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Da Nang best things to do & travel guide

Da Nang is halfway between the capital Hanoi in the north and Ho Chi Minh city in the south. It is the fourth largest city in Vietnam. Apart from some historical sites, the famous Hai Van Pass, the Son Tra peninsula and the beaches are the main reason for staying here.

5 reasons to visit Da Nang

  1. Drive motorbike over the Hai Van Pass
  2. Explore the Son Tra peninsula
  3. Rock climbing at the Marble Mountains
  4. Relax on the beach
  5. Watch the fire show of the dragon bridge

What is in this Da Nang travel guide

Practical information

Recommended days to stay

If you are in Da Nang in the right season, it is a great place to stay for a few days at the beach. If you are desire a bit more culture and things to do, it is recommended to skip this city and stay in the neighboring town of Hoi An.

ATM’s & money exchange

There are ATMs everywhere in the city, including a number at international banks.

Local events and holidays

  • Danang International Fireworks Festival: Held in the months of May or June, with spectacular displays of international fireworks teams illuminating the river and bridges.
Best time to visit
  • Dry season: April – August
  • Monsoon season: September – March
  • Warmest months: June – August (with the highest average temperature of 35 ° C)
  • Coolest months: November – January (with lowest average temperature of 18 ° C)

10 best things to do in Da Nang

Not long ago, Da Nang was a port town like so many can be found in Vietnam. However, in a short time Da Nang has developed into one of the largest and most modern cities in Vietnam. The beautiful beaches of Da Nang and the surrounding area have made the city one of the best beach destination in Vietnam.

There are lots of things to do in Da Nang, but especially around it. It is located right between the two ancient cities of Hoi An and Hue and you can find impressive national parks and stunning coastal roads.

1. Hai Van Pass

The Hai Van Pass is at number one of the top 10 things to do in Da Nang. Made famous in an episode of the Top Gear TV show, the Hai Van Pass is now a must-do for thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts and adventurers looking for alternative things to do in Da Nang. 

This 21 km long mountain pass between Da Nang and Hue offers some of the most incredible ocean views. A new highway tunnel that has been built ensures that the traffic over the mountain pass is minimal. Rent a scooter in the city and leave early in the morning if you plan to be back in Da Nang the same day. 

2. Son Tra

The beautiful rainforest that juts out into the sea from the city of Da Nang is called the Son Tra peninsula. Rent a scooter to ride the newly constructed road to the end of the peninsula and view the nature reserve and head to the top for a great view. If you are lucky you can see a very rare monkey, the red Duoc Langur. There are also a host of unspoilt beaches along the peninsula, making it one of the most beautiful and unspoilt sights in Da Nang.

3. Marble Mountains

The Marble Mountains are a cluster of marble and limestone hills just 7 km from the city and one of the best sights in Da Nang. The mountains are full of caves, tunnels and Buddhist shrines that you can discover. You can climb to the top of the mountains for spectacular views of the entire area. If you are more adventurous, you can also rock climbing and abseiling in the Marble Mountains.

4. Ba Na Hills

Ba Na Hills is one of the best known landmarks in Da Nang, particularly for Vietnamese tourists. It is one of the newest and most exciting projects in Vietnam. It is a mountain village on top of a mountain that looks like a medieval castle, but within these stone walls are modern accommodations, restaurants and a Fantasy Park full of exciting attractions. The newest addition is the golden bridge that is being held by two giant stone hands.

5. Relax on the beaches

The best beaches in Da Nang are known for their clear water and fine sand. The more popular beaches, such as My Khe and Non Nuoc, are relatively close to the city center and are often full of locals during the weekend and on public holidays. You can also find plenty of local restaurants with fresh fish and Da Nang specialties at affordable prices. Beaches further from the city are often a lot quieter. View here the list of the most beautiful beaches in Da Nang.

6. Dragon Bridge

The Dragon Bridge is a long bridge with six lanes and a popular place among photographers. This unique bridge is built in the shape of a golden dragon. Although it is a beautiful sight at any time of the day, Dragon Bridge is special (and full of tourists) during the weekend because it is illuminated with colorful LEDs as the fire exhales and water spits out from 9 p.m.

7. Cham Island

If you want to see coral reefs, colorful fish, tropical beaches and islets, then the best thing to do in Da Nang is taking a trip to Cham Island. It is actually a cluster of beautiful islands that are only an hour’s boat ride from Da Nang. It is a great day trip or you can spend the night there. In a day trip you visit a few islands, you go snorkeling and you can relax on the beach.

8. Cham Museum

Cham Museum shows the age-old culture, lifestyle and customs of the indigenous Cham tribe in Vietnam, dating back to 192AD. Founded during colonial French rule in 1915, it is known as the only museum of its kind in the world. Cham Museum Da Nang is divided into ten rooms, where 300 terracotta and stone sculptures from the 7th to the 15th century are exhibited.

9. My Son

My Son is approximately a 40-minute drive from Da Nang. There are several companies that organize trips there, or you can drive there yourself with a scooter. This attraction is not as big as Angkor Wat in Cambodia, but it does offer a good insight into the past of the country. There is a small museum at the entrance and all the ruins have information boards.

10. Hoi An

The most famous landmark in the region is the old town of Hoi An. If you do not plan to stay in Hoi An, this is the best thing you can do from Da Nang. Read here how to travel from Da Nang to Hoi An. In this well-preserved old trading city you can easily spend a whole day seeing and visiting old buildings, markets and the lanterns that give a nice atmosphere in the evening.

Best hotels & hostels in Da Nang

Where to stay

On the beach – One of the best things to do in Da Nang is enjoying it’s beautiful beaches. So for obvious reasons this is the best place to stay. There is a very long strip along the beach with different neighborhoods like Son Tra, An Thuong, My An and Khue My. This is also the place with the most hotels and (western) restaurants.

Near the river – The Han River is a very popular place to find a hotel in Da Nang with many restaurants, bars and good nightlife.

