If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Vietnam, let me introduce you to Tam Giang Lagoon in Hue. This hidden gem is not just a feast for the eyes with its stunning sunrises and serene waters, but it’s also a treasure trove of local culture and fresh seafood. Join me as I take you through a day of exploring this beautiful and tranquil spot, packed with activities and experiences you won’t want to miss.

Tam Giang Lagoon: What's Cool About It

Tam Giang Lagoon, located in Hue, Vietnam, is a pretty special spot that's often off the beaten path for many tourists. It's part of the largest lagoon system in Southeast Asia, which already makes it pretty intriguing. The lagoon spans over 70 kilometers and is surrounded by lush greenery and small fishing villages, giving it a serene and picturesque vibe. Imagine tranquil waters reflecting the sky, especially stunning at sunrise and sunset. For nature enthusiasts, Tam Giang is a bird-watching haven. The lagoon and its surroundings attract a variety of bird species, making it a perfect spot for bird lovers to spend some time.

Tam Giang Lagoon Hue used to go by the name “Hạc Hải”, or the “Shallow Sea”. But as river water started pouring in and splitting the place into three sections, it got its current name – ”Tam Giang”, meaning “three rivers”. These sections are fed by the Ta, Trung, and Huu rivers, which flow about 2-3 miles inland. Covering a vast area of about 22,000 hectares, the lagoon is a treasure trove of natural resources and a diverse range of plants and animals. It's not just a pretty face either; it's a crucial waterway that boosts economic growth and acts as a hub for trade. Plus, it’s a goldmine for seafood and hosts the lively "Tam Giang Water Waves" festival.

Tam Giang Lagoon Tour: What To See

Dam Chuon Lagoon

First up, check out Dam Chuon. It’s a hot spot for taking stunning photos and enjoying boat rides. Imagine gliding over the water in a small boat, capturing the perfect shot for your social media. You can also try your hand at fishing or crabbing. The best time to visit is from April to July, during the busy seafood harvesting season. And if you're around from the 15th to the 17th of the lunar month in July, don’t miss the local To Lang Chuon festival—a unique cultural experience.

Ru Cha Mangrove Forest

Next, head over to Ru Cha Mangrove Forest. This place covers about 5 hectares and is packed with mangrove trees, giving it a mysterious, wild vibe. Walking through the winding paths feels like stepping into another world. As you boat through the forest, you’ll feel completely disconnected from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The mangrove trees form a natural barrier, creating a cool, refreshing atmosphere that’s perfect for a relaxing escape.

Thai Duong Ha Fishing Village

Thai Duong Ha is a charming little island with a fishing village that’s been around for centuries. The floating market here is bustling with locals selling fresh seafood straight from their boats. You can even hop on a boat yourself and shop for the freshest catch. In the afternoon, you’ll see fishing boats returning with their haul, adding to the lively scene. If you’re a seafood lover, this is the place to be. You can buy fresh seafood and have it cooked on the spot for a small fee, enjoying it right there with a beautiful view. 

Sunrises And Sunsets

One of the best things about Tam Giang Lagoon Hue is the stunning sunrises and sunsets. The sight of the golden sun rising or setting over the water is absolutely breathtaking and makes for some incredible photo opportunities.

SUP Paddling And Boat Rides

For a more active adventure, try SUP paddling or taking a boat ride through the floating markets. The lush greenery and calm waters make for a peaceful journey. SUP rentals are pretty affordable at around 100,000 VND per person.

Floating Markets

The floating markets at Tam Giang Lagoon Hue are a must-see. They’re not just places where locals buy and sell seafood; they’re vibrant, bustling hubs of activity. Some popular markets include Dam Chuon and My Thanh. Make sure to try the local specialty, bánh khoái cá kình, while you’re there.

Epark Tam Giang Lagoon

Epark Tam Giang Lagoon is a newer attraction that promises loads of fun. Located in Ngu My Thanh village, it’s accessible by boat, adding to the adventure. Once there, you can enjoy activities like crab catching, cycling on monkey bridges, and swimming in the lagoon. Plus, there are plenty of great spots for photos.

What To Eat At Tam Giang Lagoon Hue

Thanks to its rich biodiversity, Tam Giang Lagoon is a seafood lover’s paradise. The lagoon’s seafood is often called the "living gold" of the area. Enjoy a variety of dishes made from fish, crabs, clams, and more. You can get these fresh from the markets or try them at local restaurants. A must-try is bánh khoái, a savory pancake filled with seafood. Another local favorite is rạm, small crabs that are prepared in various ways, like stir-fried or cooked with wild betel leaves.

How To Get To Tam Giang Lagoon Hue?

Tam Giang Lagoon is about 30 kilometers from the center of Hue, heading towards Quang Tri through Thuan An Beach. As the largest brackish-water lagoon in Southeast Asia, it spans four districts: Phong Dien, Quang Dien, Huong Tra, and Phu Vang. The lagoon’s waters are known for their strong currents and high waves, making navigation a bit tricky. With depths reaching up to 7 meters, it’s a prime spot for fishing, pulling in thousands of tons of seafood each year. To get there, you can take the route to the Con Toc ferry terminal or Thuan An Beach, where you can catch a boat to explore the lagoon.

Tips For Visiting Tam Giang Lagoon Hue

Best Time to Visit Tam Giang Lagoon 

You can visit any time of the year, but it’s best to avoid the rainy season for safety reasons. Spring offers great weather, while summer and fall are perfect for exploring activities like floating markets or SUP paddling. Winter might be a bit chilly, but it's a great time to enjoy warm, hearty seafood dishes.

Accommodation in Tam Giang Lagoon 

Since the lagoon is just 30 km from Hue, it’s easy to make a day trip out of it. But if you want a deeper experience, consider staying with local families. You’ll get a taste of their daily life and enjoy home-cooked meals, though it might not be as comfortable as staying in a hotel.

Nearby Attractions

Don’t miss a visit to Truong Nha Ho, also known as Ru Tu Chinh. It’s a small forest where you can see the local way of life. The peaceful, fresh environment is perfect for a relaxing break.

Tam Giang Lagoon Tour

05:00 – 05:30: A car and guide will pick you up from your hotel or Hue city center to start your journey to watch the sunrise at Tam Giang Lagoon.

06:30: Arrive at Dam Chuon boat dock, where you'll begin your tour of the largest ecosystem in Southeast Asia. Here, you'll have a fantastic experience participating in local fishing activities. Try rowing a boat, kayaking, and catching shrimp and fish yourself. Capture stunning sunrise photos at Tam Giang Lagoon Hue and relax in a stilt house.

07:30: Enjoy breakfast at the only restaurant on the Dam Chuon island, with seafood porridge, bánh khoái cá kình (a local pancake), tea, and coffee. Take panoramic photos of the lagoon from the Sunrise Viewing Tower.

08:30: Visit Chuon Village Market and An Truyen.

09:00: Explore Ru Cha Mangrove Forest. This 4-hectare forest has been around for over 100 years. You’ll have free time to walk around and take pictures of the wild beauty of the forest. Next, visit Xóm Ma (Ghost Village), located 600 meters from Ru Cha. This small community of 7 households and 25 people lives without electricity or water, surrounding a cemetery, hence the name "Ghost Village." Here, you can sense the spiritual culture of the locals, who live near the graves to protect their ancestors.

09:30 – 10:00: The boat will take you back to the dock for your return trip to Hue City. This concludes the tour at Tam Giang Lagoon.

And there you have it! Tam Giang Lagoon Hue is more than just a pretty sight; it's a whole experience waiting to be discovered. So next time you're in Hue, make sure to carve out a day for this amazing adventure!

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