Top Gems of Nha Trang Islands That You Must Explore

Known for its turquoise waters and vibrant marine life, Nha Trang island escapes offer more than just beautiful beaches. Each island has its own charm—from peaceful retreats to adventure-packed spots. Whether you’re seeking quiet relaxation, snorkeling adventures, or authentic local culture, Nha Trang’s island gems promise unforgettable experiences. 

In this guide, we will uncover the top Nha Trang island destinations you shouldn’t miss—perfect for families and couples looking to explore the best of Vietnam’s coastal paradise.

The Most Stunning Nha Trang Islands

Nha Trang is home to over 19 picturesque islands, each offering its own slice of paradise. Whether you’re a beach lover, snorkeling enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Nha Trang island escapes cater to every kind of traveler. 

Below are the top islands in Nha Trang that promise unforgettable experiences.

Hon Mun Island – Snorkeling Paradise in Nha Trang

Just 10 kilometers off the Nha Trang coast, Hon Mun Island is a top-rated Nha Trang island destination, famed for its black volcanic cliffs and vibrant marine ecosystem. Recognized as Vietnam’s first official marine protected area, it boasts over 350 species of coral and is a favorite among divers, snorkelers, and marine researchers.

What sets Hon Mun apart is its clear waters and untouched coral reefs, making it a living underwater museum. The island is uninhabited and does not allow overnight stays, preserving its natural beauty and ensuring a peaceful experience for day visitors.

Highlights:

• A designated marine conservation area renowned for its coral diversity and clear water
• Considered Vietnam’s top snorkeling and scuba diving destination
• Named for its black cliffs, which stand in stark contrast to the turquoise sea

Hon Mun Island offers vibrant coral reefs for unforgettable snorkeling.

Things to Do:

• Join a guided scuba diving or snorkeling tour to discover colorful coral gardens and tropical fish.
• Ride a glass-bottom boat for a relaxed way to observe marine life without getting wet.
• Participate in underwater photography excursions or beginner diving classes.
• Enjoy a seafood lunch on tour boats while anchored in calm waters near the island.

Travel Tips:

• There are no hotels or overnight facilities on the island, so all visits are day trips.
• Only licensed tour operators are permitted to bring guests, ensuring sustainable tourism.
• Bring reef-safe sunscreen, drinking water, and avoid stepping on or touching coral.
• Many full-day boat tours include Hon Mun as the first stop before visiting other islands.

How to Get There:  To reach Hon Mun Island, travelers can depart from Cau Da Port in Nha Trang and take a boat ride that typically lasts 30 to 45 minutes, depending on weather and sea conditions. 

Hon Tam Island: Luxury Meets Nature

Hon Tam Island, located just 7 kilometers off the coast of Nha Trang, is a Nha Trang island gem that blends eco-tourism with high-end resort experiences. Known for its calm waves and golden beaches, it’s a peaceful retreat from the city and a favorite for couples and wellness travelers.

The island is famous for its natural hot mineral mud baths, lush greenery, and tranquil coastline. Visitors can enjoy both relaxation and outdoor activities while surrounded by the comforts of upscale resorts like MerPerle Hon Tam.

Highlights:

• The eco-friendly island is renowned for its serene beaches and tranquil atmosphere.
• Popular for mineral mud therapy and luxury resort experiences.
• Ideal for a peaceful escape without going far from Nha Trang city.

Hon Tam blends upscale resorts with lush natural surroundings.

Things to Do:

• Relax with a spa or hot mud bath session by the beach.
  
• Go kayaking along the calm shoreline or enjoy a beachside picnic.
• Spend the day at MerPerle Hon Tam Resort with full-service amenities.
• Take a stroll along garden trails and enjoy the island’s natural landscape.

Travel Tips:

• Perfect for couples and wellness-focused travelers seeking a quiet day.
• Less crowded during mid-week; ideal for spa days or romantic getaways.
• Day tours often include entrance tickets, transport, and lunch.
• Bring swimwear and flip-flops for both beach and mud bath activities.

How to Get There: From Nha Trang Port, it takes about 10 to 15 minutes by speedboat to reach Hon Tam Island, with boats departing hourly between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM.

