As one of the most “famous” beach paradises in Vietnam, Khanh Hoa is always a place remembered by both domestic and foreign tourists whenever they suddenly “crave” the blue sea and white sand. Let Vietdreamtravel guide you to the best places to explore in Khanh Hoa so you can enjoy your “escape” trip to this beautiful coastal province! 

General information about Khanh Hoa

Khanh Hoa is a coastal province in the South Central region, with Nha Trang as its administrative center. Khanh Hoa borders Dak Lak to the north and west; Lam Dong to the west and south, and the sea to the east. The Truong Sa archipelago also belongs to Khanh Hoa.

After merging with Ninh Thuan province on July 1, 2025, the new Khanh Hoa province has an area of ​​about 8,556 km²; very diverse terrain with sea, plain, mountains, and desert; it has the longest coastline in the country with many beautiful bays such as Van Phong, Nha Trang, Cam Ranh, and Vinh Hy. After the merger, Khanh Hoa province is also very rich in indigenous culture. In addition to the culture of the Vietnamese (Kinh) people, the province also has many Cham and Raglai cultural heritage sites, which are well-suited to developing cultural and community tourism.

What’s the best time to explore Khanh Hoa?

Located in the South Central region, Khanh Hoa has two main climatic seasons: rainy and sunny, with an average annual temperature of 26.7 °C. But the biggest advantage of this province is its long, sunny season from the first 8 months of the year, with a relatively small temperature difference. So perfect for souls who love the blue sea.

explore Nha Trang

The Nha Trang Beach

From September to December, the rainy season runs, peaking in October and November. At this time, the region experiences frequent rainfall and is often affected by storms. The advice is that those who want to explore Khanh Hoa at this time should check the weather in advance to plan the most suitable trip to the island. However, this is no longer peak season, so it is suitable for tourists seeking a quiet, relaxing vacation.

In particular, Khanh Hoa hosts many festivals year-round. If you are someone interested in local culture, you probably don’t want to miss these opportunities.

  • Nha Trang Sea Festival: held in the summer of odd-numbered years, this event attracts large numbers of domestic and international tourists.
  • The Thap Ba Festival is an important Cham festival, held every March 20 – 23 of the lunar calendar, featuring sacred activities such as bathing, changing clothes, and worship ceremonies.
  • Kate’s ceremony: 1st day of the 7th month of the Cham calendar (corresponding to the 8th or 9th month of the lunar calendar. This is the biggest and most joyful festival of the Cham people. The ceremony is held at Poklong Garai and other Cham towers to commemorate national heroes, ancestors, and Cham deities, as well as King Poklong and King Pororne.    
Thap Ba festival in Nha Trang

Thap Ba festival in Nha Trang

Transportation

As a major tourist destination, Khanh Hoa is accessible by road, air, rail, and waterway.

Airway

Cam Ranh is the main airport of Khanh Hoa province, about 35 km from Nha Trang, taking 45 to 50 minutes. All domestic airlines currently have flights to Cam Ranh. Round-trip ticket prices range from 3 million to 6 million VND, depending on the departure point and time.

Cam Ranh is an international airport with direct flights to Korea, Taiwan, Kazakhstan, and China, and serves as a transit point to Australia, Japan, the US, Indonesia, and Malaysia.

Railway

In addition to the largest Nha Trang station, the stop of the Thong Nhat trains, such as SE1-3, SE3-4, SE5-6, SE7-8, SE9-10, SE11-12, Khanh Hoa also has a number of small railway stations, receiving freight trains or inter-provincial passenger trains such as Dai Lanh, Ninh Hoa, Van Gia, and Thap Cham stations.

The price of the Thong Nhat train to Nha Trang ranges from 270,000 VND to 1.5 million VND, depending on the departure point and seat location. For details of the trains, you can take a look here: https://dsvn.vn 

train to Nha Trang

5-star train: Just launched recently, the SNT2 offers the most comfortable hours of travel. Please note that you should depart between 19:00 and 20:00 to arrive in Nha Trang around 5:00 am. That’s enough to recharge your energy and keep you strong enough to travel in Nha Trang.

