Located near the coast of Mui Ne, the Red Sand Dunes are distinguished by their warm red, rust and orange tones. The colour is associated with the mineral composition of the sand, including iron oxides. Wind continually reshapes the surface, creating rippling lines and sloping ridges that change over time, giving the landscape its alternative name, Doi Cat Bay, or Flying Sand Dunes.
Although smaller than the White Sand Dunes at Bau Trang, the Red Sand Dunes have a distinctive character shaped by their colour and proximity to the coastal settlements. The sandy slopes form an open landscape that contrasts with the greenery and blue sea nearby. As the sunlight changes, the dunes can appear in shades ranging from pale orange to deep red, adding to their visual appeal.
The dunes are closely associated with Mui Ne’s outdoor tourism and local leisure activities. Sand sliding is a familiar pastime on the slopes, while the expansive sand formations provide a natural setting for photography and landscape appreciation. Together with Mui Ne’s beaches, fishing villages and nearby natural attractions, the Red Sand Dunes form an important part of the region’s distinctive coastal identity.