23+ Best Things To Do in Nha Trang Vietnam - “Pearl of the East Sea”

Nha Trang is not only famous for its stunning natural landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and white sandy beaches but also for its exciting exploration activities, cultural experiences, and delicious cuisine. From pristine islands to centuries-old historical relics, Nha Trang promises visitors a memorable vacation. Here are 23+ exciting things to do in Nha Trang, Vietnam, when visiting this coastal city dubbed the "Pearl of the East Sea"!

1. 8 Exciting Island & Sea Adventures in Nha Trang

Dubbed the "Pearl of the East Sea," the islands and surrounding waters of Nha Trang are where you'll find the most wonderful adventures and relaxing experiences. Let's take a look at the must-try activities below with Joytime:

1.1. Go all out at VinWonders Nha Trang – the top amusement park in the city

Located on the beautiful Hon Tre Island, VinWonders Nha Trang is a leading amusement park in Vietnam, offering a myriad of thrilling rides, a modern water park, a giant aquarium, the King's Garden zoo area, and impressive shows. Traveling to VinWonders by the world's longest over-sea cable car is also a memorable experience, offering panoramic views of the stunning Nha Trang Bay.

Basic Information:

Tips/Notes when experiencing this activity:

• Should arrive early as soon as the park opens to have enough time to explore all areas and avoid long queues.

• Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen if you plan to visit the water park.

• Buy tickets online in advance to save time queuing at the entrance gate.

• Check the show schedule (water music, dolphin show, etc.) to plan your time accordingly.

• Prepare comfortable shoes as you will be doing quite a bit of walking.

VinWonders Nha Trang is a leading amusement park in Vietnam, offering many exciting activities - Photo source: VinWonders

1.2. Dive and admire the vibrant coral reefs at Hon Mun Marine Protected Area

Hon Mun, one of Vietnam's first and most vital marine protected areas, is renowned for its rich biodiversity of coral species and marine life, making it a highlight among the best things to do in Nha Trang, Vietnam. The crystal-clear seawater is perfect for diving and snorkeling, allowing you to explore a vibrant underwater world filled with pristine coral reefs and thousands of colorful fish.

Basic Information:

Tips/Notes when experiencing this activity:

• Choose reputable tour operators or diving centers to ensure safety and quality of service.

• If you have never dived before, sign up for a trial dive with a professional instructor accompanying you.

• Always follow the instructions of the diver or snorkeling guide.

• Do not touch coral or marine life to protect the marine environment.

• Check the weather forecast; it's best to go on a calm, sunny day for the best underwater visibility.

Hon Mun is an ideal location for diving activities to explore colorful marine creatures - Photo source: Joytime

Visitors can refer to Joytime's Full-Day Tour | Hon Mun - Hon Tam Experience (Includes Mud Bath) to fully experience the exciting tourism activities on this island.

1.3. Relax with a mud bath and spa at the luxury Hon Tam Resort

Hon Tam is a beautiful island with a long, fine white sand beach and a luxurious resort. It is famous for its high-class hot mineral mud bath and spa services, offering a wonderful relaxation and health recovery experience amidst the fresh natural environment. Additionally, you can enjoy the private beach, participate in water sports activities, and savor delicious cuisine.

Basic Information:

Tips/Notes when experiencing this activity:

• Book services in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability and potentially receive offers.

• Bring swimwear, a hat, and sunscreen.

• Enjoy the peaceful and fresh atmosphere on the island after the mud bath.

• Can combine a mud bath with other spa services for complete relaxation.

Hon Tam is famous for its high-class hot mineral mud bath and spa services, offering a relaxing experience - Joytime

Or you can refer to the Galina Hotel & Spa | Nha Trang Mud Bath and Massage Experience package with a great price today.

1.4. Watch monkey circus shows and interact with friendly animals on Monkey Island (Hon Lao)

Monkey Island (Hon Lao), a small island in the north of Nha Trang, is home to thousands of wild monkeys. It’s one of the cheap things to do in Nha Trang, where visitors can observe and feed the monkeys, enjoy unique monkey and dog circus shows, participate in light entertainment games, and take photos with the mischievous monkeys.

