Vinh Hy: Avoid These Mistakes

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.