KHÁNH HÒA
Khánh Hòa is Vietnam’s radiant coastal jewel, centered around the vibrant city of Nha Trang. Famed for its breathtaking bay—one of the world’s most beautiful—it offers stunning white-sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and lush, mountainous islands.
This region is a perfect blend of natural splendor, ancient Cham culture, and modern resort luxury. It invites travelers to enjoy thrilling water sports, therapeutic mud baths, and the freshest South Central Coast seafood.
Most Popular Attractions
Nha Trang City Core & Culture
Nha Trang Beach (Bãi biển Nha Trang): A long, crescent-shaped, 7km golden-sand beach along Trần Phú Street, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
Po Nagar Cham Towers (Tháp Bà Po Nagar): A complex of ancient Hindu temple towers dedicated to the goddess of the land, Yan Po Nagar (Pronounced: Taap Baa Po Na-gaar).
Long Sơn Pagoda (Chùa Long Sơn): A Buddhist temple famous for its colossal white statue of the meditating Buddha sitting atop a hill, offering panoramic city views.
Nha Trang Cathedral (Nhà thờ Đá Nha Trang): A magnificent stone cathedral built in a beautiful French Gothic style.
Tram Huong Tower (Tháp Trầm Hương): An iconic, modern lotus-shaped tower on the main beach square, symbolizing the agarwood and swifts’ nests of the region.
Alexandre Yersin Museum: Honors the Swiss-French physician and bacteriologist who founded the city’s Pasteur Institute and explored the region.
Nha Trang Institute of Oceanography: Vietnam’s largest marine research center, housing thousands of preserved marine specimens and live aquariums.
Đầm Market (Chợ Đầm): The city’s main market, a circular building, ideal for shopping for local produce, souvenirs, and dried seafood.
Hòn Chồng Promontory (Hòn Chồng): A picturesque cluster of large rocks on the coast, imbued with local legends. (Pronounced: Hawn Cho-ng).
Islands & Coastal Experiences
VinWonders Nha Trang (formerly Vinpearl Land): A vast amusement and water park located on Hòn Tre Island, accessible by one of the world’s longest over-the-sea cable cars. (Pronounced: Hawn Treh).
Hòn Mun Island (Hòn Mun): A protected marine area, a top spot for scuba diving and snorkeling due to its rich coral reef ecosystem. (Pronounced: Hawn Moon).
Hòn Tằm Island (Hòn Tằm): Known for its serene beaches, eco-resort, water sports, and mud-bathing facilities. (Pronounced: Hawn Taam).
Diep Son Island (Đảo Điệp Sơn): Famous for its unique, submerged sand path that connects three islets and allows you to “walk on water” at low tide.
Ninh Vân Bay (Vịnh Ninh Vân): A tranquil, secluded bay north of Nha Trang, known for luxury resorts and pristine nature. (Pronounced: Vinh Ninh Vun).
Long Beach (Bãi Dài): A long, undeveloped stretch of coastline south of the city, known for its seafood shacks and surfing.
Đốc Lết Beach (Bãi Đốc Lết): A stunning, tranquil beach north of Nha Trang with shallow, clear water and gentle waves. (Pronounced: Ba-ee Dawk Let).
Hòn Ông Island (Whale Island): A remote and undeveloped eco-island in Van Phong Bay, popular for tranquility, diving, and kayaking.
Wellness, Nature, and Outskirts
Tháp Bà Hot Springs & Mud Baths: A popular spot to relax and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of warm mineral mud and hot springs.
I-Resort Mud Baths: A modern, luxurious mud bath and spa complex with various mineral pools and waterfalls.
Ba Hồ Waterfall (Thác Ba Hồ): A scenic natural spot north of Nha Trang featuring three freshwater lakes connected by small waterfalls, great for a cool swim. (Pronounced: Taak Ba Haw).
Yang Bay Waterfall Tourist Area: A natural park known for its large waterfalls, hot springs, and cultural activities.
Dien Khanh Citadel (Thành Diên Khánh): An ancient, well-preserved military fortress dating back to the late 18th century. (Pronounced: Taan Yeen Kaang).
