Lost In The Coastal Desert Beauty Of Phuong Mai Sand Dunes
Phuong Mai Sand Dunes is an enticing “mini desert” setting with golden sand dunes shaped by the wind. Experience thrilling excursions of sandboarding, spectacular panoramic views, and quiet walking trails. Phuong Mai Sand Dunes is an astounding destination for nature lovers and adventurous visitors!
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ToggleIntroduction To Phuong Mai Sand Dunes

Phuong Mai Sand Dunes, located on the Phuong Mai Peninsula adjacent to the Nhon Ly Beach, is one of Binh Dinh Province’s most impressive scenic sites. Located just 20 kilometers away from Quy Nhon city, the sand dunes rise only a few meters from the coastlines and create dunes with undulating golden sand that rolls and forms gentle waves due to the coastal winds, creating a breathtaking desert-scape.
While visitors come to simply see the site, many also come to engage in outdoor fun, including sandboarding, off-road riding, and walking across the wavering dunes. These experiences offer a combination of fun and adventure, and the picturesque backdrop offers a pleasant diversion as well. The changing scenery of sand dunes, coupled with its calm coastal location, makes Phuong Mai Sand Dunes attractive to photographers, nature lovers, and others simply looking for a peaceful environment away from the city.
History Of Phuong Mai Sand Dunes
The Phuong Mai Sand Dunes lack a documented history as they gradually formed over many years by the natural accumulation of sand shaped by the winds and tides along the coast. This natural accumulation through processes of wind and tidal action formed the original landscape that has created this unique “mini desert” area.
Over time, the dunes have become a well-known place to visit in Quy Nhon, Binh Dinh. People visit not only for the beautiful sight but also to sandboard, making it a great destination for people who love adventure and enjoy nature.
Unique Structure Of Phuong Mai Sand Dunes
The Phuong Mai Sand Dunes are well-known for their continuously changing patterns of sand ripples, which generate a truly unique and dynamic landscape. This dynamic landscape is a function of the strong prevailing coastal winds originating from Nhon Ly, which continually reshape the dunes throughout the day.
Because of this, each visit will differ, and at least two visits will never capture the same view and experience at Phuong Mai. As visitors walk along the dunes, they can appreciate the natural artistry that has been sculpted by wind and time.
5 Unforgettable Experiences You Shouldn’t Miss
Phuong Mai Sand Dunes, located in Quy Nhon, is a combination of natural beauty and indoor activities. The experiences of sand adventures and ocean views will be an unforgettable part of your trip. Here are some activities you should do.
Exciting Sandboarding Trip

Sandboarding at Phuong Mai Dunes is one of the most exciting activities for desert lovers in Quy Nhon. A series of dunes stretches over 1,000 meters long, and riders can sail down the dunes at speeds of up to 30 km/h. You can purchase a sandboard for a small fee, and then you have to climb to the top of the dune to enjoy some thrilling rides downhill! Sandboarding provides a fun, challenging, and fantastically engaging learning experience for improving balance and reflexes. Whenever there is wind through the sun on soft sand, each ride experiences different spins and flips, becoming an exciting trick, a phenomenal ride.
Picturesque Photography Spots At The Dunes
Phuong Mai Sand Dunes are suitable for photographers. The sprawling, endless expanse of golden sand creates beautiful backdrops for sunrise, sunset, or daylight photos. Dressing in bright colors such as white, yellow, or orange adds contrast to the photos and parades in front of the sand. Notice that the best time to photograph is early in the morning or late in the afternoon when light has a soft, warm quality. Every corner of the dunes allows for a new view and perspective, so you are in a photographer’s heaven.
Relax At Nhon Ly Beach

The dunes are just a short drive away from Nhon Ly Beach, which is a great place to relax on the beautiful, white sandy beach and stunning, crystal clear waters. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, and play in the water on the beach, or if that is not of interest, stroll down the beautiful blue-stone path inspired by Santorini and hang out. Visitors can admire the beach or enjoy the beauty of the photos they want to take. You may consider a small homestay in the area, which would allow you to enjoy the peaceful, sleepy fishing village atmosphere even longer.
Check Out Ky Co Beach And Eo Gio
Ky Co Beach and Eo Gio are two great attractions located near Phuong Mai Sand Dunes. Ky Co is best known for its beautiful turquoise water, golden sand coasts, and rocks and cliffs that can be explored along the way. Activities include swimming in the ocean, snorkeling the coral reefs, or even touring over the dunes by paragliding. Eo Gio offers an unrivaled coastal walkway along rugged cliffs with outstanding views of the sea and mountains in the distance. Both locations provide opportunities for adventure and unique photography to capture and share Quy Nhon’s beauty.
Take In The Views Of The Dunes From The Top

