Built in 1942, the Chua Buu Long pagoda is renowned in Vietnam because of its gorgeous amalgamation of architectural styles from countries throughout Southeast Asian including Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam. Many locals even call it the “Thai temple” for its distinctive style, and because it practices the same Theraveda branch of Buddhism as in Thailand. The temple is also unique in that worshippers do not use candles or incense to pray, and only the Buddha is revered here - most temples also worship other deities. Despite the ornate exterior and serene gardens, the temple interior is simple and modern, bordering on the austere. On the top floor you’ll find relics from Buddha and his disciples that are revered throughout the Buddhist world.

Flanked by vibrant red stone formations and verdant bamboo groves, the Fairy Stream is a demure natural wonder. The water, dyed red by natural sediments, is no more than knee deep, and usually barely passes the ankles, making for a picture-perfect place to cool your feet. Along the way, you’ll not only find plenty of photo opportunities, but several food stalls where you can stop to enjoy a bit to eat in this beautiful setting.

The Po Sah Inu Cham Towers were built at the height of the Cham empire in the 8th and 9th centuries. Originally built to worship Shiva, they temples have also been used to worship princess Po Sah Inu and Nandin, Shiva’s holy mount. Over the centuries, much of the original complex was destroyed, leaving behind only 3 towers. These, however, and the only remnants of the Cham empire in the region, offering visitors an excellent opportunity to admire the refined brick architecture and traditional Cham symbols, including the yoni and ligma. Throughout the year, the towers are used by local villagers to hold traditional Cham ceremonies.

The Red Sand Dunes are located just a few kilometers from the center of Mui Ne, making them easily accessible. They are situated between Mui Ne beach and the White Sand Dunes, and are a popular stop for visitors exploring the area. As the name suggests, the Red Sand Dunes are characterized by their reddish-orange color, which makes them distinct from the White Sand Dunes. The sand gets its red hue from the iron-rich soil in the area. The dunes are smaller and more compact compared to the White Sand Dunes, but they offer a charming, picturesque landscape that’s perfect for photography, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light adds a warm glow to the red sands.

Covering 250,000 square meters of mountain forest, Ta Cu Mountain Park is a sanctuary for wildlife crowned by a Buddhist pagoda. Those of strong body can opt for the 2-hour hike up the mountain, which is made a bit more comfortable thanks to the smaller shrines and a restaurant position on the way. The more mindful will likely want to enjoy the panoramic views offered by a ride in the cable car, though this comes at an extra fee. Once you reach the mountain’s peak , you’ll pass the three entrance pillars to reach the Linh Son Truong Tho Pagoda. Home to several prayer halls, the central attraction is the 19th century reclining Buddha - the largest Nirvana Shakyamuni style in Southeast Asia. Nearby are the 7-meter-tall “Three Buddha Postures” statues, each of which depicts a different Buddha.

The White Sand Dunes (also called Bau Trang) are vast stretches of white, powdery sand that create an almost desert-like landscape. They are located about 25 kilometers northeast of Mui Ne, and they’re one of the largest sand dunes in Vietnam. The dunes themselves are quite stunning and stretch over a large area, offering breathtaking views, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light hits the sand, creating beautiful colors and shadows.