Khanh Hoa Travel Guide

Have you ever dreamed of a place with a blue and white sea, a golden sandy desert and a rich vineyard? After merging with Ninh Thuan in in July 1st 2025, Khanh Hoa is such a destination. Here, you can relax in Cam Ranh, Nha Trang’s lively beach, then continue exploring the Phan Rang ancient Cham Tower. In just one trip, you will experience enough sea, mountains, culture and cuisine. So, are you ready to embark on this exciting trip? Let’s find out in this Khanh Hoa travel guide!

Overview of Khanh Hoa

For a long time, Khanh Hoa has been considered the “island heaven” of Vietnam, with Nha Trang Bay being praised as one of the most beautiful islands in the world. However, the tourism travel map of Khanh Hoa has changed since July 1st 2025, when it officially merges with Ninh Thuan. This turning point not only expands the geography of Khanh Hoa but also opens up numerous travel experiences, from lying down on white sand beaches to snorkeling to explore coral reefs in Nha Trang and Cam Ranh, to discovering the dessert, wine valley, and sacred ancient Cham Tower in Phan Ranh – Thap Cham.

After the merger, Khanh Hoa becomes one of the most impressive “all-in-one” travel destination in Vietnam. Searching for island and beach holiday? There’s Nha Trang, Cam Ranh and Van Phong with snorkeling and relaxing activities. If you craving for historical and cultural experience, the Ponagar Power and Cham Poklong Garai tower system, Bau Truc pottery village and My Nghiep brocade weaving will not disappoint you. For those who are nature lover, Khanh Hoa is certainly the right destination because the unique nature features of Hang Rai. Vinh Hy Bay, Nam Cuong desert, and famous green vineyards.

For oversea tourists, this means that in hust one short trip, you can experience many different pictures of Vietnam: relaxing on the turquoise beach, exploring the mysterious Cham culture, and enjoying Phan Rang grape wine uner the suneset on the sand desert. This is such one of a life time travel experience, isn’t it?

Khanh Hoa Weather

Khanh Hoa has a temperate climate and warm sunshine all year round, making it one of the regions with the most beautiful weather in Vietnam for beach tourism. The average temperature ranges from 26°C to 28°C, rarely dropping low in winter.

After merging with Ninh Thuan, the climate picture is even more diverse:

• Nha Trang – Cam Ranh – Van Phong area: featuring oceanic climate, pleasant weather conditions with little rain. Peak tourist season lasts almost all year round.
• Ninh Thuan area, particularly in Phan Rang, Thap Cham, Vinh Hy, Hang Rai: has the most unique semi-desert character in Vietnam, with strong sunshine and wind, very little rain, creating favorable conditions for lush green vineyards and long sand dunes.

These weather differences make Khanh Hoa a four-season destination for tourists. From January to September, visitors can enjoy the most beautiful sea, ideal for swimming, diving to see coral, and island hopping. During three months from August to October, Ninh Thuan undergoes the grape season, offering the combined experience of visiting vineyards and enjoying local wine. In the remaining time of the year, from October to December, there is more rain than in Nha Trang, but Ninh Thuan is still dry, suitable for trekking, discovering the sand desert and Cham culture.

How to Get to Khanh Hoa

Khanh Hoa is one of the most accessible destinations in Vietnam, thanks to modern infrastructure and international networks. After the merger with Ninh Thuan, tourists have more choices of travel.

By Air

Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR): It is about 35 kilometers away from the center of Nha Trang and is the main entrance for international tourists. There are different flights from Korea, China, Thailand, Russia and Malaysia; and many domestic flights connecting Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang.

Ninh Thuan: At present, there is no commercial airport in Ninh Thuan. Tourists still land at Cam Ranh, and then drive for 1.5 – 2 hours to reach Phan Rang, Vinh Hy or the vineyards.

By Train

Nha Trang station is one of the main stations of the north-south railway. Taking the train is an interesting experience to enjoy the sea view along the central coastline.

Cham Tower Station (Ninh Thuan): Convenient for tourists who want to explore Phan Rang – Cham Tower, Cham Poklong Garai Tower or Nam Cuong desert before going to Nha Trang.

By Road

• National Highway 1A runs through Khanh Hoa, easy to travel by car or long-distance bus.
• Dai Giay – Phan Thiet – Cam Ranh Expressway shortens the travel time from Ho Chi Minh City to 6-7 hours (previously about 9-10 hours).
• Sleeper buses are available, connecting Nha Trang and Phan Rang with many big cities such as Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.

