Overview
The
province of Khanh Hoa, a coastal gem in central Vietnam, reached a decisive milestone in its history by merging with Ninh Thuan province in July 2025. This union created a geographical and economic entity of considerable scale, combining Khanh Hoa's vibrant coastline, known for its fine sand beaches and preserved islands, with the unique landscapes and culture of the
former Ninh Thuan.
This consolidation strengthens its status as a must-visit tourist destination, offering a subtle balance of natural beauty, well-being, and cultural richness.
Top Attractions
Vinh Hy Bay, a true hidden gem - Mr Linh's Adventures
Among the flagship destinations of this new province, Vinh Hy Bay stands out as a hidden pearl.
Nestled at the foot of Nui Chua National Park, the "eternal bay" reveals stunning landscapes where turquoise waters blend with rock formations. It's an ideal spot for diving, snorkeling, or a simple boat trip in a glass-bottom boat to admire the colorful seabed.
Nui Chau Biosphere Reserve encompass the National Park and the Marine Protected Area - Mr Linh's Adventures
Nui Chua National Park, now an integral part of the province, is a true sanctuary of biodiversity. Classified as a UNESCO site, it offers an exceptional setting for ecotourism, with hiking trails and magnificent panoramic views. It is one of the rare places in Vietnam with a dry forest ecosystem, where it is possible to discover desert landscapes and observe sea turtles laying their eggs.
Po Nagar Towers, relics of a lost civilization - Mr Linh's Adventures
The Cham heritage is another central feature of the new province. The Po Nagar towers in Nha Trang, a millennial Hindu place of worship, are perfectly complemented by the Po Klong Garai complex in Phan Rang. The latter, perched on a hill, is one of the best-preserved in Vietnam and offers a fascinating glimpse into Cham culture.
The surprising Ninh Thuan Vineyard
Finally, one of the most surprising additions to the province is the Ninh Thuan vineyard. Thanks to a hot and sunny climate, the region has developed a local wine industry, and a visit to the Thai An Grape Garden (about 30 kilometers from Phan Rang) allows visitors to taste grape and rice wines while immersing themselves in this little-known aspect of Vietnam.
See & Do
Climbing to the peak of Da Do (Red Rock) - Nui Chua Park - Mr Linh's Adventures
The new province of Khanh Hoa offers an even richer range of activities to satisfy all desires.
Nui Chua National Park is a paradise for hikers and wildlife enthusiasts, with its trails winding through preserved ecosystems. The Hon Ba Nature Reserve is also a treasure trove of biodiversity, with its mountain forests and coastal ecosystem.
Did you know? Hon Ba, discovered by Dr. Alexandre Yersin in 1915 when he established his research station, is a remarkable scientific site. This place not only served as a base for important studies on medicinal plants, but also allowed Dr. Yersin to catalog many rare botanical species. In tribute to his legacy, Khanh Hoa Province has transformed his house into a memorial located at the top of Hon Ba. As a reminder, Alexandre Yersin, an explorer and pioneer in many fields, was the one who discovered the plague bacillus. He is also credited with establishing the Da Lat health resort, as well as planting quinine trees to prevent malaria. The Vietnamese people owe him a great deal and hold him in deep reverence. He died in Nha Trang.
Watersports enthusiasts will enjoy kitesurfing and windsurfing in Khanh Hoa Province - Mr Linh's Adventures
The coastline, meanwhile, is a unique aquatic playground. Nha Trang and Vinh Hy Bay offer exceptional conditions for diving and snorkeling, while watersports enthusiasts will find their happiness with kitesurfing and windsurfing. Marine adventure lovers can also go kayaking in Vinh Hy Bay and on the islet of Hang Rai, whose waters shelter superb coral reefs.
Go Green
Whether you are passionate about hiking or marine exploration, Mr Linh’s Adventures offers authentic and varied nature experiences, far from conventional tourist trails.
