From sunbathing on the beach to scuba diving, here are the best things to do in Nha Trang, known as the seafood capital of Vietnam.
Hon Mun Island. Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Located along the southern coast of Vietnam, Nha Trang is a tropical paradise for travelers seeking sun, sand and adventure. The capital of Khanh Hoa province boasts a long coastline that promises countless beaches and pristine islands. Nha Trang has become a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling.
Renowned as the “seafood capital of Vietnam” among foodies, Nha Trang is also home to some of the freshest fish and shellfish.
In the article, author Pypriyaja Bakshi describes: “With our guide, we explored the secrets of this hidden gem through interesting things to do in Nha Trang, a must-see destination in Vietnam. During my recent two-week trip to Vietnam, I spent three memorable days exploring this coastal paradise.”
Variety of islands
Nha Trang is surrounded by a number of tropical islands that offer a fantastic experience. Some of the most iconic include Hon Tre Island (famous for VinWonders), Hon Mun Island (Nha Trang’s best diving spot), Monkey Island (primate habitat), Hon Tam Island (luxury resort) and Diep Son Island (a pristine paradise known for its iconic sandbars).
Tourists' mud bath experience. Photo: Travel and Leisure Asia
Diving and snorkeling in the ocean
Nha Trang also has a lot of marine life. The best experience is scuba diving or snorkeling. Some guided tours provided by experts will help visitors delve into the wonders of the underwater world.
"We can spot clownfish, barracuda, grouper, sea turtles, angelfish and butterflyfish when scuba diving or snorkeling in Nha Trang," writes author Pypriyaja Bakshi.
In particular, located in the heart of the sea of Nha Trang Bay, Khanh Hoa province, is a precious gem of Vietnam called Hon Mun. Not only is it a dream destination for adventurous souls, Hon Mun also brings a vivid message about the importance of protecting the sustainable living environment. Hon Mun not only offers great scenery but also raises awareness among visitors about preserving marine ecosystems.
"I experienced snorkeling in Hon Mun Marine Protected Area to see colorful coral reefs and exotic fish swimming around. The beach here has rocks and shallow waters full of fish. Follow the snorkeling guide and plan your trip to Nha Trang", Pypriyaja Bakshi suggested.
Relax on the Golden Beach
The city has a beach that runs along the main road, Tran Phu, where locals and tourists often gather to relax and enjoy the golden sand. Many other beaches are also located just a few kilometers from the city center.
One of the popular activities in Nha Trang is enjoying a mud bath. A warm bath with detoxifying mud is the ideal way to rejuvenate your trip. The minerals in the mud help exfoliate the skin and relax the muscles.
"The Seafood Capital of Vietnam"
According to the author, Nha Trang is known as the center of the best seafood in Vietnam. Local shops offer fish prepared in many ways — raw, fermented, steamed and stir-fried.
Nha Trang is considered the seafood capital of Vietnam. Photo: Vietnam Travel
These establishments are not like a regular restaurant. Visitors will choose the type of seafood, from crab, clams, shrimp, squid, shellfish and many other types. The waiter will charge by the weight of the fish and ask you how you want it prepared.
Other popular dishes of Nha Trang that you should try are Bun Ca Sua, Nem Nuong, Banh Can and Bo Lac Canh.
Admire Long Son Pagoda and Ponagar Tower
To learn about the cultural aspect, visitors have the opportunity to explore Long Son Pagoda and Ponagar Tower. These two relics are symbols of the religious influences that have shaped the city over the years.
Talking about the beautiful scenery of Nha Trang, it is impossible not to mention Long Son Pagoda, also known as the White Buddha Pagoda, located at the foot of Trai Thuy Mountain, Nha Trang City. This is a sacred and famous beautiful pagoda in Khanh Hoa. Long Son Pagoda is home to one of the largest sitting Buddha statues. Located on high ground, it offers a panoramic view of Nha Trang.
Meanwhile, Ponagar Tower is located on Cu Lao Hill, on the Cai River in Nha Trang City. It has a complex of Cham temple architecture built in the mid-8th century.
Ponagar Tower is considered a place to preserve Champa culture in the heart of Nha Trang City./.