Visitors climbing to the top of Phuong Mai Dunes will experience breathtaking views of Quy Nhon city, Phuong Mai Peninsula, Thi Nai Lagoon, Nhon Hoi Bridge, and other sites nearby. The art of seeing nature and human settlement from an elevated position, the vantage point facilitates a different view from the parallel land less than a mile away. A visit in the early morning provides an engaging calm while the view of the city is waking up. At sunset, visitors view the sand and sea colored with a warm glow. An educational experience that is part relaxing and part awe.
Entrance Fee
Phuong Mai Sand Dunes is free to visit, which means visitors can walk in without paying anything, but there may be a fee for certain services, such as sandboard rental or other entertainment services. There may be service charges for things like sandboard rentals, food services, and recreational activities.
Best Time To Visit Phuong Mai Sand Dunes

You can visit Phuong Mai Sand Dunes at any time; however, each time offers a different view of the landscape. If you want to see the golden sunlight glisten on the dunes, late morning to early afternoon is the ideal time since the sun is at its highest.
For those who like a cooler environment, early morning or late afternoon is ideal. Just visit when the sun is rising or setting, and enjoy playing in the sand. Either way, you will have an experience that is quite different from the coastline experience when viewing the sunrise or sunset.
How To Get To Phuong Mai Sand Dunes
It is easy to get to Phuong Mai Sand Dunes because there are several transportation methods. Visitors must first reach Quy Nhon city to head to the dunes in Nhon Ly.
From Big Cities To Quy Nhon
There are several domestic airlines that offer direct flights to Binh Dinh, such as Vietjet Air, Pacific Airlines, Vietnam Airlines, and Bamboo Airways. The ticket price for a round trip will depend on both your airline of choice and how far in advance you book. Generally speaking, expect to pay around 1,000,000 – 2,000,000 VND from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City with typical flying time of 1h35m and 1h10 min respectively. If you are willing to book 1 – 2 months in advance and avoid peak weekends or holidays, you should be able to find better prices and flights.
From Quy Nhon City To Phuong Mai Sand Dunes
It is an easy trip from Quy Nhon to Phuong Mai Sand Dunes. Travel through the Thi Nai Bridge and the Quy Nhon – Nhon Hoi congestion, following signage towards Nhon Ly commune. Once you arrive, park and walk for about 10 minutes to the sand dunes.
Things To Know Before Traveling To Phuong Mai Sand Dunes

A trip to Phuong Mai Sand Dunes can be a memorable outing, but being prepared makes it easier. Important information to help you on your visit:
- Pack a hat, sunglasses, protective clothing from the sun, and sunscreen to minimize sun and high UV index burn.
- Bring a sufficient supply of drinking water and wet wipes, as there are few food or drink vendors on-site. It is exceedingly important to hydrate, especially in the hot sun.
- Be careful walking on the steep, soft, and shifting sand dunes to avoid slipping or falling (children and older travelers need to be especially cautious).
- Do not bring food to the dunes and respect local regulations; it minimizes environmental damage and keeps it clean.
- Your visit to Phuong Mai Dunes does not cost anything. However, sandboarding costs around 15,000- 20,000 VND per ride, so bring small change to prepare for a memorable experience.
- If you decide to go sandboarding, please follow the guide’s instructions, and even if they do not provide a safety helmet, always consider using the provisions supplied to help minimize risk to yourself.
- Use walking shoes that are very comfortable and suitable for a sand walk, and maybe even a very light backpack to help carry your items.
FAQs About Phuong Mai Sand Dunes
Traveling to Phuong Mai Sand Dunes can raise a lot of common questions for first-time visitors. Below are many of the common questions that can help prepare you for your trip and enjoy the experience.
Are there any safety issues at the dunes?
Yes, the steep slopes with loose sand can be a safety concern, especially for children and seniors. Wear solid footwear and adhere to any posted signage if you are sandboarding. And be sure to stay hydrated and wear sun protection.
Can I combine Phuong Mai Sand Dunes with seeing other nearby attractions?
Yes, the dunes are very close to Nhon Hai Beach, Ky Co, and Eo Gio, and you can plan on visiting each one during the day. Many tours will do a combo of all spots for a single day of natural beauty in Quy Nhon.
Are Phuong Mai Sand Dunes family-friendly?
Yes, the dunes can be family-friendly. However, children should be closely supervised because of the slopes and loose sand. If they have supervision, older kids can have fun on the sandboard. And younger kids can walk around and enjoy the sand beds!
What do I need to pack for my visit to the dunes?
Also, make sure you include sun protection, including a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as well as water and light snacks. You will want comfortable shoes for walking on sand, and don’t forget a camera to capture all of the beautiful scenery.
Final Thoughts: Are Phuong Mai Sand Dunes Worth Visiting?
The Phuong Mai Sand Dunes combine spectacular natural beauty and adventure, where the vast golden dune greets the shoreline of the sparkling coastline. Visitors are invited to enjoy activities such as sandboarding, photography, and strolling along the pristine dunes. The spectacular scenery and the peaceful atmosphere provide a uniquely tranquil escape from the strains of everyday life and the hustle and bustle of city life. Explore the attractions of Phuong Mai Sand Dunes and plan your journey with Seni World.