Heritage
The spiritual heritage of the kingdom of Champa - Mr Linh's Adventures
Khanh Hoa is a unique cultural crossroads, where Cham heritage is omnipresent with its sacred towers, witnesses to an ancient and now-vanished civilization. Festivals liven up local life, notably the annual Kate festival, which takes place at the foot of the Ponagar towers. The new province also integrates the ethnic minority communities of the former Ninh Thuan, such as the Raglai and the Churu, whose culture, music, and crafts enrich the region's identity. It is also possible to discover their traditions and crafts, particularly weaving, by visiting villages and cultural centers.
Cham danses a the foot of the Po Nagar Towers - Mr Linh's Adventures
The Bau Truc ceramic village, near Phan Rang, is one of the oldest and most famous pottery villages in the country. Bau Truc pottery is an ancestral art where artisans work the clay by hand, without a wheel, and fire the pieces in an open flame, giving them a distinctive texture.
The region is also distinguished by a rich spiritual tradition illustrated by its remarkable religious sites. Pagodas occupy a central place, each with unique characteristics. The Long Son Pagoda (Nha Trang), also known as the White Buddha Pagoda, stands alongside the fascinating Đá Pagoda (Nha Trang), nestled at the top of Co Tien Mountain, which offers a striking panorama of Nha Trang Bay. The Linh Phong Pagoda (Nha Trang) also deserves special attention: divided into five distinct zones, it is distinguished by its wooden pillars assembled with technical virtuosity, without the use of nails, and adorned with remarkably fine sculptures.
Long Son Pagoda, also known as the White Buddha Pagoda - Mr Linh's Adventures
Testifying to the region's plural religious history, the Gothic Catholic church represents another architectural jewel. Built between 1928 and 1933 by the French priest Louis Vallet, it overlooks the city from the Hoàng Lân promontory, from which its impressive 38-meter bell tower, embellished with three French bells, offers a panoramic view of Nha Trang.
Food & Drinks
Khanh Hoa Province, a true paradise for seafood lovers - Mr Linh's Adventures
The gastronomy has been enriched with new regional flavors. To Nha Trang's famous bún cá sứa (fish and jellyfish noodle soup), unique dishes from the former Ninh Thuan are added.
Bún chả cá: a tasty dish composed of soft noodles, a fish broth, and delicious fish cakes, garnished with fresh herbs.
Dê núi hầm sâm: The goat stew with herbs, a specialty of the former Ninh Thuan. The goat meat, raised on the rocky mountains, is simmered with medicinal herbs to create a savory, rich, and comforting dish, a dish not to be missed.
Gỏi cá mai: sour raw fish salad, a typical specialty.
Nem nướng Ninh Hòa: grilled meat skewers, known throughout Nha Trang.
Hải sản tươi sống: various seafood including shrimp, crabs, and shellfish, served in the many coastal restaurants. One of the experiences to have in Vinh Hy Bay is a visit to the fishing village of Vinh Hy. Dawn is the liveliest time in the village, when fishing boats return loaded with fish. Here, you can buy fresh seafood directly from the fishermen, chat with the locals, and immerse yourself in the peaceful rhythm of local life.
Grape wine: In addition to producing a local wine, the region is famous for its fresh grape juice, from vineyards that benefit from the region's sunny climate.
Directions
Location
The province of Khánh Hòa extends along the south-central coast of Vietnam, bordered by the East Sea, between the economic capital Ho Chi Minh City and the capital Hanoi.
How to get there
Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR) remains the main gateway. It now serves the entire new province. The Nha Trang and Phan Rang-Thap Cham train stations are also major access points via the North-South train line.
Best time to visit
The best time remains the dry season, from January to August, to enjoy the sunny climate and water activities. The rainy season is from September to December..
The province of Khánh Hòa is a complete tourist destination that combines magnificent marine landscapes, a rich cultural heritage, varied adventure experiences, and tasty local cuisine. Easily accessible and dynamic, it stands out as a gem of tourism in Vietnam, ideal for travelers in search of nature, culture, and excitement.
Do not hesitate to
contact Mr Linh's Adventure to organize your trip to Khanh Hoa. We offer tailor-made tours adapted to your desires and your budget.