Quick Review:
This is my Cham island travel guide that I wrote from my trip to the island in February. The weather is clear, the water is perfect for swimming, and best of all—there are very few people! This makes it easier to take lots of beautiful photos. Staying overnight on the island allows you to fully appreciate its beauty and have enough time to explore. Bãi Xếp is a fantastic spot to watch the sunset, while Eo Gió is perfect for catching the sunrise—just ask the locals for tips to avoid going too early and waiting too long.
Detailed Review:
I love the beach—especially ones that are beautiful and not crowded. If you’re like me, visiting Cham Island at the end of February is an excellent choice. You can practically have the beach to yourself and scream with joy!
“Is the water cold?” Initially, yes, but you’ll quickly get used to it.
Note: February isn’t the most beautiful season for Cham Island. According to locals, the best time to visit Cham Island is from April to September, with calm seas and gentle winds. However, if you want to visit Cham Island in the summer, be prepared for the crowd. Local shop owners mentioned that July can bring thousands of visitors daily. When I visited in February, the weather was sunny and clear, with mostly foreign tourists.
For daily weather updates, you can contact me at +(84) 903532168 via WhatsApp. I also offer boat services to Cham Island and hotel recommendations with fixed pricing and dedicated service for Cham island travel guide
Cham Island is incredibly clean, with very little plastic waste. The air is fresh, so much so that even my wife—a notorious late sleeper—woke up early just to watch the sunrise. Afternoons by the beach were pure relaxation: waves gently lapping at your feet, soaking in the cool water, and listening to children laughing on the sand. The sunsets here, resembling round salted eggs, slowly sinking below the horizon, are unforgettable.
For me, Cham Island is absolutely worth visiting. This Cham Island Travel Guide is here to make your trip planning a breeze!
Suggested Itinerary:
Day 1:
- 7:00 AM: Depart from the hotel to Cửa Đại Port
- 7:30 AM: Arrive at Cửa Đại Port and wait for the canoe
- 8:00 AM: Take the canoe to Cham Island
- 8:30 AM: Check into the homestay and enjoy balcony views
- 9:00 AM: Visit the ancient well, explore Bãi Làng, and go crab-catching
- 10:30 AM: Join a snorkeling tour from Bãi Ông
- 12:30 PM: Lunch at Bãi Ông, relax under coconut trees
- 2:00 PM: Return to the homestay for a nap
- 3:00 PM: Ride a motorbike to Bãi Xếp and Bãi Chồng for sunset views
- 5:30 PM: Return to freshen up, have dinner, and enjoy the night beach
Day 2:
- 4:30 AM: Head to Eo Gió for sunrise
- 7:00 AM: Breakfast (bánh bèo chén) and shop for seafood
- 8:00 AM: Swim at Bãi Xếp
- 10:00 AM: Lunch
- 1:00 PM: Canoe back to the mainland
This Cham Island Travel Guide ensures you don’t miss any highlights during your trip!
How to Get There:
Start from Hoi An by taxi for around 200,000 VND. If traveling from Da Nang, a car to Cửa Đại Port costs approximately 350,000 VND. If you haven’t got a taxi, contact Hoi An Fairy Tour now for a quick and comfortable pick-up service!
At the port, check in with your pre-booked canoe service and wait for the boat.
Important: Single-use plastic bags are prohibited on Cham Island. Pack your items in cloth or paper bags to comply with regulations – Cham island travel guide
Canoe tickets sell out quickly, especially for last-minute travelers, so book in advance if you’re planning a self-guided trip. Round-trip canoe tickets, including island entry fees, cost 400,000 VND. The journey takes about 20 minutes. This Cham Island Travel Guide recommends early booking to secure your spot.
3. Where to Stay:
There are many homestays on the island. I stayed at Trường Kép Homestay, near the port (400,000 VND/night). It’s conveniently located—100m from Tân Hiệp Market and 200m from the ancient well. The homestay has a cozy swing and bougainvillea trellis out front, perfect for chilling.
Rooms are clean, modern, and equipped with fans, air conditioning, and shampoo packets. The beds are comfy, and the owners are very hospitable. They can help arrange snorkeling tours, motorbike rentals (150,000 VND/day), and meals (there’s a price list). If you buy your own seafood, they’ll cook it for 100,000 VND/kg.
This Cham Island Travel Guide highly recommends Trường Kép Homestay for its excellent location and services.
4. Activities:
Fun Activities – Cham island travel guide
- Snorkeling and Diving: Explore the vibrant underwater world of Cham Island.
