Dong Hoi is a city in Quang Binh province, 45 km from Phong Nha Ke Bang. Located right on the coast, the Nhat Le River flows through the heart of the city. Traveling to Dong Hoi city is an attractive experience you shouldn’t miss when planning to visit Phong Nha National Park. This post is a comprehensive guide to the top things to do in Dong Hoi, ensuring an unforgettable visit.
1. When is the best time to visit Dong Hoi?
Weather in Quang Binh Province
Quang Binh province experiences a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The weather varies significantly throughout the year, influencing the best times to visit and engage in outdoor activities.
Dry Season (April to September): From April to September, Quang Binh enjoys its dry season. The weather is generally warm to hot, with temperatures ranging between 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). April and May are particularly pleasant, with moderate temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it an excellent time to visit. June to August can be hotter, ideal for beach activities at Nhat Le Beach and exploring the sand dunes.
Wet Season (October to March): The wet season spans from October to March, bringing frequent and sometimes heavy rainfall. During this period, temperatures are cooler, averaging between 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F). While the rain can disrupt travel plans, it also enhances the lushness of the landscape, making it a good time for visiting caves and enjoying the verdant scenery.
Dong Hoi city is located in the central coastal area of Vietnam, so it is affected by weather conditions like storms, rain, and floods. From September to November, the rainy and stormy season begins, often with widespread and prolonged rain, peaking from October to November. Traveling to the beach during this time may impact your trip, affecting both transportation and outdoor activities.
The most popular time to visit Dong Hoi city is during the summer, from May to September. During this period, the sea is calmer and clearer, making it ideal for fun activities and taking beautiful, shimmering photos by the sea.
Overall, the best time to visit Quang Binh province is during the dry season, particularly from April to May, when the weather is most favorable for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
2. Things to do in Dong Hoi
2.1. Nhat Le Beach
Nhat Le Beach features pure white sand, crystal-clear blue water, and a tranquil atmosphere that provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The beach is immaculately clean, with shining sand that seems to sparkle under the sunlight. Known for its expansive and vast sky, which stretches endlessly, the beach offers a windy atmosphere that brings a refreshing breeze. The blue water is incredibly inviting and offers a perfect setting for swimming. Additionally, the beach is an excellent spot for sunbathing, where one can relax and soak in the rays, as well as unwinding, offering a serene environment to simply sit back and enjoy the natural beauty around.
2.2. Dong Hoi Citadel
Visiting Dong Hoi Citadel is a must. This complex of high walls and towers formed a fortress that protected the kings and the capital of the Nguyen Dynasty since 1630. The citadel is 1.5 km from Nhat Le Beach. Built in 1812 and rebuilt in 1824 by King Minh Mang into an invincible star-shaped fortress, it was renovated in 1842 by King Thieu Tri. Today, the beautiful Dong Hoi Citadel stands as an honorable symbol of the brave country, attracting visitors from around the world.
2.3. Tam Toa Church
Tam Toa Church holds special significance for Catholics in Vietnam. Built in 1887 in Portuguese style, it features a large bell tower and is considered one of the most beautiful churches in the city. Heavily damaged during the war, only the facade and bell tower remain. In 1996, Quang Binh province designated the church remains as a “memorial site” to be preserved and protected, serving as a reminder of the war’s impact.
2.4. Me Suot Statue
For history enthusiasts, visiting the Mother Suot statue is a must. During the Vietnam War, Me Suot, a 60-year-old woman, volunteered as a ferryman, transporting officers, wounded soldiers, and weapons across the Nhat Le River. Despite the increasing intensity of the war and bombing campaigns from 1964 to 1966, she never gave up. She died in 1968 after a bombardment. In 2003, a statue was inaugurated in her honor, symbolizing the bravery of the people of Quang Binh and Vietnamese women in general. The statue stands at the ferry wharf, overlooking the Nhat Le River.
2.5. Bàu Tró Lake
Bau Tro is a freshwater lake between the sand dunes and Nhat Le Beach, just 100m away. Not only is it beautiful with its natural scenery, but it’s also the only freshwater source for Dong Hoi Town. The lake stands out among numerous saltwater beaches and is an archaeological site with ancient Vietnamese relics. In summer, when water levels drop, the lake looks like a giant footprint.
2.6. Quang Phú Sand Dunes
Quang Binh boasts not only beautiful beaches but also vast white sand dunes that stretch across the horizon. One of the most notable attractions is the Quang Phu Sand Dunes, where the crystal white sands shine brilliantly under the sun. These dunes are complemented by sandy grasslands that run along the picturesque coastline, creating a stunning natural landscape. Visitors to this area can partake in thrilling sand sliding games, using simple boards to navigate the slopes of the dunes. This activity offers a new sense of relaxation and adventure, making it a unique and memorable experience for all who visit.