Basic Information:

Tips/Notes when experiencing this activity:

• Maintain a safe distance from the monkeys, do not tease them or openly display food as they may snatch items or scratch you.

• Carefully guard personal belongings (phones, wallets, etc.) to prevent monkeys from taking them.

• Follow the circus show schedule so you don't miss it.

• Food for monkeys can be purchased on the island, but feed them carefully according to instructions.

On Monkey Island, visitors can not only observe and feed the monkeys but also watch unique monkey and dog circus shows - Photo source: Monkey Island Tourist Area

1.5. Stroll along the unique sandy path of Diep Son Island

Diep Son Island is famous for its unique "walking in the sea" sandy path, which connects three small islets at low tide. The experience of walking amidst the clear blue sea water, feeling the soft sand underfoot, is something every visitor wants to try here. The pristine and peaceful natural landscape is also a big plus for Diep Son.

Basic Information:

Tips/Notes when experiencing this activity:

• Check the tide schedule or go with a local tour company to know exactly when the sandy path appears.

• Prepare a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen if you want to explore the beach during the day.

• You can walk barefoot, wear sandals, or water shoes on the sand.

• Keep the island and the sandy path clean.

• The road from Nha Trang to Van Gia port is quite far, so plan your travel time accordingly for a day trip.

Diep Son Island is famous for its unique "walking in the sea" sandy path - Photo source: Instagram hodacduyy

1.6. Explore bird nests and the art of harvesting at Hon Noi Bird Nest Island

Yen Island (Hon Noi), one of the top things to do in Nha Trang, Vietnam, is renowned for having the most swallows nesting in Khanh Hoa, celebrated for its traditional swallow's nest harvesting. Here, you can explore the swallow caves, discover the adventurous process of nest harvesting by skilled workers, and marvel at Doi Beach—a unique sandy beach with two sides facing the sea, where opposing hot and cold currents meet.

Basic Information:

Tips/Notes when experiencing this activity:

• Tours to Hon Noi are only open seasonally (usually from April to August).

• Book the tour in advance through Khanh Hoa Salanganes Nest Company or authorized agents as the number of daily visitors is limited to protect the environment.

• Bring swimwear to experience the unique Doi Beach.

• Be prepared for the boat ride to the island (about 1 hour) and potentially get seasick if the sea is rough.

Hon Noi is one of the places with the most swallows nesting in Khanh Hoa with beautiful, poetic scenery - Photo source: Instagram vivu_nhatrang

1.7. Paddle a kayak through the serene waters of Hon Tam

In addition to mud bathing and relaxation, Hon Tam also offers many water sports activities, including kayaking. You can freely paddle through small rocky outcrops, explore the peaceful hidden corners of the island, or simply glide gently on the clear blue water, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful surrounding scenery.

Basic Information:

Tips/Notes when experiencing this activity:

• Listen carefully to the instructions before paddling, especially how to use the paddle and handle the boat if it flips (if applicable).

• Choose a time when the water is calm and there is little wind for easier and safer movement.

• Always wear a life jacket when kayaking.

• Don't forget to apply sunscreen and wear a hat.

Kayaking is an exciting tourism activity in Nha Trang that visitors should try - Photo source: Freepik

1.8. Try parasailing at Doc Let Beach for a panoramic view of Nha Trang

Doc Let Beach is a beautiful beach with a gentle sandy slope and clear blue water. This is one of the ideal spots to experience parasailing – an exhilarating sport that offers a spectacular view from above. You will soar through the air and admire the panoramic view of Doc Let beach, Nha Trang beach, and the vast horizon.

Basic Information:

Tips/Notes when experiencing this activity:

• Choose a clear day with little strong wind or rain to ensure safety and the best view.

• Always strictly follow the instructions of the operator and support staff.

