Top 9 Off the Beaten Path Travel Destinations in Southern Vietnam

Are you a biker and wish to fulfill your dream of discovering Vietnam’s peaceful countryside, picturesque mountain ranges, and uninhabited islands?

Are you in love with trekking and searching for unique off-road routes to explore the hidden gems of Southern Vietnam?

Or are you just an adventurous traveler who wants to explore exotic places that retain the raw edge of local life?

CONGRATULATIONS!

You found us! And trust me, this article will be your light at the end of the tunnel! Keep scrolling down to see which 9 Off Beaten Track Destinations in Southern Vietnam are!

See more: Vietnam Motorbike Tours, Motorcycle Tours | BM Travel

Best time to visit Southern Vietnam 

South Vietnam is in a humid tropical monsoon climate, with two main seasons: the rainy and dry seasons. In particular, the dry season period starts in December and ends in August next year, while the rainy season lasts from September to November.

The dry season is the most suitable time for tourists to explore Southern Vietnam and its gorgeous destinations. 

At this time, you will have a chance to enjoy the fresh air, the blue sky, the luminous colors, and more! The temperature fluctuates over 30 degrees Celsius, which is suitable for a trip to stunning islands like Phu Quoc Island, Nam Du Island, etc. You can freely swim or join in other interesting activities such as scuba diving to see corals, squid fishing, trekking, or biking. 

9 Off the Beaten Path Destinations in Southern Vietnam

1. Nam Du Island (Kien Giang)

Nam Du Island, around 250 kilometers from Saigon, has gained a reputation with young Vietnamese backpackers.

The glorious white sand beach of Nam Du is fringed by leaning coconut palms, bringing the light sea breeze which you hardly find anywhere.

At the end of Kien Hai, Kien Giang, Nam Du archipelago curls up in the new features of the undiscovered region, which is a precious gift from Mother Nature.

On the way to Nam Du, the boat will pass through Hon Tre and Hon Son, where you will have a precious opportunity to catch sight of the pure natural beauty of the southwestern sky of Vietnam. You cannot get your eyes off the small islands at the end of the horizon, with the color of blue topaz and outstanding and untouched coastal scenery.

It is time to allow yourself a moment to walk through the serene atmosphere, immerse yourself in the emerald water and the smooth white sands, and enjoy a truly relaxing journey!

Coming to Nam Du, you will find yourself pleasantly overwhelmed by the natural beauty of diving to catch squid and fish or watching colorful corals in the deep water. We will pay a visit to Cay Men beach, Da Den beach, Dat Do beach, Hon Mau, Hon Ngang, Hon Hai Bo Dap, and so on. Enjoy the panoramic view of Bai Ngu from Ong Tinh slope, and conquer Nam Du lighthouse, located at the top of the hill above, 300 meters above sea level. Exploring Nam Du on New Year’s Day (late January – early February) will be ideal if you want to get away from the bustling and crowded cities to find peace inside your soul. Nowhere except Nam Du Island!

Then, don’t forget to visit Hon Dau if you are in Hon Mau, because the two places are very close. Hon Dau is well-known for spectacular and thick coral reefs, so snorkeling and diving are rewarding. Remember to prepare things like swimwear or goggles to discover the magical and colorful sea world!

2. Ninh Thuan coastal road

If you are passionate about traveling, perhaps Ninh Thuan – Binh Thuan coastal road is not an unknown off-the-beaten-path travel destination. The improved roads here, which wind around this glorious land, will provide you with memorable sceneries during your trip – spectacular beaches, forests, mountain springs, and pretty little fishing harbors.

Which special experiences are waiting for you when discovering this gorgeous Ninh Thuan coastal road?

Let me show you!

They are the famous Ke Ga lighthouse, the stunning Bau Trang lake, the impressive seven-color rocky field, the picturesque Nam Cuong sand hill, the unique sheep hill, the breathtaking Vinh Hy bay, and numerous poetic and tranquil beaches! In addition, it is worth spending time to explore and experience the rhyme of local life here – the friendly and fascinating fishing villages!

Standing on the lighthouse of this place, you can gain insight into the immense white dunes, the vast blue sky, the coconut palms and umbrella trees, and the blindingly bright colors.

Mui Dinh stands out as a little-known destination with uninhabited nature and splendid beauty, where you can have unforgettable experiences such as racing on dunes, surfing the sea, and so on. Let your soul feel and drift off with the gentle lapping of the water, and catch a glimpse at the Son Hai fishing boat with small boat behind the lush green trees.

Check out: Southern Vietnam Motorbike Tour 4 days To Ke Ga

3. Bao Loc – Dalat – Dran (Dalat)

The slow travelers will be elated with Dalat – the “city of eternal spring,” which seems like a gripping book you can’t overlook. A three-day journey to this poetic city is not enough for you to explore the hidden pearls of Dalat.

You should rent a motorbike and start to explore this awesome South Vietnam off-the-beaten-path travel destination!

Pass through the deciduous and evergreen forests blanketing the entire landscape, catch sight of the pine forests, whose scent fills the crisp, highland air, and pay a visit to Ho Suoi Vang (Golden Spring Lake), Trai Mat, Cau Dat tea hill, or Dran Town. All of these experiences will make you fall in with Dalat!

Check out: Top 10 Dalat Vietnam Attractions – Dalat Travel Guide from A-Z

Flowers of all varieties – some familiar, some strange and exotic – blossom in abundance, embellishing this highland town more brilliantly. Sunflowers, orchids, and even the wildflower here will make you feel like stepping into another world – a real paradise.

