Top 10 Must-See Attractions in Nha Trang

Ninh Van Bay in Nha Trang is known as a peaceful marine area, a popular resort destination with some of the most beautiful resorts in Vietnam. It combines raw beauty with romance, offering lush greenery and serene beaches that captivate visitors year-round. Ninh Van Bay is an essential place to visit when in Nha Trang.

Ninh Van is located on Hon Heo Island, about 60 km north of Nha Trang. The bay is surrounded by mountains and tranquil seas, creating a peaceful, almost magical atmosphere. It’s an idyllic destination, perfect for both leisure and relaxation, and very popular among both locals and international tourists. Explore the bay, take in the scenery, and let the mesmerizing beauty of the area, with its luxury resorts, untouched rocks, and lush green surroundings, captivate you. Walking through the ancient village of Ninh Van, nestled beside garlic fields and the blue sea, offers an unforgettable experience. It’s a beautiful and memorable journey at Ninh Van Bay Nha Trang.

Taking a stroll through the Ninh Van fishing village is an interesting experience. The combination of green landscapes and blue seas creates a picturesque, peaceful setting. It brings you closer to nature, promoting simplicity, tranquility, and harmony with the environment. Every morning in Ninh Van Bay, you’ll be captivated by the breathtaking sunrise. The sun gradually rises, illuminating the distant sea, dispelling the morning chill, and filling your heart with joy and appreciation for life. The sunset is just as beautiful, with the sun setting into the vast ocean, waves gently rising, and seagulls flying home. It’s a moment of perfect tranquility that’s impossible to forget. Don't forget to capture these unforgettable moments with your camera, as the beauty is truly worth cherishing.

The beach at Ninh Van Bay stretches in a gentle curve with fine white sand and calm waters, perfect for a peaceful walk or a swim. The water is crystal clear, offering a refreshing escape. You can try snorkeling to explore the colorful coral reefs and marine life, or simply relax by taking a boat out to fish, letting the ocean breeze fill your soul. These simple pleasures offer ultimate relaxation.

Additionally, you can enjoy thrilling water sports like windsurfing, surfing, flying high with a balloon, or taking on the challenge of Fly-Boarding. These exciting activities help you connect with nature and bring out a carefree, adventurous spirit. Ninh Van Beach is a perfect spot for picnics with friends and family. Enjoy delicious meals by the shore, listen to the soothing sound of the waves, and experience the tranquility of a quiet island. It’s an experience that will leave you feeling more connected to life.

In addition to its primary research focus on oceanography, the Nha Trang Oceanographic Institute is also one of the most famous tourist spots in the city. Established in 1923 by the French, this institute is part of the National Center for Natural Science and Technology of Vietnam. The French chose Nha Trang – Khanh Hoa as the location for this research center due to its ideal geographical position. Nha Trang's coastline is one of the deepest in Vietnam and is close to international waters, making it the perfect place for ocean research in Indochina.

Visitors to the Nha Trang Oceanographic Institute can explore and admire over 4,000 marine species, gaining a deeper understanding of the East Sea, which is rich in minerals and valuable resources. This knowledge is a reminder of the importance of protecting marine sovereignty and the environment for the benefit of future generations.

The museum has several sections, including: a marine life breeding area, a man-made mangrove forest, a large marine life specimen section (whale skeleton), natural disaster zones, intangible resources, and oceanographic research equipment. In 2011, the museum opened a special exhibition on the “Resources of the Hoang Sa and Truong Sa Islands” to promote awareness about Vietnam’s marine resources and the importance of its maritime sovereignty. It serves as an educational resource for researchers, university students, and tourists alike, helping to deepen their knowledge of Vietnam's territory, marine resources, and environment. Visitors will undoubtedly leave with fresh ideas for tourism-related businesses or products.

Along with visiting the Nha Trang Oceanographic Institute, visitors can also explore Tri Nguyen Island’s fish pond, the aquarium at Hon Ngoc Viet, and especially the fishing village. Visitors will not only see and hear about marine life but also have the opportunity to purchase local seafood and sample dishes made from fish, mollusks, and crustaceans. The Oceanographic Institute and its museum offer valuable insights into Vietnam’s sea and marine life.

The Ponagar Tower in Nha Trang is considered one of the region's most significant landmarks. This ancient temple complex showcases the distinctive Cham architecture and sculpture. Located on a small hill called Thap Ba Mountain, at the mouth of the Cai River, along National Route 1A in Vinh Phuoc Ward, north of Nha Trang city, it is easily accessible for visitors. Due to its central location in the picturesque city of Nha Trang, most tourists make it a point to visit and admire this architectural masterpiece...