Hon Tre Island – Best for Families & Fun

As the largest island in Nha Trang Bay, Hon Tre Island is a dynamic destination packed with entertainment and relaxation. Just 5 kilometers from the city center, it’s easily accessible yet feels like a world of its own. Families, especially those with children, flock here for its famous amusement park, pristine beaches, and upscale resorts.

What makes Hon Tre stand out is its seamless blend of natural beauty and man-made attractions. From the moment you arrive—whether by ferry or the world’s longest overwater cable car—you’re greeted with scenic views, soft sands, and endless things to do.

Highlights:

• Home to VinWonders Nha Trang, a massive amusement and water park complex with rollercoasters, a wave pool, an aquarium, and more.
• Features Bai Trũ Beach, a long and clean stretch of sand ideal for swimming and relaxing.
• Numerous luxury hotels and beach resorts make it a great option for overnight stays.

Families love Hon Tre for its amusement parks and kid-friendly beaches.

Things To Do:

• Spend the day at VinWonders, exploring rides, games, and water activities suitable for all ages.
• Visit Con Se Tre, a cultural village built entirely of bamboo that recreates a traditional Vietnamese lifestyle.
• Enjoy jet skiing, parasailing, or just lounging by the beach.
• Try local seafood dishes at beachfront restaurants within the resort areas.

Travel Tips:

• Ideal for family day trips or weekend getaways with plenty of activities for kids.
• Get there early to avoid long lines, especially during weekends and holidays.
• Consider staying overnight if you want to explore both the amusement park and the beach at a relaxed pace.
• Entrance to VinWonders is ticketed and includes the cable car ride.

How to Get There: You can reach Hon Tre Island via high-speed ferry or by taking the iconic Vinpearl Cable Car from Vinpearl Harbor in Nha Trang, which offers panoramic views across the bay.

Diep Son Island – Walk on Water

Located about 60 kilometers north of Nha Trang in Van Phong Bay, Diep Son Island is actually a small archipelago of three islets connected by a natural underwater sandbar. Often called “the path in the middle of the sea,” this surreal destination has gained viral fame thanks to its picture-perfect scenery.

Unlike the more developed Nha Trang islands, Diep Son remains quiet, rustic, and unspoiled. There are few facilities, which makes it ideal for those seeking a raw, nature-centric experience.

Highlights:

• Features a 700-meter-long sand path that appears only during low tide, allowing visitors to walk between islands in shallow water.
• The tranquil setting, with green islets and crystal-clear sea, creates a perfect scene for photos and drone shots.
• A peaceful vibe with minimal tourist infrastructure preserves its authenticity.

You can walk on water along Diep Son Island’s famous sand path.

Things To Do:

• Arrive early to walk the sandbar while it’s fully visible and the tide is low.
• Go for a peaceful swim or lounge on the soft white-sand beaches.
• Capture stunning sunrise or sunset photos with uninterrupted coastal views.
• Explore on foot, visit small fishing hamlets, and interact with friendly locals.

Travel Tips:

• Bring essentials such as water, sunscreen, snacks, and hats—there are limited shops.
• The island is best visited in the early morning, when the sandbar is fully exposed.
• There are a few small eateries and camping areas, but no luxury services.
• Suitable for solo travelers, couples, and photographers looking for unique landscapes.

How to Get There: To reach Diep Son Island, travel by car or bus to Van Gia Port (about 60 km from Nha Trang), then take a 30-minute boat ride across the bay to the island group.

Hon Noi (Yen Island): Twin Beaches & Swiftlet Nests

Unlike most Nha Trang island destinations, Hon Noi (also known as Yen Island) is managed for both tourism and environmental conservation. Located about 25 kilometers from the mainland, this island is famous for its rare double beaches and for being a major habitat of swiftlets—birds whose edible nests are harvested for traditional health products.

As a strictly protected area operated by the Sanest Khanh Hoa Bird Nest Company, access to Hon Noi is limited and highly regulated. This ensures a low-impact, eco-conscious visitor experience, and it also makes a visit here feel special and exclusive.

Highlights:

• Hon Noi features a “twin beach”: two crescent-shaped shorelines meeting at a narrow strip of white sand, with one side offering warm currents and the other cool waters.
• The island is home to thousands of swiftlets, and visitors can see specially built nesting caves along the cliffs.
• Daily visitor numbers are capped at 100 people, with only one tour boat departing per day, ensuring a quiet and protected atmosphere.

