12 Best Things to Do in Nha Trang, Vietnam

For years, travelers from all over the world have been drawn to the picturesque coastal city of Nha Trang in Vietnam. When exploring Nha Trang, travelers can immerse themselves in its rich historical and cultural heritage, in addition to enjoying scuba diving and the beautiful beaches that the city is famous for.

If you are looking for a travel destination with breathtaking natural attractions, Nha Trang beaches should be at the top of your list. These beaches boast towering rock cliffs that create a stunning backdrop. Additionally, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Long Son Pagoda, where you can admire its intricate dragon mosaics. Not only will you get to experience the serenity of a temple visit, but you’ll also be rewarded with a magnificent view of the city.

For more travel inspiration in this historic city, explore our curated list of the best things to do in Nha Trang.

Nha Trang Beach

Nha Trang’s primary beach gracefully curves around the bay, making it a delightful destination. While it may not be the most picturesque beach you will ever encounter, it offers a wide range of amenities in close proximity. In addition to its inviting sands and clear waters, ideal for sunbathing and swimming, you’ll find a pleasant boardwalk for leisurely strolls, as well as numerous gardens, playgrounds, and sports facilities nearby.

Furthermore, the six-kilometer stretch of sand is lined with hotels, restaurants, cafes, and bars, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Occasionally, beach vendors pass by, offering fruits, drinks, and seafood.

Nha Trang provides an excellent urban beach experience, provided you visit during the right season. When the weather is overcast and the waves are rough, the beach can be disappointing. During such times, the beach may appear as a strip of brown sand with vacant beach chairs and few visitors in sight.

Alexandre Yersin Museum

A museum dedicated to the French-Swiss bacteriologist who co-discovered the bacteria responsible for bubonic plague might appear unusual in Nha Trang. However, Alexandre Yersin had strong connections to the country and conducted much of his groundbreaking research while residing in Vietnam.

The museum, situated in Yersin’s former residence in Nha Trang, boasts an extensive collection of original equipment and furniture, including his desk and bed, as well as letters and documents. Additionally, there is a significant assortment of photographs taken by Yersin during his travels around the country, focusing on Vietnam’s various ethnic groups.

While Yersin is primarily renowned for his scientific and technological contributions, he engaged in various other endeavors during his time in Vietnam. He played a pivotal role in introducing and cultivating rubber trees in Southeast Asia, along with initiating a project to acclimatize the quinine tree (utilized in malaria treatment) to Vietnam. The exhibits, presented in English and Vietnamese, also include short films.

Long Son Pagoda

Speaking of temples, no trip to Nha Trang can be considered complete without a visit to Long Son Pagoda – the town’s most renowned and awe-inspiring Buddhist temple. Constructed in 1886, the pagoda is a captivating sight: it features majestic dragon mosaics adorning the roof and entrance, and its interior houses an impressive ceremonial hall.

Nevertheless, the primary attraction is the gleaming white Buddha statue that stands at an imposing height of 24 meters. Perched atop a hill, Long Son Pagoda attracts many visitors who come to admire not only the panoramic views of Nha Trang but also to immerse themselves in the tranquil atmosphere and marvel at the remarkable architecture that surrounds them.

Po Nagar Towers

Situated on the banks of the Cai River, the remarkably well-preserved Po Nagar Towers form an imposing and captivating sight, earning their reputation as one of Nha Trang’s most popular attractions. Some of these towers date back to as early as 780 AD, representing some of the Cham Kingdom’s finest architectural achievements.

In addition to the remarkable brickwork of the towers, visitors can explore exquisite stone statues and altars, adorned with intricately carved inscriptions. The site is dedicated to the goddess of the land, Yan Po Nagar, and it continues to be a place of worship to this day. When you visit, you’ll encounter a diverse congregation of Buddhists, Cham, Chinese, and Vietnamese, all paying homage amidst the impressive ancient temples, columns, and meditation halls that grace the complex.

Vinpearl Cable Car

Connecting Hon Tre Island to Nha Trang, the Vinpearl Cable Car offers a 3,320-meter-long journey across Nha Trang Bay, leading you to the exciting Vinpearl Amusement Park. This scenic ride takes approximately 15 minutes to complete, and the expansive cable system suspends you between seven striking red and white towers, resembling miniature Eiffel Towers.

As the cable cars traverse at an elevation of approximately 40 meters above the ground and sea, passengers can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views. This unique approach to reaching the amusement park adds an extra layer of excitement to your visit.

Vinpearl Land

Vietnam has its very own version of Disneyland, and it is located on Vinpearl Island. This unique combination of amusement park and water park promises excitement and fun for visitors of all ages. You’ll have the chance to enjoy thrilling rides, interact with iconic cartoon characters, and even observe some exotic wildlife.

The water park at Vinpearl occupies a substantial portion of the complex, featuring lazy rivers, exhilarating water slides, an aquatic obstacle course, and a beach area complete with comfortable sun loungers where you can relax and cool off.

The amusement park section offers an extensive arcade area, various rides, enchanting Disney-style castles, a 3D movie theater, and captivating live performances by talented dancers and acrobats.

Situated right beside the ocean, the Vinpearl Sky Wheel adds to the excitement as one of the world’s tallest Ferris wheels, towering at 120 meters. A complete rotation on this wheel takes about 15 minutes, treating you to breathtaking views of the bay, especially enchanting when the night falls.

Monkey Island

Located a short and picturesque ferry ride from Nha Trang, Monkey Island derives its name from the approximately thousand monkeys that call it home. Originally bred for export to the Soviet Union, the program was abandoned during the American War, and now these playful primates can be spotted almost everywhere on the island.

In addition to observing their amusing antics, visitors can relax on the beach and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere or partake in activities such as swimming, kayaking, jet-skiing, or scuba diving in the surrounding waters. Furthermore, there are a couple of charming shops and cafes to explore, along with a thrilling go-kart track for those seeking some racing excitement.

Ba Ho Waterfall

Situated approximately an hour’s drive to the north of Nha Trang, Ba Ho Waterfall comprises three distinct and equally picturesque cascades nestled along a swiftly flowing river, enveloped by dense jungle. The rugged rocks that adorn the waterfalls and protrude from the lush forest create a stunning spectacle. Some adventurous visitors even dare to dive from the craggy clifftop of the first waterfall into the pool below.

Named ‘waterfall with three basins’ in Vietnamese, Ba Ho’s exceptional natural beauty makes it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts. Moreover, there is an excellent hiking trail that follows the river and meanders through the jungle to reach the other two waterfalls.

Hon Chong

Extending into the sea, Hon Chong promontory presents a picturesque spectacle. The vista it offers is even more enchanting, with forest-clad mountains and distant islands glistening across the waters. In addition to exploring the rocky terrain and capturing the breathtaking scenery in photographs, visitors can also discover the nearby local beach, known for its tranquility compared to Nha Trang’s main beach.

At this location, you will encounter a charming Ruong house showcasing splendid traditional architecture, along with several small restaurants and cafes. Just offshore lies the petite island of Hon Do, featuring a charming and serene Buddhist temple for you to leisurely explore.

National Oceanographic Museum of Vietnam

The Nha Trang Oceanography Institute, established in the early 20th century, stands as one of Vietnam’s oldest scientific research institutions. It also ranks as the largest research center in Vietnam dedicated to the study of marine biodiversity and ecology.

Housed within a charming French-colonial structure, the institute’s museum section hosts an extensive collection of marine and avian specimens, as well as informative displays and exhibits designed to educate the public about marine conservation and aquatic life.

Notable attractions within the museum include an 18-meter-long humpback whale skeleton discovered underground, transparent tanks containing pufferfish and turtles, and even examples of local watercraft.

Visitors are encouraged to explore the museum freely, with exhibits presented in English that delve into sacred sea-related legends, illustrate the destructive force of tsunamis, and delve into the fishing culture of the region.

Nha Trang Cathedral

Nha Trang Cathedral, located in the beautiful city of Nha Trang, is a stunning architectural masterpiece that was constructed between 1928 and 1933. This magnificent cathedral showcases an exquisite design inspired by the French Gothic style, adding to its charm and allure.

Nha Trang offers stunning stained-glass windows and a magnificent cathedral situated on a picturesque hillside, providing travelers with breathtaking views.

While exploring the cathedral, travelers will be captivated by its unique blend of local influences and French architectural styles. Inside, one can admire the striking red neon crucifixes and blue neon arches that beautifully embellish the church.

While traveling, you will have the opportunity to witness a remarkable sight – a unique white neon halo adorning the head of a statue depicting Saint Mary.

Yang Bay Waterfalls

Located approximately 45 minutes from Nha Trang, these cascading waterfalls reach a height of 80 meters and are enveloped by dense, pristine forests and untouched wilderness. At their base, the waterfalls culminate in a 10-meter drop into a refreshing lake, inviting you to dip your toes while observing colorful fish swimming nearby.

For those seeking adventure, mountain trails run alongside the waterfall. While they can be slippery and challenging to navigate, they offer a path to the waterfall’s summit, providing breathtaking views of the lush surrounding jungle.

The expansive 570-hectare valley encompassing the waterfalls offers a variety of activities, including a whimsical fairy garden, a small zoo, performances of ethnic music, and the option to access hot springs for a fee. Additionally, you can visit the nearby “Wishing Tree,” a 500-year-old tree cherished as a spiritual symbol by the local Raglai community.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Nha Trang: Best Areas & Hotels