The White Sand Dunes just outside of Mui Ne are one of Vietnam’s charming geological oddities.
Although most people visit the White Dunes on a tour, getting there yourself is pretty straightforward. Going at your own pace allows for a deeper appreciation of the area, time for a picnic, excitement sledding down the hot slopes, and an interesting day away from the beach.
Getting There
Outside of being extorted by a long-distance taxi, there are three options for reaching the sand dunes near Mui Ne: tour jeep, bicycle, and motorbike. Each transportation method comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages — choose what works best for you.
By Jeep Tour
Beautifully battered and restored army jeeps ply the tourist stretch throughout Mui Ne. These jeeps can be hired for four-hour tours that cover both sets of dunes, the fairy stream, and occasionally the fishing village. Jeeps usually depart at 5 a.m. for sunrise in the dunes or 2 p.m. to catch the sunset. However, with group tours, you relinquish control over how much time to spend at each attraction. It’s advisable to choose certified guides or arrange through your accommodation to avoid frustrating surprises.
By Bicycle
Depending on your starting point along the tourist strip, the Red Dunes are approximately six miles away — an enjoyable cycling trip for anyone moderately fit. The Fairy Stream, about three miles from the tourist strip, lies along the route.
Although it’s possible to cycle to the White Dunes, it may not be very enjoyable. The first half of the 22-mile journey is fairly easy; however, strong winds along the coastal road and steep grades may have you wishing for a motor!
By Motorbike
Riding motorbikes on the slightly chaotic roads in Vietnam isn’t for the faint-hearted. Nevertheless, the thrill of a near-death experience is soon overshadowed by sheer, exhilarating freedom paired with stunning scenery. Traffic along the coastal road outside of town is minimal; the road is flat and straight, making it approachable for novices. Fully automatic motorbikes can be rented through your accommodation, while manual motorbikes are typically cheaper if gear changes are feasible for you.
Directions
Most free tourist maps found around Mui Ne serve more as advertisements than accurate guides. To the delight of tour operators, very few maps provide correct directions to the White Dunes. Getting there is relatively straightforward, though a lack of signage may mislead you from the right path.
Prepare for a memorable ride!
- Begin by heading southwest — the beach will be on your right — along the tourist stretch into Mui Ne village; pass Joe’s Art Cafe on the left and Pogo Club farther down on the right. If signs start turning to a mix of Russian and English, you are going the wrong way!
- The Fairy Stream is easy to miss; reach it via a rough path on the left side of the first small bridge you cross. Continue past the charming fishing port on the right, then turn left at the large Christian church on the left.
- Drive to the end of the road and turn left at the traffic signal. Soon after, you’ll encounter a roundabout; take the first exit to the right. The picturesque Red Dunes will be visible on your left; it’s necessary to pay 25 cents or purchase a drink to park at one of the nearby cafes.
- Continue on the coastal road for most of your journey, passing through the small town and newly constructed resorts. When the coastal road ends, turn left and go uphill, ignoring grassy sand dunes on your right.
- Pass the only petrol station on your right and then take the first red-clay road on your right; there will be a sign indicating you’re near the White Dunes. The dirt road is rocky and rough — precisely what a motorbike driver dreads. Keep going until the sprawling lake appears on your left. Don’t worry if the White Dunes seem distant; the road eventually curves around the lake and leads you to the parking area.
Parking for the White Dunes costs a flat 25 cents; be sure to lock your motorbike! A small footpath departs from the left side of the parking area, leading you through a park with cafes and beautiful strands of pine trees, ultimately guiding you to the sand.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider renting a sled before leaving the area; options are unavailable once inside the dunes.
If you happen to get lost, ask a local for Bau Trang, which translates to “White Lake” in Vietnamese — good luck with the tones!
Visiting the Fairy Stream
Often referred to as the Fairy Springs, most visitors include this stop when heading to the Mui Ne Sand Dunes. An inconspicuous bridge along the main road into town, well before reaching the fishing port, marks the entrance to this attraction.
Park your motorbike or bicycle at the cafe on the left for 25 cents, then proceed down the rough path. The intriguing aroma originates from large clay pots of fermenting fish sauce — a Mui Ne specialty — found on the right. The footpath meanders between houses where children may offer to guide you for a fee. However, a guide is unnecessary; just continue until the path ends at a muddy stream.
Once there, you can walk up the ankle-deep stream or take the steeper path to the right. Many choose to complete a loop and return by walking in the soft sand of the stream. Despite the enchanting name, the standout features here are simply a few rock formations and a small canyon.
