DT716 Coastal Drive Mui Ne Bau Trang
Experience Vietnam's surreal desert landscape at Bau Trang's vast white sand dunes and serene 'White Lake'.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds
DT716 Coastal Drive Mui Ne Bau Trang
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience Vietnam's surreal desert landscape at Bau Trang's vast white sand dunes and serene 'White Lake'.
"A truly magical and iconic spot in Vietnam that deserves to be on every traveler’s bucket list."
🚗 Rent a Motorbike
Enjoy a scenic coastal ride to the dunes. Easy to find rentals in Mui Ne. :motorcycle:
💰 ATV Rental Warning
Many find ATV rentals a scam. Guides control the vehicle. Consider walking or jeep tours. :warning:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vast White Sand Dunes
Bau Trang
Endless rolling dunes create a surreal desert landscape against the blue sky and sea.
The "White Lake"
Bau Trang
A serene lake nestled amidst the dunes, reflecting the sky and wind turbines.
Wind Turbine Views
Coastal road to Bau Trang
Iconic wind turbines dot the landscape along the scenic coastal drive.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
ATV Rental Caution
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Rent a Motorbike
Enjoy a scenic coastal ride to the dunes. Easy to find rentals in Mui Ne. :motorcycle:
💰 ATV Rental Warning
Many find ATV rentals a scam. Guides control the vehicle. Consider walking or jeep tours. :warning:
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The southern dunes are taller, cleaner, and ideal for capturing stunning photos. :camera:
💧 Stay Hydrated
It gets very hot, especially midday. Bring plenty of water or buy from kiosks. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rent a Motorbike
Enjoy a scenic coastal ride to the dunes. Easy to find rentals in Mui Ne. :motorcycle:
💰 ATV Rental Warning
Many find ATV rentals a scam. Guides control the vehicle. Consider walking or jeep tours. :warning:
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The southern dunes are taller, cleaner, and ideal for capturing stunning photos. :camera:
💧 Stay Hydrated
It gets very hot, especially midday. Bring plenty of water or buy from kiosks. :droplet:
🚶♀️ Walk the Dunes
Exploring the dunes on foot is just as fun and offers great views. :athletic_shoe:
🌅 Sunset Magic
The late afternoon light creates a magical atmosphere for exploring. :city_sunset:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bau Trang is lauded for its breathtaking white sand dunes and serene "White Lake," offering a unique desert-like landscape in Vietnam. Visitors love the scenic coastal drive and the photographic opportunities. However, many warn about overpriced and frustrating ATV rental experiences where guides control the vehicles.
"For those who love outdoor activities. Lots of tourists because of school holidays in Vietnam. The weather is really hot since we went there in midday."
man aq
"My wife and I rented a motorbike in Mui Ne (about 200 k VND plus 40 k for fuel) and enjoyed a gorgeous coastal ride to the sand dunes. The entrance is just 10 k for parking and 15 k to get in.
Once inside, you’ll find two small kiosks selling snacks and drinks, plus jeep or ATV rentals for around 500 k (though I found walking the dunes just as fun).
The first area hugs a beautiful lake with wind turbines on the far shore, and the southern dunes are taller and a bit of a hike but super clean and perfect for photos.
Exploring both spots on foot, soaking up the views, and snapping endless pics made for a unique little adventure just outside Mui Ne
I highly recommend it!"
Ekky Priyambodo
"Bau Trang, often called the “White Lake” of Binh Thuan, is truly a breathtaking destination that deserves a full 5-star rating. The natural scenery here is stunning, with endless white sand dunes stretching under the bright blue sky, creating a picturesque view that feels both majestic and peaceful. The lake in the middle of the dunes adds a unique charm, reflecting the clouds and making the whole landscape even more magical. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as sandboarding, riding ATVs across the dunes, or simply walking around to take in the beauty and capture incredible photos. The atmosphere is quiet and refreshing, far from the hustle of the city, making it an ideal place to relax and reconnect with nature. What makes Bau Trang even more special is the combination of desert-like landscapes and serene waters, something rare in Vietnam. The locals are friendly, and services like renting vehicles or tour guides are easily accessible, making the trip convenient and enjoyable. Overall, Bau Trang offers an unforgettable experience and is absolutely worth visiting at least once in a lifetime. A truly magical and iconic spot in Vietnam that deserves to be on every traveler’s bucket list."
Mạnh Cường
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way is to rent a motorbike in Mui Ne, which costs around 200,000 VND plus fuel. The drive itself is a beautiful coastal ride. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi or join a jeep tour.
Bau Trang is located about 20-30 kilometers north of Mui Ne. The journey by motorbike typically takes around 30-45 minutes, offering scenic views along the way.
While direct buses to Bau Trang are less common, you can take a local bus heading north from Mui Ne and ask the driver to drop you off near the turn-off for the sand dunes. From there, you might need a short taxi or motorbike ride.