• This is a thrilling activity; consider carefully if you are afraid of heights or have health issues.

• Check the safety equipment (parachute, cable, life jacket) before participating.

• It is recommended to book or check the availability of the service before coming.

Doc Let Beach is a beautiful beach with a gentle sandy slope, and is one of the ideal spots to experience parasailing - Photo source: Joytime

2. 8 Cultural & Historical Experiences in Nha Trang

Nha Trang not only boasts blue seas but is also a land rich in cultural and historical traditions, evident through its ancient architectural works and relics bearing the imprint of time. Joytime has compiled some exciting activities in Nha Trang that you should try below to learn more about this land:

2.1. Admire the ancient Cham architecture at Po Nagar Cham Towers

Po Nagar Cham Towers is an ancient and sacred complex of Cham temples in Nha Trang. The structure was built from the 8th to the 13th century, dedicated to the goddess Thien Y A Na (called Po Ina Nagar by the Cham people), the Mother of the Country deity. From here, you can also admire a panoramic view of Nha Trang city and the gentle and impressive Cai River.

Basic Information:

Tips/Notes when experiencing this activity:

• This is a spiritual site, so wear polite, modest clothing (pants/skirts covering the knees, shirts with sleeves).

• Keep quiet, walk and speak softly, and do not touch the artifacts in the worship area.

• Early morning or late afternoon is an ideal time to visit as the weather is cooler and the light is better for photography.

• You can rent traditional Cham costumes for photos.

Po Nagar Cham Towers is an ancient and sacred complex of Cham temples in Nha Trang - Photo source: Instagram rabbitdoku

2.2. Discover Gothic beauty in the heart of the city at Nha Trang Stone Church

Located right in the city center, Nha Trang Stone Church (officially known as Christ the King Cathedral) is a unique Catholic architectural work built of stone in the French Gothic style. The structure was completed in 1933, characterized by its soaring arches, brilliant rose windows, and majestic bell tower. This is a serene destination in the heart of the bustling city, attracting visitors with its ancient beauty and solemn atmosphere.

Basic Information:

Tips/Notes when experiencing this activity:

• Keep quiet and respect the sacred space.

• If you visit during mass hours, participate respectfully or wait until the service is over before visiting.

• Wear polite attire, avoiding revealing clothing.

• Check the mass schedule if you wish to attend a service.

Nha Trang Stone Church is a unique Catholic architectural work built of stone in the French Gothic style - Photo source: Thao Trinh

2.3. Shop for local specialties and street food at Dam Market

Dam Market is the central and oldest market in Nha Trang, featuring a unique circular architecture resembling a lotus flower. This is where you can find almost everything, from dried seafood, souvenirs, and clothing to local specialties like swallow's nests, Ninh Hoa fermented pork roll (nem), mango rice paper (banh trang xoai), etc. Dam Market is also a street food paradise with countless attractive dishes.

Basic Information:

Tips/Notes when experiencing this activity:

• Bargaining is recommended when shopping, especially for souvenirs or clothing.

• Take time to explore the food court to try local snacks like banh can, fish noodle soup (bun ca dam), etc.

• Carefully guard your personal belongings when in a crowded market.

• The dried seafood and specialty section is an ideal place to buy gifts to take home.

Dam Market is a market selling many goods and handicrafts in Nha Trang - Photo source: Jan Karel

2.4. Learn about the region’s incense culture at Khanh Hoa Museum

The Khanh Hoa Museum displays many historical and cultural artifacts of Khanh Hoa province, from prehistoric times to the present day. Notably, the museum has a section on the culture of agarwood (tram huong) - a precious and famous product of this region. Visitors can learn about the process of exploiting and crafting agarwood and its significance in the cultural and spiritual life here.

Basic Information:

Tips/Notes when experiencing this activity:

• You should spend about 1-2 hours visiting the highlights of the museum.

• If you are interested in agarwood, take your time to thoroughly explore this exhibition area.