Tu Van Pagoda (Chùa Từ Vân): An architecturally unique pagoda in Cam Ranh, famous for the Bao Tích Tower made from coral and seashells.
Hòn Bà Nature Reserve: A mountain and forest area outside the city, once home to Dr. Alexandre Yersin’s laboratory, offering a cooler climate and diverse flora.
Activities & Experiences
Go Scuba Diving or Snorkeling in Nha Trang Bay: Explore the protected Hòn Mun (pronounced HAWN MOON) Marine Park, a biodiversity hotspot renowned for its colorful coral reefs and abundant marine life. Certification courses are also widely available.
Rejuvenate with a Mud Bath and Hot Springs: Experience a therapeutic mud bath at a location like Tháp Bà or I-Resort. The mineral-rich mud is believed to be great for the skin and health.
Explore the Ancient Po Nagar Cham Towers: Visit this impressive complex of towers perched on a hill, built between the 7th and 12th centuries by the Cham people to honor the goddess of the country. (Pronunciation: POE nah-gahr CHAHM).
Take a Cable Car to VinWonders Nha Trang: Ride the world’s longest over-the-sea cable car to Hòn Tre (pronounced HAWN TRAY) Island for a day of fun at the massive amusement and water park.
Visit the Long Sơn Pagoda & White Buddha: Climb the steps to the monumental white Buddha statue seated on a lotus, offering panoramic views over the city. The pagoda is an active Buddhist temple.
Go Island Hopping on a Boat Tour: Take a tour to visit several islands in the bay like Hòn Tằm (pronounced HAWN TAHM) for resorts and mud baths, and Hòn Miễu (pronounced HAWN MEE-EW) for the Tri Nguyên Aquarium.
Hike and Swim at Ba Hồ Waterfalls: Take a day trip north of the city to hike through the jungle to a series of three natural pools, perfect for a cool swim and cliff-jumping (for the adventurous). (Pronunciation: BAH HOH).
Learn Vietnamese Coastal Cooking: Join a cooking class to master local specialties like bún chả cá (fish cake noodle soup) and nem nướng (grilled pork rolls).
Wander through the National Oceanographic Museum of Vietnam: Located on the coastal side of the city, this museum is a fantastic place to learn about the region’s marine ecosystems, with impressive displays of preserved specimens and live marine life.
Cycle the Countryside and Rice Paddies: Rent a bike or take a motorbike tour (Easy Rider style) to explore the tranquil villages, rice fields, and fruit orchards just outside the main city.
Enjoy Water Sports on Nha Trang Beach: Take advantage of the long crescent beach right in the city center for activities like parasailing, jet skiing, or simply relaxing on a rented sun lounger.
Local Tips & Transport
Getting to and from the Airport:
Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR): This airport is approximately 35 km (22 miles) south of Nha Trang city center.
Airport Minibus: An affordable and direct option to the city center, costing around $3 (65,000 VND) per person. It generally drops you near the old airport in the tourist center.
Taxi: Taxis are readily available. A ride to the city center will cost roughly $15–20. Agree on a fixed price before you leave or ensure the meter is running.
Getting Around the City:
Walking: The main beach and tourist center along Trần Phú Street are very walkable.
Motorbike Taxi (Xe Ôm): The quickest way to cover short distances. Always agree on a price beforehand—a ride in the downtown area should be around $1 (20,000–25,000 VND). Helmets are required.
Taxis: Plentiful and reliable companies include Mai Linh and Vinasun. Ensure they use the meter or agree on a fixed rate.
Bus: An extensive and very cheap public bus network is available, with fares typically under $0.50.
Motorbike Rental: Renting a scooter (around $5–7/day) gives you the freedom to explore the countryside and outer attractions. Only do this if you are comfortable and licensed, and always wear a helmet.
The Coastal Lifestyle: Nha Trang is a coastal city and resort town. While it has historical depth, the focus is on relaxation, water activities, and seafood. Expect a lively, somewhat cosmopolitan atmosphere, especially along the main beach strip.
Seafood Focus: Khánh Hòa is famous for its seafood.
Tip: Look for restaurants and street stalls where you can pick your fresh fish, crab, or prawns from tanks, and have them grilled right away. Bargaining the price for the seafood before it’s cooked is common.
