Southern Vietnam is a paradise for motorbike enthusiasts. Whether it’s a coastal road with sparkling blue waters or a winding route through misty mountains, each path has its own unique beauty. No matter which route you choose, every kilometer tells a story of the vibrant landscapes of the south. Here are some must-try Southern Vietnam motorbike routes for every rider.
1. Ho Chi Minh City – Vung Tau – Phan Thiet – Mui Ne
Highlights: Coastal roads with sea views, sand dunes, local cuisine, fishing villages, photo opportunities at sunrise and sunset.
Distance: ~350 km
Recommended duration: 2–3 days
This coastal journey is ideal for those who love the combination of sea, sand and winding roads. Starting from Ho Chi Minh City, riders head southeast toward Vung Tau, a bustling seaside town known for its beaches, seafood and scenic viewpoints.
From Vung Tau, the route continues along the coastline to Phan Thiet, where peaceful fishing villages, colorful markets and vast sand dunes create a unique backdrop for a motorbike adventure.
The final stretch leads to Mui Ne, famous for its iconic red and white sand dunes, kite-surfing beaches and serene fishing harbor. Along this route, riders can enjoy fresh seafood, stop for coffee with ocean views.
2. Vung Tau – Ho Tram – Binh Chau
Highlights: Beaches, coastal roads, hot springs, forest trails, seaside resorts.
Distance: ~120–150 km
Recommended duration: 1–2 days
For riders who enjoy a mix of coastal views and forested landscapes, this journey is a perfect way to experience Vietnam by motorcycle, offering both adventure and relaxation.
Starting from Vung Tau, known for its vibrant beaches and seaside atmosphere, the journey follows scenic coastal roads with ocean views and rocky cliffs. Riders will reach Ho Tram first, famous for its pristine beaches and resorts, perfect for a beach break or trying water sports like surfing and kayaking.
Continuing southwest, the route leads to Binh Chau, home to natural hot springs and the lush Binh Chau – Phuoc Buu Forest. Here, riders can unwind in warm mineral waters and explore tranquil forest paths.
This route combines beach, forest and wellness experiences, offering a refreshing Southern Vietnam adventure.
3. Can Tho – Ca Mau – Dat Mui Ca Mau
Highlights: Floating markets, mangroves, remote villages, river landscapes, extreme southern point of Vietnam.
Distance: ~300 km
Recommended duration: 2–3 days
For riders who prefer the calm and green landscapes of the Mekong Delta, this route showcases the unique charm of southern Vietnam’s riverine life.
Starting in Can Tho, famous for its floating markets and bustling riverside life, the journey heads southwest toward Ca Mau, the heart of the delta. The final destination is Dat Mui Ca Mau, the southernmost tip of Vietnam, where the land meets the sea and endless mudflats and mangroves stretch into the horizon.
Along the way, riders pass small villages, cross wooden bridges and experience the slower rhythm of rural life. This route combines cultural encounters with breathtaking natural scenery, offering a completely different side of Southern Vietnam
4. Nha Trang – Quy Nhon
Highlights: Coastal highways, beaches, fishing villages, mountain-sea scenery, Cham heritage.
Distance: ~330 km
Recommended duration: 2–3 days
For riders seeking long coastal stretches and vibrant seaside scenery, the Nha Trang – Quy Nhon route is a must.
Starting from Nha Trang, famous for its beaches and island views, the journey heads north along winding coastal roads that reveal mountains meeting the sea. Riders can stop at hidden beaches, local fishing villages and scenic viewpoints along the way.
The final destination, Quy Nhon, is known for its golden sand beaches, Cham towers and fresh seafood. This route is ideal for those looking for a longer adventure combining stunning landscapes, cultural encounters and the charm of Vietnam’s central coast.
>>> See more: 10 coastal motorbike routes in Vietnam with the most breathtaking views
5. Can Tho – Chau Doc – Ha Tien
Highlights: Floating markets, rice paddies, river landscapes, Cham and Khmer culture, coastal views.
Distance: ~320 km
Recommended duration: 2–3 days
This route is perfect for those who want to experience the heart of the Mekong Delta. Starting in Can Tho, riders can explore floating markets, riverside villages and the vibrant delta life.
Heading southwest toward Chau Doc, the journey passes lush rice fields, fruit orchards, and small villages along the river. Chau Doc itself is known for its sacred mountains, peaceful rivers and Cham and Khmer cultural influences.
