If you’re looking for a destination that’s both unspoiled and refreshingan escape from the hustle and bustle of city life then Cham Islands 2025 is the perfect choice. Located just about 15 km from Hoi An, this island stands out with its crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and rich marine ecosystem. In this guide from Hotel Royal Hoi An Gallery, you’ll find everything you need to know about traveling to Cham Islands from transportation options and canoe ticket prices to accommodations, local specialties, and a detailed sightseeing itinerary.
Cham Islands: A pristine and enchanting emerald gem
Cham Islands is a cluster of eight islands under Tan Hiep Commune, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province, located about 15 km off the coast. The largest island is Hon Cu Lao (also known as Hon Lao), surrounded by smaller ones such as Hon Kho Me, Hon Kho Con, Hon La, Hon Dai, Hon Mo, Hon Tai, and Hon Ong. With a rich marine ecosystem home to over 950 aquatic species untouched natural beauty, and unique cultural values, Cham Islands has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve.
Beyond its natural beauty, Cham Islands also preserve many ancient cultural relics and traditional village communal houses, reflecting the spiritual life and daily customs of island communities. These cultural treasures make the islands an appealing destination for nature lovers seeking to explore the rustic charm of Vietnam’s central coast.
The best time to visit Cham Islands is from March to August, when the weather is sunny, the sea is calm, and the water is crystal clear. Among these months, April to July marks the most ideal dry season, making it perfect for traveling by canoe.
In contrast, the period from September to February is the rainy and stormy season, when the sea is rough and most tourism services are temporarily suspended for safety reasons.
Independent travel costs to Cham Islands
To prepare well for a self guided trip to Cham Islands, it’s important to understand the necessary expenses. Specifically:
Cham Islands entrance fee table 2025
| Charge | Price (VND/person) | Note |
| Entrance ticket | 70.000 | Mandatory for all visitors to the island. |
| Ecological fee | 30.000 | Contributes to environmental protection and marine ecosystem conservation. |
| Total | 100.000 | Applies to both Vietnamese and international visitors. |
Price list of experience services at Cham Islands
| Service | Reference price (VND/person) | Note |
| Snorkeling to see coral reefs | 150.000 | Includes life jacket, diving mask, and snorkel. |
| Scuba diving | 800.000 – 850.000 | For those in good health who want to explore deeper underwater. |
| Sea trekking | 950.000 | Experience walking on the seabed with a specialized oxygen helmet. |
| Motorbike rental on the island | 100.000 – 150.000 | Suitable for exploring attractions on the island. |
| Dining on the island | 100.000 – 150.000 | Average price for a meal with fresh seafood. |
| Overnight homestay | 250.000 – 350.000 | Room rates at local homestays. |
Note:
- The entrance fee (70,000 VND) and ecological fee (30,000 VND) are mandatory for all visitors to Cham Islands.
- Children under 1 year old are exempt from all fees, while those aged 1 to under 8 are charged half the adult ticket price.
- Experience services such as snorkeling, sea trekking, motorbike rental, and dining may vary depending on the travel season and service provider.
- It is recommended to contact service providers in advance to make reservations and get updated prices.
If you need more detailed information or help planning your itinerary for Cham Islands, feel free to let me know!
Transportation guide to Cham Islands
To get to Cham Islands, you first need to travel to Cua Dai Port the main departure point to the islands. If you’re starting from Da Nang, there are several ways to reach Cham Islands. You can take a taxi, which costs around 300,000–400,000 VND per trip, hire a private car, ride a motorbike, or take a bus to Hoi An. From there, continue by taxi for another 15–20 minutes to reach Cua Dai Port the starting point for the island journey. At the port, you can choose a high speed canoe for a quick ride or a wooden boat if you prefer a slower trip and want to enjoy the sea views.