Local Dish: Be sure to try Nem Nướng Ninh Hòa (grilled pork sausage with rice paper wraps) and the local fish noodle soup, Bún Chả Cá.
The Heat & Sun: The sun in Nha Trang is intense, especially from April to August.
Tip: Locals avoid the peak midday sun. Plan your beach time for the early morning (before 10 AM) and late afternoon (after 3 PM). Use high-SPF sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat.
Bargaining:
Markets: Bargaining is expected in local markets like Chợ Đầm (pronounced CHUR DUM). Start at about 50% of the asking price and settle around 60-70%.
Taxis/Xe Ôm: Always agree on the price for a xe ôm (motorbike taxi) before the journey.
Hidden Gems & Local Spots:
Hòn Chồng Promontory: A cluster of large rocks on the coast a short distance north of the city center. It’s a great spot for photos and offers a quiet view of the bay and mountains. (Pronunciation: HAWN CHAWNG).
Nha Trang Cathedral (Stone Church): A beautiful French-Gothic style church, known locally as the ‘Stone Church,’ offering a tranquil atmosphere away from the beach.
Am Chúa Temple: A significant historical and cultural site in the Khánh Hòa province, located in the rural area of Diên Khánh, dedicated to the celestial goddess Thiên Y A Na. It’s a great taste of rural temple life.
Top Restaurants
Lạc Cảnh Grilled Beef Restaurant (Quán Bò Nướng Lạc Cảnh) [$10-$20] – Famous for over 40 years, this busy, smoky, no-frills local spot is a must-try for its signature grilled beef marinated with honey and local spices, cooked by you at the table on a charcoal stove. (Pronunciation: Lahk Kang)
Nem Nướng Đặng Văn Quyên [$5-$10] – A bustling local favorite known for authentic Nem Nướng (Ninh Hòa grilled pork rolls), served with fresh herbs, rice paper, and a unique, savory dipping sauce.
Bánh Canh Bà Thừa [$5-$10] – A simple, old-school eatery highly regarded for its delicious bánh canh (thick, tapioca noodle soup), often topped with fish cake or pork knuckle.
Quán Bún Cá Hạnh Nhiên [$5-$10] – A local spot celebrated for one of Nha Trang’s signature dishes, bún cá (fish noodle soup), especially the one with tender, chewy jellyfish (bún cá sứa).
Nha Trang Xưa Restaurant (Nhà Hàng Nha Trang Xưa) [$10-$15] – A rustic-styled restaurant offering a wide range of traditional Vietnamese comfort food from the three regions of Vietnam, specializing in classics like sizzling crepes (bánh xèo).
Quán Bún Cá Sứa Nguyên Loan [$5-$10] – Another popular, long-standing spot for high-quality bún cá and bún cá sứa, praised for its clear, sweet broth and fresh ingredients.
Bánh Can 51 Tô Hiến Thành [$5-$10] – A well-known street food stall specializing in Bánh Can (mini savory pancakes) with various fillings like quail egg, shrimp, or squid, cooked fresh in small clay molds.
Bánh Xèo Chảo 85 Tô Hiến Thành [$5-$10] – A simple but highly recommended place for crispy, large-format bánh xèo (Vietnamese savory pancakes), served with fresh greens and dipping sauce.
Quán Cơm Gà Trâm Anh [$5-$10] – A simple eatery that is a local go-to for Cơm Gà (chicken rice), a Nha Trang specialty where the rice is cooked in chicken broth and served with perfectly seasoned chicken.
Bánh Mì Ngô Gia Tự [$3-$5] – A very popular, simple stall famous for its classic Vietnamese sandwiches (bánh mì), often cited as one of the best in the city.
Phở Hồng [$5-$10] – A traditional, no-frills noodle house known for serving excellent, aromatic Northern-style Phở (beef or chicken noodle soup) in the city.
Nem Nướng Phú Phương [$5-$10] – A favorite among locals for its high-quality Nem Nướng and flavorful dipping sauce, often less crowded than the more famous spots.
Bánh Mì Heo Quay Ngọc Hải [$3-$5] – Celebrated by locals for their crispy pork (heo quay) bánh mì, where the crispy pork skin is a highlight.
