Top 17 Unmissable Attractions in Quy Nhon, Vietnam

For too long, Quy Nhon has remained one of Vietnam's best-kept secrets - a stunning coastal city that boasts the perfect balance of raw natural beauty and deep historical resonance, often overshadowed by its more crowded neighbours. Nestled on the central coast, this vibrant hub offers travelers a refreshingly authentic experience, far removed from the mass tourism found elsewhere. From secluded emerald coves to towering ancient monuments, Quy Nhon is a destination that rewards the curious explorer. This guide reveals the 17 must-see Quy Nhon’s attractions that define this majestic city, ensuring you discover every facet of its unspoiled charm.

1/ Ky Co Beach

Ky Co Beach is a pristine coastal gem, celebrated for its uniquely rugged and sheltered setting. Nestled beneath the majestic Phuong Mai mountain range, this beautiful cove is shaped like a crescent, with three sides protected by towering cliffs, offering a spectacular contrast to the open ocean.

The water at Ky Co is renowned for its exceptional clarity and mesmerising dual colouration. Closer to the shore, the water shimmers in a vivid, translucent jade green, perfect for swimming. As your gaze extends towards the horizon, it deepens into a magnificent sapphire blue, highlighting the unspoiled nature of this locale. The soft, white sand and gentle waves make it an ideal spot for sunbathing and tranquil relaxation.

Visitors primarily travel to Ky Co for immersive marine activities. The crystal-clear sea is home to vibrant coral reefs, making it a fantastic location for snorkelling and scuba diving. For those seeking quieter exploration, you can hire a kayak to paddle along the dramatic coastline and discover secluded rock formations and small natural caves, such as the nearby Swallow Cave.

Practical information:

Ky Co is located approximately 25 kilometres from Quy Nhon downtown. Access is generally via a thrilling speedboat ride from the Nhon Ly fishing village, which takes around 20-30 minutes. It is highly recommended to plan your visit for the morning, as the sunlight is best for viewing the transparent water and the weather is generally cooler.

2/ Eo Gio

Eo Gio, meaning "Windy Pass", is a scenic stretch of coastline famous for its dramatic rock formations and the natural curve of the sea that embraces the mountainside. The landscape here is characterised by unique, weathered rock formations and cliffs that have been sculpted by wind and sea over time, creating a striking, wild beauty.

The primary activity at Eo Gio is exploring the recently constructed, winding walkway built directly into the side of the cliffs. This paved path offers breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean and the rugged coastline, positioning the site as a paradise for photographers. Although the area is stunning throughout the day, its open position makes it a prime spotfor watching the sunrise. Furthermore, the unique geological features, including caves and rock pools, provide endless opportunities for dramatic coastal exploration and stunning pictures.

Practical information:

The site involves a fair amount of walking and climbing stairs on the walkway, so comfortable footwear is essential. While beautiful all day, the area can become intensely hot during midday, so plan your visit for the early morning or late afternoon. Eo Gio is often combined with a trip to Ky Co Beach in a single tour.

3/ Bai Xep Beach

Bai Xep is far more than just a beach; it is a quaint fishing village that offers a peaceful escape from the city bustle. Often hailed as one of the "most beautiful hidden villages in the world" by publications such as Business Insider, Bai Xep is prized for its unspoiled authenticity and quiet charm. The beach itself is a small, pristine crescent of sand framed by rugged rock outcroppings and a scattering of local dwellings.

Visitors have the chance to experience authentic local life. You can observe fishermen mending nets, buy fresh catch directly from the boats, and witness the daily rhythms of a traditional Vietnamese coastal community. The beach offers a serene environment for swimming and sunbathing without the crowds found at more commercial destinations. You can also explore the surrounding area on foot or by bicycle to truly soak up the slow pace of life. A stay in one of the local homestays is highly recommended for a truly immersive cultural experience.

Practical information:

Facilities in Bai Xep beach village are much simpler than in the main city. It is a great place to sample hyper-fresh seafood at incredibly reasonable prices. If staying overnight, remember that the atmosphere is quiet and rustic, suitable for travellers seeking solitude.

4/ Phuong Mai Sand Dunes

The Phuong Mai Sand Dunes are an unexpected natural wonder in a coastal setting. This vast landscape features towering sand hills, some reaching heights of over 100 metres. Notably, the dunes are situated on the Phuong Mai Peninsula, placing them close to the famous Eo Gio and Ky Co attractions, allowing visitors to easily combine three unique experiences in one day. The dunes shift constantly due to the winds coming off the nearby Thi Nai Lagoon, creating dramatic, ever-changing patterns that mimic a desert environment.