• The museum is located right on Tran Phu street, near the beach, making it convenient to combine with other activities in Nha Trang.

Khanh Hoa Museum displays many historical and cultural artifacts of Khanh Hoa province - Photo source: nguyen nguyen

2.5. Explore diverse marine life at the Nha Trang Institute of Oceanography

The Nha Trang Institute of Oceanography is one of the first marine science research centers in Vietnam and the largest marine organism museum in the country. Here, you will admire a huge collection of marine species from all over the world, including a giant whale skeleton nearly 18 meters long. This is an ideal destination to learn about the diversity of life in the ocean depths.

Basic Information:

Tips/Notes when experiencing this activity:

• This is a very suitable destination for the whole family, especially children, helping them learn about marine life.

• Visitors should spend about 1.5 - 2 hours visiting the entire institute.

• The institute is located near the Cau Da port area, where boats depart for island tours. Therefore, you can plan to explore between locations more conveniently.

2.6. Visit Truong Son Village and witness traditional pottery-making

Truong Son Craft Village is a cultural destination that showcases traditional crafts of Khanh Hoa, with pottery making being prominent. Visitors can learn about the manual pottery making process of the Cham people, admire unique pottery products, and even try their hand at molding pottery under the guidance of artisans. This is an interesting experience to better understand the culture and skill of the local people.

Basic Information:

Tips/Notes when experiencing this activity:

• If you want to experience pottery making, allocate enough time (about 1 hour or more) for your visit here.

• This is a good place to buy pottery products as souvenirs directly from the artisans.

• The craft village is not too far from the city center; you can travel by taxi or motorbike.

Truong Son Craft Village is a cultural destination that showcases traditional crafts of Khanh Hoa - Photo source: Truong Son Craft Village

2.7. Uncover ancient relics at Am Chua Temple

Am Chua is an important historical and cultural relic site, considered the place of origin for the worship of the Mother Goddess Thien Y A Na (i.e., Po Nagar Tower in Nha Trang). Although the Po Nagar Tower in Nha Trang is more famous, Am Chua is where the annual Po Nagar Festival is held before the main ceremony takes place in Nha Trang, carrying special spiritual significance for the local people and devotees. Visitors can come here to learn more about the history of this coastal land.

Basic Information:

Tips/Notes when experiencing this activity:

• You need to travel by motorbike or taxi/car to get here (about 30-40 minutes from the center of Nha Trang).

• This is a spiritual site, so wear polite, modest clothing.

• If you are deeply interested in the Mother Goddess worship culture and local history, this is a worthwhile destination to consider.

Am Chua is a cultural and spiritual tourist destination in Nha Trang that visitors should visit - Photo source: Dr. Aquarius

2.8. Snap scenic photos at Hon Khoi’s salt fields

Located about 40 km north of Nha Trang city center, Hon Khoi Salt Fields in Ninh Hoa town are one of the largest salt fields in Vietnam. This is not only an important salt producing area but also an extremely impressive photo spot, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. The image of hardworking salt farmers carrying salt under the sunrise or sunset creates a scene that is both rustic and poetic.

Basic Information:

Tips/Notes when experiencing this activity:

• Prepare your camera or phone with a full battery for taking photos.

• Walk gently along the edges of the salt fields to avoid disturbing the work of the salt farmers.

• Ask the salt farmers for permission if you want to take close-up photos or photos with them.

• The distance is quite far, so it's recommended to rent a motorbike or go by taxi/car.

Hon Khoi Salt Fields are an extremely impressive photo spot in the early morning or late afternoon when the sun sets - Photo source: Instagram travel.vietnamarab

3. Taste the Flavors of Nha Trang

Visiting Nha Trang without trying the street food and local specialties would be a big miss. The cuisine here is known for its delicate combination of seafood flavors and the distinct characteristics of the Khanh Hoa region.

