Phuong Mai Sand Dunes

For a stunning, off the beaten track destination in Central Vietnam, look no further than the alluring Phuong Mai Sand Dunes. Hidden on the Phuong Mai Peninsula off Nhon Ly Beach, just 20 km from Quy Nhon city center, this "mini Sahara" offers a surreal landscape of golden sands, sea breezes, and panoramic vistas of the surrounding lagoon, sea, and cityscape. Ready to explore this hidden gem? Let Asia King Travel craft your unforgettable journey to Phuong Mai Sand Dunes and beyond, experience Vietnam like never before. Contact us today!
Stunning views of Phuong Mai Sand Dunes (Source: letsflytravel)
Phuong Mai Sand Dunes are located on the Nhon Ly Peninsula, approximately 20 kilometers northeast of Quy Nhon city in the Binh Dinh Province along Vietnam's central coast. This scenic area is part of the Nhon Ly commune, which is renowned for its scenic beaches, cliff-lined coast, and tranquil fishing communities. The dunes are located close to Nhon Ly Beach and a short walk from well known nearby destinations like Eo Gio and Ky Co Beach.
Surrounded by sea on one side and the Thi Nai Lagoon on the other, the dunes form a natural desert landscape against a backdrop of coastal splendor. This strange geography makes Phuong Mai one of Vietnam's most spectacular and accessible dune systems.
Location of Phuong Mai Sand Dunes
Phuong Mai Sand Dunes are open throughout the year, but it's worth planning your visit in a timely manner to make an otherwise excellent experience an unforgettably excellent one. The optimal time to visit the dunes is between the dry season, i.e., between January and August, when the weather is perfect the sun shines brightly and shines dryly, there are virtually no rains, and the temperatures are warm but bearable. Optimal visiting hours every day are between 6:00 AM and 9:00 AM.
It's also the time when the air is fresh and crisp, sun is golden and warm, and sand is cool to walk on. It's an ideal time for photography, walking along dunes, or trying sandboarding without burning heat. Or, late afternoon between 4:00 and 6:00 PM is another excellent time slot to visit.
Best time to visit Phuong Mai Sand Dunes
The number one activity to indulge in at Phuong Mai Sand Dunes is most certainly sandboarding. Since the dunes are up to 100 meters tall, adventurers can ride down near-vertical slopes at heady speeds on basic wooden or plastic boards. It's an adrenaline pumping activity that both beginners and seasoned adventurers will enjoy. Rentals can be arranged from a few locals near the dunes, or use your own gear. It's best to go sandboarding in the early morning and late afternoon when it is not too sunny and the sand is cooler.
Sandboarding in Phuong Mai Sand Dunes
For a more leisurely experience, walk across the dunes. The rolling, sweeping landscape is an idyllic and reflective atmosphere in which to become completely isolated from the world at large. Each step takes you across ever-shifting sands sculpted by the sea winds. It is a mild but invigorating exercise, and the optimal way to envelop yourself in the raw beauty of the region.
Dune hiking at Phuong Mai Sand Dunes
Photographers and social media influencers will never tire of the inspiration here. The shadows, curves, and colors of the dunes change drastically depending on the time of day. Capture golden-hour glows, sunset silhouettes, and broad wide-angle shots that convey the vastness of this desert-like landscape. Drones also shine here due to the open skies and the dramatic natural textures.
Photography at Phuong Mai Sand Dunes
For the ultimate outdoor experience, spend the night camping on the dunes. As the sun dips, the winds calm and the heat evaporates, giving way to cool, motionless conditions ideal for sleeping under the stars. Bring a tent, sleeping bags, snacks, and plenty of water. Light pollution is minimal, so the stargazing is amazing. Just be sure to observe eco-friendly practices by cleaning up thoroughly and leaving absolutely nothing behind.
Camping at Phuong Mai Sand Dunes
Phuong Mai Dunes are ideally located near several other stunning spots. Just minutes away, you can relax at Nhon Ly Beach, with its calm waters and local seafood restaurants. You can also visit Eo Gio, a rugged coastline with cliff tops, rock pools, and panoramic views, great for nature walks and snorkeling. A boat trip to Ky Co Beach offers a slice of tropical paradise with turquoise water, white sand, and vibrant coral reefs. All these activities can be combined with a dune visit to make a full-day or weekend excursion.
Nhon Ly beach
It is very simple to access Phuong Mai Sand Dunes, especially if you start from Quy Nhon city, the capital of Binh Dinh Province. The dunes are located about 20 kilometers northeast of the city center on the Nhon Ly Peninsula. The simplest way to get there is by motorbike or car, and they give you a choice to visit surrounding spots at your own leisure.
From the city, you drive on the Thi Nai Bridge, which is one of Vietnam's longest sea bridges and has breathtaking views as you drive over the Thi Nai Lagoon. After crossing the bridge, drive along the Quy Nhon–Nhon Hoi coastal road, which takes you to Nhon Ly commune in due course.
Travel by car to Phuong Mai Sand Dunes
Phuong Mai Sand Dunes offer one of Central Vietnam's most powerful offbeat activities in which nature and adrenaline-driven adventure blend. Whether you're cutting through the sands at top speed, having a soulful hike with buddies, or simply resting under a million stars, the dunes promise lifelong memories. Book your Phuong Mai Sand Dunes trip with Asia King Travel today and enjoy our exclusive packages including dune boarding, island hopping to Ky Co and Eo Gio, beach meals, and more.