Overview
Vinh Hy Bay (Vịnh Vĩnh Hy), often called the "green pearl" of the ocean, is one of Vietnam's most beautiful and protected bays.
Situated on the southeast coast of the former Ninh Thuận province, now part of Khánh Hòa, this scenic spot is surrounded by arid cliffs, bushy hills, and emerald waters. As part of the Vinh Hy–Núi Chúa marine protected area, the bay is known for its biodiversity, wild coastal landscapes, and charming fishing villages.
It's a dream destination for those who love nature and tranquility.
►
Don't miss out our Khanh Hoa Travel Guide
Top Attractions
Your trip to Vinh Hy won't be complete without experiencing some of these unforgettable activities
Vinh Hy Bay, a true paradise for lovers of the underwater world - Mr Linh's Adventures
Glass-bottom boat tour
This is a unique way to see the coral reefs without getting wet. These excursions let you observe marine life in shallow water, typically between 2 and 4 meters deep.
Hiking in Nui Chua National Park, a UNESCO site - Mr Linh's Adventures
Núi Chúa National Park
Go for a hike and enjoy spectacular views of the bay. This park is a sanctuary of peace and natural beauty.
Explore Vinh Hy and discover hidden beaches - Mr Linh's AdventuresVinh Hy beaches and coves
These small slices of paradise are perfect for swimming and relaxing.
Dive into local life in Vinh Hy fishing village - Mr Linh's AdventuresFishing village
Immerse yourself in local life by visiting the Vinh Hy fishing village and its markets, where you can find incredibly fresh seafood.
See & Do
Vinh Hy is an exceptional playground for the more adventurous, with plenty of opportunities both on land and at sea.
Vinh Hy is an exceptional playground for nature lovers - Mr Linh's Adventures
Marine exploration
Vinh Hy Bay is home to a rich underwater world, with over 300 species of coral, 50 of which have been recently discovered in Vietnam. The clear, shallow waters, ranging from 2 to 4 meters deep, make it an ideal spot for snorkeling, even for beginners. You can also explore the varied seafloor near the Núi Chúa peninsula at similar depths, usually between 2 and 5 meters.
For a more leisurely exploration, kayaking or paddleboarding are perfect for navigating the bay's secluded coves.
Nui Chau National Park belongs to Vinh Hy–Núi Chúa marine protected area - Mr Linh's Aventures
Land adventures
Núi Chúa National Park, a UNESCO-listed World Biosphere Reserve, offers diverse and wild landscapes. You'll immediately feel the fresh air and tranquility of the area. Seasoned hikers can take on
Mount Chúa (1,093 meters), a technical climb with a steep, rocky trail. However, the effort is well worth it for the spectacular, serene panorama of the endless sea.
Nearby, don't miss
Hang Rái, a natural site with unique rock formations that feel otherworldly. Here, marine caves meet colorful coral reefs, and the sunlight creates a dreamy spectacle as it changes the color of the water.
Vinh Hy, where turquoise waters blend with rock formations - Mr Linh's Adventures
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
Po Nagar Temple stands as a powerful symbol of Cham heritage - Mr Linh's Adventures
The Vinh Hy region is steeped in the history of the Cham people, an Austronesian group that influenced Vietnam's central coast for centuries. Their ancient kingdom, Champa, left a lasting cultural, linguistic, and religious mark on the area. Architectural relics like the Po Nagar towers in Nha Trang and the Po Klong Garai complex in Phan Rang are testaments to this ancient culture and its Indian influences.
The Cham heritage is also visible in local crafts, particularly pottery and ceramics. Just a few kilometers from Phan Rang-Thap Cham is the village of Bau Truc, recognized as the oldest pottery village in Southeast Asia. The women of the village, who have inherited an ancestral craft passed down from mother to daughter, continue to shape clay by hand. The pottery is then sun-dried and fired outdoors, gaining its characteristic red and yellow hues from a mix of ash and mineral dust.
Coastal villages like Vinh Hy developed around fishing, a vital activity that has allowed local communities to benefit from the bay's rich resources. Today, the region blends a strong Cham heritage with Vietnamese influences, seen in traditional festivals like Katê, where people pray for peace and prosperity. Tourism helps preserve these traditions and skills, contributing to the vitality of the local communities.
Food & Drinks
Banh Xeo, the crispy Vietnamese pancake - Mr Linh's Adventures
Vinh Hy Bay is a paradise for food lovers, famous for its incredibly fresh seafood. You can savor lobster, grilled moonfish, and dried squid, as well as seafood pancakes, fish cake noodle soup, or fish porridge.
In Thanh Hoa province, don't miss to give a try to those delicious food :
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.
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
Vinh Hy is located in Khánh Hòa province, about 40 km northeast of Phan Rang-Thap Chàm.
How to get there
By plane: The nearest airport is Cam Ranh. From there, a taxi or private transport will get you to the bay in about two hours.
By car or motorbike: If you enjoy road trips, you can drive to Phan Rang-Thap Cham and follow the signs for the 42 km coastal road to the bay.
By boat: If you are with a group, you can take a boat from My Thanh Bridge near Cam Ranh airport to Binh Tien and Vinh Hy.
Best time to visit
The dry season, from April/May to August, is the ideal time to enjoy the sun and water activities. The rainy season runs from September to December.