Nha Trang: Vietnam’s Beach Capital

Planning Your Trip Last Minute?

Booking hotels in Nha Trang: Booking.com is our go-to platform for finding great stays. Here are the top hotels in Nha Trang.

‍

Mid-Range

Champa Island

Mid-Range

Potique Hotel

‍

Booking tours in Nha Trang: Viator and GetYourGuide offer great tours that make exploring easy, from city tours to island hopping. Here are the top experiences you can book today.

1. Nha Trang City Half-Day Tour (Best Seller)
2. Ba Ho Waterfall Tour (Excellent Value)
3. Half-Day Snorkeling Tour (Highly Rated)

‍

Want a hassle-free arrival from the airport? Book this private Nha Trang transfer to get you to your accommodation in no time.

‍

Vietnam’s Beach Capital

Often called Vietnam’s beach capital, Nha Trang is a lively seaside destination that truly has it all. The city unfolds along a six-kilometer stretch of golden sand, where a wide promenade runs parallel to the sea and narrow streets branch off toward cozy cafes, seafood restaurants, and local shops.

‍

For adventure seekers, Nha Trang offers plenty to keep you busy, with activities ranging from diving and snorkeling to surfing and island-hopping around nearby islets.

‍

‍

Beyond the coastline, Nha Trang reveals a rich mix of culture and history. Ancient Champa towers rise just north of the city center, while a Buddhist pagoda overlooks the sweeping bay. After a day of exploring, you can dive into the city’s nightlife or slow things down with one of Nha Trang’s signature experiences: a relaxing mud bath.

‍

Nha Trang Map

Best Things to Do in Nha Trang

Beaches in Nha Trang

Nha Trang Beach is the city’s centerpiece, stretching six kilometers along a clean, well-maintained promenade. Roped-off sections mark safe swimming areas, and the southern end is lined with restaurants that are perfect for sunset views.

‍

‍

At the heart of the promenade stands the Tram Huong Tower, recognizable for its lotus-inspired design. You can visit the first three floors, which showcase photographs of Khanh Hoa Province, local specialty products such as bird’s nest (also available for purchase), and agarwood displays.

‍

A couple of kilometers north, Hon Chon Beach offers a quieter alternative. Sun loungers with umbrellas and towels are available for rent, and several cafes sit just across the street.

‍

Want the best sunset views in Nha Trang? This sunset cruise with a 5-course dinner and drinks is one of the most popular tours.

‍

Museums

Just across from the northern end of Nha Trang Beach is the Yersin Museum, housed in the former home of Dr. Alexander Yersin, founder of the Pasteur Institute in Nha Trang. The museum highlights his life and scientific contributions, including his role in identifying the plague bacillus.

‍

Note: The museum is open on weekdays from 7:30-11:30am and 2-5pm. Entrance is 20,000vnd ($0.80). It is best explored counterclockwise, with signage in Vietnamese, French, and English.

‍

Nearby, the Khanh Hoa Museum showcases prehistoric artifacts from the province, musical instruments from Vietnam’s ethnic minorities, and Champa statues and relics. It opens daily from 8-11am and 2-5pm, and entrance is free.

‍

Diving and Snorkeling

While Vietnam isn’t widely known for diving, Nha Trang offers some of the country’s most accessible sites. To protect the coral reefs, only a limited number of dive sites are currently open.

‍

For a reliable operator, book with Vietnam Active, which runs trips for both certified divers and beginners. Snorkeling tours are also available.

‍

Po Nagar Temple

Location: 61 Hai Thang Ty, Nha Trang

Operating Hours: 6am-6pm

Entrance Fee: 30,000vnd ($1.15)

‍

Perched on a small hill near the Cai River estuary, Po Nagar Cham Towers is an impressive complex of well-preserved brick towers dating from the 8th to 13th centuries. Originally consisting of six towers, four remain today. The northeast tower is the most striking, with intricate inscriptions carved into its doorposts.

‍

Tip: Hiring a guide isn’t necessary. The complex is compact, and QR codes throughout provide background information with English audio.

‍

‍

Don’t miss the small showroom at the back displaying photos of the temple’s past and present structures. Also, keep an eye out on the traditional dance performances held every 10 minutes throughout the day (except 11am–2pm).

‍

Tip: Visit early to avoid crowds and dress modestly. Free cover-ups are available near the northeast tower.

‍

Read More: Banh It Cham Temples in Quy Nhon

‍

Hon Chong Promontory

Location: Vinh Phuoc, Nha Trang

Operating Hours: 6am-6pm

Entrance Fee: 30,000vnd ($1.15)

‍

About 2 km northeast of Po Nagar, Hon Chong Promontory juts out into the sea, offering sweeping views of turquoise waters, the city’s coastline, and distant mountain ranges.

‍

Tip: For a more comfortable walk across the boulders, avoid visiting at midday when the sun is strongest.