- Exploring the Biosphere Reserve: Cham Island is part of a UNESCO-recognized Biosphere Reserve, offering opportunities to learn about its rich biodiversity.
- Watching the Sunrise at Eo Gió: Start your day with a breathtaking view of the sunrise at this iconic spot
- Fishing with local fishermen on the island: Fishing is a thrilling and popular activity among tourists visiting Cù Lao Chàm. Hop on a boat and venture into the serene beauty of the surroundings while experiencing the life of coastal fishermen. Enjoy the satisfaction of catching your own fish and indulge in delicious, fresh dishes prepared from your own catch, ensuring a memorable culinary experience.
Important: If you only want to do the snorkeling and diving activity at Cham island. Don’t miss our snorkeling and diving tour (full-day activity) at Hoi An Fairy Tour.
Sightseeing Spots – Cham island travel guide
- Bãi Làng: A small beach near the port where locals dock their boats. Great for playing in the sand but not for swimming.
- Bãi Ông: A developed beach with amenities like cafes, clean restrooms, and changing rooms. Sip coconut water (50,000 VND each) under the shade of coconut trees.
- Bãi Xếp: My favorite! Untouched and serene, with swings for chilling. There are no amenities, but the crystal-clear water and calm waves make it perfect for snorkeling or watching the sunset.
- Bãi Chồng: About 1.6km from Bãi Xếp. Accessible via a dirt trail, this beach is lined with coconut trees and a few small shops. However, the sand isn’t as fine, and it’s less suitable for kids.
Historical and local spots – Cham island travel guide
- The ancient well of the Cham people: Located in the Xom Cam Residential Area of Cham Island, the ancient well of the Cham people holds a remarkable history spanning over 200 years. Additionally, serving as the island’s only source of unpolluted freshwater, it remains free from any salt or alum contamination. Moreover, according to local beliefs, consuming water from this well is believed to bring good fortune in matters of love and fertility.This Cham Island Travel Guide ensures you have all the details for a fun and adventurous experience.
- Hai Tang Temple: Nestled at the foot of Hon Lao’s Western mountain, Hai Tang Temple provides a mesmerizing vista of the vast fields. Moreover, this sacred temple stands as an enduring testament to the island’s heritage, drawing countless pilgrims and tourists each year in search of tranquility amidst the bustling world.
- The temple of the Nest Craftsman: The Temple of the Nest Craftsman, a significant national relic, stands proudly on a sand mound near Cay Cua in Bai Huong.
Every year, on the 10th day of the third lunar month, a solemn tribute ceremony to the ancestors of bird’s nest exploitation takes place at the temple. Visiting this site during this occasion will provide a deeper understanding of the local beliefs and traditions.
5. Food:
- Lunch at Bãi Ông: A set meal costs 150,000 VND/person. The host even offered food for our 4-year-old at no extra charge.
- Dinner Options: Seafood is the main attraction. You can pre-order meals at your homestay or try local dishes like bún bò (30,000 VND/bowl). For fresh seafood, shop at the market from 6:30 AM. Prices include scallops (40,000 VND each), sea urchins (30,000 VND each), and more.
6. Marine Life at Cham Island:
Cham Island is a haven for marine enthusiasts, boasting a diverse underwater ecosystem that draws snorkelers, divers, and nature lovers alike. The island’s surrounding waters are part of a UNESCO-recognized Biosphere Reserve, ensuring that its coral reefs and marine biodiversity are protected. Visitors can explore an underwater world teeming with vibrant corals, tropical fish, and other fascinating marine creatures.
Snorkeling and diving are the best ways to experience Cham Island’s marine life. The clear waters provide excellent visibility, allowing you to marvel at schools of colorful fish darting among the coral formations. Lucky visitors might even spot sea turtles or rays gliding gracefully through the water. This Cham island travel guide will suggest you some option for these activities
Cham Island is not just a destination for recreation but also a model for marine conservation. Local initiatives promote sustainable tourism practices to protect this fragile ecosystem, making it a perfect destination for eco-conscious travelers. Whether you’re an experienced diver or a first-time snorkeler, Cham Island offers an unforgettable journey into its underwater paradise. Don’t miss the chance to witness one of Vietnam’s most vibrant marine habitats!
Final Thoughts:
Cham Island offers an escape into nature with its pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and tranquil atmosphere. This Cham Island Travel Guide aims to make your visit seamless and enjoyable. Whether you’re planning to relax, explore, or capture stunning photos, Cham Island has something for everyone. Don’t wait—start planning your adventure today!
From Vincent – the Author
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