1. Overview of Nghi Son Tourist Area

1.1. Geographical location, climate, and outstanding scenery

Pristine and clear sea at Nghi Son. (Source: Collected)

Located in the south of Thanh Hoa province, Nghi Son ward is favored by nature with a coastline of nearly 42 km, where there are pristine beaches, crystal-clear water, and fine sand like Hai Hoa or Bai Dong. Along the coast are peaceful fishing villages, along with many cultural relics and historical imprints associated with the lives of local people.

In recent years, Nghi Son has gradually become a favorite destination for many tourists. They come here to enjoy the fresh air, peaceful scenery, and rare pristine beauty. Located right near National Highway 1A, Nghi Son is very convenient for travel, especially suitable for short breaks with family or friends.

1.2. Characteristic historical and cultural relics of the Nghi Son coastal region

According to historical records, the land of Ngoc Son, now Nghi Son ward, was named by King Le Thanh Tong in the 15th century. The king once praised this place with the famous saying “Ngoc Son trung tú vạn niên cơ”, implying that this land converges with spiritual energy and beautiful scenery that lasts through the years.

People commemorate King Quang Trung through many cultural festivals. (Source: Collected)

Nghi Son currently preserves many famous historical, cultural relics, and scenic spots. Prominent among them are Do Tien Pagoda, Quang Trung Temple, Lach Bang Temple, Khanh Temple, and Am Cac Pagoda…

Annually, Nghi Son hosts about 20 large and small festivals, reflecting the distinct cultural life of the coastal residents. Among them, the Quang Trung festival, the fish-praying festival, and the cooking competition ritual are typical activities, demonstrating solidarity, gratitude to ancestors, and pride in the fishing profession. These festivals always attract a large number of tourists to participate and experience.

In addition, the land of Nghi Son is also known for many traditional craft villages, especially seafood exploitation and processing. Characteristic products such as dried shrimp, sun-dried squid, fish sauce, shrimp paste, and sour fermented shrimp paste are not only familiar gifts for coastal people but also become famous specialties, contributing to promoting the image of Nghi Son to tourists across the country.

2. Guide on how to travel to Nghi Son tourist area

2.1. From Hanoi and northern provinces

From Hanoi or northern provinces, tourists have many transportation options to reach Nghi Son tourist area, including motorbikes, coaches, and private cars.

Motorbikes are an ideal choice for young people who love experiences, wanting to freely explore and feel the journey. The route is quite easy, running along National Highway 1A, passing through the center of Thanh Hoa city, then continuing to Nghi Son town. Along the way, you can stop to visit many interesting places in Thanh Hoa.

If traveling by private car, this is a suitable option for large groups of friends or families with young children. The distance from Hanoi to Nghi Son is about 200 km, the average travel time is about 4 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

Traveling by bus is the optimal choice for tourists when traveling to Nghi Son. (Source: Collection)

For those who want to travel quickly, the bus is a convenient and safe choice. At major bus stations in Hanoi, there are daily routes to Nghi Son – Thanh Hoa, with ticket prices ranging from 120,000 to 250,000 VND/person.

Some reputable bus companies operating the Hanoi Nghi Son route:

Ly Thao: 1900 252 209

Doan Thuy: 0287 100 2456

Truong Hang: 0288 882 1692

Nam Quynh Anh: 1900 272 708

To have more time for entertainment and relaxation, tourists can choose an overnight bus, arriving in Thanh Hoa early in the morning to start a full exploration of Nghi Son.

2.2. Traveling from Ho Chi Minh City and Southern Provinces

Currently, traveling from Ho Chi Minh City and southern provinces to Thanh Hoa is very convenient thanks to the development of the air transport system. Tho Xuan Airport operates many domestic routes to major cities such as Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and other destinations.

From Tho Xuan Airport, tourists can travel to Nghi Son by taxi, private car, or shuttle service. The distance is about 90 km, with an average travel time of about 2 hours.

Besides air travel, tourists can also choose trains or long-distance buses. From Ho Chi Minh City, there are many North-South train routes stopping at Thanh Hoa station, then continuing for about 70 to 90 km to reach Nghi Son.

3. Unmissable Experiences at Nghi Son Tourist Area 2025

3.1. Bai Dong Beach

Located in the center of Nghi Son tourist area, Bai Dong Beach is considered one of the pristine and peaceful destinations. Visitors to Bai Dong can participate in many exciting activities such as swimming, watching the sunrise and sunset, camping overnight, kayaking to explore Bung island, snorkeling, or fishing at sea. Each experience brings a feeling of closeness and connection with nature.

Bai Dong still retains its wild beauty, with fine sandy beaches and clear blue waters comparable to any beach in the Central region. The climate is cool year-round, combined with surrounding lush green forests, creating a landscape that is both poetic and charming.

