Hien Phung

The sprawling coastline of Van Phong Bay is cradled by pristine forests. The bay boasts many islands and peninsulas, endowed with diverse flora and fauna both in the forest and under the sea.

Provincial Road 651 leads to the North Van Phong Economic Zone

On an early September day, Van Phong Bay welcomed us with refreshing sea breezes and comfortably cool weather. It was the end of the dry season, so the weather was beautiful, the sea crystal clear, and the sky high and immense. With only light waves during our boat trip to the bay, none of us got seasick, allowing us to fully enjoy the infinite sky and deeply inhale the rich salty sea air. The natural scenery unfolded before our eyes in vibrant and lively hues, constantly changing with the clouds, mountains, and the sea.

The largest bay in Khanh Hoa province, Van Phong Bay stands in stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of modern life, preserving its pristine wilderness. We were especially eager to visit Diep Son – a cluster of sheltered islands within Van Phong Bay. Diep Son comprises a chain of three islets, including Hon Bip, Hon Qua, and Hon O. From Van Gia Port, the boat ride took only 30 minutes. We glided through the deep blue sea over gentle waves to reach Hon O, also known as “Reclining Buddha Island”. From Hon O, one can travel to Hon Qua and then continue to Hon Bip by walking on a white sandy path that emerges from the sea.

Here, each day witnesses an extraordinary natural spectacle. When the tide rises, the path hides beneath an expanse of azure water. Yet when the tide ebbs, a stretch of smooth sand emerges, bisecting the sea. Due to the influence of two ocean currents, one side is warm while the other remains cool. We arrived on the island just before the full moon, when the tide was low around midday. The sandy path connecting the three islets gradually unveiled itself as if by magic. The clear azure water shimmered under the sunlight, so transparent that we could spot tiny crabs foraging on the sandy bottom.

The sandy path on Diep Son Island

Strolling along the soft, white sandy path, the cool water gently caressed my bare feet, as schools of small fish frolicked nearby. It was thrilling to feel as though I was crossing the vast sea.

At noon, when the water level receded, I laid down in a gently swaying hammock over the water, tuning into the murmuring whispers of the waves, like a soothing lullaby.

The islanders were incredibly warm and friendly, guiding us to potential camping spots for overnight stays, and reminding us to place advance orders so they could prepare meals from freshly-caught seafood.

By spending the night on Diep Son Island, we were able to appreciate its beauty from various perspectives and at different times, both at dawn and dusk. The sunrise was truly unforgettable, with gentle rays of light spreading across the water’s vast surface and turning the waves glittering shades of gold that spread across the sea.

With its warm and tranquil water, Van Phong Bay is ideal for scuba diving. The bay is home to a diverse coral ecosystem. Large coral reefs stand out in a riot of sizes and vibrant colors. Many coral reefs are located just a few meters deep, offering visitors easy views. The deeper you dive or the further you swim, the more vividly a whole forest of undersea coral unfolds before your eyes.

We continued to test our mettle with lively and vigorous experiences like surfing and kayaking. Enthralled by these simple means of exploring the sea and islands, we joyfully surfed and paddled like playful children. When fatigue set in, we switched to fishing and sunbathing.

Relishing the tranquility of nature, I surrendered my soul to the crystal-clear water, which reflected the azure sky and drifting clouds. Captivated by the allure of Van Phong Bay, I will surely return to this serene place.