What to do in Tam Giang Lagoon? Top 9 must-try experiences

Sunrise and sunset are the two best times to explore Chuon Lagoon. From around 5:00–6:30 AM and 4:00–6:30 PM (depending on the season), the calm water surface reflects the yellow, orange, and purple hues of the sky, creating the romantic signature landscape of the Tam Giang lagoon region. The images of stilt houses, bamboo fish traps, and fishing boats looming on the water further highlight the peaceful beauty of Hue's fishing villages.

To have a complete experience, visitors can take a boat ride around the lagoon, paddle SUP, or stop at floating stilt houses to both enjoy the scenery and fresh air. On clear days, natural light creates stunning frames, making it an ideal time to capture impressive photos without needing too much editing.

Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) is one of the hottest activities at Tam Giang Lagoon. Visitors can glide gently on the water, weaving through aquaculture areas, mangrove forests, or fishing villages. This is a great way to enjoy the fresh air and take unique check-in photos.

Notes:

• Ideal time: Sunrise or sunset.
• SUP rental price: Around 150,000 - 300,000 VND/hour.
• Bring hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen as the lagoon area is quite sunny and windy.

Participating in fishing activities with local fishermen is a fantastic way to better understand river life. You can try emptying fish traps, wading for clam harvesting, pulling nets, or fishing alongside locals. In particular, "tria" (a type of clam) is a signature seafood loot that you can bring home as a gift (about 2-5kg if you're lucky).

Suggested locations:

• Thai Duong Ha fishing village or the area near Con Toc Restaurant.

Tam Giang Lagoon is a culinary paradise with fresh seafood dishes such as grilled rabbitfish, oyster porridge, spinefoot fish sizzling pancake, salt and chili roasted mantis shrimp, or grilled skewers of river shrimp. In particular, spinefoot fish sizzling pancake with its crispy crust and sweet fish filling, served with sweet and sour fish sauce, is an unforgettable dish.

Places to try:

• Con Toc Restaurant: Famous for local specialties steeped in lagoon flavors.

• Stilt huts at Chuon Lagoon: Enjoy fresh seafood right on the water, with prices ranging from 50,000 to 150,000 VND per dish.

Ru Cha Mangrove Forest – a primary forest over 100 years old, is an ideal destination for nature lovers seeking a serene space. Small winding paths among mangrove trees create a wild, mysterious landscape, making you feel as if you've stepped into another world. It is also a wonderful place for visitors to take photos, stroll, and enjoy the cool, fresh air. A must-try experience is taking a boat ride through the forest to feel complete separation from the outside hustle. The best time to visit is from October to March, when the forest is flooded, creating a scene that is both mystical and captivating.

Ngu My Thanh Mural Village is a fresh check-in spot that has quickly attracted many tourists due to its unique beauty and rich artistic character. Colorful wall paintings stretch across small alleys throughout the village, vividly depicting the daily life of lagoon fishermen: net casting, boat rowing, seafood trading, or traditional folk festivals imbued with river culture. Far from being just a photo backdrop, the mural village serves as an "outdoor museum" of fishing culture and the deep bond between humans and the sea.

Chuon Lagoon and Cau Hai Lagoon belong to the Tam Giang Lagoon system, highlighting a landscape where water and sky merge into one. Chuon Lagoon is a favorite check-in spot for youth, especially during the fishing season (April - July). Meanwhile, Cau Hai attracts visitors with its diverse ecosystem and pristine beauty.

Recommended activities:

• Take photos at the sunrise viewing deck at Chuon Lagoon.

• Observe rare bird species at Cau Hai, especially during the migratory season.

The floating market at Tam Giang Lagoon runs from 4:00 AM to about 6:00 AM, bustling with fresh seafood trading activities. Joining the floating market, you can not only buy seafood at budget-friendly prices but also have the chance to chat with fishermen and experience local life.

Tips:

• Arrive early to watch the sunrise and buy fresh seafood.
• You can ask fishermen to cook seafood on the spot for a small fee.

Thanh Toan Tile-Roofed Bridge, located not far from Tam Giang Lagoon, is a timeless ancient architectural monument. Cycling along village roads around the bridge, you can admire lush green rice fields and listen to traditional Hue folk songs.

Notes:

• Combine it in your Tam Giang Lagoon itinerary to save time.

• Bicycle rental price: Around 30,000 - 50,000 VND/hour.

If you travel independently, you might miss out on many interesting things the lagoon has to offer. An ideal alternative is joining the Tam Giang Lagoon tour by Sovaba Travel – where every experience is thoughtfully arranged as an all-inclusive package. From drifting on a boat watching the sunset, trying SUP paddling amidst vast waters, experiencing fish trap harvesting firsthand with local fishermen, to enjoying a fresh seafood feast right on the lagoon, everything is skillfully integrated into the journey. In addition, you also have the opportunity to visit the mural village and many other unique destinations to fully appreciate the pristine beauty and culture here. Let Sovaba Travel accompany you on this trip so that Tam Giang Lagoon is not just a stopover, but a memorable highlight in your exploration of Hue.