‍

‍

In addition to the dramatic rock formations, three wooden houses, similar to those found in Hue, display paintings and local souvenirs. Our favorite is the traditional music performances hosted in the middle building every 10 to 15 minutes. A cafe next door is also a lovely spot to sit and enjoy the sea views.

‍

Island Hopping

Similar to Phu Quoc Island, island-hopping tours in Nha Trang are a popular activity thanks to the several islets just offshore. Most follow a similar route, beginning with snorkeling near Hon Mun Island, lunch at a floating restaurant, and often end with a mud bath stop at Hon Tam Island.

‍

Here are the most popular island hopping tours in Nha Trang:

‍

Nha Trang Markets

Browse rows of stalls selling dried goods, clothing, and fresh produce at Dam Market. The original lotus-shaped building is currently under renovation, so most vendors have moved to the newer structure behind it, though some still operate around the exterior.

‍

Tip: Don’t miss the fresh mango juice from one of the stalls around the market.

‍

‍

In the evening, the Nha Trang Night Market comes alive along Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, typically from 7pm to 10pm, with street food and souvenir stands.

‍

Read More: Bac Ha Market, Vietnam’s Biggest Ethnic Market

‍

Nha Trang Cathedral

Location: 01 Thai Nguyen, Nha Trang

Operating Hours: 8-11:15am; 2-4:15pm

Entrance Fee: Free (donations expected)

‍

Set atop a small hill near the train station, Nha Trang Cathedral stands in full French Gothic style, accented with colorful stained-glass windows and mosaic details along the pillars. Photography is not permitted during Mass.

‍

Long Son Pagoda

Location: Phuong Sai, Nha Trang

Operating Hours: 8am-8pm

Entrance Fee: Free

‍

Dating back to the 19th century, Long Son Pagoda remains one of the city’s most important religious sites. Inside, you’ll find intricate dragon motifs wrapped around the pillars and two enormous candles said to burn for up to three months.

‍

‍

From the main hall, around 200 steps lead up to a towering white Buddha statue overlooking the city. If you’d rather skip the climb, you can hire a xe om (motorbike taxi) at the entrance for around 50,000vnd ($2). On your way down, take the stairs to visit the reclining Buddha and bell tower.

‍

Related read: How to Visit Marble Mountains in Da Nang

‍

Mud Bath

For a unique Nha Trang experience, indulge in a mud bath. Several spas offer treatments, with Thap Ba Mud Bath being the oldest and best known. For families, I-Resort is a popular alternative, featuring mineral hot pools and a water park.

‍

Day Trips from Nha Trang

Doc Let Beach

Doc Let Beach stretches for nearly 18 kilometers and is often considered one of the most pristine beaches in the region. About an hour north of the city, this section of the beach tends to attract more local visitors, where beach chairs and inflatable floaties are available for rent.

‍

Walk a bit farther north, however, and the crowds quickly thin out. You’ll often discover long, undeveloped stretches of soft white sand that feel wonderfully quiet.

‍

‍

At the northern tip of the beach, a nice promenade marks the end of the bay. Just beyond it lie expansive salt fields, best visited between April and June when harvesting is in full swing, and can be combined for a day trip in the area.

‍

Where to eat: Garden House Doc Let Restaurant

‍

‍

If you continue south, you’ll reach Ninh Thuy Fishing Village, where colorful houses and narrow alleyways create a charming backdrop for a stroll. The beach here isn’t ideal for swimming, but the local atmosphere makes it worth a short visit.

‍

Related Read: Nhon Hai Fishing Village in Quy Nhon

‍

‍

Farther along, past the Hyundai shipyard and port, another stretch of white sand comes into view alongside a cluster of beachfront hotels. During our visit, the shoreline was covered with drying seaweed, which is common from June to September.

‍

Want to spend the night at Doc Let Beach? Here are our recommended places to stay.

‍

Budget

Sunrise Homestay

Mid-Range

Paradise Resort

Bai Dai Beach (Cam Ranh)

Around 25 kilometers south of the city, Bai Dai Beach reveals itself after one of the most scenic coastal drives in the area. Much of the shoreline is being developed with large resorts, but the northern end remains relatively untouched (for now) and has become a favorite spot for wave breaks.

‍

Looking for accommodations in Bai Dai Beach? Here are our recommended places to stay.

‍

Budget

H2B Homestay

High-End

The Anam Cam Ranh

‍

The best months for surfing are from mid-October to April, while summer tends to be gentler and more suitable for beginners. Surf rentals are available at Surf Camp Cam Ranh, with lessons starting at around $55 for two hours.

‍

Looking for more places to surf in Vietnam? Head south to Phan Rang or Mui Ne, Vietnam's kitesurfing capital.

‍

Ba Ho Waterfalls

If you’re looking for something beyond saltwater, head to Ba Ho Waterfalls, set in a lush forest about 20km from Nha Trang City. Entrance is around 100,000vnd ($3.80), and it’s a short 1.5km hike to reach the falls.

