Đồ Sơn is a distinctive peninsula and coastal resort town located approximately southwest of Hải Phòng city. It is characterized by its mountain range descending into the sea and its long history as a leisure destination.
General Overview and Beach Zones
Location: Đồ Sơn, Hải Phòng. The area is a peninsula jutting into the Gulf of Tonkin, formed by the Rồng (Dragon) Mountain Range.
The Beach Experience: The coastline is divided into three distinct sections:
Zone 1: Closest to the town, lively with restaurants, but often rocky and less suitable for swimming due to strong currents. Best for dining and enjoying the view.
Zone 2 (Main Beach): The most popular and widest beach area, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. It can be crowded during the peak summer season.
Zone 3: Quieter and more secluded, often featuring the largest resorts and historical sites. Best for travelers seeking tranquility.
Note on Water Clarity: Due to its location near the estuaries of the Red River and Thái Bình River, the sea water at Đồ Sơn may be slightly turbid (silty) compared to more remote islands, though locals note its moderate salinity is pleasant for swimming.
History and Culture
Colonial Heritage: Đồ Sơn was developed by the French colonial government in the late century as an exclusive summer resort for the French expatriate community and the Vietnamese elite.
King Bảo Đại’s Palace (Biệt thự Bảo Đại): A key historical attraction, this is the summer villa of Vietnam’s last emperor, offering a historical viewpoint and excellent sea views.
Buffalo Fighting Festival (Lễ hội chọi trâu): A major cultural highlight. This ritualistic, nationally recognized festival takes place annually around the or lunar month (typically late September or early October) and attracts spectators from across the country.
Hòn Dáu Island: A short boat trip from the mainland, featuring a century-old French lighthouse and the Nam Hải Thần Vương Temple.
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit:
Swimming Season: April to October, when the weather is warm and favorable.
Festivals: September/October for the Buffalo Fighting Festival.
Admission Fee:
General Beach Access: Free (No entrance fee for the public beach areas).
Specific Sites: Small admission fees may apply to attractions like King Bảo Đại’s Palace.
Getting There: Đồ Sơn is easily reached from Hải Phòng city center by taxi, bus, or private car. Travel time from Hanoi is about hours by car.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | Đồ Sơn District, Hải Phòng City |
| Major Attraction | Buffalo Fighting Festival (Sep/Oct), King Bảo Đại's Palace, Hòn Dáu Island. |
| Local Cuisine | Famous for fresh and affordable seafood. |
| Phone Number | (No single tourism office number; inquire at your hotel for local services.) |
| Casino | Doson Resort & Casino is the only one in the area, but generally for foreign passport holders only. |
