Nestled along Vietnam's south-central coastline, Nha Trang entices visitors with its shores, attractions, and exciting experiences.
1. Beaches
Nha Trang is renowned for its beautiful shores, such as the well-loved Tran Phu, Bai Dai, Hon Chong, and Doc Let beaches. Characterized by their fine white sand and crystal-clear blue waters, these coastal areas offer ideal conditions for soaking up the sun, taking a swim, and engaging in various aquatic activities.
This location is encircled by cafés, pubs, and sea-food eateries serving dishes from both local kitchens and around the world, thus providing an ideal setting for unwinding as well as gastronomic discovery. Tourists have the option to lease beach chairs, parasols, and gear for aquatic activities, or they may meander down the boulevard shaded by palms and bordered by seaside hotels.
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The shoreline of Nha Trang. Image captured by VnExpress/Xuan Ngoc |
If you prefer a more dynamic experience, beach volleyball and soccer facilities are typically available throughout the day. As night falls, Tran Phu Beach comes alive with stunning sunsets, roaming food stalls, and a vibrant ambiance ideal for seaside leisure. Its pristine waters and rich underwater world also provide excellent opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving. While access to the shore is complimentary, charges may be applied for gear rental or participation in aquatic sports. This picturesque stretch of sand runs parallel to Tran Phu Street.
Should you prefer avoiding busy settings, Bai Dai Beach, situated 20 kilometers south of Nha Trang and less frequented by tourists, offers a splendid substitute. This locale is excellent for unwinding, soaking up the sun, and taking tranquil strolls on the beachfront.
2. Po Nagar Towers
The historic Cham temple site, which dates to the seventh century, boasts elaborately decorated spires and provides sweeping vistas of both the urban landscape and the Cai River. Situated on 2 Thang 4 Street, Po Nagar Tower lies within easy driving distance from downtown.
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The Po Nagar Towers (R) in Nha Trang. Image courtesy of VnExpress/Xuan Ngoc |
Tourists have the opportunity to delve into its historical architecture, reflecting classic Cham artistic styles and workmanship, as well as gain knowledge about Cham traditions and ancient society. This location further provides an understanding of the area’s spiritual past, where most of the surviving spires and sanctuaries were initially built for Hindu worship; however, traces of Buddhism are evident nowadays too. Atop the main structure—the highest among them—stands a representation of Goddess Po Nagar. Additionally, this vicinity frequently serves as a venue for prayers and community ceremonies.
The location is accessible every day, and it’s advisable to arrive either early in the morning or later in the evening to steer clear of large groups of visitors. The admission cost is VND22,000 (approximately US$0.88).
3. Long Son Pagoda
Famous for its imposing 24-meter-high white Buddha statue, the Long Son Pagoda located on Thai Nguyen Street provides a tranquil retreat and picturesque views of the city. Situated at the top of a hill, this colossal Buddha serves as an awe-inspiring landmark that embodies tranquility and harmony, drawing tourists who seek both its profound spirituality and monumental size.
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A visitor passes by a recumbent Buddha sculpture at the Long Son Pagoda in Nha Trang. Image courtesy of VnExpress/Quynh Tran. |
Tourists have the opportunity to wander through the temple complex, where they will encounter numerous deities, altars, and elaborate mosaic artworks illustrating stories from Buddhism. Ascending towards the Buddha statue requires navigating multiple staircases, offering panoramic vistas of the urban landscape, shoreline, and adjacent mountain ranges along the ascent. Scattered throughout the route are miniature sculptures and sanctuaries enhancing the sacred ambiance of this location. The functioning pagoda serves as an active center for Buddhists, allowing guests to gain insights into their rituals and philosophies via interactions with resident monks who frequently perform religious rites at this spot.
Within the pagoda, guests can appreciate the stunning architecture and traditional Buddhist artwork, featuring wooden engravings and murals that provide insight into the area’s cultural and spiritual heritage. This location additionally houses a modest Buddhist educational institution and a library where monks delve into age-old scriptures.
Admission is complimentary, and it operates every day from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
4. Nha Trang Bay along with its surrounding islands
Covering an area of approximately 250 square kilometers, Nha Trang Bay is among Vietnam’s 16 designated marine protected zones, renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and rich aquatic biodiversity. This bay has been a beloved spot for diving aficionados and those passionate about marine exploration.
At Hon Rom, a well-loved diving destination, tourists have the opportunity to spot vibrant fish species and witness the slow restoration of coral reefs, even as they face difficulties due to climate change and coral bleaching.
Various marine life forms like yellowtail fusiliers and clownfish dwelling within sea anemones provide mesmerizing views.
In order to tackle the issue of damaged corals, the authorities in Khanh Hoa province halted all diving activities at locations such as Hon Mun starting from 2022. This decision aimed to facilitate the recovery of the local ecosystems via continuous observation, underwater cleanup operations, and protective actions. Additionally, suggestions for installing artificial reefs were considered with the intention of improving the overall marine environment within the bay.
