Water hyacinths, marine debris overwhelm tourist beaches in Ho Chi Minh City

At around 8:00 am, local residents and tourists reported massive amounts of water hyacinths drifting onto the shore, forming thick piles stretching for kilometers.

The plants were mixed with plastic bottles, gas canisters, and styrofoam boxes, leaving beaches unsightly and affecting the visitor experience.

The phenomenon was observed along an eight-kilometer stretch of coastline, from Loc An to the public beach at Ho Tram.

The area near the Ho Tram sea-viewing bridge was particularly overwhelmed, with the shoreline completely covered.

According to local residents, this was the first time such a large influx of water hyacinths had occurred.

“In previous years, there was little or no water hyacinth here,” resident Hoang said.

Tourists also expressed surprise at how quickly the beaches changed overnight.

“My family has been staying here for several days,” one visitor said.

“Last night the beach was clean and beautiful, with calm waves.

“This morning after breakfast, we were shocked to see water hyacinths and trash covering the beach that stretches for more than a kilometer.”

Huynh Phi Khanh, chairman of the Ho Tram Commune administration, said the unusual event may have been caused by shifting wind patterns pushing water hyacinths toward the coast.

Authorities mobilized sanitation workers, armed forces, and local businesses to clear the beaches.

Trucks were deployed to transport the waste to designated sites for treatment.

Despite cleanup efforts, more water hyacinths and trash continued to wash ashore throughout the day.

Ho Tram, widely regarded as one of Ho Chi Minh City’s leading tourism hubs, is home to numerous luxury beachfront resorts.

Its long sandy beaches, clear waters and tranquil atmosphere attract large numbers of domestic and international visitors each year, particularly during the summer months.