Adventuring under sun and wind in the “mini desert”

This vast expanse is the Son Hai Sand Dune in Phuoc Dinh Commune, Thuan Nam District, Ninh Thuan Province, about 30 kilometres south of Phan Rang City. This destination is often likened to a “mini desert” of the south-central coastal area, with its undulating sand dunes stretching nearly 7 kilometres from Son Hai fishing village to Dinh Cape. Son Hai is considered an area with the harshest climate in Ninh Thuan. The weather here is divided into two seasons, including the dry season and the rainy season. The season for rip grapes and major Cham ethnic community festivals lasts from May to August. This season also features dry and sunny weather, perfect for outdoor activities.

Not only is it surrounded by majestic mountains, but the most remarkable feature is that the sand dunes extend right up to the coastline, creating stunning views at any time of day. Interspersed among the dunes are small lakes formed by underground springs. The lakes' surfaces in the late afternoon are like mirrors for the sky to reflect, creating an abstract and illusionistic painting composed of nature's harmony.

From the Tanyoli tourist area, we boarded upgraded jeeps, capable of driving on sand, and headed towards the coast. Each jeep “carves through the sun” over the sand dunes amidst the excitement of tourists. A friend sitting in the front seat yelled out in exhilaration, then suddenly tossed a white silk scarf into the air, letting the wind carry it away. The white scarf, twisting and soaring high, created a striking cinematic scene against the blue sky and the “sea” of golden sand.

As the evening light fades over the vast expanse, walking on the golden sand waves and climbing to the top of the high dunes, visitors can truly appreciate the smallness of humanity in the face of nature’s grandeur. Some quickly capture valuable moments with their loved ones, while others sit in quiet contemplation, gazing out toward the evening sea.