The Green Lung of Ho Chi Minh City: The Only District with a Coastal Border, Home to the World’s Largest Artificial Lake

When it comes to Ho Chi Minh City, most travelers immediately envision a bustling, vibrant, and crowded metropolis—the epitome of urban life in Vietnam, brimming with entertainment and shopping options. However, just over 50 kilometers from the city center, visitors can escape to a place known as the ‘green lung’ of the city. This unique district, the only coastal district in Ho Chi Minh City, boasts a diverse ecosystem with a harmonious blend of sea, forest, and, soon, the world’s largest artificial lake.

We are talking about Can Gio District. On April 19, the Vinhomes Green Paradise project, also known as Vinhomes Can Gio, officially broke ground, promising to enhance the appeal of Can Gio for tourists. Touted as the largest sea reclamation project in Vietnam to date, Vinhomes Green Paradise spans Long Hoa and Can Thanh Town in Can Gio District.

The standout feature of this project is undoubtedly the 443-hectare artificial seawater lagoon, aptly named Paradise Lagoon. This size far surpasses that of Citystars Sharm El Sheikh in Egypt, which currently holds the Guinness World Record for the “Largest Artificial Lagoon” at 11.7 hectares.

Thus, Paradise Lagoon is poised to claim the title of the “World’s Largest Artificial Lagoon” upon its completion. Construction of Vinhomes Green Paradise commenced on April 19, with an expected grand opening in late 2030.

Beyond the lagoon, the project boasts an array of world-class amenities. These include an international port capable of accommodating superyachts, a golf course built to international standards, a 30,000-square-meter entertainment complex featuring an artificial ice and snow rink, a zoo, and luxurious hotels, to name a few.

For those who relish cultural experiences, the Blue Wave Theater promises artistic performances and is expected to house two of the largest theaters in Southeast Asia, each with a seating capacity of 5,000.

In summary, Ho Chi Minh City’s tourism landscape, particularly in Can Gio District, is poised for a significant transformation in the coming years. With the addition of Vinhomes Can Gio, visitors will have more choices and unique experiences to indulge in.

What Can Tourists Experience in Can Gio?

Located about 50 kilometers southeast of Ho Chi Minh City, Can Gio is the city’s only coastal district, renowned for its diverse mangrove forest ecosystem, pristine natural landscapes, and fresh air. Its unique location along the Eastern Sea makes it an ideal eco-tourism and short-stay vacation destination for city dwellers and domestic travelers.

1. Can Gio Beach

The first recommended destination for tourists visiting Can Gio is Can Gio Beach, also known as 30/4 Beach. This beach is characterized by its alluvial soil, a long stretch of sandy shore, and gentle waves. While the seawater may not be as clear as in other tourist spots, the peaceful atmosphere, lack of crowds, and refreshing sea breeze offer a relaxing and intimate experience.

Along the beach, local eateries serve fresh seafood at reasonable prices, and Hang Duong Market is a popular spot for purchasing and enjoying just-caught shrimp, crab, snails, and clams.

2. Monkey Island

A distinctive experience in Can Gio is a visit to Monkey Island, home to over 1,000 wild monkeys. Here, visitors can observe the monkeys’ behavior in a semi-wild environment, explore the mangrove forest, and visit the Sac Forest Base—a significant revolutionary base during the resistance war. This site also serves as an attractive eco-education destination for young tourists, students, and pupils.

3. Vam Sat Tourist Area

For those seeking an in-depth ecological experience, a must-visit destination is the Vam Sat Tourist Area, nestled in the core of Can Gio’s mangrove forest. This area was recognized by the World Tourism Organization (WTO) as a sustainable tourism site.

Here, visitors can cruise through winding canals amidst the nipa palm forest, try crocodile fishing, visit the bird sanctuary, or climb the 26-meter-high Tang Bong Tower for a panoramic view of the area. These activities offer a deeper understanding of the vital role of mangrove forests in environmental protection and biodiversity conservation.

4. Thanh An Island

For those seeking a more rustic and off-the-beaten-path experience, Thanh An Island, located off the mainland, is the place to go. To reach the island from the district center, visitors take a 45-minute ride on a wooden boat.

Once there, activities include strolling along the seaside dike, exploring the fishing village, capturing photos on wooden bridges, and savoring fresh seafood prepared by local residents.

Culturally, Can Gio is distinguished by the Ong Thuong Tuong Mausoleum and the Nghinh Ong Festival—a traditional festival emblematic of the southern coastal residents’ beliefs. Held annually in the eighth lunar month, the festival showcases rituals worshipping the whale, a sacred creature believed to protect fishermen at sea. The festival features colorful processions, incense offerings, and captivating lion and dragon dances. It provides visitors with a glimpse into the local folk beliefs and the way of life of the local fishing community.