Nha Trang lies on the east coast of Vietnam in Khanh Hoa Province and is one of the country’s top beach resorts. It is easy to get to, boasts an abundance of facilities and beautiful beaches.
Despite being a large and well known resort, Nha Trang still has a low-key feel to it; as well as one of the best climates in the country. It is less humid and cooler here than most other high profile places. Nha Trang also boasts a fair amount of history with plenty of archaeological sites around owing to the conquests of the Cham Empire.
The beaches of Nha Trang are the main draw, with the main one being a wide-open affair with golden sand and a backing of shady trees. It is lined with hotels, restaurants, shops and bars and is the most popular. The main beach lies in the heart of Nha Trang City, while just to the north and to the south are much quieter beaches with good seafood restaurants.
The diving and snorkeling in Nha Trang is pretty good, although you’re better off heading to the islands of Hon Tre and Hon Mun in the bay for a real experience. The good thing about Nha Trang for snorkelers is that there is a nearby reef in shallow water that is quite easy to get to. In addition, there are countless dive operations in the city.
Along with the diving and snorkeling, a wide range of water sports are aailable, including some pretty decent surfing, parasailing, and jet skiing. The beaches to the north and south of the main beach are better for swimming as they have a shallower drop-off.
On the accommodation front, Nha Trang has plenty of choice, with everything from cheap motels to luxury five-star hotels and resorts. There are also shops and restaurants galore and plenty to do of a night.
Getting There & Away
Nha Trang has a small airport nearby with flights from Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, with good transport options to the beaches. Visitors can also get to Nha Trang by train from Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi (via Hue). This a better option all round than the bus as sleeper cars are available. Highway 1 serves Nha Trang from the north and the south.
Things to Do
Nha Trang Attractions
- Nha Trang Beach
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The beach is the main draw and although not the best in southeast asia, it has lots of appeal, with good water sports action and nightlife.
- Nha Trang Bay Islands
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There are several islands just offshore, including hon tre and hon mun.
- Vinpearl Land
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Accessible by cable car, this resort theme park lies just across the water on the edge of hon tre island and has lots of fun things for the whole family.
- Long Son Pagoda
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For a bit of culture, this buddhist temple is one of the most revered in vietnam, being the spot where many monks performed self immolation at the protests of the vietnam war.