Day Trips from Nha Trang: Temples, Rivers & Island Escapes

Dreaming of Ha Long Bay but short on time? Searching for authentic experiences between Saigon and Lan Ha? Welcome to Nha Trang, Vietnam’s coastal gem, offering a variety of day tours that rival the country’s most iconic destinations.

Whether you're after cruising, kayaking, or temples and trekking, this guide unlocks the best tranquil escapes from Nha Trang — perfect for couples, small groups, or seasoned Vietnam travellers planning unforgettable itineraries.

1. Po Nagar Towers: Culture and Spirit Before You Sail

Start your day with a walk through ancient Cham temples at Po Nagar, a peaceful hilltop site with panoramic river views. Great for history buffs or anyone heading out on a day cruise after.

Highlights:

• Early morning Tai-Chi in temple gardens

• Optional shuttle-bus pickup from your hotel in Hanoi or Nha Trang

• Combine with a cruise to Hon Tam for a full-day experience

Itineraries, Cruise to, Small-group, Tour operator, Vietnam travel

2. Cai River Cruise: Aboard Peaceful Waters

Trade city noise for the calm of the Cai River. This tranquil cruise offers insight into riverside life with stops at homestays, fishing villages, and traditional markets.

Onboard Experience:

• Vietnamese lunch served onboard

• Explore islets and mangrove ecosystems

• Combine with an afternoon spa or cooking class

Pairs well with Mekong River experiences, but without the crowds.

Mangrove, Day cruise, Cruise from Nha Trang, Homestay, Onboard

3. Nha Trang Bay Islands: Halong Style, Southern Soul

Skip the north and experience Long Bay style cruising in the South. The bays around Nha Trang are dotted with islets, coral reefs, and peaceful shores.

Activities:

• Kayaking through limestone outcrops

• Sailing on a junk boat or luxury cruise

• Midday rest on a secluded beach or snorkeling stop

Operators: Pelican, Gray Line, and boutique deluxe tours

Cruising, Ha Long Bay, Long Bay, Sail, Kayak, Junk boat, Luxury cruise, Pelican, Gray Line

4. Ba Ho Waterfalls: Trekking & Jungle Pools

Nature lovers can enjoy a trekking day trip north of Nha Trang at the Ba Ho Waterfalls. Reachable by shuttle-bus or motorbike, this route winds through tropical forest and cool natural pools.

What to expect:

• Jungle hike with mild climbs

• Wild swimming beneath cascades

• Combine with a local homestay or eco-lunch

Trekking, Day tours, Small-group, Cruise from, Tranquil escape

5. Build Your Southeast Asia Cruise Itinerary

Nha Trang is a strategic stop for broader Vietnam travel itineraries or cross-border journeys. From here, you can:

Connect to:

• Saigon and the Mekong River

• Lan Ha Bay, Ha Long, and the Gulf of Tonkin

• Or head inland to Laos, Huong Valley, or the northern highlands

Build your journey with:

• A luxury cruise through the South China Sea

• A deluxe small-group tour of UNESCO sites

• Or a cultural cruise to Cambodia via the Mekong

Cruise from Vietnam, Gulf of Tonkin, Laos, Huong, Itineraries, Bays

Sample 1-Day Cruise Itinerary

8:00 AM – Hotel pickup by shuttle-bus
9:00 AM – Board junk boat in Nha Trang Bay
10:00 AM – Kayak through limestone caves & islets
12:30 PM – Lunch onboard (seafood + tropical fruits)
2:00 PM – Swimming + snorkeling
4:30 PM – Return to port with sunset cruising

FAQ – Nha Trang Day Tours & Cruises

Are these tours suitable for luxury travelers?
Yes. Many operators offer luxury cruises or deluxe day tours, with options like spa treatments, cocktails, and high-end cuisine onboard.

What’s the best cruise option for couples?
Opt for Pelican or Gray Line for more romantic junk-style boats with privacy and elegance.

Can I connect this with a Ha Long or Mekong itinerary?
Absolutely. Fly or take a train from Nha Trang to Saigon, Lan Ha, or Hanoi to explore the Gulf of Tonkin or Mekong River.

Is this better than a Ha Long Bay cruise?
It’s different — more tranquil, more flexible, and less crowded. Ideal for small-group travel and alternative seekers.