Discover Nha Trang: Vietnam’s Tropical Paradise

As one of Vietnam’s most renowned beach paradises, Nha Trang consistently captivates both domestic and international travelers seeking the perfect blend of sun, sand, and sea. Let Traveloka guide you through a self-guided exploration of this stunning coastal city.

Nha Trang possesses all the ideal attributes of a tropical beach haven, earning its place as a top coastal destination in Vietnam. Beyond its pristine beaches and numerous unspoiled islands, Nha Trang offers a rich cultural and historical experience as the former capital of the Champa Kingdom. There’s nothing quite like a Nha Trang getaway to satisfy your craving for ocean breezes and the chance to immerse yourself in crystal-clear waters.

1. Best Time to Visit Nha Trang

Located in South Central Vietnam, Nha Trang enjoys a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The city’s greatest asset is its extended dry season, spanning eight months, offering consistently warm temperatures. From September to December, Nha Trang experiences its rainy season, with peak rainfall in October and November. While this period can be less ideal for beach activities, it’s a great time to explore the city’s cultural attractions.
Nha Trang also hosts several vibrant festivals throughout the year, making it a great destination for those interested in local culture.

Nha Trang Sea Festival: Held in odd-numbered years during the summer, this event attracts a large number of domestic and international tourists.

Thap Ba Festival: An important festival for the Cham people, commemorating the Mother Goddess of the Land. The Thap Ba Festival takes place every year from the 20th to the 23rd of the third lunar month, featuring various sacred activities such as bathing the statue, changing the robe, and offering prayers…

2. Getting to Nha Trang

By Air

Nha Trang, located in Khanh Hoa province, is easily accessible by air thanks to Cam Ranh International Airport. For those seeking a quick and convenient way to reach the city, flying is the best option. You can book flights to Nha Trang from major cities with flight times ranging from 1 to 2 hours.

Hanoi to Nha Trang: Approximately 1 hour and 55 minutes with fares starting from VND 675,000.
Ho Chi Minh City to Nha Trang: Approximately 1 hour with fares starting from VND 700,000.
Da Nang to Nha Trang: Approximately 1 hour with fares starting from VND 600,000.

Additionally, you can book a private car transfer from Cam Ranh International Airport to Nha Trang city center on Traveloka. For just VND 242,000 for 4 people, you can enjoy a comfortable and convenient ride without the hassle of waiting for taxis or other public transportation.

By Train

If you prefer a more leisurely journey, taking the train to Nha Trang can be a delightful experience. There are numerous train routes to Nha Trang, offering a variety of fares.

Saigon – Nha Trang Train: From Saigon, you can take the direct SN4 train to Nha Trang. This train makes additional stops in Bien Hoa and Thap Cham.
North-South Train: For travelers departing from other provinces, the North-South train is a good option. You can check the train schedule and codes on the Vietnam Railways website (dsvn).
Luxury Trains: Recently launched, the SNT2 train offers a luxurious and comfortable travel experience.

Tip: To arrive in Nha Trang early morning and have more time to explore, it’s recommended to depart between 7 PM and 8 PM. Students can enjoy discounted fares by presenting their student ID.

By Bus

Given the relatively short distance between Ho Chi Minh City and Nha Trang, many travelers opt for overnight sleeper buses. Several bus companies, including Phuong Trang, Mai Linh, Kumho, Hoang Long, and Sinh Cafe, offer this service. The journey takes approximately 8-10 hours and fares range from VND 170,000 to VND 220,000.
Traveling from Hanoi to Nha Trang by bus takes significantly longer, around 26-30 hours. Hoang Long is a popular bus company for this route, with fares ranging from VND 500,000 to VND 600,000.

3. Getting Around Nha Trang

As a popular tourist destination, Nha Trang offers a variety of transportation options for self-guided travelers.

Motorbikes: Renting a motorbike is a popular choice for those who want the freedom to explore the city at their own pace. Rental prices range from VND 60,000 to VND 150,000 per day. You can rent motorbikes directly from hotels or through specialized rental services.
Taxis: Several taxi companies operate in Nha Trang, including Mai Linh, Taxi Airport, Taxi Asia, Taxi Nha Trang, and Emasco.
Cyclos: For a more leisurely and authentic experience, consider taking a cyclo ride around the city. A 1.5-hour tour, including a meal, typically costs around VND 500,000.

4. Where to Stay in Nha Trang

Hotels: Nha Trang offers a wide range of hotels, especially along Tran Phu Street, which is located near the beach.

Resorts: For a luxurious and pampering experience, consider staying at one of Nha Trang’s many resorts. Some popular options include Whale Island Resort, Champa Island Nha Trang Resort Hotel & Spa, Merperla Hon Tam Resort, and InterContinental Nha Trang.

Homestays and Hostels: Budget-conscious travelers can find a variety of homestays and hostels in Nha Trang, offering a more local and social experience. Popular options include Tabalo Hostel, Ccasa Hostel, and Tabana Hostel.