3.2. Dot Tien Pagoda

Sacred ancient pagoda visited by many tourists. (Source: Collected)

Chua Dot Tien is one of Nghi Son's famous spiritual destinations, attracting many tourists and Buddhists from near and far. The ancient pagoda lies peacefully on the slope of Tien Mountain, surrounded by green trees and sea breeze, bringing a rare tranquil and peaceful atmosphere.

Built during the Nguyen Dynasty, Chua Dot Tien is not only a place of worship for local people but also a unique architectural work bearing the strong imprint of Vietnamese culture. Visiting Chua Dot Tien, tourists can worship, pray for good luck, find peace in their souls, and listen to the resonant temple bells amidst the quiet mountain and forest scenery.

3.3. Nghi Son Cuisine

Delicious grilled oysters caught from the Nghi Son sea area. (Source: Collected)

Nghi Son is favored by nature with abundant, fresh, and delicious seafood year-round. Coming here, visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy countless characteristic dishes of the coastal region such as sun-dried squid, conch snails, crab, silver fish, tiger prawns, grilled oysters with scallion oil… All have the rich and fresh sweet flavor of the sea.

Besides that, Nghi Son also has many famous specialties of Thanh Hoa region such as nem chua (fermented pork roll), fish salad, shrimp and pork sausage, making visitors exclaim with delight when enjoying them. Below are some famous restaurants that you can refer to when visiting Nghi Son tourist area:

3.3.1. Huy Hoan Restaurant:

The restaurant's space is both luxurious and close to the beach, making it ideal for you to enjoy fresh and delicious cuisine while feeling the fresh sea breeze.

Address: Bac Hai residential group, Nghi Son ward, Thanh Hoa province

Phone: 0977 591 789

3.3.2. Loi Phuong Restaurant:

Located right in the central area of Bai Dong, this is an ideal place to experience Nghi Son's seafood cuisine. The restaurant is famous for its clean space, attentive staff, and meticulously prepared fresh seafood dishes.

Address: About 600m from Bai Dong, Nghi Son ward, Thanh Hoa province

Phone: 0976 676 533 – 0985 890 692

3.3.3. Bien Nho Restaurant

The spacious and airy ambiance along with a diverse menu are major advantages of Bien Nho. Here, you can enjoy many delicious dishes from mantis shrimp, crab, swimming crab, conch snails, razor clams, grilled oysters, and many other fresh seafood.

Address: Nam Son village, Nghi Son commune, Nghi Son town, Thanh Hoa province

Phone: 0968 686 831

3.4. Cave Exploration

Nghi Son Island is not only famous for its blue sea and white sand but also possesses many fascinating caves with a wild and mystical beauty. Among them, the Truong Lam cave system is a large cave complex consisting of many interconnected small caves, forming a unique natural network.

The most prominent are Ngoc Hoang Cave and Tien Cave, two caves likened to 'hidden gems' in the heart of the island. Ngoc Hoang Cave is about 500m long, with a fine sandy floor and a small stream winding inside, bringing a cool and serene feeling.

3.5. Local Festivals

Nghi Son is not only attractive to tourists for its beautiful natural scenery but also for its rich cultural life, clearly expressed through traditional festivals bearing the strong identity of the North Central Coast region's sea area.

Among them, the Quang Trung Temple Festival is the biggest and most anticipated event of the year. The festival is usually held at Lach Bang and Cu Lao Bien (Bien Son), belonging to Hai Thanh ward and Nghi Son ward. This is an occasion for people to commemorate the merits of King Quang Trung Nguyen Hue, the national hero associated with indomitable spirit and patriotism.

During the festival days, the atmosphere in Nghi Son becomes bustling and lively. Traditional activities such as palanquin processions, folk art performances, traditional games, and cultural exchanges are vibrantly organized, attracting a large number of local people and visitors from all over.

Participating in the festival, visitors can not only immerse themselves in the joyful atmosphere but also have the opportunity to learn more about the customs, beliefs, and solidarity spirit of the coastal people.

4. Accommodation in Nghi Son Tourist Area

4.1. Comfortable Resorts in Nghi Son

Unique apartments located right on the beach of Bai Dong Resort & Spa. (Source: Collected)

4.1.1. Bai Dong Resort & Spa

Location: Bai Dong Beachfront

Amenities: Spa, swimming pool, seafood restaurant

Price: 1,200,000 – 2,500,000 VND/night

Located right on the poetic Bai Dong beach, Bai Dong Resort & Spa is the ideal choice for those who want to enjoy a luxurious and complete relaxing vacation. The peaceful atmosphere, sea view, and professional spa services help guests recharge and enjoy moments of tranquility amidst nature.