In June 2024, a trial initiative brought back recreational diving to specific zones.
Hon Mun Island boasts spectacular coral reefs, pristine waters, and abundant marine biodiversity, featuring vibrant tropical fish, sea turtles, and rare glimpses of dolphins. Located roughly 10 kilometers from Nha Trang’s shore, the island can be reached via ferry; numerous travel companies provide excursions that usually last anywhere from 30 minutes to one hour.
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A visitor went diving near Mun Island in Nha Trang in June 2022. The photo was taken by Mai Kha. |
Divers can revel in the transparent waters near the coastline, where groups of colorful fish and complex coral structures are readily observable. Those with greater experience might opt for scuba diving to discover the depths, home to bigger sea animals like rays and sharks. Professional dive instructors are on hand for individuals looking to enroll in courses or join escorted descents.
Should you wish to remain dry, consider taking a glass-bottom boat tour for an eyeful of the aquatic realm beneath.
The entry costs for Hon Mun Island differ based on the tour provider and the activities offered, ranging from approximately VND220,000 ($10) for a simple snorkeling trip. Prices may increase for more extensive experiences such as scuba diving or renting your own private vessel.
5. Vietnamese National Maritime Museum
Situated on 1 Cau Da Street, the National Oceanographic Museum of Vietnam provides an enlightening exploration of the nation’s abundant marine life. This museum houses an extensive array of preserved aquatic creatures such as colorful fish, sharks, sea turtles, and various seashells sourced from Vietnamese shores.
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A young woman rests against an aquarium exhibit at the National Oceanographic Museum located in Nha Trang. The image was captured by VnExpress/Bui Toan. |
This display features stuffed marine creatures along with detailed representations of oceanic environments, offering visitors an intimate look at sea life.
Guests can delve into displays featuring classic fishing gear, vintage vessels, and navigation devices, shedding light on the historic connection between the Vietnamese populace and the ocean.
The museum additionally provides an understanding of how the fishing sector has evolved along with highlighting the cultural importance of sea-related activities in the area.
The museum operates every day from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with an entrance fee of just VND30,000 ($1.20), making it quite budget-friendly.
The attraction includes a compact outdoor aquarium where guests can view living sea creatures like tropical fish. Equipped with educational signs in both Vietnamese and English, the museum offers an enlightening encounter suitable for every age group.
6. Dam Market
Situated on Ben Cho Street, this bustling marketplace stands out among Nha Trang’s most historic and vibrant spots. Here you can find everything from freshly harvested fruits and vegetables to fish caught daily, alongside fabrics, apparel, and local crafts. This location excels at providing genuine keepsakes like handcrafted accessories, regional attire, and items distinctive to the area, making it perfect for souvenir hunting.
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The domed rooftop of Dam Market in an overhead view of Nha Trang. Photo by VnExpress/Xuan Ngoc |
In addition to shopping, tourists can delve into the world of classic Vietnamese street cuisine at this marketplace. Food vendors offer a variety of delicacies such as fresh seafood, pho, banh mi, and exotic fruits, offering guests an authentic flavor experience from Nha Trang. This setting, enhanced by the scents of sizzling dishes, creates a delightful feast for all senses.
The Dam Market operates every day from 5:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
7. Vinpearl Land
Situated on Hon Tre Island, Vinpearl Land offers a thrilling day filled with fun and adventures. You can reach the park conveniently through one of the globe’s longest sea-crossing aerial tram lines spanning across Nha Trang Bay.
The park offers exciting attractions such as roller coasters, bumper cars, rotating tea cups, and a scenic Ferris wheel providing stunning vistas of the bay for visitors seeking land-based fun. If you're more inclined towards aquatic activities, Vinpearl Land includes a substantial water park equipped with water slides, wave pools, leisurely river channels, play areas with splashing fountains, along with an aquarium.
Additionally, there are various choices for shopping and eating out.
The park operates every day from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., with an admission charge of VND880,000 ($36) that covers the cost of the cable car ride as well.
8. The Stone Church of Nha Trang
Commonly referred to as the Mountain Church, the Nha Trang Stone Church stands at 31 Thai Nguyen Street in a Gothic architectural style. This historical site boasts impressive design elements like soaring arched ceilings and detailed stained glass windows, fostering an environment conducive to calm thought and introspection. Perched atop a hill, it offers guests a haven of peace, providing respite from the urban hustle below.
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Inside the Nha Trang Stone Church. Image captured by Tuan Dao |
This place exemplifies French colonial architectural style, combining Gothic features with local touches. Tourists have the opportunity to delve into the church’s interior, appreciate the artistry involved, and immerse themselves in the serene atmosphere that renders it both a sanctuary for spirituality and a sought-after destination for travelers. Additionally, routine religious ceremonies take place here, open for all guests to witness.
Access to the church is complimentary, and it operates every day between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM.
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