Mu Nei Beach, Vietnam

In the past few decades, Mu Nei Beach has been transformed from a sleepy fishing village into one of Vietnam’s most popular tourist hotspots. Mu Nei’s unique microclimate means it receives less rainfall than anywhere else in the country, making it one of the few viable beach destinations during the monsoon season (November-April). Its year-long winds make it a mecca for surfers, windsurfers, and kitesurfers, while its comfortable, inexpensive guesthouses and laid-back bars have placed Mu Nei Beach firmly on the backpacker trail.

The easiest way to access Mu Nei Beach is by bus from nearby Phan Thiet, which has good coach and rail links to the rest of Vietnam. The town is nestled between the sea and the dramatic sand-dunes that help protect it from the rains. The hotels, resorts and guesthouses are lined up along the beach-front, spilling out onto the sand. There’s plenty to choose from, and even the more lavish resorts are very reasonably priced. All the shops, bars and restaurants are to be found on Mu Nei’s long main street – most places serve excellent Vietnamese food, but western dishes are also widely available if you want a taste of home.

Watersports at Mu Nei Beach

The strong winds at Mu Nei Beach have made it a paradise for thrill-seekers from all over the world. From December to February, the winds are strong and the waves are high, so only serious surfers should be in the water at this time of year. At other times, the waves are much more manageable, but still quite intimidating for absolute beginners. Conditions are perfect for windsurfers throughout the year, while kitesurfing has become very popular amongst Mu Nei’s adrenaline junkies. Although the waters are crystal clear around Mu Nei Beach, there are no diving-centers and snorkels are hard to come by. For all other watersports equipment, just wander into any of the surf shops dotted along the main street.

If the crowds of western travelers surfer-dudes get too much for you, escape to the eastern edge of the beach, where local fisherman are still making a living from sea. The beach is less clean here, but there are no tourists, and it’s a fascinating glimpse into coastal Vietnamese lifestyle. Every May, the fishermen celebrate Cau Ngu festival, which has its roots in the traditions of a cult of whale-worshipping fishermen who originally populated the area. Expect colorful dances and fascinating ceremonies. And when you’ve finished exploring, there are still acres of perfect white sand to lie back and relax on.