Hon Noi stuns with twin beaches and swiftlet nest-covered cliffs.

Things to Do:

• Climb 220 stone steps to the top of Du Ha Mountain, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the island and sea.
• Swim or relax along the twin beaches, with loungers and beach huts available for day visitors.
• Join a guided walk to learn about swiftlet nesting and the traditional harvesting process.
• Snorkel around the shallow reefs or simply explore the coastline on foot.

Travel Tips:

• Tours must be booked in advance through the official Sanest tour provider, and all visitors are asked to sanitize their footwear before boarding.
• Bring essentials such as sunscreen, water, and light snacks—there are only limited services on the island.
• Hon Noi is ideal for eco-conscious travelers, birdwatchers, and those seeking quiet nature experiences.
• Best time to visit is between March and September, during the dry season when sea conditions are calm.

How to Get There: Visitors must join a guided day tour departing from Cau Da Port in Nha Trang. The boat trip to Hon Noi takes approximately 1 hour, with tours typically beginning around 7:30 AM.

>> See Tour: Vietnam Adventure Tour In Depth 30 days

The Lesser-Known Nha Trang Islands 

While Hon Mun and Hon Tre often steal the spotlight, several lesser-known Nha Trang island getaways offer travelers a more peaceful, authentic experience. 

These quieter islands are ideal for eco-tourists, culture lovers, and anyone looking to escape the crowds. Below are two unique options worth adding to your itinerary.

Hon Ong (Whale Island) – Eco-Friendly Retreat

About 110 kilometers north of Nha Trang, Hon Ong—commonly known as Whale Island—is a hidden gem tucked away in Van Phong Bay. This secluded paradise is renowned for its eco-conscious approach to tourism and its pristine, untouched natural surroundings. 

Unlike other Nha Trang islands, Hon Ong is home to only one resort, built entirely with natural materials like bamboo and palm leaves. Guests come here to disconnect from city life and immerse themselves in nature. There are no roads, motorbikes, or urban noise—just waves, wind, and wildlife.

Things to Do:

• Snorkel along coral-lined shores and discover colorful marine life in crystal-clear waters.
• Kayak around the island’s calm coves and observe tropical fish beneath the surface.
• Go hiking through light forest trails and enjoy birdwatching or coastal photography.
• Relax on soft beaches with hardly a footprint in sight.

Hon Ong welcomes eco-travelers with quiet, nature-friendly stays.

Unique Feature:

• Whale Island’s single eco-resort emphasizes sustainability, with solar power, limited plastic use, and eco-education for guests. 
• The island remains uninhabited outside of the resort, ensuring a tranquil and environmentally balanced experience.
  

How to Get There: Visitors can reach Hon Ong by driving or taking a bus to Dam Mon Port (about 90–100 km from Nha Trang), followed by a free resort-organized boat transfer to the island. The full journey typically takes 3 to 4 hours.

Hon Mieu – Traditional Fishing Village Experience

Situated just offshore from Nha Trang, Hon Mieu Island is one of the most accessible islands in the bay and offers a fascinating look at local life. Home to around 3,000 residents, Hon Mieu blends modest tourism with vibrant fishing culture. It’s ideal for half-day trips filled with seafood, sights, and social interaction.

At the heart of the island’s attractions is the Tri Nguyen Aquarium, a structure designed like a pirate ship, sitting beside Bai Soi Beach. The aquarium contains multiple levels, fish tanks, and a viewing deck, making it both quirky and educational.

Things to Do:

• Visit the Tri Nguyen Aquarium to see turtles, reef fish, and sea creatures up close.
• Walk around fishing hamlets and interact with locals as they go about their daily lives.
• Sample ultra-fresh seafood at dockside eateries or enjoy a simple BBQ on the beach.
• Swim or relax at Bai Tranh Beach, a short boat ride away from the island.

Hon Mieu gives visitors a glimpse of traditional coastal life.

Unique Feature:

• Hon Mieu captures the essence of traditional Vietnamese island life, with colorful boats, floating fish farms, and family-run seafood stalls creating a lively yet authentic atmosphere.

How to Get There: Hop on a 10-minute boat ride from Cầu Đá Port in Nha Trang. Boats run frequently throughout the day, and some island-hopping tours include Hon Mieu as their first or last stop.