By road

Most buses from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City go to Nha Trang or Phan Rang. Passengers can get off at nearby locations by notifying the bus company in advance. Ticket prices from Hanoi range from 800,000 VND to 1 million VND per ticket. From Ho Chi Minh City, ticket prices range from 250,000 VND to 500,000 VND. Tourists often choose an overnight sleeper bus and get some sleep before arriving. Bus companies operating the Saigon-Nha Trang route include Futa, Mai Linh, Kumho, Hoang Long, Sinh Café, Tam Hanh, and Hanh Café. Going from Hanoi will be longer, taking 26-30 hours. Hoang Long is a popular operator on this route, with ticket prices of 900,000-1,000,000 VND/trip.

bus to Nha Trang

Buses from Cam Ranh Airport to Nha Trang’s center run every 30 minutes and cost 50,000 VND. Visitors can pick up right outside the airport.

In Nha Trang city, Cam Ranh, and Phan Rang, visitors can rent motorbikes for between 120,000 VND and 180,000 VND per day.

In addition, you can also book a private car to Nha Trang. A car/bus with a driver is the best option, especially when traveling with a group, as it is easy to stop along the way for sightseeing and to relax.

private car to Nha Trang

Waterway

Nha Trang Bay is in a beautiful location and is an ideal stop for many international cruise ships. Every year, dozens of cruise ships bring tens of thousands of international visitors to Nha Trang and other provinces and cities across the country.

Accommodation in Khanh Hoa

Khanh Hoa has a wide range of accommodations, from budget to luxury, concentrated in Nha Trang, Cam Ranh Bay, Ninh Van Bay, and Phan Rang.

In Nha Trang, visitors can choose from budget hotels and homestays, with prices starting at 200,000 VND per night. Along Tran Phu Street, there are more upscale hotels, including Muong Thanh, Melia Vinpearl, InterContinental, and Sheraton, with prices ranging from 1 to 4 million VND per night.

hotel in Nha Trang

View from a hotel in Nha Trang (source: booking)

Cam Ranh has many resorts with international-star standards, including Ana Mandara Cam Ranh, The Anam Cam Ranh, Mövenpick Resort, Radisson Blu Resort, Meliá Vinpearl Cam Ranh Beach Resort, Cam Ranh Riviera Beach Resort & Spa, Selectum Noa Resort Cam Ranh, Duyen Ha Resort, and Alma Resort.

In the Ninh Van Bay area, Six Senses Ninh Van Bay is a resort with beautiful scenery and private space. Room rates here start from 15 million VND per night. In addition, there are An Lam Retreats Ninh Van Bay, L’Alya Ninh Van Bay, priced at around 10 million VND per night.

Six Senses hotel

source: Six Senses

The old Ninh Thuan area (now in Khanh Hoa province) has fewer hotel options than other famous tourist destinations. Some 3-4-star hotels along Ninh Chu Beach, such as Hoan My, Saigon – Ninh Chu, Aniise, and Long Thuan, charge from 1 to more than 2 million VND per night. In the center of Phan Rang – Thap Cham, there are mainly 2-star hotels and budget motels, priced from 300,000 VND to about 500,000 VND per night. However, Ninh Thuan has a 6-star resort, Amanoi, in the Vinh Hy Bay area, with room rates starting at 20 million VND per night. In addition, if you like to immerse yourself in nature, you can go to Tanyoli tourist area and sleep overnight in Mongolian tents.

Tourist attractions in Khanh Hoa

As one of Vietnam’s sea paradises, Khanh Hoa is consistently a top destination for domestic and international visitors, thanks to its beautiful scenery and well-developed facilities. This site is also a cultural and historical destination associated with the Champa kingdom in the 9th and 10th centuries. Below is a list of tourist attractions in Khanh Hoa.  

Cities and urban areas

Nha Trang

Nha Trang cityNha Trang is 440 km south of Ho Chi Minh City, 530 km north of Da Nang, and 1,280 km north of Hanoi, and offers many tourist attractions.

Tran Phu is the road that runs along the beach and passes through the city center. There are many restaurants and hotels on this street and in the surrounding area. The busiest bathing area is around Tram Huong Tower. The city’s beaches are considered by many tourists to be clear, clean, and have fine golden sand.

From Nha Trang, visitors can visit several islets, including Tre, Chong, Mun, Tam, Yen Noi, and enjoy a range of sea activities. The islands in Nha Trang Bay are distinctive, with fishing villages, pristine beaches, the kingdom of monkeys, and colorful coral reefs.

