Ha Tien, Kien Giang – Located just 8km from the Vietnam-Cambodia border, Ha Tien is an ideal destination for domestic and international tourists wanting to explore this culturally rich border region. Strategically situated between Phu Quoc and the Cambodian provinces of Kampot and Kep, this coastal city offers diverse tourism experiences year-round. Explore the border region with Ha Tien Vegas and experience casino entertainment, hotels, and unique cuisine, just 10km from the center of Ha Tien.
Where is Ha Tien? Essential Information for Travelers
Location: Ha Tien is a city in Kien Giang Province, situated in the southwestern tip of Vietnam, bordering Cambodia.
Distances:
- From Ho Chi Minh City: 330km (6-7 hours by bus)
- From Rach Gia: 92km (2 hours)
- From Phu Quoc: 120km by sea (2.5 hours by speedboat)
- To Ha Tien – Prek Chak border gate (Cambodia): 8km (15 minutes)
- To Kampot, Cambodia: 45km (1 hour)
- To Kep, Cambodia: 35km (45 minutes)
Climate: Ha Tien has two distinct seasons – dry season (November to April) and rainy season (May to October). Average temperature 25-35°C.
How to Get to Ha Tien, Kien Giang
From Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Tien
- Bus: Depart from Mien Tay Bus Station, 6-7 hours, ticket price 250,000 – 350,000 VND
- Flight + Bus: Fly to Rach Gia (45 minutes) then bus (2 hours)
- Private car: Via Highway 1A → Highway 80 → Ha Tien
From Cambodia to Ha Tien
- Via Ha Tien – Prek Chak border gate: Open 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM daily
- From Kampot: 45km (1 hour drive)
- From Kep: 35km (45 minutes drive)
- From Phnom Penh: 230km (4-5 hours)
From Phu Quoc to Ha Tien
- Speedboat: Daily departures, 2.5 hours, ticket price 350,000 – 400,000 VND
Why Choose Ha Tien as Your Travel Destination?
Ha Tien captivates visitors with 5 unique features:
- Convenient border location: Easy combination of Vietnam-Cambodia travel
- 300+ year heritage: Connected to the Mac family and 18th-century scholars
- Diverse experiences: From blue seas, limestone caves, to cultural festivals
- Rich cuisine: Seafood combined with Vietnamese-Chinese-Khmer flavors
- Complete entertainment: Casino, luxury hotels, spa, karaoke, restaurants
Discover Ha Tien Month by Month in 2026
JANUARY: Welcome the New Year and Start Fresh
Weather: Dry, cool 23-30°C – ideal time for Ha Tien travel
Highlights:
- Check-in at decorated tourist spots: Mui Nai, Thach Dong, Da Dung
- Watch sunset at Mui Nai Beach and sunrise at Dong Ho Lake
- Explore Ha Tien night market for local cuisine
- Entertainment experiences at casinos and hotels
Accommodation suggestions: Beachfront hotels at Mui Nai, central area near night market
Signature dishes: Bo bia (spring rolls), banh tam bi (rice noodles), fresh seafood, Ha Tien fried spring rolls
FEBRUARY: Spring Travel – Celebrating Tet Binh Ngo 2026
Event: Lunar New Year – extended holiday period
Weather: Dry, moderate sun 24-31°C
Tet Activities in Ha Tien:
- Visit Spring flower market in new urban area and Ha Tien general goods market
- Spring tours for blessings at spiritual sites: Thach Dong, Da Dung, Mac Temple
- Check-in with elaborately decorated Tet scenes
- Entertainment at night market with food, street music
Tet Specialties: Banh tet (sticky rice cake), banh it tran (small rice cakes), coconut jam, peanut candy, Ha Tien fish sauce
Traveler Notes:
- Book hotels and rooms 1-2 months in advance due to peak season
- Service prices may increase 20-50% during Tet
- Casinos and entertainment areas operate normally during Tet
MARCH: Tao Dan Chieu Anh Cac Festival – Brilliant Floating Lanterns
Main Event: Tao Dan Chieu Anh Cac Festival (mid-January lunar calendar)
Weather: Dry, beautiful sunshine 25-33°C
Festival Introduction:
Tao Dan Chieu Anh Cac Festival is Ha Tien’s distinctive cultural heritage, honoring Governor Mac Thien Tich and the poets and scholars who created the famous 18th-century literary circle in southern Vietnam.