The route continues to Ha Tien, a coastal town near the border with Cambodia. Here, riders can enjoy stunning coastal views, pristine beaches and explore local fishing villages. This route combines river landscapes, cultural diversity and seaside scenery, making it one of the most varied Southern Vietnam motorbike routes.
6. Dong Nai – Lam Dong (Da Lat)
Highlights: Mountain roads, pine forests, waterfalls, lakes, local culture, coffee farms.
Distance: ~250 km
Recommended duration: 2 days
For riders seeking the thrill of mountainous landscapes, winding roads, and cooler climates, the Dong Nai – Lam Dong (Da Lat) route ranks among the most memorable motorbike routes in Vietnam. Starting from Dong Nai, the journey takes you through gentle rolling hills, rural farmlands and small villages where life moves at a relaxed pace. Riders can stop to observe local farming practices, enjoy fresh tropical fruits, or capture the peaceful countryside on camera.
As the route climbs into Da Lat, the scenery transforms dramatically. Towering pine forests line the winding roads, mist often drifts over valleys and waterfalls such as Datanla and Prenn cascade down the hillsides, creating perfect spots for short breaks and photography. Serene lakes like Xuan Huong and Tuyen Lam invite riders to pause and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.
Along the way, riders can visit local coffee farms, where highland-grown Arabica beans are cultivated and experience the traditional process of coffee making. Small villages along the route offer glimpses of local highland culture, from flower gardens bursting with color to quaint markets and friendly locals sharing stories of life in the Central Highlands.
7. Phan Rang – Ninh Thuan – Ca Na
Highlights: Cham towers, vineyards, desert dunes, fishing villages, pristine beaches, coral reefs.
Distance: ~80–100 km
Recommended duration: 1 day
For riders craving a journey through sun-drenched landscapes and untouched coastal scenery, the Phan Rang – Ninh Thuan – Ca Na route is an adventure full of surprises.
Starting from Phan Rang, the capital of Ninh Thuan province, riders are greeted by vast vineyards, golden sand dunes and historic Cham towers standing proudly against the arid backdrop. The road winds through small villages, salt fields glistening under the sun and cactus-covered hills, giving a taste of the region’s unique desert-like charm.
As the journey approaches Ca Na, the landscape transforms into a serene coastline with quiet beaches and crystal-clear waters. Here, riders can explore coral reefs, take a dip in the sea, or simply relax on the soft sands while enjoying the tranquil atmosphere away from tourist crowds. This route perfectly blends cultural heritage, rugged natural beauty, and peaceful coastal escapes, making it an ideal short adventure for motorbike travelers.
8. Phan Thiet – Mui Ne – Bau Trang
Highlights: Fishing villages, red and white sand dunes, kite surfing, beaches, Bau Trang lake, local culture.
Distance: ~30–40 km
Recommended duration: Half day – 1 day
For adventure seekers who love dramatic landscapes and vibrant beach life, the Phan Thiet – Mui Ne – Bau Trang route is one of the most exciting Southern Vietnam motorbike routes.
Beginning in Phan Thiet, riders encounter bustling fishing ports, fresh seafood markets, and colorful local life that captures the essence of Vietnam’s coastal culture. The road then leads to Mui Ne, famous worldwide for its massive red and white sand dunes. Riders can climb the dunes to watch the sunrise or sunset, feel the thrill of sliding down the sandy slopes, or try kite surfing along the windy beaches.
The journey continues to Bau Trang, the “White Lake,” where calm freshwater surrounded by white sand dunes creates a surreal, almost otherworldly setting. Here, riders can enjoy peaceful moments, take stunning photos, or interact with local farmers and nomadic herders in the area.
9. Phan Thiet – Binh Thuan – Lam Dong
Highlights: Coastal roads, fishing villages, pine forests, mountain passes, tea and coffee plantations, waterfalls.
Distance: ~200–250 km
Recommended duration: 2 days
Starting from Phan Thiet, riders pass vibrant fishing villages and beaches dotted with colorful boats. The road gradually climbs through Binh Thuan’s inland areas, where the landscape shifts from sandy plains to green hills and pine forests. Riders will encounter quiet country roads, small farms, and local villages, giving a glimpse into the region’s rural life.
As the journey enters Lam Dong province, the scenery transforms into the cool, misty highlands. The route takes you past rolling tea and coffee plantations, waterfalls and winding mountain roads that reward riders with breathtaking panoramic views. This route combines the thrill of coastal riding with the serenity of the Central Highlands, perfect for riders seeking diversity in landscapes and experiences.
