Active Pursuits in Phan Thiet

The wind conditions in Mui Ne are steady and strong in the dry season (Oct-May), and the beach is becoming a real kite-surfing and windsurfing mecca (it has over-12-knot winds for two-thirds of the year). Jibe's (90 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, Ham Tien, Mui Ne; tel. 062/384-7405; www.windsurf-vietnam.com), a popular rental shop, windsurfer club, and bar, is a good place to check in or rent a board, and a great opportunity for first-time kite surfers. A day with an IKO-certified instructor starts at just $85; the focus is on safety, of course, and the savings are significant (similar lessons elsewhere cost a mint).

Sailors will want to contact the folks at the Mui Ne Sailing Club (24 Nguyen Dinh Chieu St., Han Tien Ward, Phan Thiet; tel. 062/384-7440) or at any hotel or resort about renting Hobie Cat and Laser sailboats, windsurfers, jet skis, or runabouts.

The outstanding Nick Faldo-designed Ocean Dunes Golf Course (1 Ton Duc Thang St., Phan Thiet; tel. 062/382-3366) is a big draw here in town, for both domestic golf buffs and international players.