Hon Rom Island, Phan Thiet: a Marvelous Island in a Coastal City
Hon Rom island, more than 20 kilometers from the city center, is one of the most visited tourist sites in Phan Thiet.
The island is praised not only for its breathtaking view, but also for its abundant activities, convenient location and incredible cuisine.
- Overview of Hon Rom Island
- Highlights of Hon Rom Island
- Activities to Try on Hon Rom Island
- What to Eat in Hon Rom?
- Nearby Attractions around Hon Rom
1. Overview of Hon Rom Island
Hon Rom (Rom Island) is a small island located in Mui Ne Ward, Phan Thiet City.
It is around 28 kilometers from the city center with a fairly accessible route.
The island features 17 kilometers of coastline, surrounded by lofty mountains, expanse of white sand and coconut forests.
Thanks to its unspoilt scenery, convenient location and various offers of services, Hon Rom has become a popular destination for both domestic and foreign tourists.
The position of Hon Rom makes it pretty easy to get to the area by motorbike or car.
The process of renting a motorbike in Phan Thiet is pretty straightforward. Just ask the receptionist from your accommodation and they will get the vehicle arranged in no time.
Otherwise, you may opt for a taxi to avoid the trouble of driving on your own.
The weather of Hon Rom is hot all year round, with temperature fluctuating around 27 and 32 degree celsius.
The dry season goes on from April to September, while the rain season starts from October and ends in March. During the rainy season, there may be sudden torrents, especially from September to November, which makes it an unsuitable time for travel.
The best time for visiting Hon Rom is around April and June, when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities and the seawater is at its best, clear,shallow and cool enough to swim in.
2. Highlights of Hon Rom Island
The word ‘Rom’ In Hon Rom means ‘Haystack’, which stems from the view of the island when seen from afar.
Upon the surrounding mountains of Hon Rom grows a special grass, which turns into a shade of yellow during summer.
The fishermen, observing the mountains from their drifting fishing boats, liken them with a giant pile of sundried straws.
The name triggers the curiosity of not only foreigners, but also natives who have been so familiar with the scene of straw-covered fields in the countryside of Vietnam.
The southern part of Vietnam has been internationally praised for owning some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and Hon Rom is no exception.
As you take your first step of velvet-smooth white sand, all of your senses are awakened by a distinct tropical ambience.
You hear the rustling of coconut leaves, the roaring sound of ocean waves.
Your eyes catch the sight of vast, sparkling blue sea and the faraway mountain range. Your nose is filled up with a unique aquatic scent: the synthesis of saline, seagrass and seashell.
Coming closer to the water, you will notice boulders in various sizes and shapes which have been carved by ocean waves.
In further distance, the sand dunes emerge, covered with desert shrubs and thorny cactus.
3. Activities to Try on Hon Rom Island
Diving in the Crystal Clear Ocean
Trying a Diverse Range of Watersports
Having a Campfire by the Sea
Going Offshore with the Locals
4. What to Eat in Hon Rom?
Like many seashore areas in Vietnam, the cuisine of Hon Rom is most famous for its fresh and affordable seafood.
The tasty dishes are offered by a wide range of seaside food stalls and restaurants, as well as vendors walking along the beach.
Here are our suggestions for must-try items if you are planning to eat in Hon Rom.
5. Nearby Attractions around Hon Rom
If you are planning for your visit in a limited amount of time, we recommend you include other attractions close to Hon Rom as well.
With just around 5 to 6 hours, you will discover all the representative destinations of Mui Ne.
1. Mui Ne Fishing Village
About 1 kilometer from Mui Ne Market, this is where you witness the daily life of fishermen in Mui Ne.
At dawn, the boats return from their fishing trip, drag their morning catch to the shore and then rest on the seashore waiting for their next departure.
The work of fishermen doesn’t stop there, after unloading their catch of fish, they have to sort it out and deliver it to the merchants.
Laborious as their job is, the fishermen always keep a bright smile on their face and greet visitors with absolute friendliness.
2. Bau Trang (White Sand Dunes)
65 kilometers from Phan Thiet City, Bau Trang is also known for the title of ‘The most beautiful lakeside road of Vietnam’.
The desert terrain of Bau Trang features vast sand dunes and two giant lakes with turquoise water.
Tourists may challenge themselves by driving on quad bikes, a four-wheeled vehicle specialized for desert terrain.
Alternatively, they can seek a tranquil time by sitting on a boat and admiring the stunning vista of lotuses blooming on the lake.
3. Doi Cat Bay (Red Sand Dunes)
Closer to Hon Rom, Doi Cat Bay appears in the brochure of almost any travel agencies in Binh Thuan.
The sand dunes are easily noticeable with its striking red sand, making them a popular choice of photographers.
However, the shape of the sand dunes may change remarkably at different times of the year, depending on the wind blowing over them, so it’s hard to pinpoint the perfect spot for your photos.
Therefore, take your time and experiment until you find the ideal corner. Sand sliding is another exciting activity at Doi Cat Bay, since it is not as steep as Bau Trang.
Just talk to the game operator, they will rent you a surfing board and show you the best places to sled on.
4. Suoi Tien Mui Ne (Mui Ne Fairy Stream)
Just a short distance from Hon Rom, the Fairy Stream is an extraordinary landscape that you need to explore.
The best way to travel along the Fairy Stream is by walking on the barefoot.
You will get the chance to wade through the ankle-deep water trail across the one-and-only canyon of Mui Ne, a combination of rock formations and silky smooth sand hills.
The Fairy Stream is waiting for you at the end of the route, as a reward for the persistent hiker.
With everything that the island has to offer, your travel to Mui Ne will not be completed without a visit to Hon Rom.
With all the infos and tips above, we hope you will have a delightful time in Hon Rom.