Key Takeaways:
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In Vietnam, you will find turquoise waves gently washing over soft, white sand. Just beneath the surface, vibrant fish swim among coral reefs so colourful they seem almost unreal.
Vietnam offers underwater worlds that remain largely undiscovered.
Snorkelling in Vietnam: Operators & Costs
|
Operators |
Location |
Approx. Cost in INR |
| Nha Trang | – | |
| Nha Trang Snorkelling Tour, Vuongland Travel | Nha Trang |
2,300 |
| Nha Trang | 2,646 | |
| Sea Trek VietNam | Hoi An |
4,873 |
| Phu Quoc | 4,411 | |
| Kimie’s Tours – Snorkelling, diving, & hiking | Phu Quoc |
– |
| Phu Quoc | 4,058 | |
| Con Dao Dive Centre | Con Dao |
3,530 |
Note: The cost varies depending on the activity, such as island hopping, a sunset cruise that includes snorkelling, or dedicatedsnorkelling tours.
Top Snorkelling Destinations in Vietnam
Vietnam’s shoreline provides a wonderful setting for those who enjoy exploring the ocean. From tropical fish and thriving coral reefs to unique marine species, the variety is impressive.
Snorkelling tours start from around 2,300 INR, suitable for beginners through experienced swimmers.
1. Snorkelling in Nha Trang
Nha Trang stands out as one of Vietnam’s premier destinations for snorkelling enthusiasts.
Beyond its underwater attractions, there is much to explore in Nha Trang, including cultural sites like the famous Po Nagar Temple, mud baths, and fresh seafood.
Snorkelling locations in Nha Trang
Hon Mun Island
Madonna Rock and Mushroom Rock offer visibility of up to 30 metres on clear days.
The eastern side of the island has underwater drop-offs with larger marine species, such as groupers and, occasionally, reef sharks.
Monkey Island (Hon Lao)
The northern reef near the pier is abundant in hard corals and vibrant fish. The eastern side features small coral bommies inhabited by crabs, sea cucumbers, and small reef fish.
Visitors can also attend the island’s monkey shows, as it’s home to over a thousand monkeys.
Hon Tam Island
Offers luxury resorts with reefs, at depths of two to six metres, where you can see a variety of corals and fish, including triggerfish, wrasses, snappers, and occasionally rays.
When you stay at a resort, you will also have access to additional amenities such as swimming pools, water sports, and beachside dining.
2. Snorkelling in Da Nang
Da Nang combines city comforts with accessible snorkelling. Also explore Marble Mountains, Dragon Bridge, and My Khe Beach, or enjoy Da Nang’s nightlife.
Snorkelling places in Da Nang
Bai Nghe Beach (Son Tra Peninsula)
Widely regarded as the premier snorkelling destination on Son Tra Peninsula. Approximately 200 metres from the shore, the reefs extend to depths of 3 to 8 metres.
Tien Sa Beach (Son Tra Peninsula)
Coral begins just 20 to 50 metres from shore, at depths of 2 to 5 metres, making it ideal for beginners and families. Tien Sa is home to numerous damselfish, wrasses, parrotfish, and occasionally pufferfish.
Eastern Son Tra Bays
For a more adventurous experience, the small bays on the eastern side of Son Tra, near Linh Ung Pagoda, are worth exploring. Coral coverage varies across bays, each supporting distinct fish and invertebrate communities.
3. Snorkelling in Phu Quoc
The best part about visiting the island is that if you’re flying directly from India to Phu Quoc, you don’t require a visa.
Apart from snorkelling, there are many things to try on Phu Quoc Island, from visiting the local markets for freshly grilled seafood to enjoying a relaxing evening watching the sunset over Long Beach.
Recommended snorkelling locations in Phu Quoc
Gam Ghi Island
Northern side features barrel sponges and an abundance of marine life, including butterflyfish, parrotfish, angelfish, and lionfish. The southern side of the island offers deeper waters for more experienced swimmers.
May Rut Island
The island is especially suitable for beginners or those who prefer a relaxed snorkelling experience. The water is exceptionally clear, with long white beaches lining the shore.
Mong Tay Island (Fingernail Island)
Named for its unique shape and recognised as the calmest snorkelling site in An Thoi. The area is home to various fish species, including clownfish, butterflyfish, and damselfish.