Cam Ranh

Cam RanhCam Ranh is the second-largest ward in Khanh Hoa, located along National Highway 1A. In the region, Cam Ranh Bay is the most beautiful natural bay in Southeast Asia, according to Forbes. Over the past 10 years, Cam Ranh has grown into a renowned resort destination, with numerous large resorts and upgraded infrastructure.

Dai Beach is the center of Cam Ranh, with a 10 km coastline, fine white sand, and a gentle beach, making it safe for swimming. In Cam Ranh, visitors can visit the Gac Ma soldiers memorial area, Axi Plaza commercial center, Tu Van pagoda (Oc pagoda), Thuy Trieu lagoon, and seafood restaurants.

Phan Rang

Phan Rang was the former capital of Ninh Thuan province (now in Khanh Hoa province) and offers excellent conditions for tourism development.

Phan Rang This ward is about 330km from Saigon, about 95km from Nha Trang. Phan Rang borders the East Sea. Phan Rang – Vinh Hy – Cam Ranh and Phan Rang – Binh Thuan (currently Lam Dong province) are two coastal routes with beautiful natural scenery. From Phan Rang ward, along the coastal road to the North and South, visitors will enjoy views of blue beaches, white salt fields, sheep-grazing areas, and vineyards. Part of the newly recognized Nui Chua Biosphere Reserve is also located along this route.

The coastal areas in Phan Rang remain largely wild, with minimal human activity. In addition, Phan Rang has a long history and features unique Cham cultural relics, including Sac Tu Kim Son Tu, Po Klong Garai Tower, and the Ninh Thuan Museum. It also offers specialties such as jellyfish noodles, sand lizards, fish cake noodles, and other rustic dishes.

Museum    

Museum of Oceanography

Institute of Oceanography in Nha TrangThe museum is the largest repository of specimens in Vietnam. It was established in 1923 by the French and transferred to Vietnam for management in 1952.

Coming to the Museum of Oceanography, you will have a chance to visit the Marine Creature Museum, which shows more than 80,000 specimens as well as living creatures kept in glass tanks.

The museum is divided into three zones: the Specimen display area, the living area, and the artificial reef.

In particular, the museum displays an 18-meter-long whale skeleton and a Dugong (sea cow) specimen caught in fishermen’s nets in Phu Quoc in 2003. It has an excellent location for tropical oceanographic research because it is, of course, close to the ocean, in deep water.

Address: 01 Cau Da Street, Nha Trang ward.

Ancient ruins

Po Nagar Tower

Po Nagar towerPonagar Tower is located atop a low marble mountain, about 50 meters above sea level. At the gate of the Cai River, now in Vinh Phuoc ward. This is one of the largest Champa cultural heritages in the country.

It was built between the 8th and 13th centuries, during the Hindu period (Hinduism), which also marked the peak of the Champa kingdom. The tower is named after Goddess Po Nagar, who taught people how to plant and produce rice. Her statue is placed in the largest tower, which is 25 m high.

The other two towers are dedicated to Hindu gods Shiva, with hour arms sitting on the back of a bull, and Ganesha, whose human body is attached to an elephant head. The Po Nagar complex is a distinctive brick structure, a harmonious blend of architecture and sculpture characteristic of Cham culture.

Po Nagar towerAround the temple, there are many green trees where visitors can sit, rest, and enjoy the cool air. In addition to making pilgrimages and taking photos with magnificent ancient towers, visitors can admire the bustling boats on the river.

Every year, a festival takes place from the 21st to the 23rd of March (lunar month) to introduce and honor the beauty of Cham Pa culture, and is also ranked among the 16 festivals of national stature. The Tower was designated a National Monument of Architecture by the Ministry of Culture and Information in 1979 for its exceptional architectural and artistic value.

Address: 61 Hai Thang Tu Street, Bac Nha Trang.

Poklong Garai Tower

Poklong Garai TowerThe Poklong Garai Tower, built by the Cham people in the late 13th century, is located on Trau Hill to honor King Poklong Garai (1151-1205), who made many significant contributions to the country. Symbolizing Mount Meru in Hinduism, the tower cluster stands as a testament to the enduring architecture despite the many historical ups and downs of the ancient Panduranga land.

In the seventh month of the Cham calendar, if you visit the tower, you will immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Kate festival with many rituals, traditional Cham dances, and music.