Festival Activities:
- Solemn worship ceremony at Chieu Anh Cac
- Cultural exchange with artists from in and outside the province
- Announcement of new literary works
- Street art performances
- Highlight: Floating lanterns on Dong Ho Lake on the full moon night of January lunar calendar – a sparkling, emotional scene
Cultural Experience: Visitors immerse themselves in the literary atmosphere, enjoy art performances and street exchange activities
March Specialties: Herring salad, Ha Tien squid cake, grilled lobster
APRIL: Ky Yen Ceremony at Thanh Hoang Communal House – Southern Culture and Beliefs
Event: Ky Yen Ceremony at Thanh Hoang Communal House (15-17 February lunar calendar)
Weather: Getting hot 26-34°C, end of dry season
Cultural Value:
Thanh Hoang Communal House in Ha Tien worships the Three Mac Lords (Mac Cuu, Mac Thien Tich, Mac Tu Sanh) – historical figures who opened and protected Ha Tien, conferred as Superior Gods by the Nguyen Dynasty.
Festival Activities:
- Ky Yen ceremony (praying for peace and prosperity)
- Southern community cultural activities
- Learning about Mac family history and Ha Tien’s development
Other Attractions This Month:
- Mac Family Temple (Binh San Mountain)
- Thach Dong – view “cave swallowing clouds”
- Mui Nai – beach bathing before rainy season
Specialty Dishes: Crab thick noodle soup, Ha Tien fermented fish noodles, coconut-fried snails
MAY: Red Flamboyant Flowers on Da Dung Mountain
Natural Scenery: Da Dung Mountain adorned in brilliant red flamboyant flowers
Weather: Rainy season begins, hot and humid 27-35°C
May Tourism Highlight:
Da Dung Mountain with its system of 14 mysterious caves, highlighted by red flamboyant flowers amid majestic limestone mountain scenery. This is the most beautiful photography time of the year at this location.
Famous Caves:
- Bat Cave
- Thien Hau Cave
- Buddha Cave
- And 11 other caves with historical significance
Exploration Activities:
- Mountain climbing, cave exploration
- Photography with flamboyant flowers
- Learning resistance history
- Panoramic view of Ha Tien city from mountain peak
Note: Go early morning to avoid heat, bring water and sunscreen
JUNE: Mui Nai Beach – Paradise Coastal Resort
Destination: Mui Nai Beach – Ha Tien’s tourism icon
Weather: Rainy season, occasional showers 27-34°C
History:
Once a small fishing hamlet called “Loc Tri Thon Cu” over 300 years ago, Mui Nai is now Ha Tien’s most beautiful beach with fine white sand, clear blue water, creating a harmonious “green mountains, emerald waters” picture.
Two Main Bathing Areas:
- Front beach: Near hotels, restaurants, full facilities
- Back beach: Quieter, suitable for privacy-seeking travelers
Activities at Mui Nai:
- Beach swimming, surfing
- Family and friend picnics
- Beautiful sunset viewing
- Fresh seafood dining
- Relaxation at beachfront resorts and hotels
Entertainment Services:
- 3-5 star hotels with ocean views
- International entertainment casino
- Diverse seafood restaurants
- Relaxing spa and massage
- Karaoke, bars
Cuisine: Grilled seafood, steamed grouper, steamed crab, squid with satay sauce
JULY: Memorial Ceremony for Mac Cuu, the Founding Governor
Historical Event: Memorial ceremony for Founding Governor Mac Cuu (27 May lunar calendar)
Location: Mac Family Temple, Binh San Mountain
Weather: Heavy rain 26-32°C
Festival Significance:
Honoring Governor Mac Cuu – who opened and laid the development foundation for Ha Tien in the 18th century. He is considered the “father” of Ha Tien.