Hon Thom (Pineapple Island)
Hon Thom is accessible via the world’s longest cable car, offering scenic views over the sea. Combining a cable car ride with snorkelling creates a complete, memorable experience.
4. Snorkelling in the Con Dao Islands
The island’s reefs are largely untouched, due to limited tourism, offering uncrowded snorkelling.
Beyond the marine attractions, visitors can explore rainforest trails and historical prison sites from the French colonial era. From April to October, nighttime turtle-watching tours are available.
Top snorkelling spots in Con Dao
Dam Trau Beach
Snorkellers will encounter healthy hard corals, clams, parrotfish, crabs, and a variety of vibrant fish species. The currents are strong here and can be difficult for beginners.
There are no facilities at the reef; visitors should bring their own equipment and supplies.
Ong Dung Beach
The area is particularly known for frequent turtle sightings, such as hawksbill turtles.
Bay Canh Island
As an uninhabited and protected area, its reefs are in excellent condition.
The northern reefs have a wide array of fish, including angelfish, butterflyfish, parrotfish, and groupers. The southern section offers shallower waters.
Hon Cau
Snorkellers may encounter reef sharks, rays, sea snakes, and large schools of fish. The currents in this area are strong, which helps sustain the vibrant ecosystem, but are best navigated by experienced swimmers.
5. Snorkelling in Hoi An
The Cham Islands, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, lie about 15 kilometres from Hoi An. The protected reefs here support a remarkable diversity of marine life.
While Hoi An is renowned for its lanterns, tailoring, and historic architecture, visitors looking to explore the underwater world can reach the islands by high-speed boat.
Snorkelling spots in Hoi An
Hon Tai Island
The reefs here extend along the northern side of the island at a depth of about three metres, enabling even novices to easily observe the coral.
The area is rich in marine life, including clownfish sheltering in anemones, schools of damselfish, brightly coloured wrasses, and the occasional moray eel. With UNESCO protection, the reefs are well-maintained.
Bai Xep Beach
Locally known as “coral beach,” its shallow reefs begin at depths of one to four metres, allowing for convenient access at any time.
The waters are home to small fish such as baby damselfish, gobies, blennies, and cleaner shrimp, as well as occasional sightings of parrotfish, surgeonfish, and groupers.
Bai Chong Beach
Primary landing point for most Cham Islands tours and offers a range of facilities, including restaurants, changing rooms, and gear rental.
Most tours include a lunch stop here between snorkelling sessions. For those exploring independently, equipment rental is available on the beach.
Conclusion
Vietnam’s underwater environments are often underrated, yet the reefs here are comparable to those found elsewhere in Southeast Asia, with far fewer crowds.
From Nha Trang’s marine parks to Con Dao’s turtle nesting sites, each destination offers distinct reefs and marine life.
FAQs on Snorkelling in Vietnam
1. What is the best season for snorkelling in Vietnam?
- South: Phu Quoc and Con Dao are best from November to March, when the weather is dry, and the sea is calm.
- Central: Nha Trang and Hoi An are ideal from February to October, excluding the rainy season from November to January.
- North, Cat Ba is suitable from May to September. Water temperatures typically range from 21 to 25°C year-round, so the water is rarely cold. May is often the best month, offering clear water and calm seas before the monsoon season.
2. Is snorkelling in Vietnam suitable for beginners?
Yes, Vietnam is an excellent destination for beginner snorkellers. The country offers a variety of shallow reefs and calm bays that are ideal for those new to the activity.
Locations such as Hon Mun, the Cham Islands, and Phu Quoc feature waters just 3 to 5 metres deep, providing a comfortable environment for first-time snorkellers.
3. What should you bring for snorkelling in Vietnam?
Most Needed Things for Snorkelling in Vietnam
- Reef-safe, biodegradable sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
- A waterproof phone case
- Anti-fog spray can help keep your vision clear through your mask
- Motion sickness medication
- A personal mask that fits well
- Quick-dry towels
- Reef-safe insect repellent
- An underwater camera
4. How much does snorkelling cost in Vietnam?
Snorkelling in Vietnam is generally affordable. Group day tours, which typically include boat transportation, equipment, guides, and lunch, cost approximately 2,500 INR per person.
The price may vary depending on the location. Places like Con Dao are higher due to their remote location.
You can also choose to snorkel independently by renting equipment; the cost is approximately 500 INR per day.