Location: Trau Hill, Do Vinh ward

Po Rome Tower

Po Rome, also known as Hau Sanh Tower, is a Cham tower located in Hau Sanh village, Phuoc Huu commune. Po Rome Tower is one of the latest towers built by the Cham people. It was built in the late 17th century in the late style, similar to Po Klong Garai Po Rome towerTower. This tower does not worship gods as most other Cham towers do; instead, it honors King Po Rome, one of the Cham kings deified by the Cham people.

The tower is located on one of two small, adjacent mountains. Today, the tower is still regularly worshiped by the Cham people on their holidays and New Year’s. Po Rome Tower is a three-storey square tower, about 8m high, with a base edge of nearly 8m wide. The tower opens to the east with a lobby-like gate structure. Inside the tower is a statue of King Po Rome, about 1.2m high, which is worshiped. In addition to the king statue, there is a female bust of Queen Po Bia Sancan, an Ede woman, about 0.75m high, and outside the tower is a statue of Queen Sucih. 

Dien Khanh Citadel

Dien Khanh Citadel is located in Dien Khanh Commune, Khanh Hoa province, 10km west of Nha Trang center. It was the site of many important historical events and once held a particularly strategic position in the South Central region.

Dien Khanh CitadelThe citadel was built in 1793, during the reign of Lord Nguyen Phuc Anh. Later, realizing that this was one of the strategically important areas, Emperor Nguyen Anh (1762 – 1820) decided to develop the Dien Khanh area into a stronghold, a solid defensive perimeter. With a history spanning over 230 years, the citadel of Dien Khanh remains an attractive destination, a witness to countless ups and downs and changes in the social history of the feudal era, as well as the two wars of resistance against the US and France. By 2014, the State began relocating administrative and military agencies from the inner city of Dien Khanh to transform it into a pedestrian zone, restoring historic structures to meet the needs of tourists visiting and exploring the area.

Scared temples and pagodas

Long Son Pagoda

Long Son PagodaLong Son Pagoda is one of the largest pagodas in Nha Trang, founded in the late 19th century and renovated in 1940. The pagoda is also known as Dang Long Tu or Phat Trang (White Buddha) Pagoda, famous for its statue, which has been recognized by the Guinness Book of Records as the largest outdoor statue in Vietnam up to now. The figure of the Buddha is 14 m while the lotus blossom comprises 7 m. Around the statue are statues of seven Arahants. In front of the statue are a pair of dragons, which are 7.20 m long. The way to the Buddha statue is 200 steps on Trai Thuy hill. Especially at the 44th level, there is a statue of the Buddha entering nirvana and a relief of 49 disciples reciting the Buddha’s name.

Long Son Pagoda is located at No 22, 23/10 Street, Phuong Son Ward, and sits at the foot of Trai Thuy mountain, in the city of Nha Trang, just 400 m west of the railway station.

Nha Trang Cathedral

Nha Trang CathedralNha Trang Cathedral (official name: Christ the King Cathedral) is a Catholic church located at 01 Thai Nguyen Street, Nha Trang Ward. This church also has several popular names, such as Stone Church (because it was built of stone) and Nga Sau Church (because it is located near a traffic roundabout), but the most popular name is Mountain Church (because it was built on a small mountain).

On September 3, 1928, the church began construction on a small mountain spur, called Bong Mountain, about 12 meters high. Three large bells were installed in 1934, and a large clock was installed on the tower in December 1935. The Nha Trang Cathedral buildings remain intact. Mass is held Monday to Saturday at 5 am and 16:30 pm, and on Sunday from 5 am to 7 am and 16:30 pm.

Alexandre Yersin’s Grave

Alexandre Yersin (1863 – 1943) was born in Switzerland to a Swiss father and a French mother. He studied in Switzerland and later moved to France, where he earned a medical degree.

Alexandre Yersin’s GraveHe travelled to Nha Trang for the first time in 1891. At the end of 1899, he came back and established the Pasteur Institute. He devoted 50 years to microbiology, virology, and epidemic research and developed a vaccine against the bubonic plague.

Living modestly, he gained the trust of the Con Hamlet villagers, and he travelled in the mountains and recorded his observations. He also recommended to the government that a hill station be established in what is now Dalat.

Yersin died in Nha Trang on 1 March 1943. According to the instructions in his will, his body was buried with his face touching the ground and facing the sea so he could forever embrace his second homeland.