10. Ho Chi Minh City – Con Dao
Highlights: City departure, coastal highway, beaches, turquoise waters, tropical forests, historical sites.
Distance: ~230 km (plus flight/ferry)
Recommended duration: 2–3 days
For adventure seekers looking to combine city vibes, island beauty, and history, the Ho Chi Minh City – Con Dao journey stands out among motorbike routes in Vietnam.
Starting from the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, riders experience the contrast of city life before heading to the coastal highway toward the ferry terminals or flights to Con Dao. Upon arrival at Con Dao, the island welcomes riders with pristine beaches, turquoise waters and lush tropical forests. The route around the island features winding roads along cliffs, secluded coves and peaceful fishing villages.
Con Dao is also rich in history, from the old French prison sites to local museums, offering a chance to explore Vietnam’s past alongside natural beauty. This route combines riding excitement, beach relaxation and cultural immersion, making it a memorable adventure for both new and experienced riders.
11. Ho Chi Minh City – Da Lat – Bao Loc – Lien Khuong
Highlights: Winding mountain roads, pine forests, flower gardens, waterfalls, lakes, tea and coffee plantations, local culture.
Distance: ~300 km
Recommended duration: 2–3 days
Starting from Ho Chi Minh City, the journey heads north toward Da Lat, passing through rural towns, coffee plantations and rolling hills.
As you climb into Da Lat, the winding roads are lined with pine forests, flower gardens, and misty valleys. The city itself, known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” offers serene lakes, waterfalls and vibrant local markets. Riders can stop to enjoy fresh highland vegetables, local fruits, or visit small coffee farms to learn about traditional cultivation methods.
Continuing toward Bao Loc and Lien Khuong, the roads become quieter, revealing vast tea plantations, impressive waterfalls. These stretches provide ample opportunities to pause, take photos and fully immerse yourself in the peaceful highland atmosphere, making it a truly memorable experience along the Southern Vietnam motorbike routes.
12. Ho Chi Minh City – Phan Thiet – Ninh Thuan – Cam Ranh – Nha Trang
Highlights: Coastal roads, sand dunes, vineyards, fishing villages, bays, beaches, Cham culture, cityscapes.
Distance: ~650 km
Recommended duration: 4–5 days
This coastal and highland route is ideal for riders seeking diverse landscapes, from beaches to desert-like dunes to coastal bays. Starting from Ho Chi Minh City, riders head east to Phan Thiet, where the iconic red and white sand dunes, fishing village and serene beaches provide a scenic introduction.
The journey continues through Ninh Thuan, a land of rolling hills, vineyards and arid landscapes. Stop at local wineries to taste Ninh Thuan’s famous grapes or explore small villages along the way to experience the local Cham culture.
Riders then reach Cam Ranh, known for its pristine bays and tranquil beaches, before finishing in Nha Trang, a bustling coastal city famous for its turquoise waters, islands and vibrant nightlife. This route perfectly combines long stretches of coastline, cultural stops, and opportunities for relaxation.
FAQs
- When is the best time of year for motorbike trips in Southern Vietnam?
The dry season (December–April) offers sunny weather, minimal rain, and safer, easier road conditions.
- Which route is most suitable for beginners?
Short, easy routes with plenty of services such as Ho Chi Minh City – Vung Tau, Ho Chi Minh City – Ho Tram, or Ho Chi Minh City – Da Lat via National Highway 20 (with gentler, beginner-friendly mountain passes).
- Which coastal route in Southern Vietnam has the most beautiful scenery?
The Vung Tau – Ho Tram – Binh Chau route is considered the most scenic, offering open coastal views, clear blue waters, smooth curves, and plenty of picturesque stopovers.
- Which Southern Vietnam route offers the best sunrise and sunset views?
The Phan Thiet – Mui Ne – Bau Trang route offers the best sunrise and sunset views, with golden dunes, open coastlines and wide horizons perfect for capturing dramatic light.
- Which route is best for cultural experiences in the Mekong Delta?
The Can Tho – Chau Doc – Ha Tien route is the best for cultural experiences, offering a mix of floating markets, Cham and Khmer heritage, river villages and traditional delta life.
In this article, Frontier Travel Vietnam has suggested 12 outstanding Southern Vietnam motorbike routes. Whether you are a new rider or an experienced one, these routes are sure to offer inspiring journeys and unforgettable memories.
See more:
>>> Best Motorbike Routes For Cloud Hunting In Northern Vietnam
