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A shimmering blue water nestled within lush green meadows, this is why O Loan Lagoon is recognized as a national scenic spot in Vietnam. Its calm, mirror-like surface reflects the golden sunlight, making the sky above sparkle. But it is not just about the view. The lagoon is also a rich seafood haven, ready to serve up the true flavors of the ocean. Join Asia King Travel and uncover the beauty of this remarkable destination!
A corner of O Loan Lagoon as seen from above. Photo: Markettimes
According to Vietnamese folklore, there was a beautiful fairy named Loan who lived in the sky, but she had a playful nature. One day, she borrowed an O Thuoc bird to fly down to the earthly realm and explore everywhere, without realizing that the bird was tired, hungry, and thirsty.
When they passed over Phu Yen, the bird no longer had the strength to fly. Both the bird and the fairy fell, transforming into a lagoon. Later, the name of the bird was combined with her name, and the estuary was named O Loan.
O Loan Lagoon is a brackish water lagoon near the sea, located in Tuy An District, Phu Yen Province. The estuary spans an area of 17 km², but its average depth is only 1.5 meters. It has an interesting shape, having a narrow creek running northward that flows into the sea.
The certificate recognizing O Loan Lagoon as a National Landscape Vestige. Photo: VinWonders
The fastest way to get there is to take a domestic flight from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City to Tuy Hoa Airport. After that, follow Hung Vuong Avenue north for about 30 kilometers. The journey is quite long, but don’t worry, as you’ll be mesmerized by the lush green rice fields that stretch along both sides of the road.
You will also pass by other famous landmarks of the province like Ganh Ong, Bai Xep and Hon Yen. Your trip will be enjoyable with countless beautiful landscapes along the way.
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The dry season, from the end of the previous year to around July of the following year is the best time to visit. Of course, the dry weather during this period will be more favorable for your outdoor activities. Additionally, during the Lunar New Year, the locals hold the O Loan Estuary boat racing festival, which symbolizes prayers for peace, an abundance of seafood, and expresses respect for the Fish God (whales often help the people when they face storms).
Lunar New Year’s Day Boat Racing Festival. Photo: MIA
The beauty of O Loan Lagoon has captivated countless people, including photographers and filmmakers. They bring their cameras to capture the still waters, the boats anchored near the shore, and the vast green meadows nearby.
When you put the camera down, you’ll notice contrasting shades of green and blue with your own eyes, the endless green of the mountains and forests, and the shimmering blue of the sky reflected on the water’s surface.
O Loan Lagoon becomes even more breathtaking at sunrise or sunset. During these moments, shades of pink, gold, and orange reflect off the water’s surface, creating a magical scene that leaves everyone who sees it completely enchanted.
The lagoon's surface is as calm as a mirror, reflecting the sunlight. Photo: Markettimes
Blood cockles are a specialty of Phu Yen Province in general, and O Loan Lagoon in particular, known for their rich nutrition and delicious taste. The freshly caught, plump cockles are quickly prepared so that by the time they’re served, they still retain their vibrant red color. They can be cooked in various ways to suit your taste while still preserving their original, distinctive flavor.
You can find this dish at all seafood restaurants, or you can also experience grilling and eating it directly on a boat while enjoying the view of the estuary. The price is very affordable compared to the generous portion of blood cockles you get.
The blood cockles at O Loan Lagoon are of significantly higher quality than those from other places. Photo: MIA
Sea urchin is an incredibly nutritious dish, as its meat is packed with nutrients like calcium, vitamins, and protein. You don’t need to eat much of it. In fact, you might not even be able to, especially if you're not used to the taste. If you're trying it for the first time, ask the chef to prepare it as a porridge; it’s the easiest and most palatable way to enjoy it.
During the feudal era, this was considered a luxurious delicacy that locals often tributed to the king, which is why it’s called Huynh De Crab (Emperor Crab). These crabs here are large, brick-red in color, and especially meaty, each one packed with firm, flavorful flesh.
Huynh de crab has plenty of meat in its shell. Photo: Hai San Hoang Gia
In addition to the specialties mentioned above, this place is also famous for its signature oysters. These plump, fresh oysters are caught directly from O Loan Lagoon and brought up for preparation. The best way to enjoy them is raw. Freshly cleaned oysters with a squeeze of lime are ready to be savored. But if you are not comfortable with raw seafood, don’t worry. The oysters can also be cooked into delicious dishes that are just as flavorful.
Visit O Loan Lagoon, where you’ll be treated to stunning natural scenery and enjoy delicious, affordable seafood. Contact Asia King Travel now to explore the hidden beauties of Vietnam!
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