Staying in Hoi An – Most tourists choose to stay in Hoi An for a better atmosphere and take a day trip to Da Nang. It is only 45 minutes from Da Nang to Hoi An.

Best hostels & hotels in Da Nang

Budget hotels & hostels

  • Barney’S Danang Backpackers House
  • Travellers Nest Hostel
  • Danang Backpackers Hoste

Mid range hotel

  • Halina Hotel and Apartment
  • Mitisa Hotel Danang
  • John Boutique Villa Apartment
  • Frangipani Boutique Hotel Da Nang
  • Avora Hotel

High end hotel & resort

  • Monarque Hotel Danang
  • Grandvrio Ocean Resort Danang
  • InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort
Food & drinking

Restaurants

There are many places where you can eat well in the city of Danang. Due to its location, in the middle of Vietnam, you can find many types of food from the rest of the country. In addition to local dishes, there are also many international style restaurants, with dishes like pizza, pasta, hamburgers and Indian food .

  1. Thien Ly Danang-style
  2. Madame Hanh
  3. Market’s
  4. Tamarind Tree Restaurant Da Nang
  5. Sofia Restaurant
  6. Red Sky Bar & Restaurant
  7. Lam Vien Restaurant
  8. Madame Lân
  9. Ngon Villa Danang
  10. Burger Bros

Nightlife

The nightlife and nightlife in Da Nang consists of a collection of rooftop bars, sophisticated lounges, friendly expat bars and lively night clubs.

Rooftop bars

  • Sky 36
  • Brilliant Top Bar

Clubs

  • New Phuong Dong Nightclub
  • Golden Pine
  • OQ Bar

Bar & live music

  • The Daw
  • Seventeen Saloon
  • Bamboo Bar 2
  • 7 Bridges Brewery

How to get there

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Flights to Da Nang

The busy Danang airport has many domestic connections and popular international flights to Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong and Singapore. There are also a growing number of connections with Laos, China, Taiwan and South Korea. Domestic flights to destinations such as Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Dalat and Nha Trang are operated by regional airlines, including Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air and Jetstar.

Busses to Hanoi

Buses run regularly between Da Nang, Hue and Hoi An. There is a large Danang bus station in Dien Bien Phu Street, 3 kilometers west of the city center. From there, there are buses to all major destinations in Vietnam, including Quy Nhon, Hue, Nha Trang and Hanoi.

Buses run regularly between Da Nang, Hue and Hoi An. There is a large Danang bus station in Dien Bien Phu Street, 3 kilometers west of the city center. From there, there are buses to all major destinations in Vietnam, including Quy Nhon, Hue, Nha Trang and Hanoi.

Trains to Da Nang

The Da Nang train station is just outside the city center and you will find a train connection that can take you anywhere in Vietnam. The train ride to Hue is one of the best in the country and is worth taking on itself as an excursion.

How to get around

Grab / Taxi: Getting a Grab taxi anywhere in Da Nang is pretty easy. This saves money compared to a normal taxi. You just have to download the app and have an internet or data connection. To avoid expensive taxis, you must choose a well-known taxi brand: Mai Linh Taxi, Vinasun Taxi, Tien Sa Taxi.

Motorbike rental: Traveling by motorbike is the most fun option of all. The average price for renting a motorcycle is 130,000 VND ($ 6) per day.

Private car: If you want to make a day trip to certain places of interest or a place outside Da Nang, you can rent a car with driver.

More tips for traveling in Da Nang

Where to go next?

It is very easy to travel from Da Nang to other cities in Vietnam due to its airport with very good domestic connections. You can fly to Phu Quoc, Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Dalat or Nha Trang. In addition it is also located a 45 minute ride to Hoi An and a 1,5 hour ride to Hue.

Da Nang with kids

Da Nang is a great place to bring children. There is a huge beach where they can play, different attraction parks such as Ba Na Hills and Asia Park and plenty of day trips you can do from here.

Language

Da Nang is a very international city, so most people in hotels and restaurants speak a descent word of English.

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Dalat best things to do & travel guide

Dalat is clearly one of the highlights of Vietnam, especially if you like adrenaline. Dalat is completely different from any other place in Vietnam. The weather is spring-like cool instead of tropical hot, the city is littered with elegant French-colonial villas instead of a grim socialist architecture, and the farms around are littered with strawberries and flowers instead of rice.

5 reasons to visit Dalat

  1. Increase the adrenaline pace with mountain biking, white water rafting, canyoning or a climbing adventure in the hills around Dalat.
  2. Jump on a motorbike and explore the waterfalls, lakes and forests in the area.
  3. In the early morning, gibbons wanted to track down and then search for crocodiles in the Cat Tien National Park.
  4. Visit the local farms and plantations.
  5. Enjoy local food, which comes directly from the area.

What is in this Dalat travel guide

  • Practical information
  • Best time to visit
  • 10 best things to do
  • Best hotels & hostels
  • Food & drinking
  • How to get there
  • How to get around
  • Itinerary

Practical information

Recommended days to stay

If you like adventure it is recommended to stay around 3 days in Dalat, so you have time to do some activities as well as driving through the area and visiting the waterfalls, forests and lakes.

ATM’s & money exchange

Dalat is a relative big town with enough ATM’s.

Local events and holidays

Dalat Flower Festival – A cultural festival which takes place every other year between late December and early January, with the purpose of exhibiting flowers, vegetables and ornamental plants from the local as well as other regions within the country

Best time to visit

  • Spring (January-March) – Season of trees and flowers; between 20 and 28 degrees
  • Summer (April – June) – Season of fog and warm weather; between 24 and 31 degrees
  • Autumn (July – September) – Season of rain; between 24 and 31
  • Winter (October to December) – Season of flowers on the hills; between 20 and 26 degrees

10 best things to do in Dalat

Dalat is a cool mountain town for both Vietnamese and travelers who want to escape the heat and smog of the larger cities. Most people come here so that they can relax and enjoy the natural sights in Dalat, such as the lakes, forests, hills and plantations. But there is also a lot of action for those who want to make their heart beat in perhaps the adventure capital of Vietnam. These are the 10 best things to do in Dalat.

