Bordering the coastal city of Nha Trang, former Ninh Thuan (now South Khanh Hoa) is an ideal destination for short trips thanks to its pristine landscapes, signature sunny and windy climate, and one-of-a-kind check-in locations. If you are looking for an authentic experience immersed in nature to capture stunning photos while fully enjoying the majesty of the earth and sky, save these 3 super hot spots right away!
1. Hon Do – "Tuyet Tinh Coc" on an Ancient Coral Reef
- Unique Features: Hon Do is a fossilized ancient coral reef rising above the sea surface. Over millions of years of wave erosion, it has formed natural sinkholes holding crystal-clear seawater that reflects like a mirror. During the moss season (January to March), the entire rock reef is covered in a vibrant layer of lush green moss.
- Address: Hon Do Tourist Area in My Hiep Village, Thanh Hai Commune, Ninh Hai District, former Ninh Thuan Province (now Vinh Hai Commune, Khanh Hoa), about 17km from the former center of Phan Rang - Thap Cham City.
- Key Experiences:
- Check-in at natural sinkholes and watch small schools of fish swimming right below your feet.
- Camp overnight on the coastal rock bed and catch the very first rays of sunrise.
- Pro Tips: Visit during low tide (usually around the full moon or the 1st day of the lunar month) to reveal the small natural pools. Be sure to bring shoes with good grip as the ancient coral rocks are very sharp.
2. An Hoa Sheep Field – A True Nomadic Steppe
- Unique Features: Unlike artificial tourist farms, this is a natural grazing field managed by local villagers. A vast open space with thousands of sheep wandering across wild grasslands, punctuated by tall palmyra palm trees reminiscent of the Wild West.
- Address: An Hoa Village, Xuan Hai Commune, Ninh Hai District, Ninh Thuan Province (now Xuan Hai Commune, Khanh Hoa Province), about 16km northwest of the former center of Phan Rang - Thap Cham City.
- Key Experiences:
- Capture the moment thousands of sheep are released from their pens out onto the pasture.
- Take photos with young lambs and chat with local shepherds to explore nomadic life.
- Pro Tips: The golden hours for photography are 08:00 – 10:00 AM (when sheep enter the field) or 16:00 – 17:30 PM (when sheep return to their pens) when the sunlight is soft, creating poetic shadow effects.
3. Lo O Stream – A Refreshing "Natural Well" in the Heart of Nui Chua
- Unique Features: A hidden stream nestled beneath the primeval forest canopy of Nui Chua National Park. The stream water is filtered through multiple geological layers, making it crystal clear, accompanied by tiered natural stone ledges that resemble giant staircases.
- Address: Vinh Hai Commune, Khanh Hoa. From the former center of Phan Rang - Thap Cham, travel along Truong Chinh Street across Ninh Chu Bridge, then head straight along route DT702 toward Vinh Hy Bay to reach Lo O Stream.
- Key Experiences:
- Bathe in the stream and row a SUP board to relax in cool water that washes away the heat.
- Enjoy a specialty combo of grilled chicken with lemon basil leaves and bamboo tube rice right by the stream bank.
- Pro Tips: Lo O Stream is located right next to Vinh Hy Bay. The most reasonable itinerary is to visit Vinh Hy beach in the morning, then move to Lo O Stream around noon to rest, avoid the heat, and have lunch.
🚗 Optimized 1-Day Itinerary Suggestion:
- 06:00 – 08:00: Catch the sunrise and check in at the unique coral sinkholes at Hon Do.
- 08:30 – 10:30: Travel to An Hoa Sheep Field to take photos as the sheep are released.
- 11:00 – 15:00: Drive toward Vinh Hy, stop at Lo O Stream to cool off, relax, and eat grilled chicken for lunch.
- 15:30 onwards: Combine with watching the sunset at Vinh Hy Bay or visit Thai An Grape Garden nearby.
A trip to South Khanh Hoa not only offers impressive photos but also an opportunity to recharge among untouched nature. Save this guide now and join IIGO on your next local adventure!