The overall structure of Ponagar Tower consists of three levels. The lower level, now gone, once housed the entrance tower, which was surrounded by stone steps leading up to the middle level. Here, only two rows of octagonal brick columns remain, each with five columns over one meter in diameter and standing more than three meters tall. Alongside these large columns are 12 smaller columns, all set on a raised brick platform. The top level is where the main towers are located, directly in front of the central tower.

The name Ponagar Tower is commonly used to refer to the entire temple complex, though it specifically refers to the tallest tower, which reaches about 23 meters in height. This sacred site was built by King Harivácman of the Champa Kingdom between 813 and 817. Over time, the towers have suffered weather damage, and during the French colonial period, the École Française d'Extrême-Orient undertook repairs and added several statues to the structure. The tower's first level is paved with brick and features 14 pillars and steps. The second level contains a group of four towers arranged in a precise geometric layout. These towers are constructed with tightly fitted bricks, without visible mortar. The interiors of the towers are hollow, with doors facing east. The exterior is adorned with decorative ledges, columns, and spires, with small decorative brick structures placed atop larger towers. Numerous sculptures and bas-reliefs are found on the tower, including depictions of the goddess Ponagar, the god Tenexa, celestial maidens, and animals like deer, golden geese, and lions. The main tower houses a statue of the goddess Ponagar, symbolizing beauty, art, and creativity. The tower complex was built in four levels, each with doors, statues, and animal figures carved in stone. Inside the main tower, a 2.6-meter tall statue of the goddess, made of black granite, sits on a lotus pedestal, radiating majesty. This masterpiece of Champa sculpture harmoniously blends the techniques of round sculpture and bas-relief. Other towers honor the gods Shiva, Sanhaka, and Ganeca.

Every year, during the festival of the Goddess (from March 20th to 23rd on the lunar calendar), the Ponagar Tower Complex hosts thousands of pilgrims. The Ponagar Festival is considered one of the largest cultural celebrations in Central Vietnam and the Central Highlands, celebrating the myth of the goddess Thiên Y Thánh Mẫu Ana, the mother of the Vietnamese and Cham people in Central Vietnam. During the festival, religious ceremonies are held, including sutra chanting by monks, traditional performances, lion dances, and shadow puppet shows, creating an engaging cultural experience.

Nha Trang is incredibly fortunate to be blessed with an abundance of stunning and picturesque natural landscapes. Among these, Hon Chong – Hon Vo stands out as a unique and captivating destination that visitors should not miss. Here, travelers are sure to be amazed by the diverse and changing beauty of nature.

This site is located approximately 3 km northeast of the city center. Hon Chong consists of a massive collection of rocks with various shapes stacked on top of each other, extending from the high shore to the sea. A smaller group of rocks, situated at the foot of the hill to the east, is known as Hon Vo. When visiting Hon Chong, tourists will likely hear local legends about a mysterious five-finger-shaped indentation in the rocks. There isn’t just one story explaining this peculiar mark, but rather three different tales surrounding it. Regardless of the interpretation, these strange markings leave an unforgettable impression. The natural beauty here seems to be a deliberate masterpiece created by nature’s 'hands,' adding a layer of profound meaning to the location’s history. These legends often reflect the ancient Vietnamese people's deep concerns, either about the fierce forces of nature or about the sacred bond of marriage.

Almost detached from the bustling city, this area offers one of the best spots to enjoy a panoramic view of the coastal city. Once here, visitors can walk out into the vast sea, where an expansive seascape meets the endless blue sky, creating a sense of infinity. Not only can tourists marvel at the breathtaking beauty, but they can also enjoy the peaceful and refreshing atmosphere, a stark contrast to the lively tourist hotspots.

Visiting the Hon Chong – Hon Vo tourist complex, travelers also have the chance to enjoy the expansive ocean and breathe in the fresh sea air of Nha Trang. Don't forget to capture unique photos with the fascinating rock formations!

Van Phong Bay is often described as a sleeping princess resting on the vast ocean. This stunning bay, with its long stretch of white sand, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs, is one of the most beautiful in the world. Van Phong Bay is a natural wonder, offering a mild climate, beautiful beaches, fine sand, and magnificent hills surrounding the area. Located between the districts of Van Ninh and Ninh Hoa in Khanh Hoa Province, it is about 80 km north of Nha Trang. If traveling by sea through Nha Phu Bay, the distance is halved, and visitors can enjoy even more picturesque scenery along the way.

