Top 10 Day Trips from Nha Trang You Shouldn’t Miss (2025)

Introduction

Looking to explore the natural and cultural wonders beyond Nha Trang? In 2025, Vietnam’s famous beach town offers much more than white-sand coastlines. From ancient Cham temples and tropical islands to emerald bays, mountain treks, national parks, and artisan villages, here are the 10 must-do excursions to add to your Nha Trang itinerary. Whether you're planning a honeymoon, round trip, or adventure-packed vacation, these guided tours and day trips are perfect for all-inclusive discovery. With activities ranging from kayaking to whale-watching, exploring volcanic caves to sailing aboard catamarans, Nha Trang is your launchpad for unforgettable tropical adventures and world-class destinations—from glacier lagoons to Icelandic-style natural wonders. This guide also includes informative tips, self-guided and private tours, sightseeing tours, hop-on hop-off options, and excursions departing year-round. You’ll find tours from Nha Trang to iconic sights and natural wonders, including small-group adventures and immersive countryside trips.

1. Discover Hon Mun and Hon Tam Islands

• Activities: Scuba diving, snorkeling, boat cruises, sailing, whale-watching, paddle boarding, boat-ride, catamaran, lighthouse sightseeing, kayaking, dolphin watching

• Why go: Crystal-clear turquoise waters, coral reefs, pristine beaches, and breathtaking underwater scenery full of marine life and turtles

• Tip: Choose a day tour that includes reef snorkeling and kayaking for a full-day seaside experience around the island

2. Visit the Po Nagar Cham Towers

• Activities: Historical sightseeing, photography, stroll among ruins, walking-tour, guided tour, city-tour, museums

• Why go: UNESCO-listed remnants of the Cham civilization with stunning architectural details

• Tip: Visit in the morning for the best light and to enjoy the site before the crowds

3. Hike to Ba Ho Waterfalls

• Activities: Hiking, swimming, rafting, kayaking, waterfall photography, glacial pool dips

• Why go: A trio of cascading waterfalls surrounded by jungle, ideal for a half-day or full-day escape into the wild

• Tip: Wear solid shoes and bring a waterproof bag for your camera

4. Relax at Doc Let Beach

• Activities: Sunbathing, swimming, water sports, surfing, culinary beach picnics, sail excursions

• Why go: A pristine stretch of coastline with golden sand, calm lagoons, and postcard-perfect views

• Tip: Stay for sunset for a truly picturesque moment

5. Explore Van Phong Bay

• Activities: Boating, kayaking, sailing, snorkel exploration, visiting locals in fishing villages, boat tour, dolphin watching, day cruise, private tour, naturalist excursions

• Why go: Secluded and picturesque, this lagoon is a tropical gem comparable to Kauai, Maui, Caicos, or Icelandic fjords

• Tip: A guided tour may include turtle watching and reef exploration

6. Trek in Hon Ba Nature Reserve

• Activities: Trekking, birdwatching, eco-safari-style hikes, nature excursions, volcano sightseeing, glacier-inspired trekking, ice-cave exploration

• Why go: Cool mountain climate, rich biodiversity, and a peaceful national-park atmosphere with Denali-like elevation and Iceland-style landscapes

• Tip: A guide can help you identify flora and fauna you’d otherwise miss

7. Soak in the Thap Ba Mud Baths

• Activities: Spa, wellness, all inclusive retreat options, beachfront spa

• Why go: Relaxing spa experience surrounded by nature, perfect for couples or honeymooners

• Tip: Combine with a massage and herbal soak for full relaxation

8. Photograph the Hon Khoi Salt Fields

• Activities: Photography, cultural interaction with locals, Shutterstock-style landscape shooting, sightseeing tours

• Why go: Expansive white salt fields glowing at sunrise—ideal for content creators and travel photographers

• Tip: Visit early and bring a wide-angle lens for best shots

9. Cruise the Cai River

• Activities: River cruise, village visits, horseback along riverside paths, culinary stopovers, dolphin watching, boat tours, helicopter tour departing from the bay, hop-on hop-off style trips, countryside exploration

• Why go: Gentle ride through authentic Vietnam, far from tourist crowds, with views of volcanic rock formations and rainforest greenery

• Tip: Small boats offer better access and atmosphere; some departures include lunch onboard

10. Visit Long Son and Suoi Do Pagodas

• Activities: Spiritual sightseeing, scenic strolls, panoramic views, walking-tour, private tour, sightseeing tour, monument visits, tour-bus experiences

• Why go: Majestic temples perched on hills with views of peninsula landscapes, ocean, and dunes

• Tip: The White Buddha statue is a highlight for breathtaking views

FAQ – Day Trips from Nha Trang

What is the best time of year for excursions?
From January to August, during the dry season, for ideal weather. These tours run year-round depending on weather conditions.

Can I book day trips in Nha Trang?
Yes, many local agencies and hotels offer same-day and round trip bookings. It’s easy to book your departure directly in town through any reputable tour company.

How much does a typical day trip cost per person (USD)?
Between €20 and €80 (approx. $22–$88 USD) depending on the destination and what's included (transport, meals, guide).

Do I need a guide for hikes or national park areas?
Yes, it’s recommended for locations like Hon Ba or Ba Ho to ensure safety and enhance the experience with knowledgeable tour guides.

Are these trips family or honeymoon friendly?
Yes! From waterfall hikes to tranquil lagoons, there are options for families, couples, and solo adventurers.

Are there multi-day tours or accommodations available?
Yes, you’ll find plenty of options to extend your excursions into multi-day trips with accommodations across the south coast. Some even offer helicopter tours and train-from options to nearby destinations like Da Lat or Ho Chi Minh City.

What is the cancellation policy for most tours?
Cancellation terms vary, but most day tours allow 24–48 hour notice for free cancellation. All tours listed provide clear policies upfront.

Conclusion

In 2025, the surroundings of Nha Trang deliver an extraordinary mix of adventure, serenity, and discovery. From tropical beaches and emerald bays to coral-filled reefs, golden dunes, hidden coves, majestic cliffs, volcanic isles, and glacier-fed rivers and lagoons—every day trip unveils a new facet of Vietnam’s coastal beauty. Whether you're into snorkeling, spa retreats, kayaking, hiking, sightseeing tours, whale spotting, or day excursions to World Heritage Sites, these 10 adventures will make your Nha Trang vacation unforgettable.

Ready to uncover the hidden gems around Nha Trang with our tour picks and adventurous itineraries?