Located along the coastline of Long Hải, Minh Đạm Mountain stretches for nearly 8 kilometers, rising to an elevation of about 355 meters, with three sides facing the sea. Though not high, this rugged mountain range is hidden among dense forests, rocky cliffs, and a vast system of caves, interwoven with freshwater streams flowing year-round.
Beyond its wild and tranquil beauty, Minh Đạm stands as a significant historical witness to the revolutionary struggle of the people of Bà Rịa – Vũng Tàu during the wars against French colonialism and American intervention.
A Revolutionary Base Deep in the Mountains
Extending toward the sea and spanning today’s Long Hải and Đất Đỏ areas, Minh Đạm was once a strategic revolutionary base. With more than 300 caves of various sizes penetrating deep into the mountain, the area provided natural shelter and strong defensive advantages for resistance forces throughout years of hardship.
The mountain was named in remembrance of Bùi Công Minh and Mạc Thanh Đạm, two revolutionary leaders of Long Điền District who heroically sacrificed their lives at the foot of the mountain in 1948.
A Meaningful “Return-to-the-Roots” Destination
Today, the Minh Đạm Base has been restored and developed into a historical–revolutionary relic site, serving tourism, education, and remembrance. Key sites within the complex include:
- The memorial temple honoring 2,642 fallen heroes and Võ Thị Sáu
- The traditional exhibition house
- Four former base caves (District Party Committee, District Military Command, Town-level Unit, Military Medical Cave)
- Notable areas such as Chùa Viên, Đá Chẻ, Chùa Giếng Gạch, and Đá Chồng
In 1993, the Minh Đạm revolutionary base was officially recognized as a National Historical Site.
Nature Exploration and Stunning Coastal Views
After paying tribute at the martyrs’ memorial, visitors can continue exploring the surrounding natural landscape. Even during the dry season, Minh Đạm still reveals a rich ecosystem, home to valuable tree species such as red ironwood, mật gõ, rosewood, along with regenerating medicinal plants.
Well-built stairways and clear signposts make trekking relatively easy. From the mountain’s base, a winding asphalt road leads close to the summit. About two-thirds of the way up, a breathtaking panorama unfolds: the vast blue sea on one side, rolling mountains on the other, and below lies Thùy Dương Beach Resort and the scenic coastal road.
Many travelers choose to hike on foot to fully enjoy the experience of walking beneath forest canopies, listening to birdsong and flowing streams. Any fatigue quickly fades when washing one’s face or soaking tired feet in the cool, refreshing mountain water while breathing in the crisp forest air.
A Favorite Check-in Point on the Summit
In 2014, a flagpole was erected on Hòn Đá Chẻ, the highest point of the Minh Đạm range. From here, visitors can enjoy sweeping views over plains, sea, and major gateways leading to Vũng Tàu, Ho Chi Minh City, Lộc An, and Xuyên Mộc. This spot has become a popular place for sightseeing, photography, and enjoying sea breezes.
Linking History with Coastal Resorts
In recent years, the coastal road surrounding Minh Đạm has become more vibrant with the development of several well-known resorts such as Lan Rừng Phước Hải Resort, Tropicana Beach Resort & Spa, and Thùy Dương Resort. These resorts offer not only accommodation but also combine seaside leisure with tours and trekking experiences exploring Minh Đạm Mountain.
A Journey of History, Nature, and Reflection
Today, Minh Đạm is an ideal destination for a variety of travel experiences: mountain trekking, eco-picnics, seaside relaxation, and especially heritage and historical exploration. A journey to Minh Đạm is more than a simple visit—it is a moment to slow down and feel the harmony between history, mountains, and the sea in Southeast Vietnam.
