Unlocking the potential of coastal tourism.

Cua Tung, Cua Viet, and the Con Co special economic zone are facing new opportunities to become the "golden triangle" of tourism in central Vietnam. To unlock this potential, Quang Tri needs a different mindset...to shape the Quang Tri tourism brand.

Cua Tung Beach needs investment befitting its status as the "Queen of Vietnamese Beaches".

Cua Tung, Cua Viet, and the Con Co special economic zone are facing new opportunities to become the "golden triangle" of tourism in central Vietnam. To unlock this potential, Quang Tri needs a different mindset, moving away from mass tourism and focusing on the high-end segment, where tranquility, green architecture, and historical depth become the defining values ​​of Quang Tri's tourism brand.

Beautiful, natural beaches full of life.

Cua Tung Beach is located about 35 km north of Dong Ha city. In the early 20th century, it was one of the top resort destinations in central Vietnam. The French considered Cua Tung the "queen of beaches" due to its long, gently sloping stretch of fine white sand and pristine landscape. At that time, this upscale seaside resort consisted of villas scattered across high hills overlooking the sea, guesthouses, and walkways along the coastline. In his essay "Between War and Peace, " writer Nguyen Tuan described Cua Tung as one of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam, where the color of the seawater changes with the sunlight, from blue to pink, a rapid and vibrant transition. The sky and waves here blend together, creating a vibrant and natural beauty.

Located about 15km south of Cua Tung is Cua Viet beach, situated at the mouth of the Thach Han River. The river and sea waves have created a distinctive stretch of fine white sand. It wasn't until the 1990s, when Quang Tri province began focusing on developing its marine economy , that Cua Viet beach was truly planned and started welcoming tourists in its early stages.

Cua Viet Beach is beautiful and unspoiled, with fine, smooth sand.

From Dong Ha city to Cua Viet beach is about 15km, making it very convenient. Cua Viet beach is located at the beginning of the East-West Economic Corridor (EWEC) from the Vietnamese side. The formation of the Trans-Asian Highway has transformed Cua Viet into an important destination, strongly promoting investment in tourism infrastructure. Cua Viet beach retains its pristine beauty with casuarina forests acting as sand barriers. Visiting here in the summer, tourists will experience an interesting contrast between the intense heat of the southwest monsoon and the cool sea water, creating an immediate feeling of relief from the heat.

Cua Tung, Cua Viet, and the Con Co special economic zone are facing new opportunities to become the "golden triangle" of tourism in central Vietnam. To unlock this potential, Quang Tri needs a different mindset, moving away from mass tourism and focusing on the high-end segment, where tranquility, green architecture, and historical depth become the defining values ​​of Quang Tri's tourism brand.

However, since 2003, the province has constructed many projects in the Ben Hai estuary area, such as the breakwater system and the Cua Tung fishing port. These projects have contributed to changing the natural flow of the river, causing erosion of Cua Tung beach, the sand gradually being washed away, and the beach losing its original beauty. Faced with this situation, the province has organized many workshops, inviting scientists and experts to research and propose solutions to restore Cua Tung beach, but so far no feasible plan has been found to revive the beach.

In Con Co Island, tourism is identified as the key sector in development, accounting for over 70% of the special economic zone's structure. Con Co Island consistently strives to achieve the goals of biodiversity conservation, marine environmental protection, and sustainable development. Currently, Quang Tri Airport is located between the Cua Tung and Cua Viet tourist areas, about 30 km from the Con Co Special Economic Zone. Construction of this airport is being expedited, with a projected operational date in 2026, making it more convenient for Quang Tri to welcome tourists.

A strategic vision is needed.

Despite being affected by weathering, Cua Tung beach has always retained its unique character. James Smith, a British travel researcher and tourist, shared: "I enjoy swimming at Cua Tung more than any other beach I've been to. The sand underfoot is always soft, the salinity is just right, and you can swim all day and still feel very comfortable."

Tourists take a speedboat to experience the Con Co Special Economic Zone.

According to Le Minh Tuan, Director of the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the Resolution of the First Congress of the Quang Tri Provincial Party Committee, for the period 2025-2030, identifies Cua Tung, Cua Viet, and Con Co Special Economic Zone as three key coastal tourism destinations. To transform the Cua Tung-Cua Viet-Con Co tourism triangle into high-end, sophisticated, and peaceful resorts, a new strategy is needed to create more appeal for high-end customers seeking private spaces, as the strength of Cua Tung, Cua Viet, and Con Co lies in their pristine, tranquil beauty.

Tourism researchers say that, first and foremost, the development planning for these areas needs low density and green architecture to avoid noise and ensure spaced-out areas. Instead of high-rise hotels, priority should be given to villas and bungalows nestled among casuarina trees or nestled along the hilly terrain.

The transportation infrastructure needs to be sophisticated. In resorts and on Con Co Island, only electric vehicles, bicycles, or walking should be used to minimize engine noise. The Cua Tung-Cua Viet connecting road should be upgraded to a scenic route instead of the current mixed-traffic artery. Furthermore, tourism products need to be clearly defined to attract visitors. Instead of bustling activities, focus should be placed on high-end services such as natural therapies. Leverage clean seawater and fresh air for spa centers, outdoor yoga, and meditation. Exploit fresh seafood, prepared to 5-star standards. Develop controlled scuba diving for coral reef viewing, sea turtle observation, and protect primary forests to attract nature-loving and conservation-conscious tourists. Once the infrastructure is complete, professional beach management and operation units are essential.

A view of the Con Co Special Economic Zone.

Ultimately, it's about combining historical and spiritual values. Quang Tri has a unique and rich history. Its premium quality also lies in its cultural depth. There's a need for guides who can subtly tell stories about Cua Tung, Vinh Moc, the 17th Parallel, Cua Viet, and Con Co Island through art displays within the resort, transforming the tranquility of this former fierce battlefield into a space of gratitude and peace.

LAM QUANG HUY

Source: https://nhandan.vn/danh-thuc-tiem-nang-du-lich-bien-post946340.html