His grave is located at the top of a hill in Suoi Dau commune.

Charming islets and islands

Nha Trang is known as an island paradise. It is a mistake to visit Nha Trang without seeing the beautiful islets here. The simplest way to admire the islets in Nha Trang is to join a day tour. The tour will combine entertainment on 3-4 islets with seafood, making it suitable for independent travelers to Nha Trang. If you only want to go to 1-2 favorite islets, there is still a private boat service to take you to the islet.

Hon Mun (Mun islet)

Called Mun Islet because the southeastern part of the islet has raised, rugged cliffs that form caves; the stones are as black as ebony, a color rarely found elsewhere. Mun islet is located 10 km from Cau Da port (about 45 minutes by boat).

Not only attractive with white sand, blue sea, wild bird nests on cliffs, and coral reefs of all kinds … this place is also famous as one of the “richest and most beautiful” aquariums of the Southeast Asian sea. It is also known for its marine services, including glass-bottom boat and diving excursions.

Hon Tam Island

Tam islet in Nha TrangHon Tam is an island of more than 110 hectares located in Nha Trang Bay, 10 minutes from the wharf. The island is well known as “a small paradise” for its pristine beauty and charming location in a peaceful sea, blessed with warm sunshine and gentle breezes year-round. The Hon Tam Island is an ideal destination for ecotourists. Here, you can experience a range of sea sports, including jet skiing, windsurfing, adventure diving, walking under the sea, exploring the ocean with colorful coral reefs, and participating in physical activities such as rowing, kayaking, soccer under the sea, and beach volleyball.

For those who believe in “virtual living”, Hon Tam Resort is also a place to relax freely, with the beautiful scenery of one of Nha Trang’s most luxurious resorts. In addition, fun tours on Hon Tam include an attractive lunch featuring many of the freshest local specialties.

Mieu Islet

Mieu Islet in Nha TrangMieu Islet is home to Tri Nguyen Aquarium, which features more than 100 marine species. The aquarium resembles a long-ago ship covered in moss. There are many fish ponds, divided into 3 main categories: edible, carnivorous, and ornamental. Walking through a specially designed ship, you can witness a thousand colorful sea fish that live in the clear blue water.

Upon arrival, you will experience scuba diving to see the ocean, then comfortably swim, sunbathe, and relax at Tranh Beach in the pristine, peaceful setting of Mieu Islet’s most beautiful beach.

Hon Tre Island

Tre isletHon Tre Island is located in Nha Trang Bay, 3.5km from Cau Da Wharf. This is the largest islet in Nha Trang Bay, covering up to 32.5 km². Located in a relatively isolated area, Hon Tre has some of the world’s most beautiful natural beaches. Hon Tre, known as Hon Ngoc Viet, has long been exploited and developed, with many resorts built there.

This pristine island has a temperate tropical climate and is less windy, which has attracted many construction projects, including golf courses, the Vinpearl hotel, the most entertainment area of Vinpearl Land, Hon Tre Cultural Park, Se Tre Tourist Resort, and the Dam Bay Eco-Tourism Area.

Hon Mot (Mot Islet)

Mot islet in Nha TrangHon Mot attracts tourists with the peaceful beauty of its fishing village by the sea, where tiled houses are covered in green moss and boats bob on the water.

This is the smallest island in Nha Trang Bay. Hon Mot is less than 1 square kilometer in area, with a population of 200. Here, visitors will enjoy the fresh sea air and observe fishermen’s daily life.

On the island, there are also many other activities, such as shallow-water diving to see coral, water motorbike rides, glass-bottomed boats, and parachute canoes…

Hon Lao (Lao Islet)

Monkey islet in Nha TrangLao Islet, also known as Monkey Island, is a special attraction, with about 1,500 monkeys living in the wild forest. Visiting Monkey Island, tourists can learn about the various monkey species raised there, including yellow-faced, red-faced, and long-tailed monkeys, as well as penguins and lions. This is the ideal destination for visitors to observe the monkeys’ daily activities. Most of the monkeys here are friendly toward people, but visitors should be careful because they often approach to steal food. Furthermore, you can enjoy activities such as bathing, boat racing, and fishing. On the island, there is also a circus performance area with scheduled times at 9:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., and 15:15 p.m.

Tourists traveling in large groups can rent canoes for about 1,300,000 VND to visit the islets here. Some islets charge entrance fees: Hon Mun is 22,000 VND; the Monkey Island ticket for adults is 144,000 VND, and for children, 72,000 VND.

However, to save costs and time, visitors should book daily tours. Beach tours and games at Mun Islet (Tranh Beach) or Tam Islet cost 450,000-600,000 VND. Hon Mun scuba diving tour costs 600,000 VND. In addition to visiting the island, tours often include mud bathing and lunch at the fishing village.

Nature & wildlife areas 

Nui Chua National Park

Nui Chua National ParkNui Chua National Park is located in the Ninh Hai and Thuan Bac areas, covering nearly 30,000 hectares. The park has 330 species of terrestrial vertebrates, including 84 mammals, 163 birds, and 83 reptiles and amphibians. There are also more than 1,500 vascular plant species across 5 plant phyla, as well as many flora and fauna species listed in the national and world red books.

The national park also has hundreds of coral species and sea turtle populations. Ninh Thuan is developing ecotourism in the Nui Chua area, offering mountain climbing and camping activities with limited capacity and requiring pre-registration.

Hon Chong (Chong Promontory)

Chong islet Hon Chong (Vietnamese: Husband Islet) is located on Pham Van Dong Street, about 3 km northeast of the city center. This place is a complex of large rocks of various shapes, stacked atop one another, extending from the high shore to the sea. This tourist destination is also one of the most beautiful places to see in the coastal city, with fresh, quiet air.

At Hon Chong, there is a giant five-fingered handprint, associated with many interesting legends. Right near Hon Chong, there is another cluster of rocks called Hon Vo (Vietnamese: Wife Islet), shaped like a woman looking out to sea, waiting for her husband, hence the name.

Hang Rai

Hang RaiAbout 35 km from Phan Rang, Hang Rai is located within Nui Chua National Park. It features mountainous terrain that blocks waves, causing them to overlap and create beautiful caves, and it is also a habitat for otters, the origin of the name.

This ancient coral reef is a highly valued coral platform, both geologically and historically. Approximately 1,800 years ago, the sea level was 20 meters higher than it is now. One thousand years later, the sea gradually receded, revealing the shape of the ancient coral reef as it exists today. Currently, Hang Rai is a popular photo-hunting spot for photographers. The entrance fee to Hang Rai is 20,000 VND per person.

Famous bays and the best beaches

Not too far from Nha Trang center, there are still many famous bays and islands that attract many tourists to visit and explore, typically:

Van Phong Bay

Van Phong BayVan Phong Bay is an 18 km-long sand dune situated between the mainland and the islets. Van Phong Bay covers 30,000 hectares and is well sheltered by the Gom Peninsula from large waves and strong winds.

Unlike other bustling tourist destinations, Van Phong Bay retains its unspoiled beauty, with crystal-clear blue waters, fine white-sand beaches, and impressive rocky outcrops. This beauty attracts curiosity and motivates tourists from all over to explore and experience it.

There are two ways to the bay: by boat from Nha Phu Bay, and by car or motorbike from Nha Trang.

Ninh Van Bay

Ninh Van BayNinh Van Bay is dubbed the “Vietnamese Maldives” for its mild natural scenery and rich flora and fauna. Located on Hon Heo Peninsula, Ninh Van Bay has a wild, pure character.

It is an ideal destination for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Ninh Van Bay boasts numerous high-end resorts, along with a variety of recreational activities, including water sports such as diving to admire coral, scuba diving, surfing, windsurfing, and kayaking, and more. From Nha Trang, it only takes about 20 minutes by speedboat to reach this beautiful bay.

Vinh Hy Bay

Vinh Hy Bay, also known as Vung Gang, is a small bay located in Vinh Hai commune, Khanh Hoa province, Vietnam. Situated in the southeast of Khanh Hoa province, 42 km from Phan Rang ward, Vinh Hy Bay is unique in being surrounded by mountains on Vinh Hy Baythree sides (East, West, and North), right next to Nui Chua National Park, with the sea to the southeast. Vinh Hy retains many unspoiled natural features, with a beautiful, majestic landscape that includes white-sand beaches, rocky mountain ranges, and streams winding through lush green forests. This is the most rugged coastal area in Vietnam, with coral reefs and mysterious caves. The coral reefs here grow in dense forests, forming colorful walls several meters high, easily visible through the clear blue water. According to surveys by scientists, Vinh Hy currently has 307 coral species, including 50 newly discovered. Vinh Hy Bay also serves as a central hub connecting the ecosystem to Nui Chua National Park, which encompasses numerous rivers and streams flowing into the sea, as well as stunning tourist attractions.