Historical Value:
- Mac Cuu (1655-1735) from Lei Zhou, China
- Led people to cultivate Ha Tien land in 1671
- Conferred as Governor by the Nguyen Lords
- Transformed Ha Tien into a bustling commercial center
Memorial Activities:
- Solemn worship ceremony
- Learning Ha Tien’s pioneering history
- Visiting Mac family tomb area
Combined Attractions:
- Binh San Cultural Park
- Dong Ho
- Phu Dung Pagoda (Ha Tien’s oldest pagoda)
AUGUST: Vu Lan Season – Deep Spiritual Atmosphere
Event: Vu Lan Season (7th lunar month)
Weather: Rain decreasing 26-32°C
Spiritual Significance:
Vu Lan season is an opportunity for descendants to express filial piety, remember parents’ and ancestors’ merits. In Ha Tien, religious establishments and pagodas organize many meaningful ceremonies.
Vu Lan Activities in Ha Tien:
- Incense offerings at pagodas
- Wearing flower pins (red roses – living parents, white flowers – deceased parents)
- Listening to Buddhist teachings
- Praying for family peace
Famous Pagodas:
- Phu Dung Pagoda (oldest pagoda, 18th century)
- Hang Pagoda (inside Thach Dong)
- Tam Bao Pagoda
Cultural Experience:
Visitors immerse in the deep spiritual atmosphere, experience the spiritual life of the local community, understand more about Southern Buddhist culture and beliefs.
Combined Relaxation:
- Stay at central hotels
- Relaxing massage and spa
- Enjoy vegetarian cuisine
- Entertainment at recreational areas
SEPTEMBER: Poetic Dawn at Dong Ho Lake
Natural Experience: Watching dawn at Dong Ho Lake
Weather: Late rainy season, cool 25-31°C
Beauty of Dong Ho at Dawn:
As the sun gradually rises, morning light reflects on the calm water surface, creating a sparkling, magical scene. Cool air, chirping birds, and early morning activities of local people bring an indescribable peaceful feeling.
Ideal Time: 5:30 AM – 6:30 AM
Suggested Activities:
- Capture beautiful dawn photos
- Cycle around Dong Ho
- Enjoy morning coffee by the lake
- Watch the morning rhythm of local life
Check-in Spots:
- Dong Ho Bridge
- Lakeside park
- Cafes with lake views
Combined Tours:
- Ha Tien morning market
- Breakfast with noodles, pho, Ha Tien banh mi
- Old town walking tour
OCTOBER: Autumn at Thach Dong – “Cave Swallowing Clouds”
Destination: Thach Dong Scenic Area – Ha Tien’s most famous attraction
Weather: Dry season begins, pleasant climate 24-30°C – best time
Autumn Beauty:
In the gentle autumn breeze, floating clouds drift across the mountain peak creating the unique “cave swallowing clouds” scenery – once praised by ancient scholars and poets.
Introducing Thach Dong:
- Official name: Son Thuy Dong
- Majestic limestone cave system
- Connected to the Thach Sanh – Ly Thong legend
- National cultural-historical relic
Highlights:
- Hang Pagoda: Pagoda inside the mountain cave
- Quan Am Cave: 16m tall Buddha statue
- Thach Sanh Cave: Connected to legend
- City panorama: View from mountain peak
Activities:
- Mountain climbing, cave exploration
- Visit Hang Pagoda
- Learn folk legends
- Photograph “cave swallowing clouds” scenery
Note: Wear sports shoes, bring water, avoid midday heat
NOVEMBER: Festival of Lady Mac Mi Co (Fifth Lady)
Event: Memorial ceremony for Lady Mac Mi Co (29 September lunar calendar)
Location: Lady’s tomb (foot of Binh San Mountain) and Binh San Cultural Park
Weather: Dry season, cool 23-29°C – ideal travel time
Historical Figure:
Lady Mac Mi Co (Fifth Lady) was the fifth daughter of Governor Mac Thien Tich, revered by Ha Tien people for her virtue and benevolence. She helped many poor and sick people in the region.
Festival Ceremonies:
- Installing ritual officials
- Opening the ancient drum
- Lady bathing ceremony
- Offering ceremony
- Offerings to predecessors and successors
Festival Activities:
- Art performances
- Folk activities
- Community exchange
- Local cuisine
Cultural Value:
The festival expresses Ha Tien people’s gratitude to the Mac family, while preserving and promoting local cultural identity.
