Quang Tri leverages coastal tourism to boost marine economy

As Vietnam continues to integrate into the global economy and restructure its economic sectors, developing the marine economy has become a key strategy for many coastal provinces.

Quang Tri, a central province with a 75-kilometer-long coastline, is embracing this opportunity by tapping into its geographic advantages, natural beauty, and rich cultural and historical heritage to drive tourism and economic growth.

Cua Tung Beach draws visitors with its untouched beatuy. Photo: Tran Tuyen

Located along the East-West Economic Corridor, Quang Tri serves as a strategic gateway connecting major economic zones across the country. The province is home to a diverse array of attractions, from scenic beaches like Cua Tung, Cua Viet, and Gio Hai, to historic sites such as Vinh Moc Tunnels and Con Co Island.

These destinations are not only ideal for visitors but also reflect the deep connection between nature and history that defines Quang Tri.

This unique blend of natural and cultural elements has shaped the province’s tourism identity and elevated its position on the Vietnamese tourism map.

The coastline’s potential supports not only trade connectivity but also the development of marine tourism – one of the most promising pillars of the marine economy.

In July 2022, the Vietnamese Government issued Decision No.892/QD-TTg, outlining plans to develop modern marine economic zones and clusters through 2030.

This decision serves as a strategic guideline for provinces like Quang Tri to invest in sustainable infrastructure and services for marine tourism.

In 2024, Quang Tri’s tourism sector showed strong signs of recovery after the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The province welcomed over three million visitors, including about 168,000 international tourists - an increase of 48.6% on-year.

This growth reflects renewed confidence in Quang Tri as a tourist destination and the effectiveness of policies aimed at reviving the tourism sector.

Tourists at Cua Viet Beach. Photo: Tran Tuyen

Tourism revenue also surged, reaching an estimated VND2.4 trillion (US$92.3 million) in 2024, up 31.8% from the previous year. This resurgence has not only reaffirmed tourism as a leading economic driver but also demonstrated its potential to stimulate the marine economy and broader regional development.

Increased revenue from tourism has generated jobs, boosted related services, and attracted investments in tourism infrastructure, contributing to a long-term, sustainable economic value chain.

Local tourism operators are now focusing on upgrading and diversifying their offerings to meet evolving visitor demands.

In addition to traditional beach destinations, districts are developing new types of tourism such as ecotourism, community-based tourism, and cultural-historical experiences.

This product diversification helps Quang Tri appeal to a broader range of tourists and creates a competitive edge in a region full of potential attractions.

Despite these strengths, Quang Tri’s tourism sector still faces challenges, particularly in infrastructure. Gaps remain in transportation, accommodations, and support services.

To overcome these, the province aims to invest further in infrastructure, improve urban landscapes, revamp traditional tourist sites, and adopt technology in tourism management.

These improvements are expected to enhance the overall visitor experience and generate positive ripple effects for the marine economy.

Looking ahead, 2025 is seen as a pivotal year for building Quang Tri’s coastal tourism brand.

The province plans to expand its coastal transportation network and develop essential tourism services to improve access and convenience for visitors.

Major projects like the coastal road, set to cost VND2.06 trillion ($79.2 million), will link economic and tourism centers and drive growth.

In addition, Quang Tri will ramp up its tourism promotion efforts at both domestic and international trade fairs. The province will promote its new tourism brand: “Quang Tri – A Destination of Nature, History, and Discovery.”

Promotional campaigns will run across both digital and traditional media channels, positioning the province as a safe, diverse, and professional destination.

Infrastructures at Gio Hai Beach. Photo: Tran Tuyen

Plans are also underway to introduce new themed tours that combine cultural, historical, and natural elements. These tours will connect coastal tourism with inland experiences to offer visitors more diverse and engaging options.

At the same time, the province will focus on developing high-end tourism services, including local cuisine, shopping, and entertainment, to enhance overall visitor satisfaction.

Training programs for tourism staff will be expanded to improve professional knowledge, language skills, and customer service.

The goal is to ensure every tourist site in Quang Tri provides top-quality services that meet the expectations of modern travelers.

With its strategic location, unspoiled beaches, and profound historical and cultural assets, Quang Tri stands at the threshold of a tourism breakthrough.

The province’s strong performance in 2024 and its clear development roadmap for 2025 demonstrate that tourism will remain a key driver of the marine economy and a catalyst for local economic transformation.

Tran Tuyen - Huy Anh