Suggestion for international visitors: If your itinerary includes both Nha Trang (islands, nightlife) and Ninh Thuan (vineyards, fragrant culture, and desert), then the most convenient way is flying to Cam Ranh, and then combine with coastal routes, which can not only enjoy the scenery, but also save time.

Where to Go in Khanh Hoa?

Nha Trang City

Nha Trang has long been considered the “capital of sea tourism” of Vietnam. The city has a bay of the same name on the list of the most beautiful bays in the world, with clear blue waters and smooth white sand beaches. Visitors can spend a full day exploring VinWonders Nha Trang – a modern amusement park located on Hon Tre Island, or go canoeing out to Hon Mun, Hon Siak for coral diving. In addition, the Ponagar Tower, a more than 1,000-year-old landmark, is also a cultural highlight that cannot be missed.

>>> Indulge in the pristine beaches of Nha Trang with our Nha Trang Beach 3 Days 2 Nights Tour for an unforgettable beach holiday.

Cam Ranh

Cam Ranh is located about 60km south of Nha Trang, famous for its deep and wide natural seaport. With a long coastline, Cam Ranh’s sea still retains many wild and peaceful features, very suitable for tourists looking for a resort space separate from the hustle and bustle of the city. This area is increasingly attracting many high-end resort projects, and is also the main international air gateway, thanks to the modern Cam Ranh airport.

Bai Dai

Bai Dai is considered the “tourist heart” of Cam Ranh, with tens of kilometers of fine white sand and clear turquoise water. This is one of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam, ideal for swimming, kayaking, or simply relaxing under the tropical sun. There are several international hotel and resort brands, such as The Anam, Alma, Hyatt and Radisson Blue, bringing the most luxurious resort experiences to international tourists.

Van Phong Bay

Located about 60 km north of Nha Trang city, Van Phong Bay is considered the “rough gem” of Khanh Hoa. Different from the hustle and bustle of the coastal city, Van Phong has a pristine beauty with turquoise water, fine sand, and a rich marine ecosystem. This is a destination chosen by many tourists to experience yachting, scuba diving, and enjoy the fresh air. In particular, the Diep Son peninsula in the bay is famous for its sandy road in the middle of the sea, creating an extremely impressive scene for visitors.

Vinh Hy Bay

It is fair to say that Vinh Hy Bay is the green gem of Nui Chua National Park. It takes about 40 km from Phan Rang to get there. This place stands out with its clear water, surrounded by steep rocky mountains, creating a scene that is both wild and majestic.

Visitors can take a glass-bottom boat to see coral, enjoy fresh seafood right on a floating raft, or simply admire the spectacular coastline road, one of the most beautiful roads in Vietnam.

Hang Rai

Just a few kilometers from Vinh Hy, Hang Rai is an ideal destination for those who love nature and photography. This is impressive with its million-year-old fossilized coral reefs, creating a unique shape and a landscape like “Mars on Earth”.

At dawn or dusk, the sun dyes the rocks red, creating a spectacular picture. Many international tourists consider Hang Rai a hidden gem when coming to Ninh Thuan, a place to immerse yourself in pristine nature and listen to the endless sound of the waves.

Phan Rang – Thap Cham (Ninh Thuan)

After the merge, Phan Rang – Thap Cham became a new highlight in the journey to explore Khanh Hoa. This small city is not only famous for its ancient Cham towers such as Paklong Garai, but also for its land of sun, wind, and grapes. Visitors can visit lush vineyards, enjoy local wine, or experience the Bau Truc pottery village and My Nghiep brocade weaving, where the unique charm culture is preserved. Maya and David, a lovely couple who booked our service, shared that they find visiting the vineyard the most interesting experience, because they can directly taste fresh grapes right in the garden.

Nam Cuong Sand Dunes

Few people expect that right in the middle of central Vietnam, there is a “mini Sahara”, the Nam Cuong sand dunes. This place stands out with its long sand dunes, changing shape with each gust of wind, creating a magical scene. Visitors can experience camel riding, take sunset photos on the sand, or simply immerse themselves in the quiet space of the most unique semi-desert in Vietnam. Many international tourists are surprised when they learn that there is a desert in Vietnam, and they think walking on the sand, watching the sun gradually set on the horizon, is really special.

Best Things to Do in Khanh Hoa

Snorkeling in Hon Mun (Mun Island)

Hoan Mun is considered the “diving paradise” of Vietnam, located about 10 km from the center of Nha Trang. It is the first marine reserve in the country, home to more than 350 species of corals and hundreds of colorful fish. Visitors can choose to snorkel in shallow waters or scuba dive to dive deeper, exploring the rich ecosystem beneath the seabed. Tours often combine swimming, eating seafood on board and relaxing on beautiful small sandy beaches. With clear blue waters and a warm climate, Hon Mun is truly the ideal destination for those who want to experience the Vietnamese sea from a whole new perspective.