The canoe is the most popular means of transport due to its fast travel time only about 15–20 minutes. The ticket price for a canoe ride is around 260,000 VND. Alternatively, if you’re looking to save money, you can take a wooden boat (local ferry), which takes about 90 minutes and costs between 50,000–100,000 VND per trip, though it usually operates only once in the early morning. After arriving on the island, you can rent a motorbike to explore various attractions, or hire a local fisherman’s boat if you want to go fishing or tour around the island.
Popular attractions on Cham Islands
Eo Gio – The perfect spot to watch sunrise and sunset
Eo Gio is one of the most striking stops on Cham Islands, especially for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. Located on the eastern side of Hon Lao Island, about 3 km from the Bai Lang residential area, this spot features a unique landscape where two rocky mountain ranges embrace a wide open space that faces directly out to the vast sea.
Champa Ancient Well – A historical relic over 200 years old
The Champa Ancient Well (also known as Xom Cam Well) is located at a three-way junction along a concrete road in the Xom Cam residential area on Cham Islands. This historical relic, over 200 years old, was built during the period when the Cham people ruled the region. The well provides a year-round source of fresh water and has long been an essential part of daily life for the island’s residents.
Many locals believe that water from the ancient well has the power to cure seasickness and bring good luck, especially in matters of love. Visitors often take the chance to scoop a refreshing sip from the well either to cool off or to wish for a smooth and pleasant journey.
Hai Tang Pagoda – A sacred ancient temple nearly 300 years old
Hai Tang Pagoda is one of the most sacred and ancient temples on Cham Islands, built in 1758 and now nearly 300 years old. Originally, it was constructed to serve the spiritual needs of local fishermen and merchant ships stopping by the island, offering prayers for peace and safety before setting sail.
Despite the passage of time and various historical changes, the pagoda has been carefully preserved and restored by the local people, becoming an indispensable spiritual site for the island community.
Crystal clear beaches – a paradise for relaxation
Cham Islands is known as a gem in the East Sea thanks to its many crystal-clear and unspoiled beaches. The seawater here is so clear that you can see the bottom, with soft white sand stretching along the coast and fresh, cool air all year round. Each beach on the island has its own charm, contributing to the irresistible allure of this tropical paradise.
- Bai Ong is the largest and most famous beach on the island, located right near the canoe dock, making it very convenient for visitors to access. The scenery here is harmonious, with lush green coconut trees and a vast open sea and sky.
- Bai Chong, a bit more secluded, stands out with its natural rock formations stacked along the shore, creating a unique visual contrast against the backdrop of the crystal clear sea.
- Bai Huong is a peaceful beach located next to a traditional fishing village, preserving the rustic, untouched charm of Cham Islands. The area offers a tranquil setting that is both close to the sea and deeply connected to the everyday life of the local community.
Kapok flower path – A vibrant splash of red amid the sea and sky
The kapok flower path is one of the most iconic sights of Cham Islands during summer, especially vibrant from late July to mid-August. Kapok trees bloom across the hillsides, coastal forests, and trails around Bai Lang, Bai Xep, and Bai Huong, painting the landscape a brilliant red that stands out against the lush greenery of the sea and forest.
The blooming kapok flowers against the clear blue sky create a poetic scene rarely found elsewhere. Though the flower path isn’t very long, it’s more than enough to captivate visitors from the very first glance.
Temple of the Ancestors of the Swallow Nest Craft – a place preserving tradition
Located in Bai Huong, this temple was built in 1848 to honor the founding ancestors of the swallow nest craft and the guardian deities of the trade. Every year on the 10th day of the 3rd lunar month, locals hold a grand offering ceremony to pray for a prosperous bird nest harvesting season. Facing the sea, the temple features three entrance gates with Han-Nom calligraphy couplets, serving as a cultural and spiritual landmark for the island community.
Unmissable experiences on Cham Islands
Cham Islands attract visitors with their untouched natural scenery, peaceful lifestyle, and authentic island activities. If you have the chance to visit, make sure to try the following experiences to fully appreciate the beauty of this unique destination.
