Nha Trang: Top 8 Must-See Attractions for Visitors

Nestled along Vietnam’s south-central coastline, Nha Trang attracts visitors with its shores, attractions, and exciting experiences.

1. Beaches

Nha Trang is renowned for its beautiful shores, such as the well-loved Tran Phu, Bai Dai, Hon Chong, and Doc Let beaches. Featuring fine white sand and crystal-clear blue waters, these coastal areas are ideal spots for soaking up the sun, going for a swim, and engaging in various aquatic activities.

This location is encircled by cafés, pubs, and seafoood eateries serving dishes from both local kitchens and global cuisine, thus providing an ideal setting for unwinding as well as gastronomic discovery. Tourists have the option to lease beach chairs, parasols, and gear for aquatic activities, or they may meander down the boulevard adorned with palms and seaside hotels.

The shoreline of Nha Trang. Image captured by VnExpress/Xuan Ngoc

If you’re looking for something more dynamic, the options include beach volleyball and soccer matches, typically arranged during daylight hours. As night falls, Tran Phu Beach comes alive with stunning sunsets, roaming food stalls, and a vibrant ambiance ideal for seaside nights. Its pristine waters teem with aquatic life, making this location excellent for snorkeling and scuba diving adventures. Accessing these beaches requires no entry fee; however, charges may be applicable when renting gear or engaging in various water sports. This picturesque stretch of sand runs parallel to Tran Phu Street.

Should you prefer avoiding bustling environments, Bai Dai Beach, situated 20 kilometers south of Nha Trang and less frequented by tourists, serves as an excellent substitute. This location offers great opportunities for unwinding, soaking up the sun, and taking peaceful strolls on the beachfront.

2. Po Nagar Towers

The historic Cham temple site, which dates back to the seventh century, boasts elaborately decorated spires and provides sweeping vistas of both the urban landscape and the Cai River. Situated on 2 Thang 4 Street, Po Nagar Tower lies within easy driving distance from downtown.

The Po Nagar Towers (R) in Nha Trang. Image courtesy of VnExpress/Xuan Ngoc

Guests have the opportunity to delve into the historical edifice, highlighting classic Cham aesthetics and artisanal skills, as well as gain knowledge about Cham traditions and ancient society. This location further provides an understanding of the area’s spiritual past, where most of the surviving spires and sanctuaries were initially established for Hindu worship, although traces of Buddhism are evident nowadays. At the pinnacle stands the main tower containing a figure of Goddess Po Nagar, whilst the nearby zones serve frequently as venues for devotional practices and community ceremonies.

The location is accessible every day, and it’s advisable to arrive either early in the morning or later in the evening to steer clear of heavy foot traffic. The admission cost comes to VND22,000 (approximately US$0.88).

3. Long Son Pagoda

Famous for its majestic 24-meter-high white Buddha statue, Long Son Pagoda located on Thai Nguyen Street provides a tranquil retreat and picturesque city vistas. Situated at the top of a hill, this colossal Buddha serves as an awe-inspiring spectacle and embodies tranquility and harmony, drawing tourists who seek both its profound spiritual importance and monumental size.

A visitor passes by a reclining Buddha sculpture at the Long Son Pagoda in Nha Trang. The image was captured by VnExpress/Quynh Tran.

Guests have the opportunity to wander through the temple premises, where they will encounter numerous deities, altars, and detailed mosaic artworks illustrating stories from Buddhism. Ascending towards the Buddha statue requires navigating multiple staircases, offering panoramic vistas of the urban landscape, shoreline, and adjacent hills once at the top. Scattered along this path are diminutive statues and sanctuaries that enhance the sacred ambiance of the location. This functioning pagoda serves as an active center for Buddhists, allowing tourists to gain insights into their rituals and doctrines via interactions with resident monks who frequently perform religious rites here.

Within the pagoda, guests can appreciate the stunning architecture and conventional Buddhist artwork, featuring wooden engravings and murals that provide insight into the area’s cultural and spiritual heritage. This location additionally houses a modest Buddhist educational institution and a library where monks engage in studying historic scriptures.

Admission is complimentary, and it operates every day from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

4. Nha Trang Bay along with its surrounding islands

Covering an area of approximately 250 square kilometers, Nha Trang Bay is among Vietnam’s 16 marine protected zones, renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and rich aquatic biodiversity. This location has been a beloved spot for both diving aficionados and those passionate about marine exploration.

At Hon Rom, a favorite spot for divers, tourists have the opportunity to see vibrant fish species and witness the slow restoration of the coral reef ecosystem, even as they face difficulties due to climate change and coral bleaching.

Various marine life forms like yellowtail fusiliers and clownfish residing within sea anemones provide mesmerizing views.

In order to tackle the issue of coral degradation, the authorities in Khanh Hoa province halted diving activities at locations such as Hon Mun starting from 2022. This pause was aimed at facilitating the recovery of the local ecosystems via surveillance, seafloor cleanup efforts, and protective actions. Additionally, plans to introduce artificial reefs have been considered with the intention of improving the underwater scenery within the bay.