Doc Let Beach

Doc Let BeachDoc Let, or Doc Lech, is located in Dong Ninh Hoa ward, about 50 km south of Nha Trang center. The beach stretches gently, with fine, powdery sand that gleams dazzlingly white under the Central Vietnamese sun. The water is crystal clear, with gentle waves, allowing you to immerse yourself in its serenity without any worries.

The sea level here is quite shallow and is surrounded by many idyllic offshore islands, making it an ideal place to escape the bustling city. This is an ideal place for team-building activities, including tug-of-war, beach volleyball, and camping. In addition, along the beach, there are resorts, small hotels, and homestays near the fishing village that serve tourists at affordable to mid-range prices

Ca Na beach

Ca Na BeachCa Na Beach is in Ca Na Commune, 32km south of Phan Rang – Thap Cham. This is a calm, pristine beach with its turquoise water lapping the relatively rocky shore. Snorkeling is also a possibility. Due to its proximity to the highway, Ca Na beach is a popular stopover for passing tourists. Many small guesthouses with modern facilities have been built along the coast.

Tourists can visit picturesque grottoes such as Ong Phat Grotto and Ong Nong Rapids, explore traditional villages, or relax on splendid white-sand beaches dotted with large boulders. Tourists can also enjoy seafood or rent a boat to the Lao Cau (Rau Cau) islet, 10km from Ca Na.

Dai Lanh Beach

Dai Lanh Beach is in Dai Lanh Commune, on the border of Dak Lak and Khanh Hoa provinces, 80km north of Nha Trang. The ideal time to visit Dai Lanh Beach is from January to September, when the weather is dry and pleasant, perfect for sightseeing and Dai Lanh Beachactivities. The beach is surrounded by two mountain passes: Ca Pass to the north and Co Ma Pass to the south. Perhaps because of this, even on days with strong winds and waves, Dai Lanh Beach remains exceptionally calm and peaceful. The most impressive feature for visitors is the crescent-shaped stretch of fine white sand, surrounded by lush green casuarina trees.

A fresh water source runs from the bottom of a mountain through the beach. In the distance lies the vast, clear sea, so transparent that you can almost see the bottom. After enjoying a refreshing swim in the cool blue sea, visitors can jet ski, kayak, or join fishermen on their boats to fish at sea.

Beautiful streams

Fairy Stream

Fairy Stream is located in southern Dien Khanh, about 20km from Nha Trang. The stream originates in the Hon Ba Mountains, then flows through gorges lined with trees and across valleys. Before reaching Suoi Tien village, the stream meets a natural dam and divides into two branches. One flows to the east over a hard rock platform to join the Cai River, and the other flows north to the rice fields.

Ba Ho stream

Ba Ho Stream is located in Nam Ninh Hoa Commune, 25km north of Nha Trang. From the peak of Mount Hon Son, the stream falls down 660m to the rice fields before flowing into Nha Phu Bay. Before discharging into the sea, this stream forms three lakes of different beauty in the middle of the mountain. Hence, its name is Ba Ho (Three lakes).

Ba Ho stream

Hopping to Ba Ho Stream, tourists can enjoy a scenic mountain hike to discover its stunning beauty. The journey meanders between towering cliffs full of reeds. The journey is worth the effort, as tourists can enjoy the fresh atmosphere and a sense of excitement upon completing their adventure.

Truong Xuan hot Stream

The stream is located in Ninh Tay Village, approximately 50km north of Nha Trang. The water is 76 °C and contains minerals essential to the human body. The precious natural mineral water is processed into beverages or used for its medicinal properties. Visitors to the hot stream can also visit a nearby area to learn more about the lifestyles of the Ede and Raglai ethnic groups.

Specialty dishes in Khanh Hoa

Famous for its vibrant sea tourism and hundreds of beautiful sights, Nha Trang also lures travelers with its diverse culinary offerings. This travel guide will be very useful for food lovers who want to explore the places they visit.

