Ho Chi Minh To Mui Ne Transport Guide: Best Travel Options

Do you know how to get from Ho Chi Minh City to Mui Ne? This coastal journey is one of Vietnam’s most popular beach getaways, taking travelers from the bustling southern hub to golden dunes, palm-fringed beaches, and a laid-back fishing town.

Overview Of Ho Chi Minh To Mui Ne

Traveling from Ho Chi Minh to Mui Ne is a popular trip for local and international travelers alike. About 200 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City, Mui Ne is accessible and provides a nice break from the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City. Trains, buses, and private cars all offer easy access to the destination for a quick weekend getaway or even an extended time along the coast.

Many travelers choose to combine these two destinations to enjoy the best of both worlds – the busy culture, history, and street food of Ho Chi Minh City, or the sun-kissed beaches and sand dunes of Mui Ne. Then, considering the busy city against a quieter resort town, the trip is one of the best little journeys in southern Vietnam.

How Far Is It From Ho Chi Minh To Mui Ne?

The driving distance from Ho Chi Minh to Mui Ne is approximately 220 kilometers, taking about 4.5 to 6 hours. The main highway, named National Highway 1A, takes a relatively straight route, especially going through rural areas, small towns, as well as some scenic views along the way. This route can be preferred because it allows flexibility along the way.

If you’re taking a train, Ho Chi Minh to Phan Thiet is approximately 200 kilometers, and then another 30 kilometers to Mui Ne. The train ride can be a very comfortable ride because it provides a scenic view of the countryside of Vietnam. It would be easy to go from Phan Thiet train station to Mui Ne via a taxi, shuttle bus, or a car, which would take about 40 minutes to reach the beach resort areas as well as the sand dunes.

How To Get From Ho Chi Minh To Mui Ne?

There are many ways to go from Ho Chi Minh City to Mui Ne, making travel quite convenient. It can be conducted through train, bus, private car, or motorbike, depending on personal preference. All of these alternatives can be taken along the southern coast.

By Train And Transfer

Traveling by train from Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon Station) to Phan Thiet is one of the most picturesque and comfortable methods of getting to Mui Ne. This distance will take you about 3 hours and 45 minutes, covering 185 kilometers. Although there is no train that runs directly to Mui Ne, you can make arrangements to either take a taxi, shuttle bus, or motorcycle taxi after you get off at Phan Thiet station to finish the remaining 30-40 kilometers to Mui Ne.

At the moment, there are two trains running every day from Ho Chi Minh to Phan Thiet- SPT1 which leaves at 6:40 AM, and SPT4, which leaves at 7:25 AM. The train fare will cost around 170,000 to 400,000 VND, depending on the type of seat you choose and accommodation upgrades. Buses to Mui Ne are available for about 30,000 VND per person onboard the train, saving you time once you’ve arrived. The best way to have a smooth transfer is to avoid getting off at Muong Man Station, as it is a long distance from Phan Thiet City.

• Duration: 4 – 5 hours by train and 45 minutes transfer
• Cost: 160,000 – 250,000 VND for the train and transfer fee
• Best for: Travelers who enjoy comfort and views along the way

By Limousine Buses

Limousine buses can be a very good option for people looking for convenience on the route from Ho Chi Minh City to Mui Ne. The limousine buses have spacious leather seats, some of which can recline as well as have a massage feature. It would take roughly 4.5 to 5 hours.

Most limousine bus companies operate on fixed timetables, so it is always possible to rely on their services, even in high travel seasons. For a relatively low price starting from 250,000 VND per person, a limousine bus is an excellent travel option, as it combines comfort, functionality, and guarantees a smooth ride to the Mui Ne coast.

• Duration: 4.5 – 6 hours
• Cost: 200,000 – 350,000 VND
• Best for: Budget travelers, solo travelers, or anyone seeking a straightforward ride

By Private Car Or Motorbike

Taking a private car from Ho Chi Minh to Mui Ne is one of the fastest and most flexible ways to travel to this beach destination. The distance from Ho Chi Minh City to Mui Ne is a little over 200-240 kilometers, depending on the route you take, and it takes about 4.5-5 hours to get there. If you take the expressway, it is a smooth ride, but you can also take the coastal route, driving through Binh Chau, Lagi, and Ke Ga Cape, which is a beautiful drive with local coastal towns to stop in and take photos.

If you enjoy the adventure of driving yourself, you are free to stop whenever you like to eat, rest, or enjoy the sights as you drive along. The only thing to be careful of is that a few sections of the highway run with speed limits, and things such as police checkpoints will still be present, so be sure to drive responsibly and obey the traffic laws. Plan out in advance that your car is in good working condition, always fill your tank in Ho Chi Minh, and be sure to bring some water and snacks for the ride.

