Why Vietnam is a Top Destination for Mature Western Travelers?
Vietnam is a land of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality. For mature travelers from the US and Europe aged 35 to 60, the country offers a perfect balance of comfort, culture, and adventure. Beyond the busy cities and tourist hubs, destinations like Tan Phung Fishing Village provide a tranquil escape where time slows down. These travelers often seek authenticity, meaningful connections, and cultural depth — all of which Vietnam tourism delivers with grace.
Introducing Tan Phung: The Coastal Gem of Binh Dinh Province
Located in My Thọ commune, Phu My district, Binh Dinh province, Tan Phung Fishing Village is an untouched coastal gem about 70 kilometers north of Quy Nhon city. It lies along Vietnam’s south-central coast and is known for its unspoiled landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and proximity to Mui Vi Rong (Dragon Fin Cape) — a striking rock formation resembling a dragon jutting into the sea. Unlike popular destinations such as Hoi An or Da Nang, Tan Phung is not a quick hop away but rather a purposeful detour for those seeking peace and authenticity.
Tan Phung is steeped in legend. Locals tell of Cao Bien, a Tang dynasty general and feng shui master, who allegedly tried to sever the village’s dragon vein — a line of powerful earth energy — by splitting the rock that is now Mui Vi Rong. When he struck the cliff, red stones spilled onto the beach, said to be infused with ancient power. Some villagers believe these stones still bring luck and protection, and you may still find one glinting underfoot on the sands after the tide recedes.
The easiest way to reach Tan Phung is by flying into Phu Cat Airport in Quy Nhon, then taking a 1.5 to 2-hour drive along National Highway 1A or DT640 to reach the village. Although it is about 330 kilometers south of Da Nang, Tan Phung offers an experience that contrasts entirely with urban Vietnam — quieter, slower, and far more rooted in tradition.
Life in Tan Phung: Fishing, Family, and the Flow of the Sea
Tan Phung is home to generations of fishermen whose lives are interwoven with the rhythms of the sea. Each morning, just as the sun begins to rise, villagers head out to sea in basket boats or small wooden vessels. By mid-morning, the shoreline transforms into a bustling market, with women sorting and selling fresh seafood like squid, snapper, mackerel, and shrimp.
A highlight of Tan Phung is its close proximity to Mui Vi Rong - a geological wonder where waves crash against layered rock in dramatic fashion. At sunrise and sunset, the area becomes a canvas of golden light and deep shadows, a favorite for photographers and nature lovers. The cliffside is also a spiritual space for local fishermen, who often leave offerings to sea spirits for protection and bounty.
Dragon Fin Cave
Visitors can stay in local homestays, many of which are run by multi-generational families. Meals often consist of ocean-fresh ingredients, simple yet flavorful - banh xeo hai san (seafood pancake), ca hap cuon banh trang (steamed fish wrapped in rice paper) and chao ca (fish congee) are local favorites. During festivals like Tet Nguyen Dan or the Whale Worship Festival (Le hoi Cau Ngu), the village lights up with traditional performances, lion dances, and rituals that honor both ancestors and the sea.
The Whale Worship Festival, held in April of the lunar calendar, is particularly moving. Fishermen pray to Ong Nam Hai - the whale deity - who is believed to protect those at sea. Colorful boats are paraded offshore, offerings are made, and drums echo through the village. Travelers lucky enough to witness it often describe it as a spiritual immersion unlike any other.
Summer in Tan Phung: A Living Tapestry of Coastal Life
From May to July, Tan Phung reveals a lesser-known side of its charm. This is the season when the sea is calm, the skies clear, and the beaches transform into open-air drying grounds. Dozens of large bamboo racks stretch along the shore, layered with anchovies and mackerel that glisten under the sun.
It’s not a spectacle curated for tourists - it’s real life in motion. You can walk among the drying nets, ask questions, even help sort the fish if you’re curious. The smell of the sea mingles with the briny scent of fresh catch, and everything about the scene invites pause, observation, and appreciation.
For the adventurous, a short boat ride will take you to Hon Tranh, a small uninhabited islet just offshore. With its quiet beaches, crystal waters, and minimal footprints, it’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply lying under the sun with a book. There are no vendors here, no queues - just the rhythm of waves and the occasional seabird.
Hon Tranh
Traveling during this “low season” comes with rewards: fewer crowds, authentic interactions, and the chance to witness traditions like fish drying and net weaving that fade into the background during peak months. It’s an invitation to see Vietnam not as a performance, but as a living, breathing culture.
Why Tan Phung Stands Out in Vietnam Tourism Map
What makes Tan Phung special is not only its scenery but the integrity of its way of life. This is not a village built for tourists - it is a village that welcomes respectful guests into its fold. Tourists can learn to fish with locals, take part in fish-drying or net-repairing sessions, and even help cook meals using traditional methods.
Another advantage is its calmness. Unlike crowded coastal cities, Tan Phung has no noisy nightlife or fast-food chains. Instead, the evenings are quiet, filled with the sounds of the ocean and children playing under the soft glow of fishing boat lanterns offshore. For Western travelers seeking a digital detox or cultural immersion, this simplicity is the village’s true luxury.
A True Escape from Mass Tourism
Unlike Hoi An or Da Nang, which attract millions of tourists annually, Tan Phung remains beautifully under the radar. There are no boutique hotels or tour buses here — only the wind in the palms and the murmur of the sea. For travelers who want to reconnect with nature and culture without distraction, Tan Phung is not just a destination; it is a retreat for the soul.
Practical Tips for Visiting Tan Phung
- Best time to visit: February to May (dry season, mild temperatures). Avoid September to November (storm season).
- Getting around: Rent a car in Quy Nhơn or arrange pickup with homestay hosts. Local roads are small but paved.
- What to bring: Sun protection, mosquito repellent, comfortable footwear, some cash (ATMs are scarce), and a translation app.
- Language barrier: English is limited, but locals are patient and welcoming. A few Vietnamese greetings go a long way.
A Coastal Sanctuary Worth Discovering
Tan Phung Fishing Village isn’t a destination that appears on the average travel blog — and that’s precisely its magic. For travelers who want to dive deeper into Vietnam’s essence, connect with warm-hearted people, and enjoy nature in its purest form, Tan Phung is a rare treasure. As Vietnam tourism evolves, it is villages like this that preserve the country’s soul. Come for the stories, stay for the legends, and leave with a heart full of unforgettable memories. More than photos or souvenirs, what you’ll bring back from Tan Phung is a feeling — of being welcomed, of slowing down, of truly seeing Vietnam. Perhaps you’ll carry a red stone gifted by a fisherman, or a recipe shared by a grandmother. But more likely, you’ll carry something less tangible and far more lasting: a deep appreciation for simplicity, for stories whispered in sea air, and for the power of place. Contact us - trusted Vietnam Local Tour Company for more information!