Snorkeling
This is one of the most popular activities on Cham Islands, home to a rich marine ecosystem with dozens of coral species and colorful tropical fish swimming right before your eyes. Thanks to the clear water year-round and wide underwater visibility, you can easily admire the vibrant sea life without venturing far from the shore. Many snorkeling tours also include a guide, making it suitable even for beginners.
Sea trekking
Even if you can’t swim or have no diving experience, you can still explore the ocean by walking on the seabed with a specialized oxygen helmet. The sensation of slowly stepping through lively coral reefs and watching fish swim around you—like in a nature documentary—is truly unforgettable. This experience is perfect for families with children or groups of friends looking to try something new.
Camping and stargazing
As night falls, Cham Islands reveal a completely different kind of beauty peaceful, serene, and utterly enchanting. With fresh air and minimal light pollution, the island’s night sky becomes a perfect backdrop for admiring thousands of stars, and you can even catch a glimpse of the Milky Way with the naked eye. Camping overnight on the beach, listening to the gentle sound of waves, and watching the stars above is an unforgettable and relaxing experience especially for nature lovers.
Thrill yourself with parasailing
If you’re looking to add a touch of adrenaline to your trip, parasailing is an experience you shouldn’t miss. Being lifted into the sky by a canoe and gently gliding over the sea offers a mix of excitement and awe as you take in the panoramic view of Cham Islands from above. Parasailing is perfect for adventure seekers and those who enjoy extreme sports in a coastal setting.
Fishing at Hon Dai Beach
Hon Dai is a quiet, rocky beach with few visitors, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful fishing experience. Sitting by the edge of the rocks and casting a line offers a relaxing connection to nature. The waters here are home to a variety of fish species, such as snapper, grouper, and rabbitfish, and you can even cook your fresh catch right on the spot. This activity is both fun and immersive, suitable for beginners and experienced anglers alike.
What to eat on Cham Islands?
Local specialties
Beyond its stunning scenery and peaceful atmosphere, Cham Islands impress visitors with a rustic yet flavorful cuisine rich in the taste of the sea. Here are some must-try local specialties when visiting the island:
- Stone crab: These crabs live in the mountains and feed on plants, resulting in sweet, firm meat. They are usually simply prepared—steamed with beer or grilled—to preserve their natural flavor.
- Sun-dried squid: Fresh squid dried under the sun for just one day—dry on the outside yet tender and sweet inside. When grilled, it gives off a signature aroma and rich taste.
- Abalone: A rare and prized seafood known for its chewy, fragrant meat. It can be steamed, stir-fried, grilled with scallion oil, or cooked into porridge.
- Nipple snails (oc vu nang): Recognizable by their cone-shaped, shimmering shells. They’re often boiled, grilled, or made into salad dishes—all of which preserve their natural sweetness and chewiness.
- Wild vegetables: Includes local greens like rau don, rau lui, rau san… typically boiled and served with fermented anchovy sauce (mam nem), offering a fresh, earthy flavor.
- Sea urchin (cau gai): The rich and creamy meat can be eaten raw with wasabi, grilled with scallion oil, or cooked into porridge—nutritious and uniquely flavorful.
- Gai leaf cake (banh it la gai): A traditional cake with a black outer layer made from gai leaves, filled with coconut and mung beans. It’s chewy, aromatic, and has a mildly sweet and nutty taste.
- Other fresh seafood: You’ll also find lobster, mantis shrimp, flower crab, oc cu (a local shellfish), grouper, and more often cooked fresh at seaside restaurants or the Tan Hiep market.
Restaurants and must-try eateries on the island
From casual beachfront seafood stalls to cozy local restaurants, each spot offers its own memorable culinary experience.