3.1. Try jellyfish noodle soup – a unique coastal delicacy

"Bun Cha Ca Sua" (Jellyfish Fish Cake Noodle Soup) is a breakfast or lunch dish particularly loved by Nha Trang locals and tourists. The unique point of this dish is the fresh, crunchy jellyfish combined with chewy and delicious fish cake made from fresh mackerel or lizardfish. The sweet and clear broth simmered from fish bones with added tomatoes creates a very distinct flavor, hard to find elsewhere.

Suggested famous restaurants:

Tips/Notes when experiencing this activity:

• Should try this dish for breakfast or lunch to fully appreciate the flavor.

• Eat with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and squeeze in some lime to add a light sour taste.

• Add a little shrimp paste or chili paste if you like spicy food or want a richer flavor.

• Ask the vendor if you want to add more jellyfish or fish cake to your bowl.

Bun Cha Ca Sua is a breakfast or lunch dish particularly loved by locals and tourists in Nha Trang - Photo source: Facebook Bun Cha Ca Nha Trang at Mocbai Bavet

3.2. Enjoy Ninh Hoa grilled pork rolls – a local favorite

"Nem Nuong Ninh Hoa" (Ninh Hoa Grilled Pork Rolls) is a dish that has created a culinary brand for Nha Trang. Unlike grilled pork rolls in other regions, Ninh Hoa grilled pork rolls are made from fresh pork that is finely ground and grilled over hot charcoal, creating a distinctive aroma. This dish is served with rice paper wrappers, fresh herbs, cucumber, sour mango, and especially a thick dipping sauce meticulously prepared from peanut sauce, minced meat, etc., which is incredibly delicious.

Suggested famous restaurants:

Tips/Notes when experiencing this activity:

• Ask the vendor how to properly wrap the grilled pork rolls with rice paper and various herbs.

• The dipping sauce is the soul of the dish; enjoy it thoroughly and you can ask for more if needed.

• Many grilled pork roll stalls also serve "ram" (crispy fried rice paper); try ordering some to eat alongside for added deliciousness.

• This dish is usually eaten in the late afternoon or evening.

Nem Nuong Ninh Hoa is a delicious, characteristic dish that has created a culinary brand for Nha Trang - Photo source: Facebook Pham Tuan Tu

3.3. Savor seafood mini pancakes – a street food must-try

"Banh Can" (Mini Pancakes) is a popular snack in the Central provinces, but Nha Trang banh can has its own distinct characteristics. The pancakes are cooked in small, hot cast-iron molds, crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, with various fillings such as shrimp, squid, meat, or quail eggs. Dipping banh can in sweet and sour dipping sauce mixed with scallion oil and miniature meatballs ("xiu mai") creates an irresistible appeal.

Suggested famous restaurants/stalls:

Tips/Notes when experiencing this activity:

• Banh can is best eaten hot right after being taken out of the mold.

• Try ordering different types of fillings on the same plate to enjoy a variety of flavors.

• The dipping sauce often comes with xiu mai; try dipping together to experience the characteristic deliciousness.

• This dish is usually sold mainly in the afternoon and evening.

Nha Trang banh can has its own distinct characteristics with a hot, crispy shell on the outside and a soft, fluffy inside - Photo source: Facebook Nguyen Mie

3.4. Buy fresh seafood at Xom Moi Market

Xom Moi Market is a large traditional market in the center of Nha Trang, famous for its incredibly abundant fresh seafood section. Here, you can see and choose all kinds of freshly caught seafood such as shrimp, crab, swimming crab, squid, various types of sea fish, snails, clams, oysters, etc., at reasonable prices. You can buy them to cook yourself or ask the small eateries in the market to prepare them for you on the spot.

Basic Information:

Tips/Notes when experiencing this activity:

• Should go to the market early in the morning (around 6-8 am) for the freshest and widest selection of seafood.

• Don't hesitate to bargain gently, especially when buying in large quantities.

• If you want to eat right at the market, ask the vendors or nearby eateries if they offer on-the-spot preparation (usually for a fee).

• Be careful with your personal belongings in a crowded market.