Banh Can (Rice Cake)

Banh Can (rice cake)Banh Can is a signature dish of Central Vietnam, most famous in Khanh Hoa province. Made from rice flour, the batter is poured into small clay molds and baked over charcoal, resulting in a lightly crispy outer layer and a soft, fluffy interior. The fillings are diverse, including quail eggs, shrimp, squid, or minced meat, creating a rich and appealing flavor. Banh can is typically served with a dipping sauce made from fish sauce or fermented fish paste, shredded mango, and fresh vegetables. The blend of rich, salty, and sour flavors makes this rustic dish unforgettable.

Phan Rang chicken rice

Phan Rang chicken ricePhan Rang chicken rice is one of the most popular dishes for locals and tourists. The rice, cooked in chicken broth, has a golden color, fluffy grains, and a delicate aroma. The chicken is usually free-range chicken, boiled until just cooked, retaining its tenderness, natural sweetness, and beautiful golden-brown skin.

The dish is typically served with a mildly spicy ginger fish sauce, fresh vegetables, and pickled cucumbers, creating a balanced flavor. The harmonious blend of sticky rice, rich chicken, and savory dipping sauce makes Phan Rang chicken rice an unforgettable specialty.

Seafood

sea good in Khanh HoaKhanh Hoa’s seafood dishes are appealing for their variety and rich, flavorful preparation. Highlights include grilled lobster with its firm, naturally sweet meat; fragrant, chewy grilled squid with satay sauce; and various types of grilled snails with rich, flavorful scallion oil. Sea fish is often steamed or grilled to preserve its freshness and served with fresh vegetables and rice paper.

In addition, grilled scallops with cheese or steamed crab are also very popular. Each dish carries the distinctive flavor of the sea, leaving a lasting impression on diners.

Jellyfish Vermicelli

Jellofish VermicelliJellofish Vermicelli, or fish-cake vermicelli with jellyfish, is one of the “must-try” dishes when visiting Khanh Hoa. Jellyfish Vermicelli stands out for its light, refreshing flavor. The jellyfish is carefully prepared, resulting in a crunchy texture without any fishy smell, creating a delightful sensation when eaten. The broth is clear, naturally sweet from the sea fish, and is often served with chewy and fragrant fish cakes.

The soft noodles blend harmoniously with the crunchy jellyfish and the rich flavor of the broth, creating a balanced and balanced dish. The dish is usually served with fresh vegetables, bean sprouts, and a touch of chili, offering a light yet distinctive culinary experience of the coastal region.

Ninh Hoa Grilled Pork

Grilled SausageGrilled pork is a famous specialty of Khanh Hoa province, appealing for their rich flavor and unique way of enjoying them. The gilled pork is made from finely ground pork, seasoned, and grilled over charcoal, creating a fragrant golden crust and a soft, sweet interior. They are typically wrapped in rice paper with fresh vegetables, cucumber, and vermicelli noodles.

The special feature is the smooth, slightly creamy, flavorful dipping sauce made from beans and meat, creating a harmonious taste. This dish is rustic yet incredibly appealing.

What to buy as gifts?

When traveling to Khanh Hoa, tourists are not only impressed by the beautiful seascape but also have many unique gift options that reflect the local flavors. One of the most famous gifts is Nha Trang bird’s nest – a high-quality, nutritious product often chosen as a luxurious gift. Besides that, Ninh Hoa fermented pork sausage is also a popular specialty thanks to its mild sourness, chewy texture, ease of packaging, and convenience for taking home.

Ninh Hoa fermented pork

Ninh Hoa fermented pork

Additionally, visitors can choose to buy handicrafts made from seashells or other sea-related items, or souvenirs featuring images of Nha Trang’s islands and seascapes. These products, though simple, bear the distinctive mark of the coastal region and are perfect as commemorative gifts.

In addition, dried seafood such as squid, shrimp, and fish is popular. These products retain the characteristic taste of the sea, are easy to preserve, and are suitable gifts for family and friends. In particular, Khanh Hoa dried squid is famous for its thickness, sweetness, and aroma; it can be enjoyed immediately after grilling.

dried-seafood

dried seafood

Overall, gifts from Khanh Hoa are diverse, ranging from high-end to affordable, showcasing local characteristics while also conveying subtle meanings, making the trip more fulfilling.

Vietdreamtravel offers visa services, package tours, and car/bus rental services to explore Khanh Hoa. Do not hesitate to contact us for any questions.  

Source: collected by An