Sandboarding (or dune sliding) is the primary and most popular activity here. Visitors can rent wooden boards locally and enjoy the exhilarating experience of sliding down the steep slopes. Beyond the adventure, the dunes are a photographer's dream, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset when the low light creates striking shadows and contrasts across the undulating terrain. The sand can become extremely hot during the midday sun, so it is highly advised to visit during the early morning (before 9 a.m.) or the late afternoon (after 3 p.m.).

5/ Hon Kho Island

Hon Kho, meaning "Dry Island," is a small, rugged island known for its raw, untouched beauty and the fascinating natural phenomena it exhibits. Despite its name, the island is surrounded by crystal-clear water and vibrant coral reefs. Its most famous feature is the "sea-crossing walkway" - a natural path of rocks and sand that emerges during low tide, allowing visitors to literally walk across the sea to the island. The sea-crossing walkway offers a truly unique photo opportunity and adventure, but accessing it requires careful planning based on the tide schedule.

For an immersive experience, you can snorkelling and diving to explore the healthy, colourful coral reefs just beneath the surface. You also can hire a basket boat to paddle around the island. On the island itself, the small beach area provides a tranquil spot for relaxing and enjoying a fresh seafood lunch prepared by locals.

6/ Cu Lao Xanh Island

The name of Cu Lao Xanh means Green Island, perfectly capturing the essence of this remote island paradise. Located further offshore than Hon Kho, this island is celebrated for its untouched natural environment, thick greenery, and truly turquoise waters. It is less frequented by mass tourism, offering a genuinely tranquil and authentic getaway.

The island's landmark is a beautiful, century-old French-built lighthouse, which stands proudly at the summit, offering a historical perspective alongside the natural beauty. The surrounding beaches are pristine and ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and taking long, quiet walks. Since the island is more remote, accommodation and dining options are primarily basic homestays run by local families.

7/ Hon Seo Island

Situated in the Nhon Ly area, close to Ky Co and Eo Gio, Hon Seo Island is rugged and small. The island’s unique topography often makes it resemble a giant sea lion resting in the water when viewed from a distance. Hon Seo is not known for sprawling beaches but rather for its dramatic rock faces, natural crevices, and the high concentration of colourful, diverse coral reefs in the surrounding shallow waters. Thanks to its protected environment, Hon Seo is a highly regarded spot for snorkelling and beginner diving.Tourists can rent equipment and explore the underwater world teeming with life directly from their boat. While there are no permanent facilities on the island, the surrounding waters offer a perfect opportunity for a refreshing swim.

8/ Ghenh Rang - Tien Sa

Ghenh Rang - Tien Sa offers a rich blend of natural beauty, poetry, and history. This complex comprises several notable areas, including winding rocky hillsides and secluded coves. Its dual appeal lies in both the romantic, tranquil scenery and its strong association with famous Vietnamese poet Han Mac Tu, who spent the last years of his life here. In the area, Queen's Beach (Egg Stone Beach) stands out with its unique collection of perfectly rounded, smooth stones that resemble giant eggs scattered across the shore. The entire picturesque coastal complex is ideal for a gentle stroll or hike, providing numerous vantage points for stunning coastal views.

9/ Banh It Towers

If you are looking for cultural heritage of the region, Banh It Tower is a not-to-be-missed place. It is one of the most magnificent and well-preserved clusters of Cham towers in Central Vietnam.

Located atop a scenic hill, the complex consists of several distinct towers, with the largest central tower reaching impressive heights. The name "Banh It" is derived from the resemblance of the tower cluster to a local sticky rice cake, but its original purpose was a significant religious and administrative centre of the Champa Kingdom. Visiting the towers is primarily a cultural and historical experience. The elevated location provides sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and rice paddies. Since this is a historical and religious site, visitors are encouraged to wear respectful clothing.

10/ Linh Phong Pagoda (Ong Nui Temple)

Ong Nui Temple, officially known as Linh Phong Pagoda, is one of the most venerated religious sites in Gia Lai province (previously Binh Dinh). It’s famous for the colossal statue of the Sitting Buddha, which is considered one of the tallest in Southeast Asia. Perched high on the mountain slope, the statue provides a striking figure visible from many kilometres away, overlooking the peaceful coastal landscape. Beyond the statue, you can explore the tranquil pagoda halls and observe the daily rituals of the monks and local devotees, offering a profound glimpse into Vietnamese Buddhist culture.

11/ Long Khanh Pagoda

To find out more about Buddhism in the region, you can visit Long Khanh Pagoda, a venerable Buddhist temple. Dating back to the 18th century, it stands as one of the oldest and most historically significant pagodas in the Binh Dinh. Unlike the hilltop grandeur of Ong Nui Temple, Long Khanh offers a more accessible and intimate experience of local religious life, featuring traditional Vietnamese temple architecture and a serene, contemplative atmosphere. It serves as a perfect stop for those exploring the city centre on foot, easily combined with visits to the nearby markets or other city attractions.

