Nha Trang is a coastal resort city in the South of Vietnam. It’s known for its beaches, diving spots, and nightlife scene.
On my month-long trip to Vietnam from Hanoi down to Ho Chi Minch City, I stopped in Ha Long Bay, Da Nang, and Hoi An. But I almost skipped Nha Trang.
I’d heard Nha Trang was a tourist party area run by the Russians. I’m not gonna lie – it kinda is. I wanted to see the hidden gems, the museums, and of course, eat all the delicious food. I was trying to budget properly and didn’t think living the lux life in a resort town was the best idea.
BUT there are a few cultural spots and other things to do besides party. Overall, I thought it would be a nice change of scenery from the backpacker route and 12-hour sleeper trains I was on. It ended up not actually being that expensive, as usually ends up being the case in SE Asia.
While I don’t think you need to plan a week-long trip, if you’re already traveling around Vietnam, it’s a fun place to spend a few days. I put together this Weekend Guide to Nha Trang. But really, any day of the week is a weekend in this resort coastal town of Vietnam.
Things to Know Before You Go
Best time to go: January through May offers the best weather.
Language: Vietnamese, English, and Russian.
Money: Vietnamese Dong (VND) is the official currency but many tourist places will take US Dollar ($USD) and sometimes street vendors prefer the US Dollar as well. It’s best to have both.
How to get there
🚌 Bus: The bus books up super fast, so book early or get on the fare alert waitlist for available seats. Check the schedule here.
Da Nang to Nha Trang is less than $15 USD and about 11-12 hours
Ho Chi Minh City to Nha Trang is less than $15 USD and about 9-10 hours
🚂 Train: The train books up super fast, so book early or get on the fare alert waitlist for available seats. Check the schedule here.
Da Nang to Nha Trang is less than $30 USD and about 8-10 hours
Ho Chi Minh City to Nha Trang is less than $15 and about 7-8 hours
✈️ Plane: The plane is the easiest to book as there are tons of flights daily between Ho Chi Minh City and Nha Trang. However, there is not as much availability from Da Nang.
Ho Chi Minh City to Nha Trang is about $50-100 and about 1 hour
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Nha Trang Beach
Nha Trang has a beautiful coastline full of beaches; each one offering a different experience. Tran Phu Beach is the most popular beach sitting across from the beachside promenade. By day, rent a chair or cabana starting at 35,000 VND ($1.50 USD) to lounge, people watch, and grab a drink. By night, enjoy the variety of seafood restaurants and bustling nightlife at The Sailing Club or ZIMA.
Ponagar Cham Tower
The Cham Tower was built in the 7th century to honor the goddess Po Nagar- literally translated as ‘The mother of the Country’ -who is said to have taught agricultural and weaving skills to the Cham people. The Cham people once ruled the central part of Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand. They are an integral part of the history of the area.
It’s still actively used by the Cham, Chinese, and Vietnamese Buddhists, so upon entering the temple, you’ll need to remove your shoes and be mindful of covering up on the grounds. The temples get quite crowded, so it’s best to come early in the morning. I arrived at 7 am and was the only person there. Admission is 22,000 VND ($1 USD).
Address: 2 Tháng 4, Vĩnh Phước, Nha Trang, Khanh Hoa Province
Mud Bath
I arrived on an overnight train on a rainy morning. Definitely not a beach day, so I looked to the next best relaxation option: Spa day!
Galina Hotel & Spa is located in the heart of the city making it easily accessible. Although you wouldn’t even know you’re on top of a highrise in the middle of the city! The cave-like architecture, tropical trees, and waterfalls create a unique oasis blocking all city sounds.
For 85,000 VND ($3.68 USD) you will get access to your own hot mineral mud bath, jacuzzi, hydrotherapy, sauna, steam room, and enjoy some time at the swimming pool.
As you can see from my photos below, it was empty early in the morning which was lovely! However, as I left in the early afternoon, it started to get very busy with groups.
Address: 5 Hùng Vương, Lộc Thọ, Thành phố Nha Trang, Khánh Hòa 650000, Vietnam
Galina Website
Long Sơn Pagoda
Long Sơn Pagoda is a Buddhist temple situated on the foothill of Trai Thuy Mountain. It’s famous for the large white Buddha that can be seen from anywhere in town. Around the base of the Buddha are portraits of monks who immolated themselves to protest against the corrupt Diem regime.
Address: 20 Đường 23/10, Phương sơn, Nha Trang, Khanh Hoa Province
Skylight Nha Trang
If there’s one thing Nha Trang knows how to do, it’s throwing a party. Skylight is a rooftop beach bar that offers 360˚ views of the beautiful beach city and mountains. It’s located on the 43rd floor of Havana Nha Trang Hotel.
The food is okay and quite over-priced, so I would recommend skipping that and just enjoying the breathtaking views and delicious cocktails!
Admission of 100,000 VND ($4.33 USD) includes a welcome drink of your choice of a refreshing cocktail, beer, or juice.
Address: 38 Trần Phú, Lộc Thọ, Thành phố Nha Trang, Khánh Hòa 650000, Vietnam
Skylight Website
Looking for more things to do nearby? Check out the posts below or drop a comment below!
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