The Cham Islands are an archipelago off Hoi An and a world biosphere reserve with crystal-clear water and beautiful coral reefs. Go in the right season, the right way, and you'll have the best sea day in central Vietnam.
The Cham Islands (Cu Lao Cham) consist of 8 islands of various sizes, about 15–18 km from Cua Dai (Hoi An). In 2009 the area was recognised by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve thanks to its rich marine ecosystem. The main island, Hon Lao, has a fishing village, the old Hai Tang Pagoda and white-sand, blue-water beaches.
When to visit the Cham Islands
Roughly March to August is the best season: calm sea, clear water and good visibility for snorkelling. From about September to February the rainy season and north-east monsoon bring rough seas, and speedboats are often suspended by local authorities.
How to get there
- Join-in day tour from Da Nang/Hoi An: includes pick-up, speedboat, snorkelling, seafood lunch and entrance fees – the easiest way. See the Cham Islands day tour.
- Independently: go to Cua Dai port (45–50 minutes from Da Nang), buy a speedboat ticket (20–30 minutes) and a marine park ticket. Go early and check the boat schedule.
- Overnight: homestays on the island suit those who want fishing-village life and sunrise.
Things to do
- Snorkelling (with life jacket) around Hon Dai and Hon Mo – the exact spot depends on the day's tide.
- Swimming at Bai Chong, Bai Ong and Bai Bim: white sand, clear water.
- Bai Lang fishing village: the 300-plus-year-old Hai Tang Pagoda, an ancient Cham well, Tan Hiep market and a marine conservation exhibition.
- Food: rock crab, "vu nang" snails, fresh seafood and wild greens.
Rules to know
- The Cham Islands restrict single-use plastic bags – bring a cloth bag and your own water bottle.
- Don't break or step on coral, and don't collect marine life in the protected area.
- Rock crab is a speciality but harvesting is seasonal – only eat it at licensed restaurants.
Tip: take seasickness pills 30 minutes before boarding if needed, and bring reef-safe sunscreen, goggles, swimwear and dry clothes. Use a waterproof phone pouch for underwater photos.
Sample day
- 7:00 – 8:30: pick-up in Da Nang/Hoi An, transfer to Cua Dai port.
- 9:00: speedboat to the island; visit Bai Lang, Hai Tang Pagoda and the ancient well.
- 10:30: snorkelling.
- 12:00: seafood lunch, relaxing and swimming at Bai Chong.
- 14:30 – 16:00: speedboat back to the mainland, transfer to your hotel.
More time? Follow it the next day with Bay Mau coconut forest and Hoi An Ancient Town.
Frequently asked questions
When can I visit the Cham Islands?
The best season is roughly March to August. From about September to February the sea is often rough and speedboats may be suspended by the authorities.
How long does it take from Da Nang to the Cham Islands?
About 45–50 minutes by car from Da Nang to Cua Dai port in Hoi An, then 20–30 minutes by speedboat to the islands.
Can I snorkel if I can't swim?
Yes. Snorkelling tours provide life jackets and guides; you simply float on the surface and look down at the reef.
What should I bring to the Cham Islands?
Swimwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, seasickness pills, a waterproof phone pouch, a cloth bag instead of plastic bags and dry clothes to change into.
