A few bargain hotels have popped up on the inland side of the road, across from the shoreline resorts. If you stay on the inland side, you will need to pass though one of the resorts to reach the beach, which might or might not result in some hassle from the guards. The resorts jealously guard their lounge chairs and palapas, though the beach itself is open to everyone.
Mui Ne has become very popular with Russian tourists, even more than Nha Trang. Both English and Russian menus are common in many restaurants, and many stores and hotels are now advertising and catering specifically for the Russian tourists, especially along the lowered numbered area of the strip.