>> You might want to know: Perfect Nha Trang Island Hopping Journeys

When to Go: Best Time to Visit Nha Trang Islands

Thanks to its tropical climate, Nha Trang island getaways are enjoyable almost year-round. However, knowing the best time to visit can help you make the most of your trip—whether you’re snorkeling, island hopping, or simply relaxing on the beach.

Dry Season (February to May): Ideal for Island Adventures

From February to May, Nha Trang experiences its most favorable weather. This is the peak of the dry season, with calm seas, clear skies, and water temperatures averaging 26–28°C. Visibility is excellent for snorkeling and diving, especially around Hon Mun and Hon Tam. This period also avoids the summer tourist rush, making it perfect for travelers who want good weather without the crowds.

• Best for: snorkeling, swimming, kayaking, and long beach days.
• What to pack: sunglasses, sunscreen, light clothing, and a wide-brimmed hat.

Island hopping thrives during Nha Trang’s dry season, Feb to May.

Rainy Season (September to November): Fewer Crowds, Limited Access

The rainy season brings short but frequent showers and rougher seas, which may lead to canceled boat trips or delayed itineraries. However, it’s also the quietest time to visit, and the lush landscapes make for stunning scenery. While beach activities may be limited, you can explore indoor attractions like the Oceanographic Museum or VinWonders’ indoor zones.

• Best for: travelers seeking peace, lower prices, and indoor cultural activities.
• What to watch out for: limited water sports, slippery trails, and occasional storm warnings.

The rainy season (Sep–Nov) is perfect for visiting the Oceanography Institute.

Tips for Avoiding Crowds & Maximizing Comfort

• Travel on weekdays instead of weekends to enjoy quieter beaches and shorter queues at ports.
• Early morning departures (around 7:30 – 8:30) offer smoother seas and better light for photography.
• Be mindful of sun exposure—Nha Trang receives over 300 sunny days per year, so sea breezes can be deceptive. Hydrate regularly and wear UV protection.

Summary:

• Best months to visit: February to May
• Busiest period: June to August (book early if traveling during summer)
• Avoid if seeking water activities: October and November

>> Read more: Where To Visit And What To Do In Nha Trang For First-Timers

What to Pack & Prepare for Nha Trang Island Trips

To make the most of your Nha Trang island getaway, a bit of thoughtful packing goes a long way. From beach gear to eco-friendly must-haves, here’s what you should bring along.

Essentials for Island Adventures

• Reef-safe sunscreen: Protect your skin and marine ecosystems while snorkeling or swimming.
• Swimwear and quick-dry clothing: Bring at least one extra set if you’re planning to kayak or snorkel.
• Waterproof bag or dry pouch: Useful for storing phones, cash, and electronics on boat trips.
• Cash: Some islands and local vendors do not accept cards, so bring small denominations.

Health & Comfort on the Go

• Motion sickness pills: Boat rides can get choppy, especially during the windy months.
• Refillable water bottle: Stay hydrated under the tropical sun while reducing plastic waste.
• Light snacks: Granola bars or fruit are helpful between meals, especially on remote islands.
• Snorkeling mask (optional): Some tours provide gear, but bringing your own ensures comfort and hygiene.

Respect for Local Culture

• Temple-ready attire: If your itinerary includes local villages or spiritual sites, pack a scarf or light cover-up for shoulders and knees.
• Polite beachwear: Bikini-friendly areas are common, but modesty is appreciated near fishing villages or homestays.

Eco-Friendly Travel Tips

• Avoid single-use plastics: Bring your own cutlery or metal straw if planning a picnic.
• Leave no trace: Take your trash with you, especially on less-developed islands like Diep Son.
• Respect marine life: Don’t touch corals or collect shells; admire with your eyes and lens only.

Start Your Nha Trang Island Adventure Today

The Nha Trang islands provide a unique experience for every type of traveler, whether you’re looking for vibrant marine life, tranquil beach escapes, or cultural experiences on the water. With careful planning, the right timing, and a flexible itinerary, your island-hopping adventure can be both unforgettable and stress-free.

Ready to plan your ideal getaway? Let Asia Pioneer Travel help you customize a seamless adventure in Nha Trang Island—tailored to your interests, schedule, and travel style. Contact us today to start crafting your tropical escape!