Tran De

Tran De is a coastal district town in southern Sóc Trăng Province, located at the mouth of the Hau River where it meets the South China Sea. It is an important fishing port and the site of the Tran De Deep-Water Port, a developing industrial and shipping facility intended to serve the Mekong Delta's maritime trade. The town itself is small and rural, with a harbour filled with fishing boats and a waterfront promenade. The surrounding area is a mix of shrimp farms, salt fields, and mangrove forest.

The climate is tropical monsoon, with a rainy season from May to October and a drier season from November to April.

By Plane

Can Tho International Airport (VCA) is about 95 km away. A taxi or private car takes roughly 2 hours.

By Car / Road

Tran De is about 40 km from Soc Trang city via Provincial Road 940. Buses and minivans run from Soc Trang's bus station, taking about 1 hour.

The town centre is walkable, especially the waterfront area. Xe om are available for longer trips. Short trips within town cost about 10,000–20,000 dong.

• Tran De fishing port. The harbour is a busy, authentic working port where fishing boats unload their catch. The morning is the most active time.

• Hau River estuary. Where the river meets the sea — a wide, dramatic expanse of water with passing ships and fishing vessels.

• Mangrove forests. Patches of mangroves along the coast provide habitat for birds and crabs.

• Fishing port visit. Walk the docks in the early morning to see the fishing fleet return and the auction of the day's catch.

• Coastal walks. The undeveloped coastline and riverbanks offer peaceful walking opportunities.

Tran De is a great place for fresh seafood. Small, simple restaurants near the port serve grilled fish, steamed crab, shrimp dishes, and noodle soups. Prices are very low compared to the cities.

Fresh coconut water and Vietnamese iced coffee from local stalls. Sugarcane juice is also widely available.

• Budget: A few basic guesthouses (nha nghi) near the port offer simple rooms for around 150,000–300,000 dong per night. For a wider choice, stay in Soc Trang city (40 km).

Fresh seafood is the main product of Tran De — shrimp, crab, and a variety of fish are sold at the port and local market. Dried seafood makes a good souvenir.

• Soc Trang (40 km, 1 hr) — The provincial capital with the Bat Temple, Clay Pagoda, and Khmer cultural attractions.
• Vinh Chau (20 km) — Coastal town with salt fields and a quiet beach.
• Cu Lao Dung (ferry crossing) — Island district in the Hau River with coconut groves and traditional delta life.
• Bac Lieu (55 km) — Known for its bird sanctuary, wind turbines, and historic Prince's Mansion.