1. Canyoning in Dalat

Without a doubt, canyoning is the best thing to do in Dalat. Especially for the real adventurous travelers it is one of the highlights in Vietnam. During canyoning in Dalat you abseil from waterfalls, jump from cliffs into the river, enjoy a zipline above the water, float in a river and slide down a natural water slide.

2. Explore waterfalls

There are many different waterfalls in Dalat. Some of these are not far from the city and are therefore easy to visit, but others require a long drive. The most famous is the Datanla waterfall. Here you will also find a mountain toboggan roller coaster, cable car and the place where you will find the popular canyoning.

The Pongour waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls, where the water flows down several steps. The forests around the waterfall give it an extra magical atmosphere.

The Elephant Waterfall is another impressive waterfall that is a little closer to the city. The path that leads to the waterfall is a bit tricky, but well worth a visit.

A number of other waterfalls around and in Dalat are Bao Dai waterfall, Prenn waterfall and Tiger waterfall.

3. Mountain biking

Dalat is a paradise for mountain bikers, with some great single-track, technical descents, mountain climbing and once on top, breathtaking views of fields, forests and mountains. Mountain biking is therefore one of the best things to do in Dalat and a great way to explore the region.

4. Trekking

Relaxed walks or adventurous treks through nature and along forest paths are another way to discover the beauty of this area. It is full of many natural sights in Dalat where you can find interesting animals and birds. Some tours can lead you to caves, waterfalls, lakes, volcanic peaks, minority villages, suspension bridges and farmland. The best known treks are to the top of Lang Biang Mountain and treks through the Bidoup Nui Ba National Park.

5. Easy Rider Tour

Would you like to explore the forests, lakes, waterfalls and plantations of Dalat, but would you rather not be in a car or would you rather not drive a motorcycle yourself? The Dalat easy riders are the perfect solution! Easy Riders are experienced guides who take behind travelers to popular sights, as well as places that all these local guides know where to find a more authentic experience. They can be found all over Vietnam today, but are originally from Dalat. This is therefore the best place to take an Easy Rider in Vietnam.

These motorcycle guides drive around the city, but you can also book them in advance. They often have a book with reviews and pre-made routes, but you can also indicate your wishes. It is possible to take a day tour to a waterfall, plantations and forests, but you can even take a multi-day easy rider tour, where you can choose to go through the central highlands or drive to the coast and continue along one of the most beautiful coastal roads in Vietnam.

6. Coffee shops

Vietnam is the second largest coffee exporter in the world, just after Brazil and most coffee comes from the central highlands, where Dalat is located. So what better place than to have a coffee in this region?

In addition to coffee in Vietnam, a whole culture has also developed around coffee shops, and Dalat is the capital of this. It is more than a place where you come to drink coffee, but also where you come for the environment. These small coffee bars are often uniquely decorated or have a special theme and others have are situated in a unique environment. For example, you will find coffee shops in Dalat on top of mountains with a beautiful view over the forests or greenhouses that are lid in the evening. Enjoy the view over a lake or the city. And coffee shops in less good locations are uniquely decorated or with a special theme, such as Harry Potter, fairy tales or a jungle theme.

7. Tuyen Lam lake

Tuyen Lam Lake is the most beautiful lake in the Dalat area and is also called Paradise Lake. The lake is surrounded by a green pine forest and gives a peaceful feeling in a beautiful landscape. In addition to enjoying the romantic scenery around the lake, you can go horse riding, climbing, fishing and kayaking. You can combine a visit to this lake with the cable car to Truc Lam Pagoda, which is right next to the lake.

8. Dalat night market

The best thing to do in Dalat at night is a visit to the Dalat night market. When the night market is open in the weekend, the central market area is pure madness, with thousands of people shopping and socializing. It is a lively scene apart from the usual relaxed pace of the city. Even on weekday evenings, the area is rich with inviting scents from all street vendors.

9. Coffee and tea plantations

Vietnam is one of the world’s largest coffee exporters and many of the highlands around Dalat are used for plantations. The central highlands of Vietnam offer the ideal climate for growing tea and coffee. When you drive through the Dalat region you will pass large plantations of both coffee and tea and depending on the season there will be countless tarps on the road where coffee beans dry in the sun.

10. Crazy house

The Crazy House in Dalat offers a bizarre structure and completely unique experience. It is officially called the Hang Nga Guesthouse & Art Gallery, but is known as Crazy House for its bizarre and crazy design. With many revolving corridors and odd spaces, this is something completely different.

You can choose to stay here overnight, altough you have to keep in mind it is also a tourist attraction. A better option might be just visiting this place for an hour.

Best hotels & hostels in Dalat

Where to stay

Staying in the center – Located near the Dalat night market, suitable for shopping, eating and relaxing, most means of transport (taxi, motorcycle, bicycle) are available, with many beautiful views that are worth seeing, including Xuan Huong Lake, the flower garden of the city of Dalat.

Hotels outside the city of Dalat – Staying further away from the city center also has some unique advantages: a peaceful and quiet atmosphere, less touristy and a cheaper price. Although it takes you more time to travel to the market or other highlights of the city, in return you get a beautiful landscape to enjoy, as well as more private space to relax.

Best hotels & hostels in Dalat

Budget hotels & hostels

  • The Lake House
  • Gaia hostel
  • Magnolia
  • Cozy Nook Hostel
  • Mr.Peace Backpacker’s House

Mid range hotel

  • La Vie En Rose Villa
  • Tasme Hotel
  • Boutique Stop and Go
  • Tulip Hotel
  • Iris Dalat Hotel
  • Sam Tuyền Lâm Resort

High end hotel & resort

  • Zen Valley Dalat Resort
  • Swiss Belresort Tuyen Lam
  • Terracotta Hotel and Resort Dalat

Food & drinking

Restaurants

Dalat has numerous restaurants to serve varied visitors, of all shapes and sizes, ranging from local Dalat dishes to central and South Vietnamese dishes and a large number of Western and French-inspired eateries, bars and restaurants. The city has a reputation for high-quality fresh produce and is also the source of some of the best coffee in Vietnam.