12/ Thap Doi (Twin Towers)

Thap Doi, or the "Twin Towers", is one of the most distinctive and accessible historical landmarks in Quy Nhon downtown. The site features two beautifully preserved Cham towers standing side-by-side, yet subtly different in design and size. They represent a unique phase of the Cham Pa Kingdom's architecture, specifically influenced by Khmer style, known for its intricate carvings of deities and mythical animals on the brickwork and sandstone. Their location, virtually within the city limits, makes them a convenient and powerful symbol of the Quy Nhon’s ancient heritage.

13/ Quang Trung Museum

The Quang Trung Museum is a significant historical and cultural attraction dedicated to the national hero, Emperor Quang Trung (Nguyen Hue), and the Tay Son Uprising of the 18th century. The museum complex is built on the grounds of the Tay Son brothers' birthplace. The grounds feature a temple dedicated to the Emperor and his brothers, along with exhibition halls showcasing artefacts, weapons, and costumes from the period. The most captivating part of the experience is the traditional martial arts and drum performances regularly held on the grounds, which vividly re-enact the military prowess of the Tay Son army. Exploring the exhibits and the memorial temple offers a compelling historical journey.

14/ ExploraScience Quy Nhon Center

As a surprisingly modern addition to Quy Nhon's attractions, the ExploraScience Quy Nhon Center is a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to public science education and exploration. It forms part of the International Centre for Interdisciplinary Science and Education (ICISE) complex. The centre features interactive exhibition halls, focusing on themes such as the Earth, the Solar System, and fundamental laws of nature. Planetarium offers immersive shows about the cosmos. ExploraScience Quy Nhon is an excellent destination for families, students, and curious travellers alike. It provides a unique, sheltered, and educational alternative to the outdoor beach and historical attractions, particularly on a rainy or very hot day.

15/ Nhon Ly Village

Nhon Ly is often known as the primary departure point for boat and speedboat trips accessing many of Quy Nhon’s most famous coastal attractions. However, it’s not merely a sight to stop and see, it’s rather a vibrant, working fishing village.The village itself is a charming cluster of brightly coloured houses nestled near the coast, offering a genuine glimpse into local seaside life. It maintains a bustling, yet friendly atmosphere, where the rhythmic life of fishermen dominates the scene. The village has numerous local eateries and small guesthouses, perfect for sampling incredibly fresh, authentic seafood prepared in the regional style. Those planning multiple days of island exploration can stay overnight here.

16/ Quy Nhon Night Market

While Quy Nhon is known for its tranquil beaches, it also boasts a burgeoning nightlife scene, and the Night Market is at the heart of it. The Quy Nhon Night Market is the city’s vibrant hub for evening activity, blending shopping, dining and entertainment into a lively atmosphere. The market is structured and easy to navigate, primarily featuring stalls dedicated to street food, souvenirs, clothing, accessories, and local handicrafts. The market typically opens in the early evening (around 6:00 PM) and runs until late. Visiting the Night Market is the perfect way to spend an evening after a day of sightseeing.

17/ Quy Nhon’s food street

Quy Nhon’s Food Street is not a single location but refers to several concentrated streets in the city centre that are dedicated to local gastronomy, making the city a recognised haven for food lovers. This network of bustling streets showcases the richness and affordability of regional cuisine, particularly its famed seafood and unique local delicacies.

Tourists must dedicate an evening to sampling the regional specialities, most famously "Banh Xeo Tom Nhay" (Sizzling Shrimp Pancakes), "Bun Cha Ca" (Fish Cake Noodle Soup), and an array of freshly caught seafood and grilled snails. Streets like Ngoc Han Cong Chua are synonymous with fresh shellfish, while Phan Boi Chau street are known for traditional savoury pancakes. You can go with an empty stomach and be adventurous in trying different local dishes - this is where you'll find the flavour of Quy Nhon.

Having explored the rich tapestry of Quy Nhon's attractions, it is clear that this coastal region provides a truly comprehensive Vietnamese experience. Quy Nhon successfully blends natural splendour with profound cultural heritage, all while maintaining a remarkably authentic and unhurried pace of life. For any Vietnam trip, this promises an escape that is both memorable and refreshingly off the beaten path. 

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See more:

• 12 Most beautiful Quy Nhon Beaches
• Savouring the flavour of Quy Nhon through the 11 unique dishes
• Things to do in Quy Nhon Vietnam: Attractions and useful travel tips