Bún Cá Cô Ba [$5-$10] – A reliable and cheap local spot for bún cá (fish cake noodle soup), appreciated for its consistency and authentic flavor.
Bún Cá Lá Cây Bàng [$5-$10] – Highly regarded for its flavorful and authentic bún cá, with many claiming it serves one of the best bowls in Nha Trang.
Quán Ốc Xuân Anh [$10-$20] – A popular snail and seafood eatery that draws a local crowd for its wide variety of creatively prepared shellfish dishes (Ốc – snails, clams, etc.).
Cây Khế Broken Rice (Cơm Tấm Cây Khế) [$5-$10] – A go-to for Cơm Tấm (broken rice), a Southern Vietnamese classic, served with grilled pork chop, egg, and other toppings.
Quán Cà Phê Hòn Chồng [$5-$10] – Located near the scenic Hon Chong rock formations, this local cluster of small eateries is great for fresh seafood and local specialties like Bánh Can.
Quán Chè Sài Gòn [$3-$5] – Not a main meal restaurant, but a famous spot for a wide variety of chè (sweet Vietnamese desserts/pudding), popular with local families.
Quán Vịt Tiềm 69 Bạch Đằng [$15-$25] – A favorite with locals for its signature duck hotpot (Vịt Tiềm), which is rich, herbal, and perfect for a cooler evening meal.
Phở Gốc Hà Nội [$5-$10] – Another solid option for Northern-style Phở with a loyal local following, bringing the flavors of Hanoi to the coastal city.
Bien Dong Seafood (Hải Sản Biển Đông) [$20-$40 per person (market price for seafood)] – A highly recommended, non-touristy seafood restaurant where you choose your fresh catch from tanks and have it cooked to order. Prices are generally more reasonable than beachfront venues. (Pronunciation: Bee-en Dong)
Thanh Sương Seafood Restaurant [$25-$50 per person (market price for seafood)] – A well-regarded, luxurious spot with sea views known for its fresh, prepared-on-site seafood, including dishes like grilled lobster and apricot fish salad.
Champa Garden Nha Trang Restaurant [$20-$40] – Located in the tranquil Champa Towers area, this spot offers a pleasant setting and an extensive menu of Vietnamese and seafood dishes.
Nhà Hàng Hải Sản Ngon Gallery [$20-$40] – Known for its lavish seafood buffet that includes fresh lobster, this restaurant offers a wide variety of Vietnamese and international cuisine in an elegant setting.
Costa Seafood Nha Trang [$30-$60] – A well-known seafood restaurant located right by the sea, offering a wide selection of fresh catches and a pleasant dining ambiance.
Hải Sản Cảng Biển [$20-$40] – Known for its fresh seafood and casual, welcoming atmosphere, this spot is popular with local families and a good alternative to the main tourist strip.
Canh Buom Seafood Restaurant [$20-$40] – A popular, affordable seafood spot, often praised for its fresh dishes and enthusiastic service, despite being located in the city center.
Lang Chai Floating Restaurant (Nhà Hàng Nổi Làng Chài) [$30-$60] – A unique dining experience on Tri Nguyen Island (near Nha Trang), offering extremely fresh seafood chosen directly from the surrounding cages.
MẮM Restaurant [$15-$30] – A contemporary Vietnamese restaurant that offers a refined and modern take on traditional Central Vietnamese cuisine, with stylish presentation and a focus on local ingredients.
Ot Hiem Vietnamese Kitchen [$15-$30] – Considered one of the best for traditional Vietnamese cuisine, served in a cozy, modern space designed to feel like a Vietnamese home.
Galangal [$15-$30] – Features an open-kitchen concept and a creative menu that blends beloved Vietnamese street foods and fresh seafood with a more refined presentation.
La Cala – Gusto Italiano [$20-$40] – A Mediterranean-style restaurant offering a unique, non-Vietnamese option with beautiful views and a menu crafted with high-quality ingredients.
Pizza 4P’s Nha Trang [$20-$40] – While an international chain, it’s a favorite among locals and expats for its fresh, locally made burrata cheese and Japanese-inspired pizzas, a unique fusion experience in Vietnam.