November Tourism:
This is the most ideal month for Ha Tien tourism – beautiful weather, little rain, many festivals
DECEMBER: Explore Tien Hai Island Commune – Pirate Archipelago
Destination: Tien Hai Island Commune (Pirate Archipelago) – 16 islands + 2 rocky outcrops
Distance: 30km from Ha Tien (1-2 hours by boat)
Weather: Dry season, calm seas 24-30°C – ideal conditions for island tourism
Pristine Beauty:
- Crystal clear blue water
- Fine white sand beaches
- Rich marine ecosystem
- Diverse coral reefs
- Pristine scenery
Experience Activities:
- Diving/snorkeling: View coral, ornamental fish
- Fishing: Squid fishing, sea fishing
- Visit floating cages: Learn about seafood farming
- Enjoy fresh seafood: Caught by fishermen
- Learn island life: Exchange with local residents
Cultural-Spiritual Attractions:
- National sovereignty marker
- Lady’s Temple on the Island
- Son Hoa Tu Pagoda
- Francis Xavier Church
History:
The archipelago is connected to many historical stories from the 18th century, once a refuge for pirates, later developed into an important fishing area.
Traveler Notes:
- Book tours in advance through travel companies or hotels
- Bring swimwear, sunscreen, hat
- Prepare cash (no ATMs on island)
- Can stay overnight at fishermen’s homestays
Combined from Cambodia:
Travelers from Kampot and Kep can easily connect to explore Vietnam’s sea islands through Ha Tien border gate, creating a unique cross-border tour.
Summary of Main Attractions in Ha Tien
1. Mui Nai Beach
- Type: Resort beach
- Distance from center: 5km
- Suitable for: Families, couples, friend groups
- Activities: Beach swimming, sunset viewing, seafood
2. Thach Dong (Son Thuy Dong)
- Type: Limestone mountain scenic area, caves
- Distance from center: 3km
- Suitable for: All travelers
- Activities: Mountain climbing, cave exploration, spiritual
3. Da Dung Mountain
- Type: Limestone mountain with 14 caves
- Distance from center: 4km
- Suitable for: Exploratory travelers
- Activities: Mountain climbing, cave tours, history learning
4. Dong Ho Lake
- Type: Natural lake, park
- Distance from center: 1km
- Suitable for: All ages
- Activities: Dawn viewing, cycling, strolling
5. Mac Family Temple (Binh San Mountain)
- Type: Historical-spiritual relic
- Distance from center: 2km
- Suitable for: History-interested travelers
- Activities: History learning, tomb visiting
6. Phu Dung Pagoda
- Type: Ancient pagoda (18th century)
- Distance from center: 1.5km
- Suitable for: Architecture and spirituality lovers
- Activities: Worship, Buddhist culture learning
7. Ha Tien Night Market
- Type: Night market, pedestrian street
- Distance from center: City center
- Suitable for: All ages
- Activities: Dining, shopping, entertainment
8. Tien Hai Island Commune (Pirate Archipelago)
- Type: Island tourism
- Distance: 30km (1-2 hours by boat)
- Suitable for: Sea exploration travelers
- Activities: Diving, fishing, fishing village tours
Ha Tien Cuisine – Must-Try Specialties
Signature Dishes:
- Ha Tien Fermented Fish Noodles – Rich, distinctive flavor
- Bo Bia – Popular street food
- Banh Tam Bi – Breakfast specialty
- Ha Tien Spring Rolls – Fresh seafood filling
- Crab Thick Noodle Soup – Sweet broth from crab bones
- Herring Salad – Fresh fish with herbs
- Squid Cake – Specialty from fresh squid
- Grilled/Steamed Seafood – Lobster, crab, fish, clams, oysters
- Coconut-Fried Snails – Signature drinking dish
- Ha Tien Fish Sauce – Traditional gift
Famous Seafood Restaurants:
- Mui Nai Culinary Area (beachfront)
- Ha Tien Night Market (diverse dishes)
- Hotel and resort restaurants
Accommodation in Ha Tien – Hotels and Resorts
Classification by Needs:
Luxury Hotels (4-5 stars):
- Mui Nai ocean views
- Full facilities: pool, spa, gym, restaurant
- Entertainment services: casino, karaoke, bar
- Suitable for: families, luxury travelers, foreign guests
Central Hotels (3-4 stars):
- Near night market, attractions
- Convenient transportation
- Affordable prices
- Suitable for: backpackers, budget families
Homestays, Guesthouses:
- Cheap prices, local experiences
- Friendly hosts
- Suitable for: young travelers, students
Reference Room Rates:
- 5-star hotels: 1,500,000 – 4,000,000 VND/night
- 3-4 star hotels: 500,000 – 1,500,000 VND/night
- Homestays: 200,000 – 500,000 VND/night
Note: Prices may increase 30-50% during holidays and Tet
Entertainment in Ha Tien
Casino:
Ha Tien has international casinos serving foreign guests and Vietnamese with foreign passports according to Vietnamese law.