5. Must-Visit Attractions in Nha Trang

Blessed with stunning natural landscapes, Nha Trang is a must-visit destination for any travel enthusiast. When in Nha Trang, you can easily find tours to explore various islands with detailed itineraries.

Moreover, Nha Trang boasts numerous large-scale entertainment complexes, attracting a large number of visitors year-round. Let’s discover the must-visit attractions in Nha Trang.

5.1. Top Attractions

• Nha Trang Beach

With over 7 kilometers of coastline, Nha Trang Beach is renowned for its pristine waters and soft sand. Located right in the city center, it’s easy to access. With so many beautiful beaches to choose from, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Along Tran Phu Street, you’ll find numerous resorts, hotels, and water sports activities like jet skiing, surfing, and parasailing.

• VinWonders Nha Trang (Hon Tre Island)

This renowned amusement park and resort is located on Hon Tre Island. Accessible by cable car, VinWonders offers a wide range of indoor and outdoor activities, a water park, and a spectacular nightly water show. For those who want to extend their stay, luxurious resorts and restaurants are available within the complex.

Popular attractions at VinWonders Nha Trang: Flower Hill, Sky Wheel, floating water park, aquarium, etc.
Ticket price: VND 800,000 for adults and VND 700,000 for children aged 1-1.4 meters.
Opening hours: 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Dam Market: Similar to Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City, Dam Market is a century-old market offering a wide variety of local specialties and souvenirs.
Location: Ben Cho, Van Thanh Ward.
Opening hours: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

• Mud Baths

One of the must-try experiences in Nha Trang is indulging in a mud bath. This relaxing and rejuvenating activity involves applying natural mineral-rich mud to your skin, known for its beauty and health benefits. Many spa complexes offer additional services like hot spring baths and hydrotherapy massages, providing a full day of relaxation.

Popular mud bath locations in Nha Thap Ba Hot Springs: 12 Ngoc Son, Ngoc Hiep Ward, Nha Trang City.

Resort Hot Springs: To 19, Xuan Ngoc Village, Vinh Ngoc Commune, Nha Trang City.
Tram Trung Tourist Area: Nguyen Tat Thanh Boulevard, Nha Trang City.
Nui Spa: You can purchase a package deal for I-Resort Hot Springs, including mud baths, herbal mineral baths, and hot spring baths, starting from VND 80,000 per person.

5.2. Enchanting Islands in Nha Trang

Nha Trang is often referred to as an island paradise, and it would be a shame to miss out on the stunning islands surrounding the city. The easiest way to explore these islands is by joining a day tour, which typically includes visits to 3-4 islands and a seafood lunch.

If you prefer a more personalized experience, you can hire a private boat to take you to your desired island.

• Hon Chong and Hon Vo

These iconic rock formations are known for their unique shapes and fascinating legends. Hon Chong features a giant five-fingered handprint, while Hon Vo resembles a woman looking out to sea.
Location: Hon Chong Hamlet, Vinh Phu Ward.
Ticket price: VND 22,000.

• Hon Mun

A marine protected area recognized by WWF, Hon Mun boasts diverse marine ecosystems and abundant coral reefs. Snorkeling and diving are popular activities here.

Location: Vinh Nguyen Ward, Nha Trang City (approximately 10 km from Cau Da Port)
Boat fare: VND 300,000 for speedboat, VND 250,000 for regular boat.
Glass-bottom boat tour: VND 60,000.

5.3. Island Hopping

Nha Trang is a haven for island hopping. Here are some of the most popular islands to visit:

• Hon Mot

As the smallest island in Nha Trang Bay, Hon Mot is a great option for those who want to enjoy snorkeling without being an expert diver. The island offers colorful coral reefs and a peaceful atmosphere.

Location: Vinh Nguyen Ward, Nha Trang City (approximately 9 km from the shore).

• Hon Tam

Known for its luxurious resorts and stunning beaches, Hon Tam is a popular choice for a relaxing getaway. The island offers a variety of activities, including mud baths, kayaking, and beach volleyball.
You can find attractive tour packages on Traveloka Xperience, such as a one-day Hon Tam tour starting from VND 370,000 per person or a VIP 3-island tour (including Hon Tam) starting from VND 420,000 per person.

• Hon Mieu

This island is famous for its Tri Nguyen Aquarium, which houses over 100 marine species. Visitors can also enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing on the beautiful beaches of Hon Mieu.

Hon Noi (Bird Island): Renowned for its unique twin beaches, Hon Noi is a protected area managed by the Khanh Hoa Swallow’s Nest Company. Visitors can only access the island through organized tours.
Tour price: Hon Noi Island summer promotion – 1 day: VND 523,000 per person per day.
Best time to visit: April to September.

Aside from the previously mentioned islands, Nha Trang offers several other stunning destinations for island hopping, such as:

• Binh Ba, Diep Son, Nha Phu Bay, and Robinson Island

These islands are known for their pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Tours: There are various tour options available, including day trips to Binh Ba, Diep Son, or a combined tour of three islands.
Note: As of 2022, tourism activities on Binh Ba and Binh Hung Islands have been temporarily suspended due to national security reasons. Please check for the latest updates before planning your trip.

