Check out this picturesque freshwater lagoon near the sea in central Vietnam

In recent years, An Khe Lagoon has become a popular destination, particularly among young travelers, for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), camping and photography.

Few people would expect to find a nearly 350-hectare freshwater lagoon surrounded by lush greenery right next to the Sa Huynh coast.

One of the lagoon's most attractive areas is Bai Dua on its northeastern side.

Coconut trees grow along the water's edge, interspersed with wide grasslands and clear waterways, creating an open space ideal for outdoor activities.

On weekends and in the late afternoon, groups of young visitors often bring tents, paddle SUPs, admire the scenery and take photos.

An Khe Lagoon is connected to the sea by the three-kilometer-long Cua Lo channel.

As afternoon falls, the lagoon becomes livelier, with local residents paddling SUPs and children playing, while herds of buffaloes and cattle return from a day of grazing.

Flocks of egrets, cormorants and other birds also gather on the grasslands and among trees along the lagoon to feed and seek shelter.

Vo Anh Duc from Da Nang City said he learned about An Khe Lagoon through social media and decided to bring his family there.

“The wide expanse of water, coconut trees and grasslands offer many beautiful spots for photos. The open space is also very suitable for spending time with family,” Duc said.

Bui Thi Kieu Oanh from Gia Lai Province, who was visiting Quang Ngai for the first time, said she was impressed by the lagoon's relatively pristine landscape.

“Paddling a SUP board on the lagoon in the afternoon was the most memorable experience. The cool air and vast open space made it very relaxing,” she said.

In addition to its scenic beauty, An Khe Lagoon is home to many bird species.

During the dry season, cormorants, egrets and other birds can often be seen on the grasslands and along the water's edge looking for food.

Local residents said they do not hunt wild birds in an effort to preserve the area's natural ecosystem.

An Khe Lagoon is also considered the core area of the Sa Huynh culture.

Since the early 20th century, archaeologists have discovered numerous archaeological sites around the lagoon, helping establish that the area was once home to ancient Sa Huynh communities.

Today, thanks to its scenic landscape and outdoor recreational activities, An Khe Lagoon is emerging as a new destination for tourism in Quang Ngai.