In June 2024, a trial initiative brought back recreational diving to specific zones.

Hon Mun Island boasts stunning coral reefs, pristine waters, and a vibrant array of underwater creatures such as brightly colored reef fish, sea turtles, and sometimes even dolphins. Located approximately 10 kilometers from the shore of Nha Trang, this picturesque destination can be reached via ferry; numerous travel companies provide excursions that usually last anywhere from half an hour to one hour.

A visitor went diving at Mun Island in Nha Trang in June 2022. The photo was taken by Mai Kha.

Snorkel enthusiasts can revel in the transparent waters near the coast, spotting colorful shoals of fish and complex coral structures with ease. Those seeking greater adventures might opt for scuba diving to discover the deeper seas teeming with bigger sea life like stingrays and sharks in their native environment. Professional dive trainers are on hand for individuals looking to enroll in courses or join escorted underwater excursions.

If staying dry suits your preference better, consider taking a glass-bottom boat tour for an up-close look at the aquatic realm beneath.

The entry costs for Hon Mun Island differ based on the tour provider and the activities offered, ranging from approximately VND220,000 ($10) for a simple snorkeling trip. Prices may increase for options such as scuba diving and renting a private vessel.

5. Vietnamese National Oceanographic Museum

Situated on 1 Cau Da Street, the National Oceanographic Museum of Vietnam provides visitors with an enlightening exploration of the nation’s abundant marine life. The museum boasts an extensive array of preserved oceanic creatures such as colorful fish, sharks, sea turtles, and various seashells sourced from Vietnamese shores.

A young woman rests against an aquarium at the National Oceanographic Museum in Nha Trang. The image was captured by VnExpress/Bui Toan.

This exhibit features stuffed marine creatures along with detailed representations of oceanic environments, offering visitors an intimate look at sea life.

Guests can delve into displays featuring classic fishing gear, vintage vessels, and navigation equipment, shedding light on the historical connection between the Vietnamese populace and the ocean.

The museum additionally provides an understanding of how the fishing industry has evolved along with highlighting the cultural importance of seafaring activities in the area.

The museum operates every day from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and offers admission for just VND30,000 ($1.20), which is quite budget-friendly.

The museum includes a compact outdoor aquarium where guests can view living sea creatures like tropical fish. Equipped with educational signs in both Vietnamese and English, the venue offers an enlightening experience suitable for all age groups.

6. Dam Market

Situated on Ben Cho Street, this bustling marketplace stands out among Nha Trang’s most historic and vibrant locations. Here you can find everything from freshly harvested fruits and vegetables to live fish and crustaceans, along with fabrics, apparel, and artisanal crafts. This spot is perfect for purchasing genuine keepsakes like handcrafted accessories, regional outfits, and distinctive local items.

The domed rooftop of Dam Market in an overhead view of Nha Trang. Photo by VnExpress/Xuan Ngoc

In addition to shopping, tourists can delve into the world of classic Vietnamese street cuisine at this marketplace. Food vendors offer a variety of meals such as fresh seafood, pho, banh mi, and tropical fruits, providing guests with an authentic flavor experience of Nha Trang. The ambiance, coupled with the scents of hot, delicious fare, turns it into a delightful feast for all senses.

The Dam Market operates every day from 5:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

7. Vinpearl Land

Situated on Hon Tre Island, Vinpearl Land offers a thrilling day filled with fun and adventures. You can reach the park conveniently through one of the globe’s longest sea-crossing aerial tram lines spanning Nha Trang Bay.

The park includes exciting attractions such as roller coasters, bumper cars, rotating teacups, and a scenic Ferris wheel providing stunning vistas of the bay for visitors seeking land-based fun. Those inclined towards aquatic adventures can enjoy Vinpearl Land’s expansive water park, which offers water slides, wave pools, meandering lazy rivers, splash areas, along with an aquarium.

Additionally, there is an array of shopping and dining choices available.

The park operates every day from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., with an admission charge of VND880,000 ($36) that covers the cost of the cable car journey.

8. The Stone Church of Nha Trang

Commonly referred to as the Mountain Church, the Nha Trang Stone Church stands at 31 Thai Nguyen Street in a Gothic architectural style. This historical place of worship boasts impressive design elements such as soaring vaulted ceilings and detailed stained glass windows, fostering an environment conducive to calm thought and introspection. Situated atop a hill, it offers guests a haven of peace, providing respite from the urban hustle below.

Inside the Nha Trang Stone Church. Image captured by Tuan Dao

This place of worship showcases French colonial architectural style, merging Gothic features with local touches. Tourists have the opportunity to delve into the interior spaces, appreciate the intricate workmanship, and soak in the serene atmosphere that renders it both a sanctuary for residents and travelers seeking solace. Additionally, the church conducts routine religious ceremonies, open for guests to witness.

Access to the church is complimentary, and it operates every day between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM.