Exploring Phu Ninh Lake: A Hidden Gem Near Da Nang, Vietnam

The Phu Ninh Ecotourism and Resort Area is located in Tam Dai Commune, Phu Ninh District, Da Nang Province, about 7 km from Tam Ky Station and 45 km from Hoi An Ancient Town.

It is approximately 70 km from Da Nang International Airport and about 15 km from Chu Lai Airport. Phu Ninh Lake is a stunning and ideal destination for sightseeing, often referred to as the “Green Pearl” of Central Vietnam, boasting majestic mountains, picturesque landscapes, and a poetic lake surface.

For years, alongside the development of Da Nang, Phu Ninh Lake has been like a sleeping beauty, surrounded by the shimmering sky and clouds of this heritage land. Phu Ninh is proud to be draped in nature’s green coat, offering peace and luxury in a top-tier resort. With its fresh air, Phu Ninh Lake is a must-visit for nature lovers who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature.

Introduction to Phu Ninh Ecotourism Area

Spanning over 23,000 hectares with more than 30 large and small islands, Phu Ninh Ecotourism Area is home to a natural island system, often compared to an “inland Ha Long Bay” in Central Vietnam. The islands are relatively close together, making transportation and exploration convenient.

With its favorable location, Phu Ninh Lake is one of Da Nang’s most outstanding natural destinations, currently serving both domestic and international visitors for sightseeing, relaxation, gala dinners, and team-building activities.

Must-Visit Attractions at Phu Ninh Lake

• Island Clusters in Phu Ninh Lake: Explore the small islands by wooden boat, high-speed canoe, or jet ski.
• Bungalow Resort Area: A high-end retreat for relaxation after stressful working days.
• Outdoor Camping: Ideal for young nature enthusiasts.
• Children’s Playground: Designed for families with kids.
• Forest Trekking: Discover the pristine forest ecosystem on foot.
• Mineral Bathing Area: Enjoy relaxation therapy with natural hot mineral water.
• Adventure Games: Try the Zipline adventure to Island 61.

How to Get to Phu Ninh Lake?

Phu Ninh Lake is located in the northern part of Da Nang city, with newly built and wide roads making it easy to travel by land.

From Hanoi ⇔ Chu Lai

• ✈ By Plane
  • Vietnam Airlines: Round-trip flights VN 1641 & VN 1640 (90 minutes).
  • VietJet Airlines: Round-trip flights VJ415 & VJ416 (90 minutes).
• 🚉 By Train
  • Train travel takes about 10 hours. You can book tickets at Hanoi Station (120 Le Duan, Hoan Kiem District) or online at dsvn.vn.
  • Recommended train schedules:
  • To Tam Ky: SE1, SE3, SE5, SE7 (overnight travel).
  • Return to Hanoi: SE2, SE4, SE6, SE8, SE10 (overnight travel).
• 🚌 By Bus: About 12 hours (overnight travel).
  • Suggested bus companies: Co Huong (0941.297.888), Hung Long (0242.2121.855).

From Ho Chi Minh City ⇔ Chu Lai

• ✈ By Plane
  • Vietnam Airlines: Round-trip flights VN1460 & VN7463 (90 minutes).
  • VietJet Airlines: Round-trip flights VJ378 & VJ373 (90 minutes).
• 🚉 By Train
  • Approximately 10 hours. Book at Saigon Station (1 Nguyen Thong, District 3) or online at dsvn.vn.
  • Recommended train schedules:
  • To Tam Ky: SE2, SE4, SE6, SE8 (overnight travel).
  • Return to HCMC: SE1, SE3, SE5, SE7 (overnight travel).
• 🚌 By Bus:
  • Suggested bus companies: Hoang Long, Mai Linh, Phuong Trang (around 500,000 VND per sleeper seat).
  • From Da Nang, Hoi An ⇔ Phu Ninh Lake
• 🚌 By Car: Only 70 km from Da Nang, making it convenient for self-driving or hiring a private car.

Alternatively, tourists arriving at Da Nang Airport can request transportation services from Phu Ninh Tourism Area. Renting a motorbike for around 150,000 VND/day is also an option for a scenic road trip.

Best Time to Visit Phu Ninh Lake

The ideal time to visit Phu Ninh Lake is from January to October. Since most travel here involves walking and boat rides, swimming is a popular activity. The best swimming spots are the main lake area and smaller islands, while the resort’s swimming pool also offers great views.

The high season at Phu Ninh Lake is from late April to August, coinciding with Vietnam’s summer. During this time, families often bring children for outdoor adventures, escaping the tropical heat.

Avoid visiting during the rainy season (November–January), as heavy rain and strong winds make travel unsafe.

Things to Do at Phu Ninh Lake

• Boat Tour: Enjoy a 60-minute scenic cruise.
• Hot Mineral Springs: Experience natural mineral water therapy.
• Visit Monkey Island: Observe friendly monkeys up close.
• Kayaking: Paddle through the lake’s stunning waters.
• Water Games: Banana boat rides, paddle boats, jet skiing, and more.
• Zipline to Island 61: Thrill-seekers will love the 750m-long zipline ride.
• Team-Building Activities: A great venue for corporate events.
• Overnight Camping & BBQ: Camp under the stars and enjoy an outdoor feast.

Phu Ninh Lake is a fantastic destination for couples and nature lovers. Plan your visit and immerse yourself in this breathtaking natural retreat!

What to Eat at Phu Ninh Lake Tourist Area?

The menu at Phu Ninh Restaurant is rich and diverse, combining many dishes to satisfy the taste buds of both local and distant visitors, in addition to the typical dishes found in most restaurants.

Thanks to the vast lake teeming with various fish species, Phu Ninh Restaurant is blessed with a unique culinary advantage. The restaurant’s kitchen crafts distinct and signature dishes using these fresh fish, all while maintaining ecological balance. Some of the restaurant’s specialties include carp salad, braised goby fish, fried snakehead fish with fish sauce, and Phu Ninh snail patties.

Phu Ninh Grilled Chicken Specialty

One must-try dish at Phu Ninh is the grilled chicken, a true specialty of the region. Visitors can also enjoy a BBQ party outdoors with family and friends by pre-ordering ingredients from the restaurant. A warm bonfire marks the beginning of a delightful meal, making the experience even more memorable.

Popular Dishes at Phu Ninh Lake Tourist Area:

• Free-range Phu Ninh chicken (grilled or steamed)
• Ethnic black pork (roast pig)
• Phu Ninh snail patties
• Phu Ninh goby fish
• Phu Ninh carp
• Grilled fish caught from the lake
• Freshwater fish salad
• Wild forest vegetables

Additionally, Phu Ninh Eco-Tourism Area provides set meals for groups based on preferences. The average price ranges from 120,000 – 150,000 VND per person. Groups of eight or more can request customized meal services.

A highlight of Phu Ninh cuisine is the special grilled chicken, best enjoyed with locally brewed liquor. Phu Ninh’s liquor is crafted exclusively for the eco-tourism area, with a unique “Kiet Tuong Tuu” wine that embodies the essence of Phu Ninh, as expressed in the verse:
“Coming to Phu Ninh, like reuniting with a lover.”

What to See at Phu Ninh Lake?

Phu Ninh boasts a diverse ecosystem of flora and fauna, making it an ideal destination for visitors who love exploration, research, and nature walks.

Strolling through the pristine forests, visitors can encounter multi-layered vegetation, wildlife species, the melodies of birds, and the whispering sounds of insects, all offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city life.

Visitors can also relax in hammocks, enjoy the lake breeze, savor light snacks, and take beautiful photos to capture their Phu Ninh memories.

Camping at Phu Ninh Lake

Phu Ninh offers both luxury resorts with high-standard rooms and an outdoor camping experience for nature lovers. The eco-tourism area has plenty of shaded spots for campfires, BBQs, and late-night storytelling sessions with friends.

For those worried about renting tents or preparing food and drinks, Phu Ninh Tourist Area provides all necessary camping equipment and supplies to ensure a comfortable and unforgettable experience.

