Nhat Tu Son Island, Phu Yen (old), Dak Lak (new)

Nhat Tu Son: The Sea-Crossing Wonder Road in New Dak Lak

There are moments when people feel like they are masters of the ocean, as their bare feet touch the fine sand in the midst of the vast sea. Nhat Tu Son is just such a miraculous heritage entity – where nature skillfully arranged a "sand bridge" connecting the mainland to a green island. From July 1, 2025, following a historic turning point from Resolution 202/2025/QH15, this beautiful island of the former coastal Phu Yen has officially become the "sea gateway" of the new Dak Lak province. The intersection of the salty taste of Xuan Dai Bay and the breath of the Central Highlands forest has transformed Nhat Tu Son into an unmissable destination for souls eager to conquer something different.

Unraveling the Phenomenon of the Tombolo

From Local Trips' expert perspective, the allure of Nhat Tu Son lies in its unique geological phenomenon and rare pristine forest ecosystem.

The Unique Sea-Crossing Walking Path

The most important feature here is the approximately 300m long sandbar that appears and disappears with the tide. During low tide, this path is clearly visible with crystal clear emerald water flowing on both sides, allowing visitors to leisurely walk to the island without a boat. This is a typical tombolo phenomenon, demonstrating the perfect interaction between coastal currents and sediment deposition. Preserving this sandbar is a top priority in the integrated planning strategy for Dak Lak - Phu Yen.

Nhat Island - A Pristine Forest in the Sea

The name Nhat Tu Son originates from the island's horizontal shape, resembling the majestic Chinese character "Nhat" (一), meaning "one". On the island is a lush green pristine forest system, sheltering mysterious limestone caves and endemic flora. From the island's summit, you can take in panoramic views of Xuan Dai Bay – once nominated as one of the most beautiful bays in the world.

List of Administrative Units and Nearby Connections

A day exploring Nhat Tu Son will be truly complete when you connect with the heritage tourism entities within the Xuan Dai Bay system:

1. My Thanh Fishing Village: A place preserving the distinctive marine culture of the local people, famous for its lobster farming.
2. Ganh Den & Ghenh Da Dia: Magnificent basalt geological formations located along the coastal road connecting to the south of Tuy An district.
3. O Loan Lagoon: The "capital" of blood cockles, an ideal stop to end your journey with a seafood feast.
4. Phu Yen Ward: The new tourism operational center in Tuy Hoa, providing the highest standard logistics and accommodation services in the region.

Culinary Map: Song Cau Lobster and the Essence of Xu Nau

The flavor of Nhat Tu Son is the fresh taste of the ocean. In Song Cau town, take time to enjoy:

• Song Cau Lobster: A top culinary entity in Vietnam. The lobster here is firm, sweet, and rich, prepared directly at the floating farms around the island.
• Mai Fish Salad: Fresh mai fish mixed with toasted rice powder, served with raw vegetables and a rich peanut dipping sauce – a dish embodying the soul of the local people.
• Tuna Eyeball Stew: A hot pot of tuna eyeballs stewed with medicinal herbs helps visitors recover energy after a forest trekking trip on the island.
• Sun-dried Beef with Yellow Ant Salt: A delicate fusion of Dak Lak's highland specialty and the distinct sourness of Central Vietnam's forest ants.

Estimated Service Prices (Updated 2026)

Tourism Economy and Sustainable Development Orientation

Since its merger into the new Dak Lak province, Nhat Tu Son has witnessed a strong transformation in inter-regional tourism digital transformation. The online tide warning system via an application helps tourists accurately "hunt" for the exact time the path appears.

The government of Phu Yen Ward is promoting a zero-waste tourism model on the island to protect the pristine forest ecosystem. The emergence of eco-resorts along Xuan Dai Bay is contributing to boosting the night economy, while also improving the livelihoods of local people through integrating aquaculture with community tourism experiences.

Localtrips.ORG: Accompanying Your Journey to Conquer the Ocean

We believe Nhat Tu Son is not just a destination; it's a place where people find absolute harmony with nature. Localtrips.ORG is committed to providing transparent, accurate, and authentically local information about tourism entities in new Dak Lak province. We don't just guide you on the way; we also share how to appreciate every sand dune, every forest grove of the Xu Nau region.

Nhat Tu Son FAQ

1. How do I know when the sea-crossing path appears?

According to local experience, from the 1st to the 15th of the lunar month, the tide recedes in the afternoon; from the 15th to the end of the month, the tide recedes in the morning. However, you should check the exact tide schedule on the Local Trips website before departing.

2. Is it dangerous to walk to the island?

When the tide recedes, the water level on the sand path is usually only ankle or knee-deep, which is very safe. However, if the water is rising quickly, you should use the boat/basket boat service of the locals for safety.

3. What is there to do on Nhat Tu Son island?

Besides the sea-crossing path, you can trek to explore the pristine forest, visit mysterious limestone caves like Hang Phat (Buddha Cave), Hang Doi (Bat Cave), or swim at the small sandy beaches around the island.

4. How long does it take to get to Nhat Tu Son from Tuy Hoa?

It takes about 1 hour by car or motorbike along National Highway 1A northward. This route passes through many beautiful landscapes of the Central Vietnamese bay.

5. Which check-in spot is the "most valuable" here?

It's the aerial view of the sand path connecting the two clear blue seawater lanes, or the scene of lobster farming rafts bobbing on Xuan Dai Bay.

Final advice: Bring a pair of beach sandals or water shoes to comfortably walk on the sandbar. Don't forget to bring a personal trash bag to protect the pristine environment of Nhat Tu Son island!

Please leave a comment sharing your thoughts on this wonder or contact Localtrips.ORG for advice on the perfect Song Cau discovery itinerary!