Hai Ly Ruined Church

Greenknight dv · CC BY-SA 4.0

The seaside ruins of a church worn away by the waves, with a hauntingly desolate beauty beloved by photographers.

The Hai Ly Ruined Church is the remnant of the Sacred Heart Church, a silent witness to the struggle between people and the sea. Built in the early 20th century, the church once served the parishioners of the Xuong Dien area, but coastal erosion forced the whole village to retreat inland, leaving the sanctuary standing alone on the sand. Its moss-covered bell tower stands firm against wind and waves, appearing and vanishing with the tides, creating a scene at once desolate and poetic. Dawn and dusk here have become an ideal rendezvous for photographers hunting beautiful, haunting moments between the vast sky and sea.

Visitor information

When is the best time to visit Hai Ly Ruined Church?

October to April

How long do you need at Hai Ly Ruined Church?

1-2 hours

What are the opening hours of Hai Ly Ruined Church?

All day

Did you know

Originally the Sacred Heart Church, built in the early 20th century.
Abandoned as coastal erosion gradually swallowed Xuong Dien village.
The old bell tower still stands firm against wind and waves after more than a century.
A famous sunrise photography spot in Nam Dinh.

Travel tips

Time your visit to low tide so you can get right up to the base of the church for photos.
Arrive at dawn to capture the most beautiful light.