Vietnam’s Mui Ne Takes Center Stage as a Top Emerging Destination

Published on December 12, 2025

Mui Ne, a coastal destination located around 200 kilometers east of Ho Chi Minh City, has been named the world’s leading emerging travel hotspot for 2026 by Booking.com. The recognition places Mui Ne at the center of global travel trends as international travelers increasingly seek coastal destinations offering personalized, experience-driven journeys. The ranking is part of Booking.com’s annual Travel Predictions report, which is based on accommodation data, traveler insights, and user feedback collected from its global platform.

Mui Ne’s inclusion at the top of the list highlights Vietnam’s growing presence on the global tourism map and reflects increasing interest in destinations that combine natural landscapes, cultural experiences, and accessible travel infrastructure. Known for its long sandy beaches, dramatic sand dunes, and relaxed coastal atmosphere, Mui Ne has steadily gained popularity among both domestic and international travelers over the past decade.

Growing Global Interest in Mui Ne

The Booking.com report forecasts that Mui Ne will attract heightened international attention in 2026 as travelers prioritize destinations that align with individual travel styles and meaningful experiences. As tourism patterns continue to evolve, travelers are increasingly choosing destinations that offer a balance of leisure, nature, culture, and flexibility rather than traditional mass-tourism hubs.

Mui Ne’s appeal lies in its combination of coastal scenery and outdoor activities. The destination is particularly well known for its red and white sand dunes, which are among the most distinctive natural attractions in southern Vietnam. These landscapes offer opportunities for sightseeing, photography, and guided tours, drawing visitors interested in unique natural environments.

The area is also recognized as one of Vietnam’s leading destinations for water sports, especially kitesurfing and windsurfing. Favorable wind conditions throughout much of the year have positioned Mui Ne as a key hub for international water sports enthusiasts, contributing to its growing visibility within global travel markets.

Accessibility and Travel Infrastructure

Mui Ne’s proximity to Ho Chi Minh City has played a significant role in its tourism growth. The destination can be reached by road in approximately four to five hours, making it a popular short-break option for travelers arriving in southern Vietnam. Improved highway connections and ongoing transport upgrades in the region have further enhanced accessibility.

The destination benefits from nearby transport hubs, including Phan Thiet and the developing infrastructure across Binh Thuan Province. These improvements support a steady flow of domestic and international visitors while enabling longer stays along Vietnam’s south-central coastline.

Accommodation options in Mui Ne range from beachfront resorts and boutique hotels to guesthouses and eco-lodges, catering to diverse travel segments. The variety of lodging options supports the trend toward personalized travel experiences highlighted in Booking.com’s report, allowing visitors to select accommodations that match their travel preferences and budgets.

Tourism Experiences and Local Attractions

Mui Ne offers a broad range of travel experiences centered on nature, wellness, and local culture. In addition to beach activities, visitors can explore nearby fishing villages, where traditional livelihoods remain an integral part of daily life. These areas provide insight into Vietnam’s coastal culture and support community-based tourism initiatives.

Culinary tourism is another growing component of Mui Ne’s appeal. The destination is known for its fresh seafood, local markets, and regional Vietnamese cuisine. Dining experiences often focus on locally sourced ingredients, with beachfront restaurants and casual eateries offering seafood dishes influenced by central and southern Vietnamese flavors.

Mui Ne also serves as a gateway to other attractions in Binh Thuan Province, including Ta Cu Mountain, home to one of Southeast Asia’s largest reclining Buddha statues, and natural hot springs that attract wellness-focused travelers. These surrounding sites support extended travel itineraries and encourage visitors to explore beyond the main beach areas.

Alignment With Global Travel Trends

Booking.com’s Travel Predictions report identifies a growing demand for travel experiences that emphasize authenticity, flexibility, and individual expression. Mui Ne’s recognition reflects its alignment with these trends, as the destination supports slower-paced travel, outdoor exploration, and varied accommodation styles.

The report also highlights an increased interest in lesser-known destinations that offer strong natural appeal without the density associated with major urban centers. Mui Ne’s relatively low-rise development, open coastal spaces, and scenic surroundings align with this shift, positioning it as an alternative to more established beach destinations in Southeast Asia.

Vietnam’s broader tourism strategy, which emphasizes sustainable growth, regional development, and diversification of travel offerings, has contributed to Mui Ne’s rising profile. Investment in tourism services, infrastructure, and destination marketing has supported increased international awareness while maintaining the destination’s coastal character.

Vietnam’s Rising Profile in Global Tourism

Mui Ne’s inclusion as a leading emerging travel trend destination for 2026 also reflects Vietnam’s overall growth as a global tourism destination. The country continues to attract travelers with its diverse landscapes, cultural heritage, and expanding network of coastal and urban destinations.

Southern Vietnam, in particular, has seen increased interest from international travelers seeking beach destinations combined with cultural access through major cities such as Ho Chi Minh City. Mui Ne’s coastal setting complements this trend, offering a seaside experience within reach of one of Southeast Asia’s major metropolitan centers.

As global travel demand continues to recover and diversify, destinations like Mui Ne are positioned to benefit from travelers seeking new experiences that combine relaxation, outdoor activities, and cultural exploration.

Outlook for 2026

With its designation as a leading global travel trend destination for 2026, Mui Ne is expected to see increased international attention over the coming year. Tourism stakeholders in the region are preparing to accommodate rising visitor numbers through service enhancements, accommodation development, and destination management initiatives.

Mui Ne’s recognition underscores its transition from a regional beach destination to a globally recognized travel hotspot. As travel preferences continue to evolve, the destination’s natural assets, accessibility, and varied tourism offerings place it at the forefront of emerging global travel trends.