xe om to the bay (10 min, $2–$3 or 50,000–75,000 VND). Total: $6–$9 (150,000–225,000 VND) round-trip.

• By Flight + Taxi: Fly to Tuy Hoa Airport (VTS) from Ho Chi Minh City (1 hour, $30–$60 or 750,000–1,500,000 VND), then Xanh SM taxi to Vung Ro (1.5 hours, $12–$18 or 300,000–450,000 VND).

• Navigation Tip: Save “Vung Ro Bay, Phu Yen” in offline maps (Maps.me); follow signs from Vung Ro village. Parking: $0.80–$1.20 (20,000–30,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Note: Xanh SM taxis or group buses reduce emissions; bicycles to Vung Ro minimize impact.

• Safety: Secure valuables; confirm taxi/xe om fares. Avoid swimming at certain beaches like Bai Mon during rough seasons due to strong waves.

Pack these essentials for a sustainable trip:

• Clothing: Light layers, sturdy shoes for trails; waterproof jacket ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND) for rainy season; swimwear for beaches.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses.

• Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5), mosquito repellent ($0.50 or 12,500 VND), hand sanitizer ($0.50).

• Tech Gear: Smartphone with Grab/Xanh SM apps, offline maps, portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($5–$10).

• Outdoor Gear: Small backpack, snorkel mask, camera for bay views.

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

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for snacks ($1–$2); biodegradable wipes.

• Extras: Snacks for picnics; cash for vendors.
  Tip: Carry small VND notes for rentals ($3–$7) or dining ($2–$5).

Costs for Visiting Vung Ro Bay

Entry and Activity Fees

• Beach Access: Free.

• Snorkeling: $4–$7 (100,000–175,000 VND).

• Kayaking: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND).

• Unnumbered Ship Monument Tour: $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND).

• Eco-Homestay: $10–$15/night (250,000–375,000 VND).

• Seafood Dining: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).

• Snacks (e.g., Fish Cakes): $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Drinks (Water, Coffee): $0.30–$1 (7,000–25,000 VND).

• Souvenirs (e.g., Seashell Crafts): $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).

• Guided Eco-Tour: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

Transportation (Round-Trip, from Tuy Hoa)

• Private Car: $15–$20 (375,000–500,000 VND).

• Xanh SM Electric Taxi: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND).

• Motorcycle: $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND) fuel; rental $7–$12/day.

• Public Bus + Xe Om: $6–$9 (150,000–225,000 VND).

• Parking: $0.80–$1.20 (20,000–30,000 VND).

• SIM Card: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost (Per Person, from Tuy Hoa)

• Budget: $5–$15 (bus + xe om, dining).

• Mid-range: $20–$40 (taxi, activities, homestay).

• Luxury: $50–$80 (private car, premium tour, homestay).
  Tip: Budget for activities ($2–$7) and transport ($6–$30); carry cash for vendors (no cards accepted).

• Timing: Visit at 6:00–9:00 AM for calm seas; March–September for dry weather. Weekdays for fewer crowds (50–100 vs. 200–600 on holidays). Plan for April 30 or May 1 for lively vibes.

• Booking: Reserve Legend Travel Group’s tours 24–48 hours ahead for guided visits or homestays. Book snorkeling/kayaking at Vung Ro docks.

• Sustainability: Stay on paths to protect ecosystems; bring reusable bottles. Support local fishers for dining ($2–$5) or crafts ($2–$5).

• Navigation: Save “Vung Ro Bay, Phu Yen” in offline maps; ask locals at Vung Ro village for directions. Avoid night travel due to rural roads.

• Safety: Secure valuables; confirm taxi/xe om fares. Check beach signs for swimming safety, as some areas like Bai Mon may have strong waves.

• Weather: Dry season for safe snorkeling; rainy season needs rain gear ($3–$7) and waterproof bags ($3–$7). Check AccuWeather.

• Cultural Respect: Greet with “xin chào”; respect historical sites like the Unnumbered Ship Monument. Avoid loud noises on beaches.

• Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50); carry mosquito repellent and sanitizer.

Our eco-friendly tours showcase Vung Ro Bay’s natural and historical allure:

• Vung Ro Coastal Eco-Tour ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Electric scooter from Tuy Hoa for snorkeling, kayaking, and monument tour, with seafood lunch ($2–$5). Includes guide, transport.

• Vung Ro Overnight Eco-Tour ($100–$150/person, 2 days): Bay exploration, eco-homestay, and Tuy Hoa market visit. Includes meals, eco-transfers.

• Phu Yen Coastal Explorer ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Vung Ro, Ganh Da Dia, Bai Mon Beach, and homestays. Includes meals, guides. Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Sign up for an account to track tours and book now via links!

Vung Ro Bay in Phu Yen Ward, Dak Lak Province (formerly Phu Yen), captivates with its serene beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and historical significance as a key Vietnam War supply route, drawing thousands within Dak Lak’s 1 million annual visitors, located 440 km from Ho Chi Minh City. Accessible for free, this coastal haven in Dong Hoa District blends maritime heritage with sustainable eco-tourism through eco-friendly homestays ($5–$20/night, 125,000–500,000 VND) and regulated fishing. Legend Travel Group’s Dak Lak Tours ensure a green, immersive Dak Lak Travel experience, guiding you through snorkeling in coral-rich waters, seafood dining featuring Sò Huyết, and visits to nearby Ganh Da Dia and Nhan Ancient Tower. Don’t miss out—sign up for a Legend Travel Group account, browse our featured tours, and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to explore Vung Ro Bay in Dak Lak Province? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable coastal eco-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:

• Vung Ro Bay Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamcoracle.com, phuyentour.vn, vinpearl.com, vietnamtourism.org.vn, en.baophuyen.vn