Nha Trang

Capture the elegance of Vinpearl Resort with breathtaking ocean and mountain views in Nha Trang.
Nam Phong Bùi, Pexels

Nha Trang is a prominent coastal city in Vietnam, celebrated for its extensive sandy beaches and vibrant atmosphere. It attracts a broad spectrum of travelers with its mix of ocean-based activities, cultural landmarks, and a dynamic nightlife.

The main social hubs for tourists and backpackers are concentrated around Tran Phu Street and Nguyen Thien Thuat Street, where a variety of hostels, bars, and restaurants create a lively environment. Well-known venues such as Sailing Club, Altitude Rooftop Bar, and specific social hostels like Bondi Backpackers offer ample opportunities to meet other travelers.

Top 6 Things to do in Nha Trang

Activities in Nha Trang span marine exploration, cultural discovery, and rejuvenating wellness experiences.

1. Island Hopping and Snorkeling/Scuba Diving

Embark on a boat trip to explore the pristine islands of Nha Trang Bay, particularly Hon Mun Marine Protected Area, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. These tours typically offer opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving, allowing visitors to encounter diverse marine life. Many tours include multiple stops for swimming and other water activities, often culminating with lunch on board. Whether a beginner or a certified diver, the underwater world of Nha Trang provides a captivating experience.

Cost: Snorkeling tours generally range from $19 to $40 USD per person. For scuba diving, a two-dive experience for beginners can cost between $35 and $85 USD. These prices typically cover equipment rental, guide services, and boat transportation, with some tours also including lunch.

Transport: Most island tours include convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off from central Nha Trang, followed by a speedboat or boat ride to the islands.

2. VinWonders Nha Trang

Located on Hon Tre Island, VinWonders Nha Trang is a sprawling amusement park offering six distinct zones: Fairy Land, Adventure Land, King's Garden (a zoo), World Garden, Sea World (an aquarium), and Tropical Paradise (a waterpark). This entertainment complex features thrilling rides, captivating shows like the Tata Show, and various animal exhibits, providing a full day of fun for visitors of all ages.

Cost: A standard admission ticket, which typically includes a round-trip cable car ride, costs around $38 USD for adults (over 140cm tall) and $28 USD for children (100-140cm tall) and seniors (over 60).

Transport: Access to VinWonders is primarily by cable car, an eight-minute journey from the mainland, or alternatively by speedboat or canoe. If not included in the park ticket, a cable car round trip costs approximately 150,000 VND (around $6 USD).

3. Thap Ba Hot Springs and Mud Bath

Experience a unique and rejuvenating mud bath at Thap Ba Hot Springs. This wellness center offers mineral mud baths, hot mineral pools, and other spa services known for their therapeutic and skin-benefiting properties. Visitors can choose between communal or private tubs for a relaxing experience.

Cost: A communal mud bath for 15 minutes is approximately 120,000 VND (about $5.5 USD) per adult. Private mud baths are available at higher costs, for instance, 500,000 VND (around $22.7 USD) for two people.

Transport: Situated about 4 kilometers north of Nha Trang city center, Thap Ba Hot Springs is easily reached by taxi or Grab, with a round trip costing roughly $8 USD.

4. Po Nagar Cham Towers

Explore the ancient Po Nagar Cham Towers, a historical Hindu temple complex dating from the 7th to 13th centuries, built by the Cham people. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Cai River, the site features intricately carved towers dedicated to various deities and offers panoramic views of the city. It remains an active religious site today.

Cost: The entrance fee is 30,000 VND per person.

Transport: Located approximately 3 kilometers north of the city center on Cu Lao Hill, the towers are easily accessible by taxi, Grab, or motorbike.

5. Long Son Pagoda and White Buddha

Visit Long Son Pagoda, a serene Buddhist temple known for its impressive large white Buddha statue seated on a lotus, located on a hillside. The pagoda's entrance and roofs are adorned with detailed mosaic dragons and ceramic tiles. Climbing to the Buddha offers a peaceful retreat and commanding views of Nha Trang city.

Cost: Entry to Long Son Pagoda is free.

Transport: The pagoda is centrally located within Nha Trang, making it walkable from many areas or easily reachable by taxi or Grab.

6. Nha Trang Night Market

Immerse oneself in the lively atmosphere of Nha Trang Night Market along Tran Phu Street. This bustling market is a cultural experience offering a wide array of local street food, including fresh seafood, Vietnamese pancakes, and grilled specialties. It is also a good place to find souvenirs and handicrafts, providing a vibrant setting for an evening stroll.

Cost: Entry to the night market is free. Food dishes range from approximately 40,000 to 100,000 VND (around $2 to $4 USD), with drinks starting from 20,000 VND. Prices for souvenirs can vary widely, and bargaining is a common practice for non-food items.

Transport: Situated at 46 Tran Phu Street, the night market is conveniently located just 0.5 kilometers from the city center and is easily accessible on foot.

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