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Top 11 Dong Hoi attractions highly recommended by locals

18/06/2025

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Dong Hoi attractions offer a unique mix of scenic beauty and historical depth. From pristine beaches to cultural sites, there is something for every tourist to enjoy.

1. Best Dong Hoi attractions for nature lovers
2. Historical & cultural attractions in Dong Hoi

1. Best Dong Hoi attractions for nature lovers

1.1. Nhat Le Beach

Ranked among Vietnam’s 10 most attractive beaches in 2015, Nhat Le Beach is a poetic highlight of Dong Hoi. It features gently sloping shores, refreshing breezes, and soothing waves – an ideal setting for swimming and sunbathing. The beach retains a pristine charm, with sparkling sand under casuarina trees. Tourists can stroll barefoot on the sand, relax in a hammock gazing at the vast sea, or enjoy thrilling water sports. Sunset is the most beautiful time here, as golden rays blend with the waves and fishing boats set sail, creating a vivid seascape of life and light.

Nhat Le Beach – a must-see among Dong Hoi attractions (Source: Collected)

1.2. Quang Phu Sand Dunes

8 kilometers away from Nhat Le Beach, Quang Phu Sand Dunes stands out as another must-see among Dong Hoi attractions. It captivates tourists with its rolling hills of shimmering sand. The dunes shift in color throughout the day – white in the morning, golden by noon, and silvery at dusk. This untouched landscape offers exciting activities like sand boarding or ATV riding across the dunes. From the highest peaks, you can admire the sweeping views of the sea and nearby fishing villages. The blend of sea and sky creates a truly memorable journey into the beauty of Dong Hoi’s coast.

What to see in Dong Hoi? – The rolling sand dunes of Quang Phu (Source: Collected)

1.3. Bau Tro Lake

In the list of Dong Hoi attractions, Bau Tro Lake is the most famous freshwater lake and also a vital water source for Dong Hoi. Remarkably, it lies just over 100 meters away from the sea, yet its water remains fresh. Surrounded by lush casuarina trees and home to flocks of birds, the area offers a tranquil escape where tourists can nap in hammocks, listening to the sounds of the waves and birds. Bau Tro Lake is also an archaeological site, where Neolithic tools like stone axes and pottery shards have been found. Its natural and cultural significance makes it a unique attraction.

For the best places to visit in Dong Hoi, come to Bau Tro Lake (Source: Collected)

1.4. Bao Ninh Beach

Bao Ninh Beach, a gem blessed with an endless shoreline, is among the highly recommended Dong Hoi attractions for nature lovers. It is perfect for tourists seeking peaceful relaxation away from the crowds. Located in Bao Ninh Peninsula, this beach also holds cultural significance with ancient ramparts and a temple reflecting local fishing traditions. The sea here glimmers blue, framed by smooth rocks and gentle waves. Early morning offers unforgettable moments – when you can watch local fishermen head out to the sea at dawn. Alternatively, you can marvel at the crimson sky as the day ends.

Sunrise at Bao Ninh Beach is among the best things to see in Dong Hoi (Source: Collected)

Explore the weather in Dong Hoi and the best time to visit the city!

2. Historical & cultural attractions in Dong Hoi

2.1. Tam Toa Cathedral

Tam Toa Cathedral is one of the most significant cultural attractions in Quang Binh, originally built in 1886. During the Vietnamese resistance against America (1964 – 1972), this church was bombed 48 times, leaving only its bell tower intact – a haunting reminder of a devastated past. The reconstructed cathedral now features European architecture, made from over 1,000 granite and marble blocks. Inside, there are three spires housing three bells. Notable features include a beautifully crafted dome, a stone altar dedicated to Saint Joseph, and a memorial to the poet Han Mac Tu.

Tam Toa Cathedral tops the list of historical Dong Hoi attractions (Source: Collected)

2.2. Ho Chi Minh Square

Among the best Dong Hoi attractions for history buffs, Ho Chi Minh Square is a sacred symbol of gratitude of the people of Quang Binh for President Ho Chi Minh. This complex includes a statue ensemble, parade grounds, a flagpole, lawns, and tree-lined pathways. The statue ensemble features Ho Chi Minh at the center, flanked by six other figures which represent the youth, armed forces, and ethnic communities. This square regularly hosts important cultural celebrations. Here, there is a temple honoring Ho Chi Minh and local martyrs, designed in the style of a traditional communal house.