‍

It’s an easy day trip, but for added convenience, here’s a top-rated tour you can book, which includes transportation and lunch.

‍

Po Klong Garai Tower

If you’re traveling between Nha Trang and Mui Ne or planning a day trip south, consider stopping at Po Klong Garai Tower. Perched on a hill overlooking Phan Rang, this 13th-century Cham tower complex is one of the best preserved in Vietnam.

‍

‍

While there isn’t much else to see in the area, the towers themselves are striking and offer sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. It’s a worthwhile stop if you’re already passing through.

‍

Read more: How to Visit Po Klong Garai Tower

‍

‍

Top Tours in Nha Trang

Nha Trang is easy to explore on your own, but if you’d rather not plan everything yourself, here are some of the highest-rated guided tours to help you see the city’s highlights.

‍

Eating in Nha Trang

Thanh Suong: A local favorite for fresh seafood, with outdoor seating under palm trees and sea views. 10am-11pm

‍

Lac Canh Beef Restaurant: Famous for its grilled beef, where you cook the marinated slices over a charcoal grill at your table. 9:30am-9pm

‍

‍

79 Dung Linh: A small corner eatery specializing in duck dishes, with grilled duck over rice as the most popular choice. 4-9pm (closed on Mondays)

‍

Bun Ca Nha Trang 79: Known for fish noodle soup served with shredded lettuce, bean sprouts, and herbs on the side. It’s also a great place to try jellyfish noodle soup, a local specialty. 5:30am-10pm

‍

Want to try the best specialty food in Nha Trang? Join this fun and highly-rated scooter food tour and visit some of the city’s top local spots. Reserve your spot here!

‍

Drinking in Nha Trang

Sailing Club: Beachfront tables and bean bag seating right on the sand, with an extensive menu of food and drinks. DJ sets start at 8pm daily. 7am-2am

‍

Louisiana Brewhouse: Known for its in-house craft beers and relaxed beachfront setting just steps from the sea. 7am-midnight

‍

Artisan Cafe & Eatery: Located in a quiet neighborhood outside the city center, this thoughtfully designed cafe is surrounded by greenery and is a great spot for breakfast. 7am-10pm (closed on Mondays)

‍

Ola Cafe: One of the most popular cafes in the city, beautifully decorated with Mediterranean-inspired pink walls. 7:30am-10pm

‍

Plan Your Trip to Nha Trang

Best Time to Visit

For the best weather, visit Nha Trang between February and September, during the dry season. These months bring plenty of sunshine, calm seas, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities such as diving, snorkeling, and island hopping.

‍

The rainy season typically runs from October to January, when heavier showers and occasional storms can affect beach time and boat trips. However, showers are often short, and travel is still possible if you don’t mind some unpredictable weather.

‍

Read more: Best Time to Visit Vietnam

‍

Where to Stay

Accommodation options are plentiful, ranging from high-end resorts with panoramic sea views to boutique hotels and budget-friendly apartments ideal for longer stays.

‍

Staying near the main beach gives you easy access to restaurants, cafes, and attractions. If you prefer a quieter base, consider accommodations farther north near Hon Chong Beach. Find all accommodations in Nha Trang here!

‍

Mid-Range

Champa Island

Mid-Range

Potique Hotel

How to Get There

Plane: Cam Ranh International Airport is located about 40 kilometers from the city, with daily flights from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

‍

Find flights to Nha Trang here!

‍

Tip: Airport Bus 18 runs every 30 minutes between the airport and the city center. For the most convenient option, book a private transfer here!

‍

‍

Train: Nha Trang Railway Station sits along Vietnam’s Reunification Line, making it a convenient alternative to flying from cities such as Hue, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City.

‍

Book your train ticket here!

‍

Bus: Daily buses connect Nha Trang with nearby destinations such as Da Lat and Tuy Hoa, and with luxury sleeper buses from Ho Chi Minh City.

‍

Book your bus ticket here!

‍

Getting Around

Foot: If you’re staying near the beach, much of the area is easily walkable, with restaurants and attractions close together.

‍

Motorbike: To get around best, rent a motorbike at your accommodation, which costs around 150,000vnd ($5.70) per day.  Always carry an international driving permit.

‍

‍

Grab: If you’re not comfortable with riding on your own, Grab is available widely in the city with both motorbike and car options at affordable rates.

‍

Private Car: For longer distances or day trips, hiring a private driver for the day would get you the most value for your money.

‍

And that’s our list of the best things to do in Nha Trang!

‍

If you’re looking for more laid-back coastal destinations in Vietnam, head north to Quy Nhon, where the coastline is dotted with fishing villages and quiet, untouched beaches. For an island escape, visit Con Dao Island in the south. Once infamously known as “hell on earth,” it is now celebrated for having some of the most beautiful shorelines in the country.

‍

If you have any questions, let us know in the comments below.

‍