The most exciting way to visit Van Phong Bay is by car from Nha Trang. As travelers pass through, they will be greeted by long stretches of white sand dunes, reminiscent of the famous white sand deserts in the song of the same name by musician Le Quang. Upon reaching the bay, tourists cross over wooden bridges reminiscent of those found in the Mekong Delta, then board small boats to explore the bay. A must-visit spot is Sơn Đừng Beach, which is unique for its small fishing village with only 11 households, nearly isolated from the outside world. Close to the salty sea, an underground freshwater spring emerges from the sand. Visitors can dig a small hole in the sand, and fresh water will start to seep through, clear up after a few minutes. Local fishermen often gather fresh water from this spring using buckets. The residents of this village use this natural freshwater source for their daily needs, including cooking and drinking.

With its pristine natural beauty, Van Phong Bay has been recognized by the World Ocean Association as one of the four best coastal tourist destinations. It has also been designated by Vietnam’s National Tourism Administration as a key tourist development area.

Dai Lanh Beach is located in Dong Nam Village, Dai Lanh, Van Ninh, Khanh Hoa Province, about 80 km north of Nha Trang and 30 km south of Tuy Hoa. Situated within the Van Phong Bay, it offers a unique blend of the gentle beauty of Nha Trang's coastline and the untouched charm of Phu Yen's beaches. To reach the beach from Tuy Hoa, visitors pass through the steep and winding Deo Ca Pass, which runs across the Dai Lanh Mountain, marking the border between Khanh Hoa and Phu Yen provinces. After navigating this 12 km mountain road, the serene, crystal-clear beach with fishing boats dotting the waters appears right before your eyes.

The beach is a harmonious combination of fine white sand, rows of lush casuarina trees lining the shore, and a gentle slope that leads to clear water, making the seabed visible. Nearby, a freshwater spring flows continuously into the ocean. From Dai Lanh, you can take a boat trip to visit the fishing village of Khai Luong or explore Dam Mon, located at the easternmost tip of Vietnam. Another must-see is Vung Ro Port to the north, which was famously used as a secret base for the “unmarked ships” during the Vietnam War, transporting supplies from the North to the South to support the battlefield in the central region.

Known since the 19th century, Dai Lanh Beach was praised by Emperor Minh Mang, who had the landscape etched on the Nine Dynastic Urns displayed at the Thieu Mi Temple in Hue. During Emperor Tu Duc's reign in 1835, the name 'Dai Lanh' was officially recorded in the national dictionary. Over the years, the beach has retained its pristine charm, making it a favorite destination for many. Unlike some other beaches in Nha Trang, Dai Lanh Beach has very shallow waters, so you can wade out even tens of meters without the water exceeding your chest. This makes it a great spot for swimming, with crystal-clear water allowing you to easily spot marine life below. After a swim, you can relax on a beach chair beneath the shade of the casuarina trees or in one of the huts by the shore.

Besides enjoying the natural beauty and fresh air, visitors should also indulge in the local cuisine. Seafood is a highlight of Dai Lanh, with fresh catches such as fish, crab, squid, shrimp, and shellfish prepared simply but deliciously.

Dam Market Nha Trang has long been a famous spot, not only among locals but also among tourists who come here for shopping. The market is well-known for its beautiful architecture and a wide variety of goods. If you're unsure where to buy souvenirs, Dam Market is your best option. When you visit Nha Trang, seeing the famous landmarks and historical sites is not enough. To truly understand the place, you should visit its markets. They are not only bustling trade centers but also hold the hidden charm of the local culture. Dam Market is the most vibrant and picturesque market in Nha Trang, and it is a place where you can not only shop but also enjoy the local atmosphere.

The market got its name Dam because it was originally built on a 7-hectare lagoon that connected to the Nha Trang River. At the far end of the lagoon, a small market for trading seafood was established by locals. In 1908, due to the growing demand and increasing population, the small market was expanded into a large central market, located right on the old lagoon, which is why it was called Dam Market. Today, Dam Market Nha Trang is the largest market in the city and has become a symbol of the commerce of this beautiful coastal town. Visitors come here not just to buy Nha Trang's specialties and souvenirs, but also to taste local dishes and experience the authentic atmosphere of the city.

Currently, Dam Market Nha Trang is the main shopping destination for most locals. The market offers a wide range of products, from daily essentials to Nha Trang specialties and souvenirs. Tourists love visiting Dam Market to buy dried goods, seafood, and unique gifts. Here, you’ll meet not only Vietnamese people but also many international visitors who enjoy experiencing traditional local life and the unique market atmosphere. Moreover, many tourists appreciate the fact that there is little aggressive salesmanship, which creates a friendly and welcoming environment.