On full moon nights, the shimmering lake, cool breezes, and a guitar session by the campfire create an unforgettable ambiance. As the night deepens, the sounds of the forest and water enhance the magical experience.

Visitors camping at Nhu Y Island can admire the breathtakingly illuminated tourist area, which looks like a glowing city nestled in the mountains. Grilling freshly caught fish while enjoying the tranquility of nature is a unique experience that cannot be put into words.

Phu Ninh Lake Entrance Fees

For visitors planning a self-guided or tour-based trip, here are the ticket prices for various services at Phu Ninh Lake in 2022:

Entrance Fees:

• Adults: 70,000 VND
• Children (1m – 1.4m): 40,000 VND
• Children under 1m: Free

Boat Tours (Includes Foot Soaking & Monkey Island Visit):

• Adults: 120,000 VND
• Children (1m – 1.4m): 50,000 VND
• Children under 1m: Free

Speedboat Tours (Includes Foot Soaking & Monkey Island Visit):

• Adults: 160,000 VND
• Children (1m – 1.4m): 100,000 VND
• Children under 1m: Free

Adventure Activities

• Water Skiing (20 mins): 500,000 VND
• Kayaking (20 mins/2 people): 200,000 VND
• Banana Boat Ride (15 mins): 600,000 VND
• Jet Skiing (15 mins): 500,000 VND
• Swan Pedal Boat (60 mins/2 people): 100,000 VND
• Speedboat Rental (20 mins/8 people): 1,500,000 VND
• Zipline Ride: 150,000 VND per ride

Phu Ninh Lake Tour Packages

Phu Ninh Lake is a stunning eco-tourism destination with majestic mountains, poetic landscapes, and breathtaking scenery, making it a must-visit spot in Da Nang city

2-Day Combined Tour: Cu Lao Cham – Phu Ninh Lake

Day 1: Cham island Exploration

• 08:30 – Pick up guests and transfer to Cua Dai Port, Hoi An.
• 09:00 – Speedboat departure to Cu Lao Cham Island.
• 09:20 – Visit the Marine Conservation Center, Champa Ancient Well, and Hai Tang Pagoda.
• 11:15 – Explore Tan Hiep Seafood Market, enjoy fresh seafood tastings.
• 11:30 – Snorkeling at Hon Nhon, Cu Lao Cham.
• 12:30 – Lunch at Bai Ong Restaurant.
• 14:00 – Return to the mainland and transfer to Phu Ninh Lake.
• 16:30 – Check-in at Phu Ninh resort or tent camping.

Day 2: Phu Ninh Lake Adventure

• 08:30 – Enjoy lake activities such as:
  • Fishing in the lake
  • Water games & kayaking
  • Hiking in the forest
  • Hot spring bathing
  • Zipline to Island 61
  • Exploring Monkey Island
  • Boat cruise
  • Trekking through island forests
• 12:30 – Lunch featuring grilled chicken & Phu Ninh snail patties.
• 14:30 – Return to original pick-up location, ending the tour.

Important Notes for Phu Ninh Lake Travel

As Phu Ninh is an eco-tourism area, visitors should limit the use of fire and only light campfires in designated areas. After use, ensure all flames are extinguished with water.

Visitors should also properly dispose of plastic waste, avoid disturbing wildlife, and wear life jackets when taking boat tours.

What to Prepare for a Trip to Phu Ninh Lake?

Phu Ninh is a natural retreat often called the “Green Gem” of Da Nang city. To have the best experience, visitors should prepare the following:

• Swimwear & towels
• Eco-friendly bags
• Sunscreen & insect repellent
• Hat, umbrella, sunglasses
• Camera & power bank
• First-aid kit (motion sickness, headache medicine, etc.)
• Drinking water
• Avoid carrying too much cash or valuables.

For water activities, wear comfortable clothing such as shorts, t-shirts, or bikinis. Sneakers or sandals are ideal for hiking and exploring. Phu Ninh Lake promises adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences, making it a must-visit destination in Da Nang city!