Coastal path boosts tourism at Vietnam’s south-central island

Located in O Loan Commune, Dak Lak Province, formerly part of old Tuy An District in former Phu Yen Province before a recent administrative merger, Hon Yen is known for its natural rock formations and coastal views. 

Since the embankment was completed two years ago, daily visitor numbers have surged, with hundreds of people arriving as early as 4:30 am to view the sunrise and take photos.

Photos and videos of the site have gained popularity on platforms such as TikTok and Facebook, showing the road's curves leading toward the sea and people capturing sunrise silhouettes.

"I saw a review on TikTok and decided to wake up at 4:00 am to see it myself," said Nguyen Thi Khanh Lien, 18, a visitor from southern Dong Nai Province. 

"It's even more beautiful in person than what I saw online."

Another visitor, Ta Quang Nhut, 18, from Ho Chi Minh City, said this was his second visit. 

"The first time I came just to see Hon Yen. This time I heard there's a new road, so I came back," he said.

Local 17-year-old Ho Cam Tu, who brought two friends to take photos, said she had watched the area evolve before and after the embankment was built. 

"I hope it stays clean and cool so everyone can enjoy it," she said.

Photographer Thanh Nhan, who shared early images of the site in 2023, said he discovered the road while on a walk and posted photos in travel groups. 

"There were mixed reactions at first," he said. 

"But now it has become a must-visit spot for those coming to Hon Yen."

During summer low tides, a natural path connecting neighboring Hon Sun, or Sun Island, and Hon Yen emerges, allowing visitors to walk across the seabed and view coral reefs, sea cucumbers, urchins, and starfish.

The island also offers community-based tourism experiences, including basket boat rides, lobster farming visits, seafood tasting, and hiking to viewpoints above Hon Yen.

Hon Yen was designated a national scenic site by Vietnam's Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism in 2018.