There are some nice beaches near Nha Trang but the finest beaches are located in north of the city. Among them are Doc Let Beach, Van Phong Bay and Dai Lanh Beach. Doc Let is a small peaceful beach with white fine sand. The beach is protected by small islets, making the sea in this area calm and safe for swimming. Van Phong Bay is 50 kilometres north of Nha Trang. This long beach is a centre of water borne activities such as snorkeling, water skiing and sailing. The farthest of all three beaches, Dai Lanh Beach is long and blessed with soft white sand and calm water.
Dozens of islets are found off its coast, boosting plenty of diving and snorkeling opportunities. The town has its best weather from January to the end of September. The monsoon season starts in mid October until December. The town offers a range of accommodation from budget guesthouses to world-renowned boutique resorts.
Besides beaches and islands, there are other natural and historical attractions in Nha Trang city.
Thap Ba Hot Springs
Thap Ba Hot Springs is situated on the outskirt of the city. It has several streams and lakes whose water originates from Hon Son Mountain nearby. Travelers can hike up the streams to the highland lakes or watch thousands of Vietnam’s sea and freshwater specimens at the Institute of Oceanography. The luxury Evason Hideaway Resort is just 15 kilometres from the springs.
Nha Trang Cathedral
The construction of Nha Trang Cathedral started in 1928 and finished 1934. The dark brown Christian church is decked with colourful stained glasses and houses three large bells. The building stands elegantly on an elevated land surrounded local houses. Mass is held from Monday to Saturday at 5 am and 4.30 pm, and Sunday at 5 and 7 am and 4.30 pm.
Po Nagar Cham Towers
The remnants from Champa kingdom, the Po Nagar Towers is believed to be built between the 8th and 12 century. The temple consists of seven towers but only four survive the destruction. The square-shaped tower is made of baked bricks with pyramid apex. The exterior of the towers is a manifestation of Champa arts with chiseled carvings depicting dancing fairies, boat racing and daily life of ancient people. Each tower is dedicated to different Hindu gods such as Shiva, Uma and Ganesha. The towers are located on a granite hill on the left bank of the Cai River.