Ăn Thôi [$10-$20] – A cozy, centrally-located spot known for its local-style home cooking, offering wallet-friendly traditional dishes in an air-conditioned, casual environment.
Nhà Bếp Nha Trang [$15-$25] – Specializing in Vietnamese comfort food, the rustic simplicity comes through in both its décor and authentic, flavorful menu.
Xóm Mới Garden (Vườn Xóm Mới) [$15-$30] – A garden setting offering a diverse menu that is popular with locals, including Vietnamese dishes, seafood, and BBQ.
Little Corner (Góc Nhỏ) [$10-$20] – A well-liked, cozy spot for those seeking a mix of international and modern Vietnamese dishes, often noted for its great ambiance.
Altitude Rooftop Bar & Lounge [$40-$70] – Located on a high floor of a prominent hotel, offering delectable international and Vietnamese cuisine alongside a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and ocean, perfect for sunset.
Dining by the Bay Restaurant (Six Senses, Ninh Vân Bay) [$80-$150] – A true fine dining experience located outside the city in the wilderness of Ninh Van, specializing in unique delicacies and regional Vietnamese dishes using fresh, local, and organic ingredients.
Ana Beach House Restaurant [$50-$80] – A sophisticated beachfront venue offering a spacious patio with stunning views and a high-quality menu of Western and authentic traditional Vietnamese cuisine.
Skylight Nha Trang [$40-$70] – While primarily known as a bar, its Lá Kitchen restaurant offers a unique cuisine and vibrant ambiance, serving high-end Vietnamese and international fare on a stunning rooftop.
Blue Lagoon Restaurant (Vinpearl Luxury Nha Trang) [$60-$100] – Situated in a luxury resort on Hon Tre Island, this restaurant promises an unparalleled dining experience with exquisite food and sea views.
Sailing Club Nha Trang [$30-$60] – An iconic beachfront venue that, while having a vibrant club atmosphere, offers a respected dining experience with separate kitchens for Indian, Western, and Vietnamese cuisine.
Hispania Nha Trang [$60-$90] – A high-end Spanish restaurant led by a Michelin-starred chef, bringing refined European flavors to the heart of Nha Trang for a change of pace.
The Square (Novotel Nha Trang) [$30-$50] – Known for its daily buffet dinners that often feature extensive seafood and international options, a reliable mid-to-high-range choice.
LIVIN – BBQ & Grill [$25-$45] – Highly-rated for its quality American-style BBQ, including smoked brisket and ribs, offering a unique change from Vietnamese flavors.
Ganesh Indian Restaurant [$15-$30] – Widely regarded as the best authentic Indian restaurant in Nha Trang, offering classic dishes like Tandoori and a variety of curries.
MIX Greek Restaurant [$15-$30] – A popular, non-Vietnamese option for Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, well-known for its large, fresh platters and generous portions.
Alpaca Homestyle Cafe [$10-$20] – Tucked away from the main tourist area, this cozy cafe is run by an expat couple and offers homemade European-style food and a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere.
Cactus Bogosov Mexican Food [$10-$20] – A popular spot known for its delicious Mexican-inspired food, offering a diverse, lively atmosphere and affordable prices.
Nôm Nôm Nha Trang [$10-$20] – A restaurant offering a blend of Asian and Western food, with a notable and extensive vegetarian/vegan menu, making it an ideal choice for diverse groups.
An Vien Restaurant [$15-$30] – Situated in a tranquil, garden-like setting, offering a mix of authentic Vietnamese and international dishes, perfect for a peaceful meal away from the hustle.
Vĩnh Hy Bay Floating Restaurants (Vịnh Vĩnh Hy) [$30-$60 per person (market price)] – Located outside Nha Trang in Ninh Thuận province (a popular day trip), these floating rafts offer an authentic, remote seafood experience where you eat your ultra-fresh catch right over the water.
Quán Vườn Xoài [$15-$30] – A restaurant with a beautiful garden setting, known for its traditional Vietnamese cuisine and its quiet, relaxing ambiance, appealing to families and couples.
