Ho Son Regulating Lake

Review Ho Son Regulating Lake: A New Symbol of Old Phu Yen (Now Part of New Dak Lak) in 2026

In the dynamic tourism landscape of 2026, as Vietnam's administrative map witnesses a historic merger creating 34 new provinces, Ho Son Regulating Lake firmly maintains its position as one of the most attractive destinations in the South Central Coast region. Once the "green lung" of Tuy Hoa city (formerly Phu Yen province), now part of the expanded administrative area of New Dak Lak (according to the hypothetical merger decree for the Central Highlands - Coastal region), this location not only plays a role in climate regulation but is also a unique landscape architectural masterpiece.

At LocalTrips.ORG, we spent weeks experiencing the changes here firsthand after the new master plan. This article will provide the most in-depth and up-to-date look at Ho Son – dubbed the "Little Fenghuang Ancient Town" in the heart of the coastal city – helping you prepare for your upcoming trip.

1. New Geographical & Administrative Context 2026

The administrative boundary changes in 2026 have brought a fresh breeze to regional tourism. The merger and re-planning of the old Phu Yen area into the administrative structure of New Dak Lak (or the Central Highlands - Coastal Key Economic Region) has removed geographical barriers, turning this place into a bustling gateway for trade and tourism.

Prime location

Ho Son Regulating Lake is located at the "heart" of the southern urban area, along Tran Phu and Nguyen Trai streets. This is a transition area between the peaceful charm of old Tuy Hoa coastal city and the dynamism of new transportation infrastructure directly connecting to Buon Ma Thuot.

From the practical experience of the Local Trips team, this location is extremely convenient because:

• It is only about 2km from Tuy Hoa beach.
• It is located on the main road leading directly to National Highway 1A and the Central Highlands - Coastal Expressway, which was inaugurated in early 2026.
• It offers easy access to other famous landmarks such as Nghinh Phong Tower and Nhan Mountain.

"Green lung" role

With a water surface area of over 20 hectares, Ho Son is not just an urban drainage project. In the context of climate change in 2026, the lake's role in regulating temperature becomes even more important, helping the surrounding residential area stay cool and reducing the urban heat island effect.

Suggested image: A panoramic drone shot of Ho Son Regulating Lake from above, clearly showing its soft, winding shape like clouds, surrounded by bustling new urban areas of 2026.
  Alt text: Panoramic view of Ho Son Regulating Lake, old Phu Yen, new Dak Lak 2026 from a drone with unique bridge architecture.

2. Unique Architecture: "Little Fenghuang Ancient Town" of Vietnam

What makes Ho Son Regulating Lake a "craze" on social media travel platforms is its artistic architectural design, which breaks away from the dryness of typical hydraulic works.

Bai Tien Bridge – A visual highlight

The most attractive feature here is the system of pedestrian bridges crossing the lake. Not straight concrete bridges, the bridges at Ho Son are designed with soft curves, inspired by the imagery of clouds and waves, combined with typical ceramic patterns of the South Central Coast region.

We found that the brick-red color of the bridge railings combined with the sturdy yet elegant bridge pier design evokes the image of Fenghuang Ancient Town. Especially on clear blue days in 2026, the bridge's reflection on the calm water creates a perfect symmetrical scene, a "sanctuary" for photography enthusiasts.

Artistic lighting system

At night, Ho Son is completely transformed. The intelligently programmed LED lighting system, upgraded in late 2025, has turned this place into a light feast. Warm yellow light runs along the bridge railings, reflecting sparklingly on the water, creating a rare romantic ambiance.

3. Real Experience from LocalTrips.ORG

Our expert perspective after multiple field surveys shows that Ho Son is suitable for a diverse range of tourists, from active individuals, young families, to Content Creators.

Golden hours to visit

Based on weather and light data in the old Phu Yen (New Dak Lak) area, we recommend two golden hours:

1. Sunrise (5:30 - 7:00 AM): The air at this time is incredibly fresh. You will see locals exercising and jogging around the lake. The sun rising from the sea will cast its first rays through the leaves and bridge railings, creating a beautiful "light ray" effect.
2. Sunset and Dusk (4:30 - 7:00 PM): This is the ideal time for checking in. The sky changes from blue to pink-purple (a specialty of the Nẫu region's sunset), and immediately after, the streetlights turn on. The sea breeze combined with the water vapor from the lake cools down the daytime heat.

Unmissable activities

• Walking & Jogging: The lakeside path is clean, spacious, completely separated from traffic, and extremely safe.
• Concept Photography: With the background of Chop Chai mountain in the distance and the unique bridge architecture, you can create many photography concepts from ancient, vintage to modern.
• Relaxing by the lake: There are many stone benches and green lawns along the lakeside. This is an ideal place to sit, admire the scenery, read a book, or chat with friends.

Suggested image: Close-up photo of a tourist standing on the bridge, with a purple sunset and lights starting to come on in the background.

