Located on the south-central coast of Vietnam, Nha Trang Bay is one of Southeast Asia’s most appealing seaside destinations. With its clean beaches, turquoise waters, and dynamic city vibe, the bay offers a blend of natural beauty and urban convenience. It’s not just a place for lounging in the sun—it’s a destination that combines relaxation, adventure, and culture in equal measure. A paragliding festival has taken place Nha Trang city, the central province of Khanh Hoa in Vietnam, an activity to help stimulate domestic tourism in the post-pandemic period.
Addressing the opening ceremony on the beach of Nha Trang Bay on July 1, Do Van Tiep, Director of the Hon En Tourism and Adventure Sports Co. Ltd – the festival organiser, said he hopes the development of paragliding in particular and adventure sports in general will help diversify high-end tourism products in Nha Trang, thus attracting new travellers and providing fresh experiences for existing ones.
Besides, the festival was also a chance for Nha Trang and Khanh Hoa to get established in the “paragliding map” of Vietnam and the world, he noted.
The three-day event featured competitions along with powered and non-powered paragliding, with the participation of about 100 pilots from clubs across Vietnam.
Tourists could also register to try paragliding with pilots, an opportunity for them to enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the beauty of Nha Trang.
Cung Quynh Anh, Deputy Director of the Khanh Hoa Tourism Department, expressed the hope that with this new experience and many other summer tourism activities to be held, the province will welcome more visitors and achieve growth targets.
Marine Sports and More
For active travelers, Nha Trang Bay is a playground. Snorkeling and scuba diving are the top water sports, but you can also try parasailing, jet skiing, paddleboarding, or banana boat rides. The equipment is usually modern, and prices are competitive. Certified dive shops cater to both beginners and experienced divers, often offering PADI courses.
Beyond the water, you can explore by bicycle, hike inland trails, or visit mud baths and hot springs in the nearby hills. One popular spot is Thap Ba Hot Springs, where visitors soak in mineral-rich clay baths before rinsing off in natural thermal water.
A Taste of the Sea
Food is central to the Nha Trang experience. Being a coastal city, it’s no surprise that seafood dominates the menu. Local favorites include grilled lobster, fresh oysters, clams with lemongrass, and sea snails with chili sauce. Street vendors often grill seafood right in front of you—simple, fresh, and unforgettable.
For a traditional taste, try bun cha ca, a noodle soup made with fish cakes, or nem nuong, grilled pork skewers served with rice paper and herbs. Beachfront restaurants, night markets, and local eateries give you options at every price point.
Culture in the City
While the bay draws tourists for its natural charm, Nha Trang city offers cultural depth. The Po Nagar Cham Towers, dating back to the 8th century, sit on a hill overlooking the Cai River. Built by the Cham people, these sandstone structures are still used for worship and provide a glimpse into Vietnam’s Hindu past.
Another landmark is the Long Son Pagoda, known for its massive white Buddha statue that can be seen from across the city. It’s an easy climb and offers panoramic views of the area. Nearby, the Nha Trang Cathedral, a Gothic-style church built during French colonial rule, stands as a unique architectural site.
When to Visit
Nha Trang has a tropical climate, with two main seasons. The dry season, from January to August, is the most popular time for tourists. June through August are the hottest months, ideal for beach lovers. Rainy season runs from September to December, but showers are often brief and the city remains accessible.
For divers and snorkelers, the best visibility is between April and July. If you’re looking to avoid crowds, February and March strike a good balance between weather and tourist traffic.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Currency: Vietnam uses the Vietnamese dong (VND). Many tourist spots accept credit cards, but cash is useful in smaller markets and street food stalls.
- Transportation: The city is walkable along the beachfront. Motorbike taxis and ride-hailing apps like Grab are cheap and widely available.
- Language: English is spoken at most hotels and tour companies, but not always in smaller shops. A translation app or a few basic Vietnamese phrases can help.
- Safety: Nha Trang is generally safe, but standard travel precautions apply. Watch your belongings on the beach and be cautious with street food if you have a sensitive stomach.
Final Thoughts
Nha Trang Bay is more than just a pretty beach—it’s a full-spectrum destination that caters to both laid-back vacationers and active explorers. You can start your day with a sunrise swim, explore coral reefs by noon, sip a fresh coconut under a palm tree in the afternoon, and end with a seafood dinner by the sea.
Whether you’re in Vietnam for a few days or a few weeks, Nha Trang deserves a spot on your itinerary. It’s a place where nature meets culture, comfort meets adventure, and every kind of traveler can find their moment.
Vietnam is nominated as Asia’s Leading Beach Destination 2022, Asia’s Leading City Break Destination 2022, Asia’s Leading Cultural Destination 2022, Asia’s Leading Destination 2022, Asia’s Leading Heritage Destination 2022, Asia’s Leading Nature Destination 2022, Asia’s Leading Sustainable Tourism Destination 2022, Asia’s Leading Tourist Board 2022 and Asia’s Leading Youth Travel Destination 2022 by World Travel Awards.