With convenient travel distances, easy access, and refreshing green spaces, destinations near Ho Chi Minh City such as Can Gio and Ho Coc Beach are becoming ideal escapes from the heat during the April 30 - May 1 holiday.

Can Gio

Located about 50km from central Ho Chi Minh City, Can Gio is a perfect destination for those seeking a nearby retreat during the upcoming holiday.

The area is known for its long coastline and rich mangrove forests, including Vam Sat, Ha Thanh River, and Giong Ca Vo, offering experiences such as boat rides, stand-up paddleboarding, or joining locals in fishing and crabbing.

Often described as a “green island” near the city, Can Gio also attracts visitors with its fresh seafood, including dried fish, grilled oysters, mantis shrimp, and mixed salad made from mudskipper fish.

Cat Tien National Park

About 170km from the city, Cat Tien National Park is both an exploration destination and a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.

Visitors can explore the park by specialized vehicles, bicycles, or on foot, discovering its diverse ecosystem. Highlights include ancient trees up to 700 years old, Bau Sau wetland - home to hundreds of crocodiles - and conservation centers for bears and birds. Camping amid vast green forests is also a popular activity.

At the park, travelers can join a night wildlife tour starting at 6:30pm, lasting about an hour along a 12km route. Guided by experts, visitors may spot animals such as deer, porcupines, rabbits, and civets searching for food in the dark.

Lang Lon Stream

Lang Lon Stream, also known as Nghe Stream, located in Kim Long Commune (formerly Chau Duc District, Ba Ria - Vung Tau Province), is another attractive spot thanks to its lush scenery and short travel time.

The stream lies about 37km from former Vung Tau City and just over an hour from central Ho Chi Minh City.

Surrounded by wide-canopy trees, the clear and shallow water makes it ideal for wading and cooling off. Visitors can bring their own camping gear or opt for nearby glamping services priced at around VND1.4 million per night (US$57), excluding meals.

The campsite is equipped with premium tents, cooking areas, sanitation facilities, and even a private swimming pool.

Ho Coc Beach

Ho Coc Beach, located in Xuyen Moc Commune (formerly Bung Rieng Commune, Ba Ria - Vung Tau Province), is a familiar destination for travelers, especially those who enjoy seaside camping.

About 100km from Ho Chi Minh City, the journey takes roughly two hours.

Visitors can camp independently or book beachside camping services under casuarina forests, with prices ranging from VND800,000 to VND1.5 million per person per night (US$33 to US$62).

Around 500m from the shore lies a sand dune strip. During low tide, visitors can paddle SUP boards to the dunes and stroll while enjoying the coastal scenery.

Tri An Hydropower Lake

Approximately 106km from Ho Chi Minh City, Tri An Lake in Dong Nai Province is another popular cooling-off destination during the holiday.

The area offers a refreshing mix of lakes and forests, making it ideal for relaxation.

April and May are considered the most beautiful months at Tri An Lake. Water levels recede, revealing clear water and smooth sandy bottoms that form wide, natural bathing areas.

In addition to swimming and sightseeing, visitors can cycle along scenic routes, paddle SUP boards, camp, picnic, or host outdoor barbecues.