The coastal landmark forms part of the Tan Phung mountain range and is distinguished by layered granite formations stretching into the sea. At the foot of the headland lies Hang Rong, or Dragon Cave, where waves surge into cavities in the rock, producing powerful echoes along the shoreline.
The site also carries historical significance. During both resistance wars, the rugged terrain and natural caves of Tan Phung Mountain served as observation posts and bases for revolutionary forces defending the coastal free zone of Binh Dinh. Locations including Ho Say, Ho Ong Buon, Hang Da Bi and Hang Da Mai retain associations with that period.
On March 10, 2026, the Gia Lai Provincial People’s Committee recognized Tan Phung Mountain-Mui Vi Rong as a provincial-level historical and scenic site, formally acknowledging its heritage and landscape values while creating new opportunities for tourism development.
Visitor numbers have since been rising, prompting investors from Hanoi and Hai Phong to develop accommodation in Tan Phung. At least four homestays have appeared along Tan Phung beach, including Home of Vi Rong, Dragon Surf Homestay, Nha Ben Song and Casa Adina.
Anh Duong, manager of Casa Adina, said demand had emerged even before construction was completed. Its five guest rooms had already attracted numerous booking inquiries, forcing the property to turn away several groups.
Tu, meanwhile, was preparing for another night offshore. He uses a small basket boat and a high-powered lamp to catch shrimp, fish and squid around reefs and shallow coastal waters several nautical miles from shore.
Fishing remains central to life in Tan Phung, but tourism is beginning to provide another source of livelihood.
According to Tan Phung village head Vo Tuan Hoang, the area has received more tourists since Tan Phung Mountain-Mui Vi Rong gained provincial-level historical and scenic recognition. Some fishermen have responded by expanding into marine tourism services.
When they are not fishing, local boat operators take visitors to Hon Tranh, Hon Dun and Hon Nhan for coral reef snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, recreational fishing, swimming, sunrise camping and fresh seafood experiences.
Local travel companies are also developing itineraries that connect Mui Vi Rong with other attractions around East Phu My.
Tours now combine trips to nearby islets with community-based ecotourism experiences and visits to Tra O Lagoon, the Giant Gourd Village and Hon Nuoc Lighthouse, which stands on Ga Go peak in the Go Dua range of Tan Phung village.
Tourism in East Phu My remains largely spontaneous, but the area's clear blue waters, distinctive rock formations and coral reefs are increasingly drawing visitors.
Every afternoon, Tan Phung's traditional basket boats continue to set out to sea. Alongside them, canoes now wait to carry tourists to nearby islands and reefs.
The two activities increasingly coexist in a village long sustained by the sea. Fishing remains part of Tan Phung's identity, while its coastal landscape, historical heritage and growing tourism services are opening another path for the community's future.