How to get to Quang Phu Sand Dunes?: from the center of Dong Hoi city, visitors can travel along Tran Hung Dao street, turn onto Nguyen Du street, then continue through Truong Phap street and turn left to reach this tourist destination. Quang Phu Dong Hoi sand hill is about 7km from Dong Hoi Quang Binh market, only about 5km from Nhat Le beach, very convenient for combining schedules.
Ticket price: Quang Phu sand hill is open for free, however, there is a skateboard rental service here at a price of 30,000 VND/board/2 hours. Visitors can experience this service to have the most complete trip.
2.7. Dong Hoi Night Market
Located along the Nhat Le River, Dong Hoi Night Market is a popular spot for both locals and tourists to enjoy street food, drinks, and entertainment. The market has spacious stalls selling local specialties and souvenirs, making it a great place to experience Dong Hoi’s culture and flavors. The market is open daily from 4 pm to midnight.
3. How to get to Dong Hoi?
Dong Hoi city lies in the center of Vietnam and is strategically located on the A1 highway, which stretches from Hanoi to Ca Mau. This prime location makes it exceptionally easy to access. Whether you are traveling from the bustling capital of Hanoi or the southern tip of Ca Mau, reaching Dong Hoi is convenient. The city is well-connected and accessible from various other places, enhancing its appeal as a travel destination.
By train: Dong Hoi is a popular stop on the North-South railway. It takes 10 hours to Hanoi, 3 hours to Hue, and 23 hours to Ho Chi Minh City. From Dong Hoi station, it’s only about 3 km to the city center, easily accessible by taxi or other means. Train travel is popular for its safety, convenience, and affordability, though journey times can be long.
By bus: Located on National Highway 1A, finding buses to Dong Hoi is easy for tourists. While bus travel times can be lengthy, it offers a unique sleeper service experience. Bus prices vary by departure point but are generally affordable and easy to book.
Passenger buses are a popular and economical means of transport chosen by many people when traveling to Dong Hoi city. There are various types of buses such as sleeper buses or premium limousines from different bus companies. Nowadays, the buses are equipped with modern, spacious, and clean facilities.
- From Hanoi to Dong Hoi, Quang Binh, there are bus companies such as: Thuan Hien Bus, Ha Quang Bus, Co Huong Travel,… ticket prices range from 250,000 – 280,000 VND/ticket.
- From Da Nang to Dong Hoi, Quang Binh, there are bus companies such as: Hai Ha, Hanh Luyen, Trung Tin,… ticket prices range from 125,000 – 200,000 VND/ticket.
- From Saigon to Dong Hoi, Quang Binh, there are bus companies such as: Tin Nghia, A Ba, Hoang Ha,… ticket prices range from 550,000 – 700,000 VND/ticket.
During holidays/festivals, ticket prices can increase by 1.5 times compared to the regular price.
By plane: For those short on time, flying is a great choice. However, flight options to Dong Hoi are limited, so plan accordingly.
For those who are far away and need to travel quickly, flying to Dong Hoi airport is the best option.
Currently, Dong Hoi Airport has many airlines serving passengers from provinces such as Hanoi and Saigon.
Ticket prices range from 500 thousand to 1.6 million VND per one-way trip, depending on the type of seat and flight time.
To get a good price when traveling to Nhat Le Beach, plan ahead and hunt for plane tickets a few months in advance. The price will be much better compared to booking tickets close to the departure date.
By motorbike: For the adventurous, exploring Vietnam by motorbike is unforgettable. With driving skills and caution, you can conquer the iconic S-shaped road at your own pace.
By private car: For those traveling from nearby provinces, a private car offers flexibility and convenience. Unlike public transport, there’s no waiting or delays, and you can stop to visit places along the way.
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Unlike public transport, private car or chauffer services is no need to adhere to a fixed schedule, so you won’t experience waiting times or delays. Additionally, having your own vehicle allows you the freedom to stop and visit various places of interest along the way, whether it’s a scenic viewpoint, a cozy café, or an interesting landmark. Hura Cars offer prive car from nearby city:I trust this guide on things to do in Dong Hoi will help with your visit. Dong Hoi offers stunning beaches, historical sites, delicious cuisine, and beautiful natural landscapes, making it the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. It’s an ideal destination for an authentic and unforgettable vacation.