View the Dinh Co Temple’s fine carvings and attractive altars and stroll through the gardens to enjoy great views back across the beaches of Long Hai. Learn the tragic story of the girl to whom the temple is dedicated and join in the colourful celebrations as the local fishermen pray for good fortune at sea.
Set on a hilltop high above Long Dien Beach, Dinh Co Temple covers an area of more than 10,764 square feet (1,000 square metres). It was built to honour a young girl who washed up on Long Hai Beach almost 200 years ago. She is now recognised as a goddess who was sent to protect the local area. See the tributes to her around the temple.
Stand before the entrance and admire the carved white lions that stand on either side. Beyond this point of access, a wide staircase leads up to the temple. Pause just before the main gate to see the grave of the young girl.
Make your way around the interior to see the seven altars, each of which holds flowers and burning candles. You will also see several more tributes to the young girl, including a small statue of her dressed in red.
Be sure to explore the temple gardens. Stroll the paths, passing gnarled old trees, and enjoy views that stretch from Long Hai Beach to Vung Tau and beyond.
If possible, visit Dinh Co Temple during the Dinh Co Festival that takes place around the new moon in February. Pilgrims from across Vietnam travel here as local fisherman pray for a successful year at sea. Boats moored offshore are filled with different colored candles, creating an amazing spectacle.
Walk the short distance to Dinh Co Temple from the village of Long Hai. The temple is a 30-minute taxi ride from Vung Tau. It is open daily and free to enter. Inside the temple, wear clothing that covers your knees and shoulders to show respect.