• Ninh Van Bay

If you seek a tranquil escape from the bustling city, Ninh Van Bay is the perfect destination. Located approximately 60 kilometers from Nha Trang, this secluded bay offers luxurious resorts, pristine beaches, and a variety of water sports activities.

Getting there: From Nha Trang, take National Highway 1A towards Ninh Hoa and then turn onto National Highway 26B. Continue until you reach the end of TL625D and then pass through Ninh Phuoc and Ninh Tinh.
Activities: Relax on the beach, enjoy water sports, and explore the bay on a boat tour.
Cultural Attractions in Nha Trang

• Nui Church

Also known as Nha Trang Cathedral, this Gothic-style church is a prominent landmark in the city.

Location: 19 Nguyen Trai Street, Phuoc Tien Ward.
Opening hours: 5:30 AM to 5:00 PM daily.

• Long Son Pagoda

Home to one of the largest outdoor Buddha statues in Vietnam, Long Son Pagoda is a popular pilgrimage site.
The 200-step staircase leading to the pagoda offers panoramic views of the city.
A reclining Buddha statue and 49 disciples can be found on the 44th step.

• Po Nagar Cham Towers

As one of the largest Cham architectural complexes in Vietnam, the Po Nagar Cham Towers is a testament to the Champa civilization. Dedicated to the goddess Po Nagar, the towers were built before the 10th century and still retain many of their original features.

Location: Hai Thuong Lan Ong Street, Vinh Phu Ward.
Opening hours: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Ticket price: VND 22,000 per person.

• Nha Trang Oceanographic Institute

For marine enthusiasts, the Nha Trang Oceanographic Institute is a must-visit. The institute houses a vast collection of marine specimens, including a 26-meter-long whale skeleton.

Location: 01 Cau Da.
Opening hours: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
Ticket price: VND 40,000 per person.

6. Culinary Delights in Nha Trang

• Banh Canh Cha Ca

This local specialty features a thick rice noodle soup with fish cakes. The combination of chewy noodles, savory fish cakes, and flavorful broth is simply irresistible.
Recommended restaurants: Ba Thua (55 Yersin), Nguyen Loan (123 Ngo Gia Tu), Phuc (53 Van Don).

• Bun La Ca Dam

Similar to banh canh cha ca, bun la ca dam uses flat rice noodles instead. This dish is a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.
Recommended restaurants: Nam Beo (B2 Phan Boi Chau Apartment, near Dam Market), Cay Bang (06 Han Thuyen), 87 Yersin.

• Bun Sua

This refreshing noodle soup features jellyfish as its main ingredient. The jellyfish is lightly blanched and served with noodles in a light broth. For an added flavor, some restaurants also include fish cakes.
Recommended restaurants: Nam Beo, Nguyen Loan, 87 Yersin.

• Nem Nuong

Nem nuong, or grilled pork rolls, is a must-try dish when visiting Nha Trang. These savory rolls are typically served with rice paper, fresh herbs, and a sweet and sour dipping sauce.
Recommended restaurants: Dang Van Quyen (16B Lan Ong or the intersection of Phan Boi Chau and Han Thuyen), Ngoc Tien (59 Le Thanh Phuong), Nha Trang (39 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai).

• Banh Can

Resembling small savory pancakes, banh can is made with rice flour, eggs, shrimp, and squid. The dish is served with a unique dipping sauce made from fish sauce, caramelized meat, and fried shallots.
Recommended restaurants: 151 Hoang Van Thu, 165 Nguyen Trai (near the intersection of Nguyen Trai and Cao Ba Quat), Co Tu (7A Thap Ba, opposite Po Nagar Towers).

• Bo Lac Canh

Although not exclusively from Nha Trang, Bo Lac Canh (Lac Canh beef) is a popular restaurant chain known for its grilled beef. The tender and flavorful beef, served with fresh herbs, is a favorite among locals and tourists.
Recommended restaurant: 44 Nguyen Binh Khiem, Nha Trang City.

• Seafood

No trip to Nha Trang is complete without trying its fresh seafood. The city offers a wide variety of seafood dishes at affordable prices.
Recommended restaurants: 06 Ngo Sy Lien, Long Vu (133 Thap Ba), and restaurants along Bo Ke Street.

7. Tips for a Self-Guided Trip to Nha Trang

Nha Trang can get quite crowded during peak seasons like summer and holidays. If you plan to travel independently during these times, it’s advisable to book your accommodation in advance.
Even though the weather is generally pleasant, it’s still recommended to pack essentials like hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, and both beach sandals and sneakers for exploring.
Nha Trang is famous for its bird’s nests and dried seafood. Purchase bird’s nests from reputable stores, while other local products can be easily found at Dam Market.

Cre: Traveloka VN