Island Hopping by Canoe or Yacht (Canoe Yacht Tour)

One of the most popular experiences is exploring the island by canoe or cruise ship. Sightseeing usually lasts for half a day to one day, visiting famous islands, such as islands with independent beaches and underwater sports activities, Mieu Island with Tri Nguyen Aquarium and a traditional fishing village, or Tre Island with the entertainment complex VinWonders.

If you are looking for a more luxury experience, rent a private yacht to admire the crystal clear water while enjoying tasty BBQ right on the deck. This is an excellent way to fully feel the beauty of Nha Trang Bay, one of the 29 most beautiful bays in the world.

Hiking in Nui Chua National Park

After merging with Ninh Thuan, Nui Chua National Park is an ideal destination for those who like to explore wild nature. There is a unique dry forest ecosystem, which has been recognised as a world biosphere reserve by UNESCO.

The trekking trail leads tourists through dense forests and small streams, and then opens up the magnificent scenery of the blue ocean and coastal rocks, such as Vinh Hy and Rai Cave. Please note that trekking in Nui Chua National Park reuqire physical strength and it the rare opportunity to learn about endanger species and experience the transition between forest and beach.

Relaxing at Hot Springs & Wellness Resorts

Besides islands, Khanh Hoa is also an ideal destination for relaxation and health care. In Nha Trang, I-Resort mud mineral spring provides the experience of mud mineral soaking, a natural therapy that helps beautify the sking, relieve stress and regenerate energy. At the same time, in Ninh Thuan area, Truong Xuan mineral spring attracts tourists because of its clean natural space, combined with spa and holiday service.

Many international tourists usually choose to experience mineral water energy other day after diving or hiking at sea, so as to completely recover and relax their bodies.

>>> After a day of exploration and sightseeing, nothing can beat the wellness activities. Please reach out to our Wellness Excursion in Central Vietnam 8 Days to release your muscle in wellness session while visiting some of the highlights of Central Vietnam.

Discovering Cham culture

One of the most distinctive experiences of going to Khanh Hoa is to explore Cham’s culture. In Nha Trang, Ponagar Tower, built in the 8th centure, is a sacred destination with unique historical and architectural value.

In Phan Rang Tower, visitors can visit Poklong Garai Tower, an almost intact ancient architectural complex or take part in the Kata Festival held every October, which includes traditional ceremonies, singing and colorful costumes. In addition, the Bau Truc pottery village and My Nghiep weaving village allow tourist to directly watch or even let them try to make traditional craft items with artists. This is certainly a good chance to learn deeper about the culture which used to glorious one in central Vietnam.

Festivals and Events in Khanh Hoa

Nha Trang Sea Festival

Held every two years in June, Nha Trang Sea Festival is the largest cultural and tourism event in the province. Over the course of a week, the seaside city becomes vibrant with a host of activities: street parades, art exhibitions, international music performances, as well as folk games. This is a great opportunity for visitors to blend into the vibrant atmosphere while enjoying the typical cuisine and culture of Khanh Hoa.

Katê Festival

Katê is the biggest traditional festival of the Cham people who worship Balamonic, usually held in late September or early October of the calendar at Poklong Garai Tower (Phan Rang – Chamber Tower). During the festival, Cham people dress in traditional costumes, hold offerings, dances and perform folk instruments. Visitors will witness a colorful festival space, steeped in native culture that is hardly available anywhere else.

Ninh Thuan Wine Festival

The festival is held once every two years, usually falling in April or June. This is an opportunity to honour the special grape production, the agricultural product characteristic of Phan Rang region.

Some of the most interesting activities are vineyard tours, wine tasting, street parades, and art performances. For travelers who love food and farming experiences, this is an event not to be missed.

Sports & International Events

In addition to traditional festivals, Khanh Hoa also regularly hosts international sporting events such as sailing competitions, kite surfing tournaments in Ninh Thuan, or beauty competitions held in Nha Trang. These events contributed to creating a vibrant atmosphere, while bringing the image of Nha Trang – Khanh Hoa to the world.

What to Eat in Khanh Hoa?