Ho Chi Minh Square stands out among various Dong Hoi tourist spots (Source: Collected)

2.3. The Monument of Mother Suot

Among prominent Dong Hoi attractions, the Monument of Mother Suot stands solemnly by the poetic Nhat Le River. It was built in honor of Nguyen Thi Suot, a courageous woman who ferried soldiers, weapons, and the wounded across the river from 1964 to 1967. She was later recognized as a “Heroine of Transport” in 1967. In 2003, the sculptor Phan Dinh Tien created an imposing statue to commemorate her legacy, which symbolizes the bravery of Vietnamese people during wartime. The site not only honors her memory but also educates future generations about patriotism and sacrifice.

The monument is one of the best points of interest in Dong Hoi for history buffs (Source: Collected)

2.4. Quang Binh Gate

Quang Binh Gate is one of the most historic Dong Hoi attractions, once a critical military checkpoint built in 1631 to defend the capital of the Nguyen lords. Reconstructed in 1825 under King Minh Mang with baked bricks and an elevated watchtower, it combines military functionality with architectural grace. The gate stands on the north-south trade route and also guards river access via the Nhat Le estuary. Despite heavy damage during wartime, it has been faithfully restored to its 19th-century design. Quang Binh Gate symbolizes a turbulent part in the history of the region.

Taking photos at Quang Binh Gate – among the best things to do in Dong Hoi (Source: Collected)

2.5. Dong Hoi Citadel

Built in 1812, Dong Hoi Citadel served as a key military stronghold during the Trinh-Nguyen conflicts. Reconstructed in 1824, it featured high walls, deep moats, and three gates (north, south, and east). The east gate, facing the Nhat Le River, is notable for its arched brick bridge and eight-roof watchtower. Although severely damaged during wartime, about 1,087 square meters of the original structure remain. This site is now a poignant witness to centuries of conflict, including the resistance against American bombing campaigns in Dong Hoi, and a testament to the resilience of Vietnamese people.

Dong Hoi Citadel stands out from other Dong Hoi attractions (Source: Collected)

2.6. Dai Giac Pagoda

Dai Giac Pagoda is the largest Buddhist temple among spiritual Dong Hoi attractions, covering 12,000 square meters. Once a lake, this site was transformed in 2010 when Venerable Thich Tanh Nhiep and fellow monks built a humble temple here. Despite several natural disasters, Dai Giac Pagoda was gradually rebuilt and officially inaugurated in 2016. The pagoda grounds are spacious and tranquil, with shady trees and paved courtyards. Highlights include a 9-meter-tall, 40-ton solid marble statue of Amitabha Buddha and the nine-tier Di Da Stupa. The pagoda also features marble statues of the Eighteen Arhats.

Don’t miss Dai Giac Pagoda in your Dong Hoi sightseeing tour (Source: Collected)

2.7. Quang Binh Museum

Quang Binh Museum is one of the most significant Dong Hoi attractions, preserving over 16,000 artifacts and documents showcasing its 420-year history. The exhibits are clearly labeled in both Vietnamese and English. The museum’s displays span various themes: nature and resources, Cham culture, history from the 11th century to 1945, the resistance wars (1945 – 1975), and more. Highlights include General Vo Nguyen Giap’s calligraphy-printed fabric books, letters from President Ho Chi Minh, war relics like bombs, a MIG-17 jet, and a Skyraider fighter.

Among Dong Hoi attractions, Quang Binh Museum illustrates historical depth (Source: Collected)

More on: Dong Hoi to Phong Nha: A comprehensive transport guide

These Dong Hoi attractions offer a unique mix of natural charm and cultural heritage that captivate every tourist. Whether you are into the beaches or historical sites, you will find unforgettable experiences here. Be sure to include these best attractions in Dong Hoi on your bucket list for a memorable adventure in Vietnam!

After exploring various Dong Hoi attractions, you can take the time to discover other renowned destinations across Vietnam such as Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, and Hoi An. In these destinations, paying a visit to VinWonders is a must. These top-rated entertainment complexes offer everything, from heart-racing roller coasters and captivating shows to water slides and immersive activities.

Nha Trang

Phu Quoc

Ha Noi

Nghe An - Ha Tinh

Hoi An - Da Nang

Hai Phong

Ho Chi Minh City

Nha Trang

Phu Quoc

Ha Noi

Nghe An - Ha Tinh

Hoi An - Da Nang

Hai Phong

Ho Chi Minh City

Top 11 Dong Hoi attractions highly recommended by locals

1. Best Dong Hoi attractions for nature lovers

1.1. Nhat Le Beach

1.2. Quang Phu Sand Dunes

1.3. Bau Tro Lake

1.4. Bao Ninh Beach

2. Historical & cultural attractions in Dong Hoi

2.1. Tam Toa Cathedral

2.2. Ho Chi Minh Square

2.3. The Monument of Mother Suot

2.4. Quang Binh Gate

2.5. Dong Hoi Citadel

2.6. Dai Giac Pagoda

2.7. Quang Binh Museum

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