Restaurants
1. Artist Alley Restaurant
2. Le Chalet Dalat
3. Goc Ha Thanh Restaurant
4. Da Quy Restaurant
5. Chu Quan Bbq Grill

Cafe / coffee shop
1. An cafe
2. Me Linh Coffee Garden
3. Wednesday’s Violet book cafe
4. Ma Rung Lu Quan (Ma Rung Inn)
5. Panorama Cafe Dalat
6. Cafe Nông Trại Vui Vẻ

Nightlife

The nightlife in Dalat is quiet compared to other cities in Vietnam because it is best known as a place for rest and relaxation. However, you can still find a handful of great bars and pubs until late in the evening:

  1. Dalat Night Market
  2. Maze bar
  3. The Escape Bar
  4. Beepub Hostel & Bar
  5. Rain Nightclub
  6. V Club Da Lat

How to get there

Flights to Dalat

There are regular flights with Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air and Jetstar, including a daily service to Danang (1¼ hour), four daily to Hanoi (1¾ hour) and HCMC (45 minutes), and twice a week to Can Tho (1¼ hour) ).

Busses to Dalat

Dalat is an important bus stop for open bus tickets. The Sinh Tourist has daily buses to Mui Ne, Nha Trang and HCMC.

Dalat’s long-distance bus station is 1.5 km south of Xuan Huong Lake and is dominated by Phuong Trang buses that offer free hotel pick-ups and drop-offs and buses to all major regional destinations.

How to get around

Motorbike: The bets way to get around is by motorbike/scooter. Rent is 150,000d to 200,000d per day. It is understandable if you don’t want to drive around yourself, as the roads in Vietnam as not very safe. In this case we highly recommend doing a Easy Rider tour.

Car: Alternatively you can travel by comfortable car. Daily rental (with driver) starts at around $ 50.

Taxi: For within the city you can use taxis. Uses Mai Linh for reliable service.

More tips for traveling in Dalat

Where to go next?

From the city you can easily travel by bus or car to the coast cities of Nha Trang (if you are planning to go north) and Mui Ne (if you are planning to go south). You can also go by bus or flight to to Ho Chi Minh City. It is possible to go straight to Hoi An / Da Nang by bus, but it is not recommended to takes these long bus trips. There are flights available too from Dalat to Da Nang.

You can also choose to continue your journey through the central highlands and visit destinations such as Dak Lak, Kon Tum and Pleiku.

Dalat with kids

Dalat is a nice destination in Vietnam with kids, especially if they are a little older. You can take wonderful walks through the forest, mountain biking and kayaking. There are also plenty of sights that you can visit in the city and the surrounding area.

Plan well before your cruise to make your every moment in Vietnam unforgettable.Make your plan to Vietnam right now by apply a Vietnam visa at vietnamvisapro.net. We, a reputable and reliable Visa service, will assist you turn your plan into reality at the very first step

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Hoi An,Cu Lao Cham Island & Nature Reserve

The large island consists of 8 islets, 20 km off the coast from Hoi An Ancient Town in Quang Binh Province. Cu Lao Cham Island has wonderful sand beaches, forested hills, a nature reserve and the sea. With primitive landscapes, the island is ideal for camping, swimming and scuba diving to enjoy the corals and beautiful marine life.

Location: Tan Hiep, Hoi An, Quang Nam Province

I. History of Cu Lao Cham Islands

Cham islands are supposed to be the first place where Cham people landed, coming to Quang Nam Province from Indonesia (small monuments, dikes, and basin to grow rice on terraces are hidden in the forest, the 17th-century pagodas and small temples in the two villages).

Therefore, being well-known since earlier Cham domination (from 4th to 14th century), the island became one of the main ports of Champa Kingdom. Situated some eight miles offshore Hoi An, it was also part of Hoi An historical international trading. From the 15th century till the beginning of 20th century, the old city was a meeting point for international vessels and junks.

According to archaeologists, Cu Lao Cham first settled there 3,000 years ago and established business contacts with external countries some 1,000 years ago. Up to now, Cu Lao Cham has preserved many architectural constructions which date back to the 18th and 20th century. They include the shrine dedicated to Than Yen Sao, built in 1843 at Bai Huong and Hai Tang Pagoda, built in 1753 on the western hillside of Hon Lao.

Still, Cu Lao Cham has more to offer. After a three-hour canoe trip, one may hop over to the famed Well of the Cham people.

II. Topography of Cu Lao Cham Nature Reserve

The topography of Cu Lao Cham Island is dominated by two peaks: a 517m peak in the centre of the island and a 326m peak at the western end. Natural forest here covers 532 ha of the nature reserve, equivalent to 35% of the total area, while plantation forest covers a further 30 ha.

Cham island comprises an archipelago of one large island and seven smaller islands: Hon Dai, Hon Lao, Hon Kho Me, Hon La, Hon Kho Con, Hon Ong, Hon Tai, Hon Mo. The largest island of them is Hon Lao, which covers 1,317 ha and has a circular shape at the height of 500m. There are nice beaches at Bim and Ong beach.

  • Bai Bim: Nice beaches and rock reefs, free swimming and taking photographs
  • Bai Ong: White sandy stretch, beautiful view, clear water, lots of restaurants serving specialties of Cu Lao Cham, many entertaining services for Cu Lao Cham tour
  • Bai Lang: High population with amazing tourist destinations like Champa Kingdom, suitable for understanding more about the locals’ life.
  • Bai Bac: The northern beach, peaceful and isolated place that is used to make way for exorbitant resorts and villas in the future.
  • Bai Xep: beautiful and pristine with colorful coral reefs, great place for swimming and snorkeling.
  • Bai Chong: longer than Bai Ong, beautiful rock reefs and bridge for taking photographs, tranquil water to swim.
  • Bai Huong: tasty seafood, lots of ships and boat docking, not for swimming

III. Biodiversity Values

The island is a place where shelter for value swallow birds. The natural vegetation of the islands is a lowland evergreen forest, that is natural with a lot of woods and rare animals.