4.1.2. Nghi Son Seaside Resort

Location: Near Nghi Son fishing village

Features: Design harmonized with nature

Price: 800,000 – 1,800,000 VND/night

With a nature-friendly style, Nghi Son Seaside Resort impresses with its eco-friendly architecture and quiet resort space. Guests can hear the gentle sound of waves lapping at the porch, breathe in the fresh sea breeze, and feel the slow pace of life in the coastal fishing village.

4.1.3. Bien Xanh Hotel

Location: Nghi Son tourist center

Amenities: Air conditioning, wifi, restaurant serving local dishes

Price: 400,000 – 800,000 VND/night

Conveniently located, Bien Xanh Hotel is a suitable choice for those who want to combine relaxation and exploration. The modern space, friendly service, and rich seafood menu help guests have a comfortable stay experience.

4.2. Seaside Homestays

4.2.1. Bai Dong Beach Homestay

Design: Rustic wooden houses, near the beach

Features: Cozy atmosphere, suitable for young groups

Price: 200,000 – 400,000 VND/night

If you love simplicity and closeness, Bai Dong Beach Homestay will be the ideal place to enjoy your vacation. Small, charming wooden houses located right by the sea, with a warm and friendly atmosphere make

Nghi Son Eco Homestay offers a close-to-nature experience for tourists. (Source: Collected)

4.2.2. Nghi Son Eco Homestay

Features: Has a lush green garden, near the fishing village

Price: 150,000 – 300,000 VND/night

Nghi Son Eco Homestay brings tourists a sense of peace and rustic simplicity of the coastal countryside. Every morning, you can hear birds singing, watch the early sun on the garden, or wander around the fishing village to experience the slow pace of life of the local people.

5. Suggested 2D1N Thanh Hoa Travel Itinerary

5.1. Day 1: Explore Sam Son Beach

In the morning, tourists check into their hotel and take a walk along the beach to watch the sunrise. This is the ideal time to feel the rhythm of life of the people in the Thanh Hoa coastal area, as fishermen are busy with their early morning work.

At noon, tourists can enjoy fresh and delicious seafood at beachfront restaurants. Dishes such as grilled tiger prawns, steamed squid with ginger, mackerel in tomato sauce, or crab steamed with beer are always popular choices.

In the evening, tourists can stroll around Sam Son Central Square to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of street music and a colorful water music show. This is an ideal place to fully enjoy the youthful and modern nightlife of the coastal city.

5.2. Day 2: Explore Famous Historical Sites in Thanh Hoa

On the second morning, tourists can visit the Am Tien National Historical Relic Complex, located on the peak of Nui Nua mountain in Co Dinh village, Trieu Son commune. This place is associated with the heroic uprising of Lady Trieu, a resilient heroine in the nation's history.

The perspective shows that the Huyen Tich Am Tien project is very large and magnificent. (Source: Collection)

In the future, this area will be planned and developed into a large-scale tourist area "Huyen Tich Am Tien", including many unique cultural and spiritual works. If you have the chance to return to Thanh Hoa, visitors should definitely not miss the opportunity to visit this new destination.

At noon, visitors return to the city center to enjoy the characteristic cuisine of Thanh Hoa. Some delicious dishes to try include Thanh Hoa fermented pork roll, fish salad, shrimp cake, sweet pineapple, and che lam. These are also specialty dishes that are very suitable for buying as gifts for relatives and friends after the trip.

6. Experience exploring Nghi Son Tourist Area

The best time to visit Nghi Son is from April to September, when the sky is clear, the sun is gentle, and the sea is calm. This is an ideal period for swimming, SUP boarding, or participating in outdoor activities.

Summer SUP paddling activities are experienced by many tourists. (Source: Collected)

Tourists should bring light, airy clothing such as maxi dresses, t-shirts, shorts, sandals, or sneakers for easy movement. Don't forget to bring sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and swimwear if you plan to go swimming.

For those planning to climb mountains or explore caves, you should prepare a small flashlight, drinking water, hiking shoes, and a light jacket to ensure safety and comfort throughout the journey.

Nghi Son is a land rich in cultural identity, where people live harmoniously and hospitably. When visiting spiritual sites such as Dot Tien Pagoda or Quang Trung Temple, visitors should dress modestly, maintain a solemn attitude, and avoid making noise in the worship areas.

In 2025, Nghi Son continues to transform strongly, aiming for the image of a modern coastal tourist area while retaining its inherent simple and rustic charm. Whether you are looking for a quiet retreat or an exploratory travel experience, Nghi Son can fully meet your needs. Come once to this sacred land of heroes to personally feel the pristine, authentic, and vibrant beauty of Thanh Hoa land.