Former Song Da Dien Phu Yen breakwater, (New Dak Lak)

Experience the Old Sông Đà Diễn Phú Yên Breakwater (New Đắk Lắk) – A Masterpiece of Green Moss

In the journey to discover unique "Instagrammable" spots along the Central Coast, few would have imagined that rugged concrete blocks could transform into a mesmerizing, lush green carpet. This is the story of the Old Sông Đà Diễn Phú Yên Breakwater (now New Đắk Lắk).

At LocalTrips.ORG, we have spent months surveying the geographical and administrative changes following the major planning phase in 2025. This article is not just a travel guide but the most up-to-date map to help you accurately locate this spot within the new administrative context of 2026.

1. Locating the Sông Đà Breakwater in the "New Đắk Lắk" Context

One of the biggest changes visitors need to be aware of when looking for travel information in 2026 is the merger and reorganization of key economic regions.

The Administrative Shift in 2026

According to the resolution for the planning of the South Central Coast and Central Highlands region, effective from July 1, 2025, the southern coastal area of the former Phú Yên province (including the area south of Tuy Hòa and the surrounding areas of the Đà Rằng River estuary) has been integrated into an expanded economic zone, now administratively named New Đắk Lắk – to create a direct maritime gateway for the Central Highlands region.

Therefore, when searching on digital maps or asking locals for directions, you may encounter an overlap between two names:

• Old name: Xóm Rớ Breakwater / Sông Đà Breakwater (part of Phú Đông Ward, Tuy Hòa City, Phú Yên).
• New official name (2026): Old Sông Đà Diễn Phú Yên Breakwater (New Đắk Lắk).

Precise Geographical Location

This breakwater is located right at the river mouth, where the Đà Rằng River (Ba River) flows into the East Sea. This structure was initially built by Sông Đà Corporation to prevent coastal erosion and protect the residential areas of Diễn Phú and Xóm Rớ.

• Coordinates: Located about 3-4km south of the city center (formerly Tuy Hòa administrative area).
• Identifying features: Massive three-pronged concrete blocks (tetrapods) and square blocks forming a barrier against ocean waves.

2. The "Golden" Time to Hunt for Moss at the Breakwater

Based on the practical experience of the Local Trips team over three consecutive moss seasons, the beauty of this area is not year-round. It is entirely dependent on tides and weather.

The Green Season

Unlike typical white sand beaches, the beauty of this breakwater comes from the synergy between nature and man-made structures.

• Best time: From January to April annually.
• Peak: February and March (after the Lunar New Year). At this time, the sun begins to turn a gentle yellow, not yet too harsh, allowing the moss to photosynthesize and turn a jade green color.

"Photo Hunting" Hours

We have noticed that light plays a 90% decisive role in the beauty of photos taken here.

1. Sunrise (5:30 - 6:30 AM): This is the "magic hour." As the sun just rises above the sea, slanted sunlight illuminates the concrete blocks, making the moss gleam with a fresh green, sparkling as if covered in silver.
2. Sunset (4:30 - 5:30 PM): The tide often recedes low, revealing thick patches of moss. However, the colors will be more subdued, offering an ethereal and tranquil beauty.

Expert tip: Absolutely avoid visiting at midday (11:00 AM - 2:00 PM). At this time, the harsh, vertical sun causes the moss to dry on the surface, looking dull gray, and importantly, the concrete absorbs heat, becoming very hot, posing a danger when moving around.

3. Detailed Travel Guide (Updated 2026)

With the formation of the New Đắk Lắk region, the transportation system connecting the Central Highlands and this coastal area has been significantly upgraded.

Means of Transportation to the Area

• By Air: Tuy Hòa Airport (now South Central International Airport) has expanded its runway. Flights from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City land continuously.
• Central Highlands - Coast Expressway (New): The Buôn Ma Thuột - Khánh Hòa - Phú Yên expressway has been fully opened. Travel time from downtown Buôn Ma Thuột to the "Sông Đà Breakwater" is now only about 1.5 hours by car.

Route from the City Center to the Breakwater

Below is the most optimized route recommended by LocalTrips.ORG for motorcycles and self-driving cars:

1. From the city center, head south across Hùng Vương Bridge. This is the iconic bridge connecting the two banks of the Đà Rằng River.
2. Immediately after the bridge, turn left at the first traffic light intersection (heading towards the sea/old airport).
3. Go straight for about 500m, and you will reach a T-junction turning into the Xóm Rớ residential area (now part of the expanded Diễn Phú ward).
4. Continue straight towards the sea, and you will see the towering breakwater with concrete blocks stacked upon each other.

Traffic note: The road to this area has now been 100% asphalted according to new rural standards, and 45-seat cars can access the site.

4. Unique Experiences: More Than Just Check-ins

Don't just come to take a photo and leave. The Old Sông Đà Diễn Phú Yên Breakwater (New Đắk Lắk) offers much more profound experiences.

4.1. "Hunting" for Artistic Photos with Tetrapod Structures

The three-pronged concrete blocks (Tetrapods) here were cast by Sông Đà Corporation in giant sizes to withstand the storms of the Central Coast. When covered in moss, they look like giant "Matcha candies" scattered along the coastline.