If you are interested in bustling and crowded places, it is an ideal choice to stay in the Dalat center and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Tet holiday. However, Dran or Bao Loc should be considered if you want to immerse yourself in pure and pristine nature and soothe your mind in a quiet and peaceful space.

Coming to the four most beautiful beaches here, you will have a chance to swim in the crystal water and experience the rustic and simple lifestyle of the uninhabited fishing villages. Besides, don’t skip the chance to enjoy lobster specialties and seafood dishes at extremely low prices, especially during Tet.

Because these beaches are located in military area, it is quite limited to tourists in general and foreign visitors in particular. Therefore, the four glorious and pristine beaches still retain their unique beauty that is nowhere to be found.

If you are interested in a South Vietnam motorbike tour to Dalat, it is highly recommended to refer to:

4. Binh Ba

As an impeccable island, Binh Ba is a perfect choice for tourists with stunning beaches, white sand, and clear water that is glassy and like a mirror to the sky. This area has not been implemented in tourism services, so everything is pure and pristine. It’s a relief to be heading out of the increasingly exhaust-heavy air of the city and come to Binh Ba Island to enjoy a tranquil and relaxing journey. Besides, the locals here are well aware of protecting the living environment. It is hard to find garbage on picturesque beaches and piers.

Binh Ba was discovered by tourists a few years ago; therefore, undoubtedly, there are no crowded and bustling beaches here. There are only about 700 households on the island with 5,000 local people. Take your time, slow down, refresh your body and soothe your mind. You can indulge in a dip in the clear crystal water, watch the vast sky, listen to the rhythm of daily life here, and

Check Out: South Vietnam Motorcycle Tour from Saigon to Vung Tau – 8 days

5. Binh Lap

Because of the clear and clean water, this beach has many nets spreading to raise shrimp. Numerous travelers also seek Bai Ngang. In addition, you can rent a boat to visit Con beach and other beautifully pristine beaches around Binh Lap.

Besides, you can choose Ngoc Suong resort as a good stop to enjoy the fresh and quiet atmosphere. With only 50,000 VND/ticket/person, you will have the most impressive and stunning pictures. If you spend time exploring it, you will find many beautiful scenes to be well worth capturing and enjoying.

Check Out: Central Vietnam Motorcycle Tour from Hoi An to Saigon – 11 days

6. Binh Hung

Binh Hung Island is located in Cam Ranh Bay, in Cam Binh commune, Cam Ranh city, Khanh Hoa province. You can see this magnificent island while riding on the spectacular Vinh Hy – Binh Tien pass. If you are planning to visit Binh Hung, you should avoid October and November because this is the time of the storm. The ideal time is the summer months with blue crystal sea, white sand, bright sunshine, and ocean waves breaking on a sand beach.

Located in a tourist arc including Vinh Hy Bay, Nui Chua National Park, and Binh Tien Beach, this place is worth taking time and effort to discover. The winding mountain passes through the clear streams along the road to Binh Tien beach. The two sides of the trail are greenery with cliffs, making visitors feel like they are entering the fantastic world of nature.

7. Binh Tien Beach – The sleeping princess

Binh Tien Beach is like a pale blue pearl surrounded by pine forests and limestone mountains on the sea. Binh Tien Beach, with no footprint of industrial mining machinery, still retains an inherent natural beauty.

If you are keen on camping on the beachside, or a perfect getaway, we highly recommend Binh Hung or Binh Tien as an ideal choice.

Let’s imagine this outstanding picture.

When the first rays of light are reflected off the glittering water of the Binh Tien beach, the boundary between the real and imaginary world dances like the ocean waves gently swaying along with each passing breeze. Feel the smooth sand under your barefoot, fill your lungs with the fresh sea wind and contemplate one of the most glorious moments in your life – the sun covers the island with bright lights, and another lively world is waking up with you.

For great experiences during your South Vietnam motorbike tour, please check out:

8. Phu Quoc (Kien Giang)

Phu Quoc Island, with other islands belonging to the Phu Quoc island district of Kien Giang province, has a total area of 589.23 km². Duong Dong Town, located in the northwest, is the capital of the island district. Phu Quoc is 120 kilometers far from Rach Gia city and 45 kilometers from Ha Tien town.

Phu Quoc has a tremendous number of famous off-the-beaten-path travel destinations. It is time to pack your travel bag and explore your own gorgeous Phu Quoc!

9. Vung Tau

It takes about 3 hours to move from Saigon to Vung Tau. The two places are quite close; therefore, the climate in Vung Tau is not much different from Saigon, with two distinct seasons, including rainy and dry seasons. The dry season starts from November to April next year, while the rainy one lasts from May to October. In Vung Tau, everything is mild and pleasant, which is suitable for a memorable journey.

From Ho Chi Minh City, you follow Highway 1, cross the Dong Nai bridge, meet an intersection, and then turn right along Highway 51. Go about 100km to arrive at Vung Tau City.

Coming to Vung Tau, you will be pleasantly overwhelmed by the astonishing number of tourist destinations here. You will be satisfied with the magnificent mountains, the picturesque beaches, the ancient pagodas, the pristine islands, and so on. According to our experiences, you should visit these places in advance:

• Sea: Front Beach, Back Beach, Con Dao, Long Hai, and Hon Ba.
• Spiritual Places: Platform of Shakyamuni Buddha, Monastery of Nirvana Pagoda, The Pagoda of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, Linh Son Co Tu Pagoda, Statue of Christ the King, etc.
• Relics: Vung Tau Lighthouse, Thang Tam Temple, White Palace, Ong Tran Temple (Nha Lon), Museum of Ancient Arms.