For photography, renting a motorbike offers the most flexibility to stop at scenic points along the coastal road, including the wind turbines, before reaching the dunes.
Yes, many tour operators in Mui Ne offer jeep tours that include Bau Trang. These tours often combine the sand dunes with other local attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Bau Trang is very affordable, typically around 15,000 VND per person. There's also a small parking fee if you arrive by motorbike or car.
No, tickets are usually purchased on-site at the entrance to the sand dune area. It's a simple process, and advance booking is not necessary.
Bau Trang is generally accessible throughout the day, but it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and the best experience. Early morning and late afternoon are recommended.
Some tour operators offer package deals that include transportation, ATV or jeep rides, and sometimes sandboarding. Check with local tour agencies in Mui Ne.
The main entrance fee covers access to the sand dunes and the general area. Specific activities like ATV rentals or sandboarding have separate charges.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning offers soft, golden light and fewer crowds, perfect for capturing the dunes' textures. Late afternoon provides dramatic shadows and beautiful sunset colors.
The southern dunes are taller and less crowded, offering expansive views. The area around the 'White Lake' with wind turbines in the background also makes for iconic shots.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or tour operators beforehand to ensure compliance and avoid any issues.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the dunes. Consider a telephoto lens for details and a polarizing filter to enhance the blue sky and reduce glare.
Yes, you can often find local photographers offering their services, especially near the main tourist areas. They can help you capture professional-looking shots.
🎫 🚗 Activities & Rentals
Popular activities include sandboarding (renting a board is cheap), riding ATVs across the dunes, and exploring on foot. The scenic drive to Bau Trang is also an activity in itself.
ATV rental prices can be high, often starting around 500,000 VND for 20 minutes, though bargaining is possible. However, many visitors report dissatisfaction with the experience due to guides controlling the vehicle.
Yes, sandboarding is a popular activity. You can rent a sandboard for a small fee, often just a few tens of thousands of VND, and slide down the dunes.
Many visitors find walking the dunes enjoyable and free. Jeep tours are also available, offering a guided experience across the sands.
Jeep tours are a common option for exploring the sand dunes. They offer a more structured way to experience the landscape compared to individual ATV rentals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and hats. The entrance fee is minimal, and while ATV rentals can be pricey and problematic, walking the dunes or enjoying the views from the lake area are great free options. The drive along the coast to get there is also visually engaging for kids.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness and a polarizing filter to enhance the sky. Be prepared for the heat and sand, and protect your gear accordingly. While ATVs offer access, the controlled driving experience might limit creative shots; walking or a jeep tour could offer more control for framing your perfect picture.
🚗 Adventure Seekers
The scenic motorbike ride to Bau Trang is also an adventure in itself, with winding coastal roads and stunning views. For a more structured adventure, consider a jeep tour that can navigate the more challenging sandy paths, offering a different perspective on the dunes.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the Sand Dunes
The visual appeal of Bau Trang is immense. The interplay of light and shadow across the undulating sand formations creates dramatic textures, especially during sunrise and sunset. The bright white sand reflects the sunlight, making the landscape appear almost otherworldly. This makes it a prime location for photographers seeking dramatic landscapes. The presence of the "White Lake" within the dunes adds another layer of beauty, offering a serene water element that complements the arid surroundings.
While the dunes themselves are the main draw, the journey to Bau Trang is also part of the experience. The coastal road leading to the dunes is scenic, often featuring picturesque views of the sea and the iconic Mui Ne wind turbines. This scenic approach enhances the anticipation and makes the arrival at the dunes even more rewarding.
Navigating ATV Rentals: A Word of Caution
This practice leaves many feeling frustrated and that they were essentially just a passenger on a guided tour they didn't fully sign up for. The inability to truly experience the power of the ATV or explore at one's own pace is a recurring complaint. While the intention might be safety or to showcase specific routes, the execution often leads to disappointment.
Given these experiences, travelers are advised to carefully consider ATV rentals. If the thrill of driving is paramount, it might be best to explore other options. Walking the dunes offers a more intimate connection with the landscape and is completely free. Alternatively, jeep tours provide a guided experience that might be more transparent about the level of control passengers have.
The Scenic Coastal Drive
As you approach Bau Trang, the landscape gradually transforms. The lush coastal vegetation gives way to rolling hills, and eventually, the first glimpses of the vast sand dunes appear. The sight of the wind turbines against the backdrop of the dunes and the sea is a particularly striking and photogenic scene. Many visitors make a point to stop and take photos of these unique landscapes.
This journey is not just about reaching a destination; it's about the experience of traversing a beautiful and diverse stretch of Vietnamese coastline. The fresh sea breeze, the open road, and the ever-changing scenery make the trip to Bau Trang a memorable part of the overall adventure.
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