• Photography tip: Lower your camera angle, use the wet moss patches as the foreground, and the white-foaming waves as the background.

4.2. Rock Fishing

The area at the base of the breakwater is home to many reef fish species such as grouper, rabbitfish, and snapper.

• On weekends, you will encounter many local anglers.
• If you want to try it, you can rent fishing rods from households in the nearby Diễn Phú fishing village (approximately 50,000 - 70,000 VND/session).

4.3. Camping to Watch the Sunrise

The sandy area next to the breakwater is quite flat and clean.

• Activities: Pitch a tent, light a small campfire (with wind protection), grill seafood, and watch the sunrise right from your tent.
• Note: In 2026, the management board of the New Đắk Lắk area has very strict regulations on plastic waste. Absolutely take all your trash with you after camping.

5. Local Cuisine: A Blend of Sea and Forest Flavors

The administrative merger into New Đắk Lắk has created an exciting culinary fusion right in this coastal area. You can enjoy fresh seafood along with unique spices from the Central Highlands.

"Must-try" Dishes

Reputable Eateries

• Bạch Đằng Embankment Area: Home to many affordable seafood restaurants with cool river views.
• Bà Tám Restaurant (Xóm Rớ): Specializes in tuna and fresh seafood caught daily from fishing boats.

6. Accommodation: Where to Stay When Visiting the Breakwater?

Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose from the following accommodation types:

• Local Homestays (Diễn Phú Area):
• Characteristics: Converted local houses, intimate, affordable. You can experience the life of fishermen.
• Price: 200,000 - 350,000 VND/night.
• Suggestions: July's Homestay, The Local House.

Downtown Hotels (Former Tuy Hòa Ward 7 Area):

• Characteristics: Comfortable, close to commercial centers, easy access to dining.
• Price: 500,000 - 1,500,000 VND/night.
• Suggestions: Sala Grand, Rosa Alba Resort.

Coastal Resorts (New Đắk Lắk Area - Southern part):

• Characteristics: Luxurious, private, direct sea views.
• Price: From 2,500,000 VND/night.

7. Reference Service Prices (Updated 2026)

To help you plan your finances in detail, LocalTrips.ORG provides a reference price list for popular services in this area:

8. Crucial Safety Notes

The Old Sông Đà Diễn Phú Yên Breakwater (New Đắk Lắk), though beautiful, harbors many dangers if you are complacent. From the hard-won experience of those who came before, we recommend:

1. Beware of slipperiness: Moss is very slippery. Absolutely do not wear high heels or worn-out flip-flops. Use sports shoes with good grip or specialized water shoes.
2. Watch out for big waves: Don't get too absorbed in taking photos and turn your back to the sea for too long. Sudden rogue waves can crash against the rocky embankment and pull you into the sea.
3. Do not litter: Moss is very sensitive to water environments. Discarding plastic waste will kill moss spores. Please take away whatever you bring in.
4. Respect the structure: Do not pry, deface, or draw on the concrete breakwater blocks. This is a national security and natural disaster prevention structure.

9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are common questions LocalTrips.ORG frequently receives about this location:

Q1: Is there an entrance fee for this breakwater?

• A: No. This is a public structure, and you can visit for free. However, parking at local homes costs approximately 5,000 - 10,000 VND.

Q2: If I don't visit during the moss season (January-April), what else is beautiful here?

• A: Outside of moss season, this is still a beautiful spot to watch the sunrise and sunset, with waves crashing against the rocky embankment, creating white foam. It's very suitable for those who love the tranquility and majesty of the sea.

Q3: Should children and the elderly visit here?

• A: The sandy area on the shore is safe. However, climbing onto the moss-covered concrete blocks is strongly discouraged for young children and the elderly due to the very high risk of slipping.

Q4: Why is it called "New Đắk Lắk" when it's on the coast?

• A: This is the name given under the new economic planning region in 2026, merging a part of the coast into the Central Highlands region to develop maritime economy for the mountainous area. Geographically, it remains a part of the Central Coast.

Q5: What other nearby places can be combined in half a day?

• A: You can combine the itinerary: Sông Đà Breakwater, Xóm Rớ Moss Beach, Nghinh Phong Tower; Bãi Xép (filming location for "I See Yellow Flowers on Green Grass").

Conclusion

The Old Sông Đà Diễn Phú Yên Breakwater (New Đắk Lắk) is not just a destination; it's a testament to the wondrous harmony between human hands and nature. In the context of the administrative changes in 2026, this place becomes even more special with its position as the sea gateway to the vast highlands.

If you are looking for a different experience, far from the hustle and bustle of industrial tourist areas, pack your bags and come here this moss season. The beauty of the green moss carpets against the gray concrete will surely be an unforgettable memory on your journey.

Are you ready for this trip? Leave a comment below if you need more itinerary advice or an update on the current moss conditions. The LocalTrips.ORG team is always ready to assist you!

This article was produced by LocalTrips.ORG – Content copyright belongs to the team of local expert editors. Please cite the source clearly when quoting.