Popular Games:
- Baccarat
- Blackjack
- Roulette
- Slot machines
- Poker
Note: Check identification before participating
Karaoke & Bars:
- Modern karaoke rooms with quality sound
- Beachfront bars with beautiful views
- Weekend live music
Spa & Massage:
- Traditional massage
- Skin care spa
- Relaxation treatments
Other Entertainment:
- Night market (nightly)
- Sports clubs
- Bicycle and motorbike rentals for exploration
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Ha Tien Tourism
How far is Ha Tien from the Cambodia border?
Ha Tien is only 8km from the Ha Tien – Prek Chak international border gate (about 15 minutes drive). This is a major advantage for travelers wanting to combine Vietnam-Cambodia tours.
Is it far from Kampot/Kep to Ha Tien?
No. From Kampot to Ha Tien is about 45km (1 hour), from Kep about 35km (45 minutes). Travelers can easily combine trips.
What’s the best time to visit Ha Tien?
The dry season from November to April is the most ideal time with beautiful weather and little rain. However, each month of the year offers unique experiences.
Does Ha Tien have casinos?
Yes. Ha Tien has casinos serving international guests and Vietnamese with foreign passports according to law.
How many days should I spend in Ha Tien?
Allocate 2-3 days to fully explore main attractions. If exploring Tien Hai Island, add 1-2 more days.
What is Ha Tien famous for?
Ha Tien is famous for: Mui Nai Beach, Thach Dong, Mac family history, distinctive cuisine (fermented fish noodles, bo bia), and convenient border location.
Do I need a visa to cross to Cambodia from Ha Tien?
Yes. Vietnamese travelers need a visa to enter Cambodia. Can apply for online visa (e-visa) or visa on arrival at the border.
What hotels can foreigners stay at in Ha Tien?
Foreigners can stay at all hotels and resorts in Ha Tien. 3-5 star hotels usually have English-speaking staff.
Does Ha Tien have ATMs and accept international cards?
Yes. Central Ha Tien has many ATMs from major banks (Vietcombank, BIDV, Agribank). Most large hotels and restaurants accept Visa/Mastercard.
How to book hotels and casino in Ha Tien?
Can book through:
- Hotel official websites
- Online booking sites (Booking.com, Agoda)
- Direct contact via phone/email
- Through travel companies
Conclusion: Ha Tien – Four-Season Experience Destination
Ha Tien is not just a beautiful coastal city, but also a cultural crossroads between Vietnam and Cambodia, a gateway connecting Phu Quoc, the Mekong Delta, and Cambodia’s Kampot and Kep provinces.
Ha Tien Highlights:
✓ Convenient border location – only 8km from Cambodia
✓ 300+ year cultural history connected to the Mac family
✓ Diverse nature: sea – mountains – lake – islands
✓ Rich cuisine: fresh seafood, local specialties
✓ Complete entertainment services: luxury hotels, casino, spa, karaoke
✓ Year-round traditional festivals
✓ Reasonable costs for all travelers
Suitable for:
- Vietnamese families wanting weekend/holiday relaxation
- International guests on Vietnam-Cambodia tours
- Friend groups loving exploration and entertainment
- Casino travelers seeking new experiences
- History and culture enthusiasts
Whenever you visit Ha Tien, this coastal city is always ready to offer memorable experiences with beautiful scenery, friendly people, and unique culture.
Plan your Ha Tien 2026 trip today!
Ha Tien Tourism Contact Information
Ha Tien City Culture-Information and Sports Center
Address: Ha Tien, Kien Giang, Vietnam
Ha Tien – Prek Chak International Border Gate
Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM daily
Kien Giang Tourism Website: [URL]
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Hotline: (+855)0718898922 – (ខ្មែរ) (+855)069953615 – (中文) (+84)0941341545 – VN (+855)087258581 Front Office (ខ្មែរ)
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