Cham Islands in Hoi An is a well-known complex because of their beautiful natural scenery and cultural sites, making them a favorite destination for tourists from near and far. This travel guide from Vietnamtour.in will provide valuable information about this archipelago Islands, including important travel tips, for anyone planning a visit.
Location
Cham Islands (Cu Lao Cham), nestled in Tan Hiep commune near Hoi An City, is a popular destination for travelers in Vietnam. Located just 20 kilometers off the coast of Hoi An, it’s a convenient getaway from the mainland’s hustle and bustle. If you’re coming from Da Nang, the journey is around 45 kilometers, making it a feasible day trip or a longer adventure. With its beautiful beaches, diverse marine life, and cultural significance, Cham Islands welcomes adventurers seeking to enjoy its natural wonders.
Ticket fee
When planning your visit to the Cham Islands, it’s important to note that, unlike other popular destinations, there’s an additional ecological fee on top of the entrance fee.
- Entrance fee: 70,000 VND per person.
- Ecological fee: 20,000 VND per person.
Please be aware that the ticket prices provided are for reference purposes and are subject to change depending on the time.
Best Time To Visit
To make the most of your trip to Hoi An’s Cu Lao Cham, it’s best to go between March and August. During this time, especially in the pleasant summer and early fall, you’ll enjoy warm sun, calm seas, and less rain, making it perfect for exploring the island. If it’s your first visit, aim for the summer when the cornflowers bloom, turning the roads into a stunning red.
How To Get There
By local boat: Travelling by local boat from Hoi An is one of the fastest ways to reach the islands, taking approximately 20 minutes. Typically, the average price for a one-way trip is around 200,000 VNĐ, while a round-trip ticket costs approximately 380,000 VND
By private speedboat: Speedboat rentals are available, typically costing around 5,000,000 VND (approximately 215 USD) for five hours. The time and price are negotiable and arranged directly with the agent or captain.
By booking tours: If you’re traveling with family or simply prefer a hassle-free experience to exploring the Cham Islands, booking a day tour through an agent is an excellent option. For further information and assistance with booking, visit our website vietnamtour.in .
Things To Do in Cham Islands
Enjoying the beaches
One of the best things to do on Cham Islands is enjoy the stunning beaches. Bai Ong, Bai Chong, and Bai Xep are prime spots for kicking back and enjoying the sun and sand. For those looking to discover hidden treasures, consider renting a wooden boat or hiring a motorcycle driver to access secluded beaches off the usual paths.
Snorkeling to observe marine life
Snorkeling in Cham island is a must-do activity, and it’s no wonder why—it’s the most popular way to explore the island’s beautiful underwater world. With an incredible variety of marine life, including 947 species such as endangered fish, corals, seaweed, shellfish, and crustaceans, there’s so much to see.
Along the coast, you’ll find snorkeling and SCUBA diving spots. To make the most of your underwater experience, it’s important to book with a reliable tour operator who can ensure your safety and provide expert guidance.
Paddleboarding and kayaking
Standup paddleboarding and kayaking are great ways to explore the western coast of Hon Lao on the Cham Islands. From the water, you’ll get stunning views of white-sand beaches, coconut palm-lined shores, lush hilltops covered in rainforest, and charming fishing villages. Early mornings are the best time for a peaceful paddle.
Drinking water from Cham Ancient Well
Cham ancient well is an important part of Cham heritage and has been around for over two hundred years. It’s the only place on the island where you can find fresh water that’s not salty or contaminated. Locals believe drinking water from this well can bring good luck in love and childbirth. So, take a sip from this ancient well during your visit to the Cham Islands and get some extra luck.
Visiting Hai Tang Temple
A must-see attraction on the Cham Islands is the Hai Tang Temple, located at the bottom of Hon Lao’s Western mountain. It offers a stunning view of a large field and holds great historical and cultural importance for the island. Despite the passage of time, it remains a symbol of the island’s heritage. Each year, the temple attracts many pilgrims and visitors seeking peace and a break from the fast pace of modern life.
Shopping at Tan Hiep market
Located right by the pier, this market offers a delightful array of seafood delicacies and unique souvenirs made from shells, snails, stones, and more. What’s great about this market is that the seafood tends to be cheaper than on the mainland since it’s sold directly after being caught. So, take some time to explore the stalls, treat yourself to delicious seafood, and grab some special souvenirs.
Exploring fishing villages
Visiting the fishing villages is a delightful experience for visitors. The largest village, Bai Lang has peaceful streets shaded by fruit trees, creating a relaxed atmosphere perfect for leisurely walks. Meanwhile, Bai Huong, a smaller village, offers charming scenes of local life. Here, visitors can observe locals tending to their fishing nets, preparing medicinal tea, and even spot monkeys climbing on the roofs of houses, adding to the village’s unique charm.
Attending the ceremony in Temple of the Nest Craftsman
The Temple of the Nest Craftsman is located on a sand mound near Cay Cua in Bai Huong, this site holds significant cultural and historical importance. Each year, on the 10th day of the third lunar month, a special ceremony honoring the ancestors of bird’s nest harvesting is held here. Going to this event will be a valuable experience that helps you understand the beliefs and traditions of the locals.
Experiencing local cuisines
Treat yourself to the delicious flavors of Cham Islands’ local cuisine, featuring an array of mouthwatering seafood specialties. With the seafood caught fresh during the day, you’re guaranteed the freshest and most flavorful dishes:
- Grilled one-sunny-day squid: Enjoy the semi-dried squid, grilled to perfection and served with a flavorful chili sauce.
- Abalone: Abalone is prepared using various cooking methods such as boiling, frying, or grilling.
- Pyramid top shell: Explore the versatility of this famous sea snail, which can be boiled, grilled, or incorporated into refreshing salads.
- Grilled sea urchin: Experience the distinct flavor of grilled sea urchin, typically accompanied by fragrant scallion oil.
- Rock crab: Delight in the firm and succulent meat of the rock crab, often steamed with beer and seasoned with a blend of salt, pepper, and lemon.
Attractions Nearby
Nearby Cham Islands, there are several attractions worth exploring to enhance your trip to the region.
- Hoi An Market: Experience a vibrant culinary adventure at Hoi An Market, where you can browse stalls selling local produce and sample Vietnamese specialties at the bustling food hall.
- My Khe Beach: Discover the charm of My Khe Beach, known for its pristine shoreline and ideal conditions for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports like surfing and paddleboarding.
- Cua Dai Beach: Escape to the tranquil shores of Cua Dai Beach, just a short distance from Hoi An, for a relaxing day by the sea.
Tips When Visiting Cu Lao Cham
When visiting Cham Islands, it’s important to adhere to a few tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
- Refrain from using plastic bags in Cu Lao Cham as the locals have a strong aversion to them.
- Bring essential items for a sea trip including hats, flat slippers, sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
- Carry all required personal documents for easy motorbike rental.
- When snorkeling to observe coral reefs, ensure not to harm or take coral back to the mainland.
- Carry sunscreen and water when traveling during the daytime.
Cham Islands are a must-visit if you’re in Hoi An or Da Nang, offering a wide range of attractions and activities to suit every taste and preference. Start planning your trip with Vietnamtour.in and get ready for an unforgettable adventure on the beautiful Cham Islands.