4. Travel & Itinerary Guide (Updated 2026)

With the administrative merger into the New Dak Lak system, the transportation infrastructure to this area has made a significant leap forward.

Means of transportation

• Air travel: Tuy Hoa Airport (now upgraded to the Central Highlands - Coastal Regional International Airport) welcomes many direct flights from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and international routes. From the airport to Ho Son Lake takes only about 10 minutes by taxi (about 7km).
• High-speed rail: The North-South high-speed railway line (phase 1) has begun trial operations through this area. The new Tuy Hoa Station is an important transportation hub, only 3km from the lake.
• Road (Private car/Bus): If traveling from the new administrative center (old Buon Ma Thuot area), you will take the Central Highlands - Coastal Expressway, reducing travel time to only about 1.5 - 2 hours of driving instead of 4 hours as before.

Suggested itinerary (1 day)

To optimize the experience, LocalTrips.ORG suggests the following combined itinerary:

• Morning: Catch the sunrise at Mui Dien -> Have Banh Canh He for breakfast -> Visit Nghinh Phong Tower.
• Afternoon: Rest -> 4:00 PM Head to Ho Son Regulating Lake for a walk and photos -> 6:00 PM Enjoy ocean tuna eye.
• Evening: Stroll through Tuy Hoa night market or have coffee at cafes with sea views.

5. Food & Services Around the Lake

The area around Ho Son Lake has developed into a bustling street food paradise. Here are some dishes and services you must try.

Local specialties

1. Ocean Tuna Eye (Ocean Headlight): The famous dish of this region. Ba Tam Restaurant (nearby Le Duan street) is still a legendary address.
2. Jumping Shrimp Banh Xeo: Fresh local shrimp, crispy pancake shell wrapped with fresh vegetables and sun-dried rice paper.
3. Skewers & Snacks: Along Tran Phu street in the evening, there are many carts selling grilled skewers and grilled rice paper at extremely affordable prices.

Reference Service Price List (2026)

Below is the most updated reference price list to help you estimate your expenses:

Note: Prices may fluctuate slightly during holidays or weekends.

6. Accommodation & Resorts: From Budget to Luxury

The area around Ho Son Lake (old Phu Yen) now has a very diverse accommodation system.

• Luxury segment: Coastal resorts like Rosa Alba or Stelia Beach Resort (2-3km from the lake) maintain their five-star service, suitable for relaxation combined with sightseeing.
• Mid-range hotels & Boutiques: Many new hotels with Indochine or modern architecture have sprung up in the Hung Vuong and Nguyen Hue areas, with prices ranging from 500,000 - 1,200,000 VND/night.
• Homestays & Camping: The 2026 trend is experiential tourism. Some homestays in small alleys near the lake offer a local, peaceful feeling. Although camping directly in the lake park is restricted to protect the landscape, there are specialized glamping sites in the city outskirts that are very developed.

7. Important Notes

From LocalTrips.ORG's practical experience, to have a complete trip, you need to note:

1. Environmental hygiene: This is a model public project of the new Dak Lak province, with very strict littering regulations. Please bring a personal trash bag.
2. Attire: If you want beautiful photos on the bridge, choose clothes with white, yellow, or red tones to stand out against the blue sky and water. Avoid wearing gray or dark blue as they can blend into the background.
3. Safety: Although the lake has protective railings, if you are with small children, you need to keep a close eye on them because the area near the water's edge is quite deep.
4. Weather: This coastal region is very sunny during the day. Prepare sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses if you visit before 4:00 PM.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is there an entrance fee for Ho Son Regulating Lake?
No. This is a public project serving residents and tourists, open completely free 24/7.

2. What is the best time to take photos at Ho Son Lake?
Around 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM is the best time to capture the sunset. The evening after 6:30 PM is suitable for bokeh photos with streetlights.

3. Is fishing allowed in the lake?
According to the latest regulations in 2026 by the New Dak Lak urban management board, fishing in the main lake area is prohibited to protect the ecosystem and landscape.

4. How long does it take to get here from Buon Ma Thuot city center?
Thanks to the new expressway, travel time is only about 1.5 to 2 hours of driving.

5. Is there car parking around the lake?
Yes. Along Tran Phu Street and surrounding branch roads, there are marked areas allowing car parking for a fee or free, depending on the section.

6. What local specialties near the lake should be tried?
Definitely Ocean Tuna Eye and Banh Canh He. These two dishes are sold at many popular eateries within a 1km radius.

Ho Son Regulating Lake is not just a check-in spot; it is a testament to the strong transformation of the old Phu Yen region's urban infrastructure in the new era of Dak Lak. The harmonious combination of climate regulation functionality and architectural aesthetics has created an unmissable destination on Vietnam's 2026 tourism map.

If you are planning to explore this sunny and windy land, don't hesitate to add Ho Son Lake to your itinerary. Please leave a comment below if you need further itinerary advice or want to share your beautiful photos here with the LocalTrips.ORG community!