Read more: Best restaurants in Hoi An: Top 10 places for great food and views
| Restaurant Name | Address | Estimated Price (VND/dish) |
| Dan Tri Restaurant | Center of Bai Lang, Cham Islands, Hoi An, Quang Nam | 50,000 – 200,000 |
| Tran Khue Restaurant | Group 3, Bai Lang, Tan Hiep Commune, Cham Islands, Hoi An | 70,000 – 200,000 |
| Hai Quynh Restaurant | Bai Ong Tourist Area, Cham Islands, Hoi An, Quang Nam | From 100,000 |
| Mai Khoa Restaurant | Bai Ong Tourist Area, Cham Islands, Hoi An, Quang Nam | 100,000 – 150,000 |
| Bao Van Restaurant | Bai Ong Tourist Area, Cham Islands, Hoi An, Quang Nam | From 100,000 |
| Truong Kep Restaurant | Bai Ong Tourist Area, Cham Islands, Hoi An, Quang Nam | 100,000 – 200,000 |
| Ms Nhu (Nhu Lai) Restaurant | Bai Ong Tourist Area, Cham Islands, Hoi An, Quang Nam | From 120,000 |
| Sunbay Restaurant | Bai Lang, Tan Hiep Commune, Cham Islands, Hoi An, Quang Nam | From 100,000 |
| Island Seafood Restaurant & Bar | Bai Lang, Tan Hiep Commune, Cham Islands, Hoi An, Quang Nam | From 50,000 |
Travel tips for a smooth trip to Cham Islands
To ensure your trip to Cham Islands goes smoothly and enjoyably, keep in mind the following essential tips regarding transportation, timing, and environmental regulations on the island:
- Bring reusable or biodegradable bags: Cham Islands strictly prohibit plastic bags and single-use plastic items to protect the environment. Remember to pack eco-friendly alternatives such as cloth or biodegradable bags.
- Best time to visit: The ideal period for travel is from March to September, when the weather is sunny, the sea is calm, and boats operate smoothly. From October onward, storms and heavy rains may disrupt travel plans.
- Sun protection is a must: The island sun can be quite harsh, especially around noon, so be sure to pack sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses.
- Dress light and stay comfortable: Wear light, breathable, and flexible clothing for easy movement. Don’t forget your swimsuit if you plan to swim or join water activities.
- Choose safe, guided tours: If you’re planning to go snorkeling or sea trekking, opt for reputable tour providers with trained guides and proper safety equipment.
- Bring enough cash: There are no ATMs on the island, so it’s important to bring sufficient cash to cover your expenses throughout the trip.
Hotel Royal Hoi An Gallery – A luxury retreat in the heart of the ancient town
If a trip to Cham Islands is part of your Hoi An travel plan, staying at Hotel Royal Hoi An Gallery is the perfect choice to connect luxurious comfort with exciting seaside adventures. Inspired by the romantic tale of Japanese merchant Sotaro Araki and Vietnamese princess Ngoc Hoa, the hotel beautifully blends Eastern and Western architectural elements. It features 187 elegantly designed rooms and suites, showcasing a boutique style filled with artistic charm.
Especially, the Hotel Royal Hoi An Gallery also offers many outstanding amenities:
- Wakaku – A 5-star quality Japanese restaurant at reasonable prices.
- Faifo Café – Serving buffets along with Vietnamese and international dishes.
- The Deck – The highest rooftop bar in Hoi An, offering stunning panoramic views.
- River Bar & The Attic Bar – Ideal spots to relax and watch the riverfront life.
- Woosah Spa – A professional wellness space for relaxation and rejuvenation.
- Executive Lounge – An exclusive area for premium guests, with scenic views of the poetic Thu Bon River.
In addition, Hotel Royal Hoi An Gallery offers many engaging cultural experiences such as learning how to make Vietnamese coffee, practicing calligraphy, fan painting, lantern making, and mask painting. These are great opportunities to immerse yourself in local life and fully embrace the spirit of Hoi An through meaningful and creative experiences.
We hope this guide has provided helpful information for your upcoming journey to Cham Islands. Whether you’re drawn by nature, curious about local life, or simply in search of a relaxing escape, Cham Islands promises unforgettable memories. Wishing you an inspiring and fulfilling adventure!
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