4. Join Nha Trang’s Unique Local Festivals

Nha Trang not only boasts beautiful scenery and delicious food but also unique traditional festivals that reflect the cultural and spiritual life of the coastal people. For those seeking the top things to do in Nha Trang, Vietnam, here are some exciting activities that visitors should not miss:

4.1. Feel the buzz of Nha Trang Sea Festival – Vietnam’s biggest coastal celebration

The Nha Trang Sea Festival is the largest cultural and tourism event in Khanh Hoa province, usually held every two years. The festival is a series of vibrant events taking place throughout the city, including exhibitions, street parades, art programs, music nights, exciting sea sports activities, and more. This is a great opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere and discover the unique culture of the coastal region.

Basic Information:

Tips/Notes when experiencing this activity:

• You should follow the detailed schedule of the Festival announced on media (Khanh Hoa tourism website, local newspapers, etc.) to not miss the main programs.

• The Sea Festival attracts a large number of tourists from all over, so book flights and hotel rooms as early as possible (several months in advance) to get good prices and secure accommodation.

• Be prepared for crowded locations and potential traffic congestion in the city center, especially in the evening.

• Should bring drinking water, a hat, and a cap if participating in outdoor activities during the day.

Nha Trang Sea Festival brings many impressive experiences for visitors - Photo source: Facebook Booking Travel

4.2. Experience the spiritual beauty of Ponagar Tower Festival – a unique cultural heritage event

The Po Nagar Tower Festival is the largest traditional festival of the Cham and Vietnamese people in Khanh Hoa, held annually at the Po Nagar Tower complex. The festival is to commemorate and honor the Holy Mother Thien Y A Na. With solemn rituals, performances of traditional Cham dances, and folk cultural activities, the festival is rich in historical and spiritual value, promising many interesting experiences for visitors.

Basic Information:

Tips/Notes when experiencing this activity:

• The festival attracts a very large number of locals and visitors from everywhere, so be prepared for crowded spaces.

• Should wear polite, modest clothing (long pants/skirts, shirts with sleeves) when entering the ritual area and worship area.

• Keep quiet and respect the solemn atmosphere of the festival.

• This is an opportunity to witness unique traditional rituals and gain a deeper understanding of the religious beliefs and culture of the indigenous people.

The Po Nagar Tower Festival is a festival rich in historical and spiritual value, promising many interesting experiences for visitors - Photo source: Facebook Nguyen Tuyen

4.3. Connect with fishermen at the traditional Whale Worship Festival (Cau Ngu Festival)

The Cau Ngu Festival (Whale Worship Festival) is a traditional festival of fishermen in the coastal region of Khanh Hoa and the South Central provinces, expressing gratitude and reverence towards "Ca Ong" (the whale) - the guardian deity who always protects fishermen at sea. The festival includes solemn worship rituals, the procession of the Ca Ong deity's palanquin, "ba trao" singing (a traditional performance), etc. This is an opportunity to learn about the spiritual cultural life and community spirit of the people of the sea.

Basic Information:

Tips/Notes when experiencing this activity:

• The Cau Ngu Festival is often held in coastal residential areas and is not concentrated in one large location. You need to find specific information about the time and location of the festival in fishing villages near Nha Trang if you want to participate.

• This is an opportunity to witness unique traditional rituals, learn about the fishing profession and the life of fishermen.

• Show respect for the local rituals and customs when participating.

The Cau Ngu Festival is an opportunity to learn about the spiritual cultural life and community spirit of the people of the sea - Photo source: dnnd

With the list of 23+ exciting activities in Nha Trang suggested by Joytime, you now have plenty of inspiration for your upcoming trip to explore the "Pearl of the East Sea." Discover the top things to do in Nha Trang, Vietnam, and make your journey unforgettable with memorable experiences and cherished moments.

In addition, don't forget that Joytime specializes in providing short and long-day Nha Trang tours with preferential prices. If you are planning a complete trip, contact Joytime now for more consultation!