Scientists report the occurrence of macaques Macaca sp., monitor lizards Varanus sp. and pythons Python sp. To date, 265 vascular plant species have been reported from Cu Lao Cham nature reserve. Furthermore, a species of swiftlet Collocalia sp. is reported to nest on Hon Kho within the nature reserve.

Cu Lao Cham is also home to salanganes, birds whose nests have long been considered a delicacy by aristocrats and the wealthy. The nests may cost as much as US $4,000 per kilogram. On a beautiful day, tourists are able to see cliffs where salanganes build their nests and talk with salangane-nest takers.

Around the island has a lot of color corals under the water. Situated in a salty-water area, this square-bottom well, amazingly, provides clear freshwater all year round. Visiting Cu Lao Cham, tourists have a chance to view the sea swallows’ nests clinging to the towering cliffs. Cu Lao Cham wins kudos for its seafood and delicacies (octopuses, lobsters, fish’s fin, abalone, kaki, hind, cholonia’s eggs, bird’s nests) and fascinating souvenirs (pearls, conchs, tortoise-shells).

IV. What to See in Cu Lao Cham Nature Reserve?

1. Hai Tang Pagoda

Built in 1758, this pagoda worshipped Bodhisattva, Buddha, sea god and local god. In the past, there was a storm attacking the pagoda so in 1848, local people decided to reconstruct and redecorate it. Now, it is 200 m away from its original location.

Hai Tang Pagoda lies on the foot of Hon Lao Island’s west mountain and is opposite a small valley in Cham Island. Hai means the sea and Tang means Tipitaka, which is a Buddhisst holy books containing Buddha’s words.

Location: Hon Lao Island, Cham Island

2. Cham people’s Ancient Well

This well was dug 2 hundreds years ago by Cham people but until now, it still works well and the locals can use its fresh water. Its architecture is not different from other Cham wells with a pipe shape, annular bricks management, a square pillar, and a surrounding square base. Even during the dry season, people can still use water from this well for different purposes.

Location: Xom Cam Village, Cham Island

3. Temple of Bird’s Nest Business Founders

Erected in the early 19th century, this temple is used to worship the bird’s nest business’s founders. The gods of the sea are also worshipped here, which is similar to Hai Tang Pagoda. Each year, following the Chinese calendar, on the 9th and 10th of March, local people often come here to pray for a new year with better harvests.

Location: Huong Beach, Cham Island

4. Cham Island Marine Museum

This museum gives you an insight of Cham’s history, traditions, customs, festivals as well as special sea creatures. In addition, you can also have a chance to know more about the lifestyle of people living on the island.

5. Tan Hiep Market

This local market is an ideal place for you to buy seafood and souvenirs. The most popular things that tourists often purchase is half-dried cuttlefish. It is because the seafood here is super cheap and fresh.

Location: Cham Island Pier

V. What to Do in Cu Lao Cham Island?

1. Camping 

With the variety of nature, Cham Island is a wonderful place to go camping. You just need to prepare everything well before going. The best choices for you are Bai Xep and Bai Bim where nature is wild and the spaces are open. Moreover, in Bai Huong and Bai Ong, you will be provided the necessary tools for an outside camp by local people.

2. Sea trekking

This is a new type of entertainment here. You just need a functional hat and you can walk under the sea by yourself. This service is an interesting experience for every person, even those are at the age of 80. Let’s imagine yourself walking into the sea seeing beautiful schools of fish as well as coral reefs, what is better than this?

3. Snorkeling 

Another great activity that allows you to see the beauty of the sea is snorkeling. The price for a snorkeling ticket with a guide and full equipment is around 200,000 VND. But remember to protect the biodiversity of the sea when going snorkeling.

4. Swimming 

Cu Lao Cham has a lot of beautiful beaches that are suitable for swimming. Almost all of them are 20 m in width and 100 to 300 m in length. The waves are gentle and the water is clear and cool. So, you will definitely have a lot of fun here.

VI. Best Time to Visit Cu Lao Cham Archipelago

The tropical monsoon climate put a huge impact on Cu Lao Cham’s weather.

So, the best time for you to visit Cu Lao Cham is between March and August.

This is the time when the weather is sunny and the water condition is great. In the remaining months, there will be heavy rain and sometimes even big storms.

If you want to snorkel or dive, you should come in June, July and August. There are a wide range of tour companies and dive centers providing trips for you during this time.

Check out the seawater temperature in Cham Islands in months of the year in the table below:

MonthAvg. Temp.Warmest Temp.Coldest Temp.Ideal Activity?
January23.1°C/73.6°F26°C/78.8°F21°C/69.8°Fx
February22.8°C/73°F25.1°C/77.2°F20°C/68°Fx
March23.7°C/74.7°F26.4°C/79.5°F21°C/69.8°Fx
April24.8°C/76.6°F27.1°C/80.8°F22°C/71.6°Fx
May26.9°C/80.4°F29°C/84.2°F25°C/77°Fx
June28.4°C/83.1°F30°C/86°F26°C/78.8°Fx
July28.9°C/84°F31°C/87.8°F27°C/80.6°Fx
August29.4°C/84.9°F31°C/87.8°F28°C/82.4°Fx
September29.2°C/84.6°F30.9°C/87.6°F27°C/80.6°Fx
October27.8°C/82°F30°C/86°F26°C/78.8°Fx
November26.3°C/79.3°F28.3°C/82.9°F24.6°C/76.3°Fx
December24.6°C/76.3°F27°C/80.6°F22°C/71.6°Fx

VII. Where to Stay in Cham Islands?

On Cu Lao Cham, there aren’t any five-star hotels or resorts, you will only find homestays and hostels. But don’t worry, the service here is very good while the price is not expensive. Here are some suggested accommodations for you.

