Nestled within Vinh Hy Bay lies Hon Tai, a secluded beach often likened to a raw gem due to its unspoiled beauty and turquoise blue sea. In this article, we will explore the hidden paradise that is Hon Tai Beach, also known as Hon Rua, situated in Vinh Hai Commune, Ninh Hai District, Ninh Thuan Province, in the central coast of Vietnam. The beach received National Monument status in April 2022 and offers breathtaking views, white sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and crystal-clear waters, creating an alluring destination for travelers seeking an untouched coastal experience.
Discovering Hon Tai
Inspired by pictures shared by a local friend, 28-year-old travel blogger Tai Pham decided to visit Hon Tai in late June. To get to this pristine beach, he traveled from Saigon to Vinh Hy via the Phan Thiet – Vinh Hao expressway, a journey that took about 5.5 hours. Once there, he rented a speedboat to reach Hon Tai, a 15-minute ride costing VND 200,000 ($8.45). For scuba diving enthusiasts, certified instructors and diving equipment rentals are available.
The Enchanting Beauty of Hon Tai
Upon setting foot on Hon Tai, Pham noticed that the beach was enclosed by cliffs, creating an isolated and distinct area. In addition to the inviting blue sea and pristine sands, a natural turquoise swimming pool with clear, refreshing water offered a relaxing spot for him. To experience the best of Hon Tai, he recommended visiting around 9 a.m. on sunny days. At this time, the sun is gentle, the winds are mild, the water level is optimal, and the turquoise hue is most vivid.
The Perfect Time to Visit
Ninh Thuan experiences a typical tropical monsoon climate, remaining hot and dry throughout the year. The sea can become rough from October to December, while the most ideal time to enjoy its beauty is from February to May. During the summer, there may be brief periods of strong waves lasting around 5-10 days. Hence, visitors are advised to check the weather forecast before planning their trip, as suggested by Chau Tin, a tourism worker in Hon Tai.
A Glimpse of Untouched Beauty
Untouched by urbanization, Hon Tai retains its wild allure, devoid of electricity, phone signal, or Wi-Fi access. Viewed from above, Hon Tai is a dance of yellow-brown cliffs encircled by clear waters, all framed by white sands. Despite the limited greenery, the air remains fresh, and the sea and sky emanate the deep blue charm of Ninh Thuan.
Embracing the Beauty
On Hon Tai, Pham said he indulged in two primary experiences: swimming and scuba diving. “The beauty of the sea here rivals Gili, the Indonesian sea I visited last year. Finding such clear waters in Vietnam seemed improbable, but Hon Tai proved me wrong,” he said.
Scuba Diving at Hon Tai
For his beach trips, Tai carries swimming and diving gear like goggles, snorkels, and flippers. If not available, visitors have the option to rent diving gear for VND 200,000. The water at Hon Tai is remarkably clear, providing visibility up to 4 meters underwater. The calm waves, absence of strong currents far from the shore, and staff supervision ensure safety. However, Tai admitted that the scuba diving experience fell short of his elevated expectations.
The Underwater World of Hon Tai
The seabed of Hon Tai consists mainly of rocks with few live coral reefs. The sunlight filtering through from above illuminates the seabed, revealing schools of small fish navigating the waters. When comparing Hon Tai to diving spots like Nha Trang, Phu Quoc, and Phu Quy, Pham found that the underwater scenery here wasn’t as breathtaking.
Exploring the Surroundings
Visitors can prolong their stay on Hon Tai Island to explore the cliffs, bathe in cool and clear natural pools, and enjoy a beach party beneath temporary shelters. However, overnight camping is prohibited due to the rising tides, making the beach unsafe. For camping enthusiasts, inshore beaches such as Bai Thung and Bai Chuoi are viable alternatives. “At night, the sky dazzles with stars, and witnessing the sunrise from the sea at dawn brings immense satisfaction,” Pham said.
Accommodation and Travel Tips
Accommodation and travel services are concentrated in Vinh Hy, and guests are advised to book rooms in advance, particularly during weekends and public holidays when it tends to get crowded.
Conclusion
Hon Tai, the unspoiled beach nestled in Vinh Hy Bay, offers a serene escape from the bustling city life. With its pristine beauty, crystal-clear waters, and secluded location, Hon Tai is a hidden treasure waiting to be explored by those seeking an authentic coastal adventure.
FAQs
- Q: Is Hon Tai Beach suitable for scuba diving? A: While Hon Tai offers scuba diving opportunities, the underwater scenery may not be as breathtaking as other diving spots in Vietnam.
- Q: What is the best time to visit Hon Tai? A: The best time to visit Hon Tai is from February to May, when the weather is ideal for enjoying its beauty.
- Q: Can visitors camp overnight on Hon Tai Beach? A: No, overnight camping is prohibited due to safety concerns related to rising tides.
- Q: Are there accommodation options on Hon Tai Island? A: Accommodation and travel services are concentrated in Vinh Hy, the closest area to Hon Tai Beach.
- Q: How do I get to Hon Tai Beach from Saigon? A: Visitors can travel from Saigon to Vinh Hy via the Phan Thiet – Vinh Hao expressway and then rent a speedboat to reach Hon Tai.