If you have the chance to visit the beautiful city of Nha Trang, don't forget to stop by the famous Dam Market Nha Trang to shop and enjoy the delicious, humble local food. Whether you're looking for a gift or just want to enjoy the vibrant market scene, it's a must-visit spot.

Vinpearl Land Nha Trang is one of Vietnam's premier entertainment destinations. Located on Hon Tre Island, Nha Trang – one of the most stunning bays in the world, Vinpearl Land is an expansive entertainment paradise spanning over 200,000 square meters, offering international-standard attractions that draw millions of visitors from around the world.

The Vinpearl Land Nha Trang complex is divided into five main areas: a water park, an outdoor amusement park, an indoor entertainment zone, an aquarium, and a performance area, all featuring a wide range of thrilling activities. You can even find nearby hotels to stay in for easy access to all the attractions and activities. The water park, covering 50,000 square meters, is the only freshwater park on a beach in Vietnam and boasts modern water slides and various zones catering to different age groups. The extreme water slides and thrilling rides offer an adrenaline rush for adventure seekers.

Additionally, there are family-friendly rides like the family slide and lazy river where families can relax together and unwind.

For those seeking excitement, Vinpearl Land's outdoor amusement area offers a variety of attractions, including bungee jumping, giant Ferris wheels, and roller coasters. If you’re looking for something even more daring, there’s a 1000-meter-long slide and a freefall tower to challenge your courage.

Aside from the fun activities, Vinpearl Land also features a tranquil dining village with romantic settings by the lake and a shopping area inspired by the ancient town of Hoi An, adding a touch of charm and completeness to your visit to Vinpearl Land Nha Trang.

Hon Mun is one of the most picturesque islands in the Nha Trang archipelago. Located 10 km from Cau Da Port (around 45 minutes by boat), Hon Mun is famous for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and the pristine bird’s nests that cling to its steep cliffs. It is also known as one of the most diverse and beautiful marine ecosystems in Southeast Asia.

Hon Mun Island is renowned for its clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. It got its name from the black stones found along its southeastern coastline, which resemble ebony wood. The island spans 160 square kilometers, with 122 square kilometers of sea area and 38 square kilometers of land. The island's rocky caves are home to many birds, particularly swallows, which come here annually to nest. The island boasts a rich marine life and spectacular coral reefs. Out of the 2,000 species of coral and marine creatures worldwide, more than 1,500 species can be found here, including 340 out of over 800 types of hard coral. The area is renowned for its biodiversity, and the World Wildlife Fund has recognized it as one of the most biologically diverse regions in Vietnam.

The beach at Hon Mun may not be as well-known as those on other islands, but the surrounding marine world is absolutely breathtaking. Located in a warm water current from the equator, the conditions here are perfect for the development of coral reefs and tropical marine life. The ocean floor around Hon Mun is a rich collection of marine life, making it an ideal spot for underwater research and exploration. Hon Mun is one of the top diving destinations in Vietnam, and each year, around 300,000 tourists visit the island. Currently, there are five diving clubs operating here, serving over 15,000 divers annually.

If you’re visiting Nha Trang and haven’t made it to Hon Tam, you’re missing out on a true gem. Hon Tam is one of the numerous islands scattered across Nha Trang Bay, located just off the coast of this famous coastal city.

Hon Tam is a resort island, with its development carefully integrated into the natural surroundings. Spanning over 110 hectares, this island is nestled within the breathtaking Nha Trang Bay, which is consistently ranked among the 29 most beautiful bays in the world by prestigious travel magazines. The island offers much more than beautiful views and great food – it also features the Sparkling Waves and Sunset Villas entertainment zones, which include activities like kayaking, floating parks, and adrenaline-pumping experiences such as flyboarding, jet skiing, parasailing, and beach volleyball. The crystal-clear waters make Hon Tam an ideal spot for snorkeling, pearl diving, and underwater walking (seawalking). If you decide to book a stay at the Hon Tam Resort, there are two types of accommodations available: a beachfront hotel with dozens of rooms facing the ocean and a selection of private villas for couples on their honeymoon or families wanting a peaceful getaway to enjoy sunrises and sunsets over the water.

Moreover, Hon Tam Island features recreated Vietnamese villages that preserve traditional craftsmanship. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by watching artisans weave brocade, play the traditional zither, make pottery, and brew local wine. Guests can even try their hand at creating traditional crafts under the guidance of skilled craftsmen.

On your Nha Trang adventure, don’t forget to visit Hon Tam Island to enjoy a tranquil and unforgettable experience amidst the peaceful surroundings of the sea. Your journey will surely be filled with memories to cherish for years to come.