1. Tam Hien’s Homestay

Location: Bai Ong Beach, Cham Island

Tel: 0120 618 3516

2. Hiep’s Homestay

Location: Huong Beach, Cham Island

Tel: 0986 651 448

3. Thu Trang’s Homestay

Location: Lang Beach, Cham Island

Tel: 0985 237 941

VIII. How to Get to Cu Lao Cham Islands?

To get to Cu Lao Cham, you need to arrive in Hoi An, Da Nang first. There are numerous flights from big cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang. When you are here, you will have to choose 1 kind of transportation to get to Cham Island.

1. Private canoe

This is the quickest and most expensive way to get to Cham Island. The trip takes about 15 to 20 minutes. A private canoe can hold up to 35 people and the price varies from the size of the canoe.

2. Standard canoe

This one is cheaper than the private canoe. The price is about 300,000 VND and you have to go with other strange people in the same canoe. You will not be able to travel freely because you need to follow the company’s route.

3. Wooden Boat

The wooden boat is the cheapest way of transportation but the time you have to wait is also the longest. Normally, the boat leaves at 8 am and you will reach Cham Island at around 10 am. And you are recommended to stay one night on Cu Lao Cham if you choose this kind of traveling.

Once arriving in Cham Island, you can rent a motorbike to go to discover every corner of this place. Almost all homestays, hotels and hostels provide motorcycles for rent with a reasonable price so you do not need to worry about transportation on the island.

Close to Hoi An town, Cu Lao Cham really cherishes high potential for tourism development. There is no reason for you to not experience the beauty of this beautiful offshore land.

Make your plan to Vietnam right now by apply a Vietnam visa at vietnamvisapro.net. We, a reputable and reliable Visa service, will assist you turn your plan into reality at the very first step

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Three Vietnamese Destinations Shine with ASEAN Clean Tourist City Awards 2024

In a significant recognition of their commitment to cleanliness, waste management, and environmental awareness, three enchanting Vietnamese destinations – Hue, Vung Tau, and Quy Nhon – have been honored with the prestigious ASEAN Clean Tourist City Awards 2024. The announcement took place at the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2024, held in the picturesque capital of Laos, Vientiane, from January 22 to 27, 2024. This accolade not only celebrates the beauty and cultural richness of these destinations but also highlights their dedication to sustainable tourism practices.

These three places have previously received the ASEAN Clean Tourism City Award. Quy Nhon received the honor in 2020, while Vung Tau and Hue had each received it three times before.

The recognition was based on 108 criteria divided into seven major categories: environmental management, cleanliness, waste management, environmental protection and cleanliness awareness-building, the presence of green spaces, health safety, urban safety, and security, and the quality of tourism infrastructure and facilities.

Huế: Preserving Imperial Grandeur with Cleanliness
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Nestled along the picturesque Perfume River, the ancient city of Hue is renowned for its imperial history and architectural marvels. The city has seamlessly blended its historical charm with a modern commitment to cleanliness and sustainability. From the well-preserved citadel to the vibrant markets, Hue has become a shining example of a destination that values both its rich heritage and the environment. The ASEAN Clean Tourist City Award recognizes Hue’s efforts to maintain its imperial grandeur while adopting eco-friendly practices.

Vũng Tàu: Where Pristine Beaches Meet Environmental Consciousness
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Vũng Tàu, a coastal gem with stunning beaches and panoramic views, has been recognized for its pristine landscapes and a dedication to environmental preservation. The city’s authorities have implemented innovative waste management systems and initiatives to ensure the cleanliness of its beaches and public spaces. Vung Tau’s recognition at the ASEAN Clean Tourist City Awards is a testament to its commitment to providing a delightful and sustainable experience for both locals and tourists.

Quy Nhơn: Balancing Natural Beauty and Environmental Responsibility
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Quy Nhơn, known for its tranquil beaches and pristine landscapes, has struck the perfect balance between preserving its natural beauty and promoting environmental responsibility. The city’s efforts in waste management and environmental education have not gone unnoticed, earning it a well-deserved place among the recipients of the ASEAN Clean Tourist City Awards. Quy Nhon stands as a model destination that demonstrates how responsible tourism can enhance the allure of a place without compromising its ecological integrity.

The ASEAN Clean Tourist City Awards 2024 have cast a spotlight on three remarkable Vietnamese destinations – Hue, Vung Tauand Quy Nhon – for their dedication to cleanliness, waste management, and environmental awareness. These cities not only showcase the diverse beauty of Vietnam but also serve as inspiring examples for other destinations aiming to harmonize tourism with sustainability. As Hue, Vung Tau, and Quy Nhon continue to welcome visitors with open arms, their commitment to a cleaner and greener future will undoubtedly make them even more appealing to travelers seeking responsible and enriching experiences.

Make your plan to Vietnam right now by apply a Vietnam visa at vietnamvisapro.net. We, a reputable and reliable Visa service, will assist you turn your plan into reality at the very first step.

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Best Things to Do in Nha Trang in 2024

Nha Trang is one of the most popular and exciting cities in Vietnam. This coastal city offers a variety of attractions and activities for all kinds of travelers. Whether you are looking for fun, relaxation, culture, or adventure, Nha Trang has something for you. We have carefully selected the top things to do in Nha Trang that will make your trip unforgettable. You can go diving or snorkeling in the crystal clear waters, visit the amazing waterfalls and temples, cruise the islands and bays, and enjoy the lively nightlife and cuisine. Join us on a journey to the city of fun and relaxation in Nha Trang.