Nha Trang seafood

Nha Trang has long been known as the “seafood paradise” of central Vietnam. Visitors can enjoy all kinds of fresh seafood such as Binh Ba shrimp, clams, mushrooms, or grilled ink. Seafood restaurants along Tran Phu Road or Dang Market are always busy with long queues. Sarah, one of our customers shared her experience after the trip to Khanh Hoa that she loved to picking live seafood in the tank then thanks to on-site processing to keep the taste fresh.

Ninh Hoa grilled pork sausage

If you visit Khanh Hoa but haven’t tried the grilled pork sausage, it’s considered an incomplete trip. This dish consist of deep-fried golden spring rolls, served with rice paper, raw vegetables and especially a thick fragrant dipping sauce. The rich, unforgettable flabor makes many tourists still talk about this specialty after leaving Nha Trang.

Nha Trang fish cake noodles

A hot bowl of fish cake noodles in the morning is an indispensable experience when in Nha Trang. Fish cakes are made from mackerel and and anchovies, served with noodles, a clear and sweet broth, and fresh green vegetables. This is a simple dish that reflects the true spirit of coastal cuisine – fresh, light, and nutritious.

Goat and sheep specialties of Ninh Thuan

After the merge, Ninh Thuan brought a new look to Khanh Hoa’s culinary map. The most famous are goat and sheep dishes, raised on the arid grasslands typical of the semi-desert region. Visitors can enjoy grilled lamb, goat hotpot, or dishes prepared in the traditional Cham style. This is a rare culinary experience in Vietnam, creating a difference compared to other regions.

Phan Rang grapes and wine

When mentioning Ninh Thuan cuisine, grapes and wine cannot be forgotten. The vineyards in Phan Rang not only produce bunches of sweet grapes but also produce local wine with a unique flavor. Visitors can join a tour of the vineyards, pick grapes by themselves and enjoy a glass of cool wine under the typical central region sunshine – an unforgettable culinary experience!

Banh Can & Cham pancakes

In addition to familiar dishes, Phan Rang also attracts visitors wih hot, crispy banh can, or Cham pancakes with fresh seafood filling. These rustic dishes ara often sold at local markets, where visitors can eat and chat with locals to learn more about the local culinary culture.

>>> If you are planning a trip to central Vietnam, don’t miss our Central Vietnam Tours Package 2025/2026. This package will take you through the most famous attractions in the central region of the country.

Where to Stay in Khanh Hoa?

Nha Trang – Lively and convenient

If you like a lively holiday with plenty of dining, shopping and nightlife options, Nha Trang is the ideal place to stop. The city is home to many hotels and coastal resorts with stunning views of the bay.

• InterContinetal Nha Trang: centrally located, world-class service.
• Sheraton Nha Trang: famous infinity pool and rooftop bar.
• Mia Resort: a little further from the city center, quiet but still convenient to get around.

Cam Ranh – Luxury resort on Bai Dai

Cam Ranh, particularly the Bai Dai area, is the “paradise resort” of Khanh Hoa. In contrast to the hustle and bustle of Nha Trang, Cam Ranh offers quiet spaces, pristine beaches and a sprawling 5-star resort system. This is the perfect choice for full-fledged holidays.

• The Anam: Indochina style resort, exquisite service.
• Alma Resort: modern resort complex, many facilities for families.
• Radisson Blu Cam Ranh: direct oceanfront, featuring seafood cuisine.

Phan Rang – Thap Cham (Ninh Thuan) – Culture and nature

After the merge, Phan Rang offers a unique experience, blending the sea, desert and Cham culture. Staying here is suitable for tourists who want to combine relaxation and local exploration.

• Amanoi Resort: located right in Nui Chua National Park, praised by international travel magazines as one of the most luxurious resorts in Vietnam.
• Saigon – Ninh Chu Resort: located close to Ninh Chu beach, suitable for families and groups of friends.
• Homestays and boutique hotels in the center of Phan Rang: friendly style, reasonable prices, helping tourists easily connect with local people.

To sum up, Khanh Hoa (after merging with Ninh Thuan) has truly become a colorful picture with beautiful islands, lush vineyards, unique sand deserts and ancient Cham heritages. Whether you want to relax in luxury on Bai Dai Cam Ranh, experience the vibrant life in Nha Trang or explore the indigenous culture in Phan Rang – Thap Cham, all can be included in one trip. With a warm and sunny climate all year round, modern infrastructure and the hospitality of the people, Khanh Hoa is definitely a rare “all-in-one” destination in Vietnam.

Don’t hesitate any longer, contact us to plan your trip to Khanh Hoa to experience for yourself the wonderful combination of sea, mountains, culture and cuisine here.