Dubbed as “Mars on Earth” or “a million-year-old fossilized coral reef”, Hang Rai is not only an ideal destination for those who love to explore but also an endless source of inspiration for photographers. Nguyen Minh Hien, a tour guide and photographer in Vinh Hy, shared his emotional thoughts about this special place.
Hang Rai belongs to the Nui Chua National Park marine reserve, located in Thai An village, Vinh Hai commune, Ninh Hai district, about 35 km from Phan Rang. Visitors can travel along provincial road 702 - a beautiful coastal route connecting Vinh Hy and Binh Tien. From Ho Chi Minh City, you can take a bus or train to Phan Rang, then rent a motorbike or car to continue the journey. For travel enthusiasts, this coastal route is an experience not to be missed.
The wild beauty of Hang Rai, an ideal destination for those who love exploration and photography
Brilliant sunrise on Hang Rai
“In Hang Rai, I always remember the feeling of waiting at 5am to immerse myself in the dawn looming in the distance on the sea. At that moment, I was immersed in the natural scenery, forgetting all the worries in life," Minh Hien shared.
For those who love photography, Hang Rai in the early morning is truly a paradise. The calm sea reflects the magical colors of the sky, while the million-year-old fossilized coral reef rocks appear and disappear under the early morning light, creating an unforgettable, magical scene.
Mysterious dawn at Hang Rai, where the early morning light blends with the vast ocean
“Mars on Earth” and the majestic beauty of fossil coral reefs
It is no coincidence that Hang Rai is compared to the surface of Mars. Minh Hien said that in the dry season, when the sea is calm and the water does not overflow onto the coral reefs, their surfaces become dry, revealing undulating, sharp traces with unique colors. This makes this place look like an alien land. But not only that, Hang Rai also possesses another special natural wonder: "waterfall on the sea".
Where the earth, sky and sea meet, creating a romantic space every early morning.
This waterfall is actually the effect of ocean waves pouring over coral reefs and pouring down like a white stream. This scene is not always visible, but depends on the tide and weather conditions. "To admire the waterfall on the sea, visitors need a little luck and closely monitor the water level," Mr. Hien shared. In particular, in March, this area is covered with a brilliant green moss carpet, creating a poetic and heartbreaking scene.
Waterfall moment on the sea, a rare natural wonder at Hang Rai
Journey to explore Hang Rai – things not to be missed
As a photographer, Minh Hien is always looking for new angles to introduce the beauty of Hang Rai to the travel community. Besides taking photos, visitors can also choose trekking to fully experience the beauty of the fossil coral reef terrain or participate in underwater experiences.
“Every early morning, Hang Rai offers a peaceful and romantic scene, but when the waves crash against the cliffs, the place becomes majestic and full of life,” Hien described. No matter what time you come, Hang Rai always has surprises for visitors.
Hang Rai is beautiful all year round and each season has its own unique features.
According to Minh Hien, Hang Rai is beautiful all year round and each season has its own unique features. However, if you want to catch the green moss season, March is the best time. To see the most beautiful fresh moss, visitors should come in the morning, when the sun is not too high and the green color of the moss is still brilliant. If you want to admire the "waterfall on the sea", visitors need to follow the tide schedule and the time of the water level rise and fall.
To see the most beautiful moss, visitors should come in the morning, when the sun is not too high and the green color of the moss is still brilliant.
Lush green moss at Hang Rai in March, creating a lush green carpet in the middle of the ocean.
Important notes when exploring Hang Rai
Because the terrain is mainly fossil coral reefs with rough, sharp surfaces, Minh Hien advises visitors to choose suitable clothing and shoes for easy movement. “The coral is very sharp and the moss is slippery, so when engrossed in taking photos or sightseeing, everyone needs to pay special attention to avoid danger,” he reminded. In addition, on rough sea days, big waves can crash into the cliffs very strongly, so visitors need to follow the instructions of the management board to ensure safety.
Come to Hang Rai to feel the magical beauty of heaven and earth
Hang Rai is not only a beautiful destination but also a place for visitors to immerse themselves in nature, feel the magical moments of heaven and earth and preserve unforgettable memories. Whether you are a photography enthusiast, a travel enthusiast or simply looking for peace in the midst of nature, Hang Rai will certainly not disappoint you.