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1.Swim & sunbathe in picturesque beaches

With total length of about 7 kilometers coastline, Nha Trang has some of the most breathtaking beaches in Vietnam where the blue sea mixes harmoniously with white sandy coastline. Possessing many beaches which are equal in beauty, Nha Trang can accommodate different choices for anyone’s beach break. From bustling beaches in downtown center to quiet and pristine beaches, tourists can have all to their own tastes. Nha Trang’s beaches can be distinguished from beaches in other regions in Vietnam by its minor waves, which makes it as an ideal place for persons who look for a peaceful beach vacation. Not only attracting tourists by beautiful beaches, Nha Trang also has a wide array of beach resorts and recreational beach-side activities. Below are our suggested beaches:

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– Tran Phu Beach: It’s the most popular beach of the city because it can easily be seen and accessed from everywhere in Nha Trang. The beautiful Nha Trang coastal city is partly formed by the boulevard running along Tran Phu Beach with swaying palm trees; wide range of seaside resorts, hostels and restaurants. Nightlife is also active here with most popular bars, such as: The Sailing Club, ZIMA, Skylight Skydeck & Rooftop Beach Club.

– Doc Let Beach: lying 50km north of Nha Trang City, relatively untouched due to its remote location. Featuring warm blue sea, hot white sand, plenty of palm trees, and fishing boat docked offshore, Doc Let Beach is a romantic place for married couples and honeymooners.

– Long Beach: located 28km from southern coast of Tran Phu Beach, Long Beach can be a perfect day trip for those who seek for empty and pristine beaches. This beach is mostly visited by backpackers so it’s famous for the hippy-like ambiance.

2. Discover local religious life through cultural sites

Besides beautiful beaches, Nha Trang attracts tourists by its historical relics and various ritual areas, which reflects local residents’ beliefs and religions.

2.1. Ponagar Towers.

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Location: 2 Thang 4, Vinh Phuoc.
Opening hours: Daily from 6 am to 5:30 pm.

Ponagar Towers – a scared Hindu site dating back to the 7th century, is the most well-preserved ruins of Cham Culture in Central Vietnam, just after the World Heritage My Son Sanctuary in Hoian. Each of the towers honors different Gods and Goddesses but the most striking structure is Yang Po Inu Nagar, which was built to worship Goddess Ana – the mother of Champa Kingdom. The towers are square red-bricked structures with tapered roofs. Situated on the top of a hill, Ponagar Towers offers spectacular views to the Cai River and the fishermen’s village. There are traditional music and dance performances in special occasions.

2.2. Long Son Pagoda.

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Location: No. 22 Road 23/10, Phuong Son.
Opening hours: Daily – open 24 hours.

Long Son Pagoda with a remarkable history of over 100 years is the most famous and impressive Buddhist pagoda in the style of Taoist architecture in Nha Trang. Coming there, tourists will be impressed by its plethora of Vietnam’s largest outdoor Buddha Statues. The main highlight is the 24-metre tall white Buddha image seated on a lotus throne. Another impressive structure is the large reclining Buddha whose back panel features a bas-relief representation of the monks and nuns who died in the late 1950s while fighting against the corrupt US-backed Diem regime.
As Long Son Pagoda is set upon a hilltop, visitors can enjoy a bird’s eye view of Nha Trang and the sea beyond from the platform at the base of the white Buddha statue.

2.3. Nha Trang Stone Cathedral.

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Location: No. 31 Thai Nguyen Street, Phuoc Tan.
Opening hours: 5:30 AM – 5 PM on Monday-Saturday | 5 AM – 7 AM & 11 AM – 4:30 PM on Sundays

Nha Trang Stone Cathedral is also called Nha Trang Mountain Church and official name as King Christian Church. It was built from 1928 to 1933 by the French with the architectural style of a Catholic cathedral. The design is the perfect combination of the French Gothic style and distinct Vietnamese architecture elements. The church layouts are constructed by simple cement blocks and the chapel’s dome was made of lattice girders and hard-core bamboo.

Perched atop a small hill, the cathedral has picturesque setting with the mountains rising dramatically in the distance behind it. Therefore, it’s a must see site for visitors and photographers to take excellent photos in both day and night time.

3. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving – Unique things to do in Nha Trang

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving in nearby islands are two most interesting water-related activities in Nha Trang. Known as Vietnam’s premier scuba location, Nha Trang and nearby Hon Mun Marine Park give divers the chance to enjoy 350 species of hard coral species and many colorful sea creatures in clear and calm waters. June to August is the peak season of diving because the sea water will be at its clearest and most beautiful conditions during these months. Even you take any level of diving, the most important things are following basic safety rules to ensure a fun but safe diving experience. In addition, many foreign tourists said that diving in Nha Trang is cheap and straightforward.

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* Suggested diving organizers:
– Sailing Club Divers – 72 – 74 Tran Phu Boulevard.
– Rainbow Divers Vietnam – 132 Nguyen Thien Thuat Street.

4. Wallow in a mud bath to refresh your body & mind

It will be such a regrettable loss if you visit Nha Trang without trying mud bath because it’s considered as the quintessential experience in this coastal city. The mud used in mud bath resorts in Nha Trang is mineral mud with lots of benefits, such as: remove dead skin cells, deposit minerals into the body, eliminate blackheads, and support blood circulation.
If tourists are tired of sightseeing trips and islands hopping tours, it will be a great idea to spend at least half day to relax your body and soul in a hot mineral spring.

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* Where to take mud bath?
– I-Resort hot mineral spring – To 19 – Xuan Ngoc – Vinh Ngoc.
– Thap Ba hot mineral spring – 438 Ngo Den – Ngoc Hiep.

5. Celebrate festive spirit in Vinpearl Amusement Park

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Location: Vinpearl Resort Island, Nha Trang Bay.
Opening hours:
 Daily 9 AM – 6 PM.

Regarded as Disneyland in Vietnam, the fun and festive Vinpearl Amusement Park makes for a great day out for all the families with children or youngsters with high adventurous spirit. Located on Hon Tre Island, the park can be approached by 15-minute ride by Vinpearl Cable Car from Nha Trang mainland. This Cable Car used to be the world’s longest oversea cable car with a length of more than 3km before 2018. The park offers a plethora of rides, games, water slides, fish-filled aquarium and huge water park. The park complex consists of restaurants and shopping malls, as well as a gorgeous beach for tourists to recline on, with lots of fantastic watersports.