Tips For Traveling From Ho Chi Minh To Mui Ne

Whether traveling by train, bus, or your own vehicle, some planning can help make your trip to Mui Ne easier and more enjoyable. The following tips can help ensure that you travel safely and comfortably, while still having fun taking the route along the southern coast of Vietnam.

• Trains are often scenic, but it is recommended to book the transfer from Phan Thiet to your hotel in Mui Ne ahead of time.
• Buses run often, but it is best to book ahead, especially on weekends and holidays, to ensure there are still seats.
• Private cars are quicker, but you can stop for food, coffee, or sightseeing along the coast.
• If you are on a motorcycle, it is best to prepare a rest stop map, check which stations have gas, and be careful while traveling on National Highway 1A.
• Light clothing, sunscreen, and a hat are recommended, as it does get hot in Mui Ne during the day.
• Before the heavy traffic leaves Ho Chi Minh City, when people use public transportation or have their own vehicle, it is best to travel around early in the morning or later in the evening.
• Make sure you have enough cash, as smaller shops and roadside businesses may not accept cards.

Recommended Stops Along the Way

When it comes to traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to Mui Ne by road, it’s a chance to experience the southern charm of Vietnam. As you pass through this region, you will see peaceful beaches, lush forests, and cultural heritage, all of which are worth stopping for.

Long Khanh Town

Long Khanh Town is located about 80 km away from Ho Chi Minh City. It is a small but lively town and well-known for its many fruit orchards and various local markets. Travelers typically stop here to naturally try tropical fruits like rambutan, durian, and mangosteen from local gardens.

Not only that, Long Khanh Town is home to a quaint Long Khanh Cathedral, which is both architecturally stunning and a calm place to sit and rest. It is a great opportunity to give your legs a stretch and enjoy the true southern Vietnamese countryside area life before you hop back into your vehicle.

Binh Chau Hot Springs

Located about 150 km from Ho Chi Minh, Binh Chau Hot Springs is a peaceful spot to relax amidst a tropical setting. This is where tourists can unwind in warm mineral springs, experience a mud bath, and cook their eggs in hot springs. It is a very convenient spot to stop over along the way, as it is also close to Mui Ne. There are small hotels, eateries, and other dining facilities.

Ke Ga Lighthouse

Located on a rocky island off the coast of Binh Thuan Province, the Ke Ga Lighthouse attracts many tourists on their Ho Chi Minh-Mui Ne journeys. Constructed in the French colonial era, it is the oldest operational lighthouse in Vietnam. Visitors can take a boat ride to the island, go up 183 steps to the top, and see the scenic views of the ocean. The environment is peaceful, the waters pristine, and the rocks smooth, making it an ideal spot for a stunning photo.

Phan Thiet City

Before reaching Mui Ne, you’ll have the opportunity to stop off in Phan Thiet, the capital of Binh Thuan Province, which is a bustling beach town. It’s famous for fish sauce production, as well as fish markets, making it a great place to wander down to the dock or taste some of the local cuisine. The Po Sah Inu Cham Towers, located on a nearby hill, give a glimpse into the region’s interesting history, as well as a bird’s-eye view of the coastline.

FAQs About Traveling From Ho Chi Minh To Mui Ne

When planning your trip from Ho Chi Minh to Mui Ne, you may have questions about transportation, duration, and what to expect during your trip. Here are some of the most common pre-trip questions from travelers planning this coastal adventure.

How long does it take to get from Ho Chi Minh to Mui Ne?

Typically, it takes anywhere from 4 to 6 hours to travel from Saigon to Mui Ne by car or bus, depending on the traffic and chosen route. If you take the train, the trip will take about 4 hours to Phan Thiet, with an additional 40-minute transfer to Mui Ne. It is suggested that you start your journey in the early morning in order to avoid traffic through the city and have an easier, more direct route onward.

When is the best time to visit Mui Ne?

The best time to travel to Mui Ne is generally from November to April, when you can expect primarily dry and sunny weather. From November to April, conditions are optimal for kitesurfing, swimming in warm water, and sightseeing in the sand dunes. If you expect adequate light and reasonable air temperatures, you would want to avoid any trips during the rainy season (May to October).

Final Thoughts

A trip from Ho Chi Minh to Mui Ne is short and flexible, with many ways to travel. Whether you travel by train for comfort, go by bus because it is cheaper, take a private car, or enjoy riding on a motorbike, each way is a different experience. With Seni World, you can plan your Mui Ne holiday according to your style, from a short weekend getaway to a longer holiday spent on beaches.