What is Vinh Hy?
A small bay, clear water, surrounded by rocky mountains. About 40km from Phan Rang (1 hour by motorbike).
Good for: Couples, people who like quiet, photography Not for: Families with young children, large groups wanting fun
Mistake #1: Going in windy season (Nov-Feb)
Problems
- Big waves, murky water
- Strong winds, can't swim
- No outdoor activities (diving, kayaking)
Solution
Only visit Vinh Hy from March-October. If you must go in Nov-Feb, just enjoy the view, take photos, don't expect to swim.
Mistake #2: Expecting a long beach
Vinh Hy is not a beach for playing. It's a small bay, mainly for:
- Viewing from high points (check-in spots)
- Diving to see coral
- Eating seafood
If you want a long beach to run around, go to Ninh Chu or Binh Tien.
Mistake #3: Not booking homestay in advance
Vinh Hy only has ~10 small homestays. Weekends and holidays often fully booked.
Tips
- Book 1-2 weeks ahead by phone (Facebook not updated)
- Ask clear prices (are meals separate?)
- Confirm 1-2 days before going
Mistake #4: Going alone by motorbike for the first time
The road from Phan Rang to Vinh Hy has steep sections, many curves. If you:
- Not used to long motorbike rides
- Going alone for the first time
- Don't know the way
→ Hire a motorbike taxi or Grab bike (~$12-17 full day).
Mistake #5: Not bringing cash
Vinh Hy has no ATM. Only a few homestays accept bank transfer.
Bring enough cash for:
- Room (500-800k VND/$20-32 per night)
- Food (150-300k VND/$6-12 per person per meal)
- Kayak rental, diving (if any)
What to do in Vinh Hy?
Morning
- Wake up early for sunrise (5:30-6am)
- Breakfast at homestay
- Dive to see coral (9-11am, clearest water)
Midday
- Rest (harsh sun, shouldn't go out)
- Lunch (fresh seafood)
Afternoon
- 4-5pm: Climb to high check-in point (best view)
- 5:30-6pm: Watch sunset
- Dinner (if staying overnight)
Should you stay overnight?
Yes if:
- Want quiet, escape the city
- Like stargazing (no lights, very dark sky)
- Have time (2-3 days)
No if:
- Only have 1 day in Ninh Thuan (prioritize other places)
- Want to visit many places in 1 day
- Need wifi, stable electricity (power sometimes cuts)
Summary
Vinh Hy is beautiful and peaceful, but you need to go in the right season (March-October), book ahead, and set the right expectations (not a playful beach).
If you want quiet, secluded, close to nature → Vinh Hy is perfect. If you want fun, crowded, full facilities → Choose Ninh Chu.