6. Enjoy Nha Trang bustling nightlife

Choi-dem-o-Nha-Trang

In the night time, Nha Trang brings tourists a tremendous feeling with wide range of options from local experiences to rooftop night clubs and bars, all which will keep you entertained.

6.1. Buying some local souvenirs at Nha Trang Night Market.

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Nha Trang Night Market is really a great place for tourists to take insight into local culture of this city. The walking street and night market are opened along Tran Phu Street from 6-7 pm and busy until midnight. Walking here, you can find a lot of items like clothing, souvenirs, handicrafts to bring home. But don’t forget to stop at street food stalls where you can enjoy the mouth-watering local dishes with affordable prices.

6.2. Have fun at bars & nightclubs.

Nha Trang bars and clubs are exactly where you can find the sleepless atmosphere of the late night revelers as well as this dynamic city. To mingle with the locals and fellow tourists; you are highly recommended to take a stroll along Tran Phu Street; where plenty of bars and clubs are welcoming you to come.

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Here are some popular nightlife spots to check out:

* Nha Trang Sailing Club

Location: 72 – 74 Tran Phu Street,
Opening hours: Daily 07:30 – 02:30

Located along Tran Phu Beach; Sailing Club is like an open space offering diverse services such as restaurants, bars and a vibrant club. During sunset, the club appears with a shimmering and fanciful look. It becomes busier after sunset until late night because more and more tourists will come there to dance and swing with the latest electro house tunes and EDM tracks from the talented hands of famous DJs.

* Louisiane Brewhouse and Restaurant:

Location: 29 Tran Phu Street
Opening Hours: Daily 07:00 – 00:00

Louisiane Brewhouse Nha Trang offers exciting combinations of beer, cuisine and entertainment against the stunning backdrop of Nha Trang beach. It serves the most exclusive beers in Vietnam, that are made with specialty malts from Australia and New Zealand. To match its special home-brewed beers; this all-day beach bar also offers a special collection of favorite Western and Asian dishes. Evening events are held from 8:30 AM to 11:00 PM with a wide range of popular music styles from Latin American, Pop & Mainstream to Rock & Blues.

* Skylight Skydeck & Rooftop Beach Club:

Location: 38 Tran Phu Street, Nha Trang
Opening hours: Skylight Skydeck: 9.00 – 12.00 and 15.00 – 18.00 daily | Rooftop Beach Club: 17.00 – 00.00 Tuesday to Sunday

To enjoy the nightlife of the young and admire the shimmering lights of Nha Trang City at night from above at the same time, there is no place as perfect as Skylight Skydeck & Rooftop Beach Club. Located in the 43th-45th floors of Havana Nha Trang Hotel; this is the first attraction of its kind in Nha Trang that allows guests to view the beautiful beach city from unrivaled heights. Meanwhile, the Rooftop Beach Club features handcrafted specialty cocktails, ice-cold draught beer, international Pan-Asian cuisine, and an unparalleled nightlife experience.

6.3. Sunset Cocktail & Dinner on luxury Emperor Cruise.

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Duration: 4 hours (approx.) from 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Services included pickup and drop off at hotels/stay in Nha Trang City Center.

Set sail on Emperor Cruise in Nha Trang Bay; you will have the great opportunity to enjoy the wonderful panorama of Nha Trang Bay; along the coastline while cruising and enjoying the dinner with best selection of cocktails.

Essential Takeaways:

Nha Trang, a coastal city in Vietnam, is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant marine life, and rich cultural heritage. Here’s a curated list of must-do activities that promise an unforgettable experience:

  1. Dive into the Underwater World at Hon Mun Island: Discover the marine biodiversity at Hon Mun Island, known for its crystal-clear waters, captivating caves, and colorful coral reefs. It’s a paradise for snorkelers and divers alike.
  2. Soak in the Architectural Splendor of Po Nagar: Step back in time at the Po Nagar Cham Towers, a testament to the Cham civilization. Admire the intricate carvings and statues that reflect a blend of cultural influences.
  3. Relax on the Pristine Beaches: Nha Trang’s beaches are perfect for a day of relaxation. Soak up the sun, enjoy the soft sand between your toes, and listen to the soothing sound of the waves.
  4. Savor the Local Cuisine: Treat your taste buds to the local flavors. Don’t miss out on the fresh seafood, and be sure to try the famous ‘Bun Cha Ca,’ a delightful fishcake noodle soup.
  5. Embrace the Nightlife: As the sun sets, the city comes alive with bustling night markets and lively bars. Experience the local nightlife and mingle with both locals and travelers.
  6. Find peace at Long Son Pagoda, Nha Trang’s most renowned Buddhist landmark, and marvel at the colossal white Buddha statue.
  7. Admire the European charm of Nha Trang Stone Church, a captivating blend of French Gothic architecture and Vietnamese influences.
  8. Take a boat tour to pristine islands like Monkey Island or explore Nha Trang Bay’s hidden coves.
  9. Visit the National Oceanographic Museum to learn about Vietnam’s marine life and its rich underwater ecosystems.
  10. Hike to Ba Ho Waterfalls, a scenic spot with cascading waterfalls and refreshing pools for a dip.
  11. Experience a mud bath at Thap Ba Hot Springs, known for its therapeutic mineral-rich mud baths.
  12. Enjoy a thrilling ride on the Vinpearl Cable Car, offering panoramic views of Nha Trang and access to Vinpearl Land amusement park.

In comparison with other beach destinations in Vietnam; such as Mui Ne and Phu Quoc; Nha Trang is more urban and lively and home to some of Vietnam’s best beach resorts. It will be definitely the perfect choice for those who are looking for a mix of big city life and a relaxing coastal atmosphere; busy night markets and quiet places under the palm trees; modern buildings and ancient architectures. 

Make your plan to Nha Trang,Vietnam right now by apply a Vietnam visa at vietnamvisapro.net. We, a reputable and reliable Visa service, will assist you turn your plan into reality at the very first step.