Quán Cơm Niêu Huyền Hương [$10-$20] – A specialized restaurant for Cơm Niêu (clay pot rice), offering a diverse menu of traditional dishes from all three regions of Vietnam. (Pronunciation: Nyooh Hwen Huong)
Boma Beach Club [$30-$50] – Located north of the city center, offering a laid-back seaside setting with great views, serving sharing-style Spanish tapas, fresh seafood, and authentic Vietnamese food.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Skylight Nha Trang: Located on the 43rd floor of the Havana Hotel, this is one of Nha Trang’s premier rooftop destinations, offering a stunning 360-degree view of the city and the bay. It’s famous for its signature cocktails and glass skywalk.
Altitude Rooftop Bar: Situated atop the Sheraton Nha Trang Hotel & Spa, this elegant bar boasts breathtaking panoramic ocean views, making it a perfect spot for sophisticated evening drinks and classic cocktails.
Sailing Club Nha Trang: A legendary beachfront venue right on Trần Phú Street, famous for its chilled-out day vibe that transforms into a lively nightspot with creative cocktails and a dance floor by the sand.
The Happy Frog: Found near the main beach area, this cozy and welcoming spot is known for its friendly service, strong drinks, and laid-back atmosphere, popular with both tourists and locals.
Mix Bar: A popular choice in the tourist area, known for its extensive drinks menu and relaxed setting, offering everything from classic cocktails to refreshing local beers.
Rooftop Bar & Lounge: Perched on top of the Regalia Gold Hotel, this rooftop offers another vantage point for city lights and ocean breezes, specializing in well-crafted drinks.
The Beach Bar: Located right on the sands of the main beach, this casual bar is a fantastic place to enjoy a cocktail while listening to the waves crash.
Guru Sports Bar: Found centrally near the night market, while primarily a sports bar, it also serves a good range of cocktails and has a vibrant atmosphere, often showing major international games.
Louisiane Brewhouse: While a microbrewery, this spot on the beach also serves a full cocktail menu alongside its craft beers in a beautiful setting with a pool facing the ocean.
Yasaka Saigon – Nhatrang Hotel Pool Bar: A relaxed pool-side setting near the center of the city, perfect for enjoying tropical cocktails in a more tranquil environment.
The Refinery: A centrally located bar known for its intimate atmosphere and focus on quality spirits and classic cocktail preparations.
The Factory: Located slightly away from the main beachfront but still easily accessible, this spot is popular for its industrial-chic design and varied menu of drinks and music.
Bamboo Bar: A long-standing favorite on the central strip of Trần Phú Street, this bar offers a casual place to relax and people-watch while sipping on a tropical drink.
The Pub at InterContinental Nha Trang: An upscale hotel bar offering a sophisticated environment and expertly mixed cocktails, ideal for a quieter, refined evening drink.
Why Not Bar: A well-known spot on the central street that transitions from a casual cocktail bar earlier in the evening to a lively dance spot later at night.
ZIMA Club Nha Trang: A high-energy, popular nightclub located centrally, known for its elaborate light shows, VIP service, and hosting famous local and international DJs playing EDM, House, and commercial hits.
Rocky Club: Located in the city’s main entertainment area, this club is famous for its large dance floor, pulsating music, and a strong focus on a lively, youthful crowd.
Club C: A trendy and vibrant nightclub situated near the beach, frequently featuring themed nights and a mix of popular music genres.
The Rabbit Hole: A newer addition to the Nha Trang nightlife scene, this club provides a more underground feel and often focuses on electronic music.
Summer Beach Club: Located near the beach, this venue transitions into a lively dance club in the later hours, offering an open-air party atmosphere.
Locus Club: Found in the heart of the city, Locus is a well-regarded spot for late-night revelry, attracting a diverse crowd with a mix of commercial and international tracks.
The Wave Bar & Club: Offering a fusion of bar and club atmosphere, this location provides good music and a space to dance, particularly popular on weekends.
Vũ Bar: A local favorite for those seeking a more Vietnamese club experience, offering local music and a buzzing atmosphere.
H Club Nha Trang: An energetic spot that keeps the party going until the early morning, known for its strong drink deals and loud, pulsating music.
Singing Bird Club: Located a bit further from the main tourist strip, this club caters more to a local clientele and offers a lively, authentic Vietnamese nightclub experience.