Nha Trang Travel Guide: Discover Vietnam’s Coastal Paradise

Nestled along Vietnam’s south-central coast, Nha Trang is a dynamic coastal city famed for its sun-soaked beaches, offshore islands, vibrant marine life, and a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. Known as the “Riviera of the South China Sea,” Nha Trang offers a perfect balance between relaxation and excitement, attracting everyone from honeymooners to backpackers, divers, and families.
 

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about traveling to Nha Trang, including how to get there, top attractions, best beaches, food, accommodation, and insider travel tips.

📍 Where is Nha Trang?

Province: Khanh Hoa

Region: South Central Coast of Vietnam

Location: About 440 km northeast of Ho Chi Minh City

Known for: Beaches, coral reefs, islands, cultural sites, and wellness tourism

✈️ How to Get to Nha Trang

By Air

Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR) is 30 km from the city center.

Direct flights are available from Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Da Nang, and international hubs like Seoul, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Moscow.

By Train

Reunification Express stops at Nha Trang Station, offering scenic coastal views.

Overnight trains from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are convenient options.

By Bus

Buses from Da Lat, Hoi An, Mui Ne, and Ho Chi Minh City connect easily with Nha Trang.

🌴 Why Visit Nha Trang?

✅ White-sand beaches and turquoise sea
✅ Excellent diving and snorkeling
✅ Offshore islands for day trips
✅ Mud baths and hot springs
✅ Lively nightlife scene
✅ Fusion of local charm and modern tourism

🏖️ Best Beaches in Nha Trang

1. Nha Trang Beach (Tran Phu Beach)

Main city beach, stretches along Tran Phu Street

Ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports

Lined with resorts, cafes, and beach bars

2. Bai Dai (Long Beach)

Quieter and more laid-back, located near Cam Ranh

Perfect for relaxing, surfing, and beach BBQs

3. Doc Let Beach

Pristine white sand and crystal-clear water

Family-friendly and less crowded

🏝️ Top Things to Do in Nha Trang

1. Island Hopping Tour

Visit Hon Mun, Hon Tam, Hon Mieu, and Hon Mot

Snorkeling, scuba diving, and beach games

Many tours include seafood lunches and live music on boats

2. VinWonders Nha Trang (Vinpearl Land)

Located on Hon Tre Island

Theme park with water slides, rides, aquarium, and cable car

Great for families and thrill-seekers

3. Po Nagar Cham Towers

Ancient Hindu temple complex dating back to the 7th century

Dedicated to the goddess Po Nagar

Offers insight into Cham architecture and culture

4. Nha Trang Cathedral

French Gothic-style church from the 1930s

Known for stained glass and panoramic views of the city

5. Thap Ba Hot Springs & Mud Bath

Unique wellness experience with natural mud baths

Reputed healing properties and a relaxing atmosphere

Hot mineral pools and spa services available

6. Ba Ho Waterfalls

Three tiers of waterfalls about 25 km north of Nha Trang

Ideal for hiking, swimming, and cliff jumping

Surrounded by jungle and natural rock pools

7. Hon Chong Promontory

Scenic rocky outcrop overlooking the sea

Great for sunset photography and ocean views

🌊 Marine Adventures

Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

Hon Mun Marine Protected Area is a top dive spot

Coral reefs, colorful fish, and underwater caves

Dive shops offer courses and guided trips

Parasailing, Jet Skiing, & Banana Boats

Available along Nha Trang Beach and on island tours

🍲 What to Eat in Nha Trang

Local Specialties

Bun Cha Ca – Fish cake noodle soup

Nem Nuong – Grilled pork sausage rolls

Banh Canh Cha Ca – Thick noodles with fish cake

Seafood BBQ – Grilled squid, shrimp, oysters, and scallops

Banh Xeo Nha Trang – Vietnamese sizzling pancake with seafood

Recommended Restaurants

Lac Canh Restaurant – Famous for DIY grilled beef

Sailing Club Nha Trang – Beachfront dining with nightlife

Lanterns Restaurant – Vietnamese dishes with a social cause

Nhà Hàng Ngon Villa Nha Trang – Upscale Vietnamese cuisine in a French villa

🍹 Nightlife in Nha Trang

Sailing Club – Beach bar with live DJs and parties

Skylight Rooftop Bar – 360° views of the coastline and vibrant atmosphere

Louisiane Brewhouse – Craft beer on the beach

Why Not Bar – Backpacker-friendly with late-night dancing

🏨 Where to Stay in Nha Trang

Luxury

InterContinental Nha Trang – Central location with beachfront views

Amiana Resort – Private beach and eco-luxury experience

Mia Resort Nha Trang – Tranquil setting between jungle and sea

Mid-Range

Liberty Central Nha Trang – Rooftop pool and sea views

Rosaka Nha Trang Hotel – Near the beach with modern facilities

Xavia Hotel – Budget-friendly luxury with sea-facing rooms

Budget

iHome Nha Trang – Backpacker hostel with great social atmosphere

Tabalo Hostel – Capsule beds and modern design

Bondi Backpackers – Pool, bar, and organized tours

🛍️ Shopping in Nha Trang

Dam Market – Local food, souvenirs, and fashion

Xom Moi Market – More authentic and less touristy

Night Market on Tran Phu – Handicrafts, beachwear, and street snacks

Lotte Mart & Nha Trang Center – Malls with fashion, food courts, and cinemas

📅 Best Time to Visit Nha Trang

March to May is considered the best time with mild temperatures and clear skies.

📸 Best Instagram Spots

Infinity pool at Mia Resort

VinWonders cable car over the sea

Sunset at Hon Chong Promontory

Po Nagar Towers against a blue sky

Nha Trang Beach at sunrise

💡 Travel Tips for Nha Trang

Use sunscreen and drink lots of water – The sun can be intense

Negotiate prices in markets and with taxis

Book boat tours early in peak season (March–July)

Be cautious of sea urchins while swimming or snorkeling

Watch belongings on public beaches

🏁 Final Thoughts

Nha Trang is a vibrant coastal city that combines the beauty of the sea with Vietnamese culture and international influences. Whether you're after adventure, wellness, romance, or fun, Nha Trang delivers with its spectacular beaches, marine life, island adventures, and lively urban vibe.

As one of Vietnam’s most beloved beach destinations, Nha Trang is not just a stop—it’s a complete travel experience that suits every kind of traveler.