Cham Island

Location

Cham Islands, known locally as Cu Lao Cham, is located approximately 18 km offshore from Hoi An. This stunning archipelago comprises eight islands in Quang Nam Province and serves as a habitat for around 135 coral species, 202 different species of fish, 84 types of mollusks, and 5 species of lobsters, many of which are listed as endangered in Vietnam and internationally.

Cham Island Beach

Things to know before you go

Renowned for its rich biodiversity, Cham Islands was recognized as a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. While the island has significant tourism potential, it opened to tourists only recently and is accessible for around seven months a year, typically from March through September. Its relatively unexploited nature offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. On the islands, a few villages and fishermen coexist amidst dense forests and an array of pristine beaches.

The primary draw of Cham Islands is its breathtaking coral reefs and crystal-clear waters, which offer fantastic diving experiences. Visitors can savor delicious local seafood and engage in eco-tours involving hiking across the islands, visits to fishing villages, and overnight camping amid nature. Notably, some archaeological remains were discovered recently and can be explored in a modest museum near the main jetty.

Diving in Cham Island

How to get there

To reach Cham Islands, travelers must first go to Hoi An. From there, they can take a ferry from the Hoi An public pier, which operates several trips a day, or join an organized tour offered by local travel companies in Hoi An.

By plane

There are no airports in Hoi An itself. The nearest airport is Da Nang International Airport. From there, visitors can take a public bus to Hoi An for approximately 20,000 VND or a taxi for around 800,000 VND. The public bus to Hoi An is available, but can be a bit challenging to find, so it’s advisable to plan ahead.

By train

Train services do not stop in Hoi An; the nearest railway station is in Da Nang. Travelers can easily take a taxi or bus from Da Nang to Hoi An. Train travel can be economical and provides a scenic journey through Vietnam’s countryside.

By car/bus

An economical and direct option for reaching Hoi An is by taking a commercial bus, which offers direct services to the town without the need to transit through Da Nang. The fare for a sleeper bus from Ho Chi Minh City is approximately 1,200,000 VND and around 800,000 VND from Hanoi.

Best time to visit

The ideal time to visit Cham Islands for snorkeling and diving is during the calm summer months of June, July, and August. However, visitors should be cautious during this period as jellyfish populations near the coast increase. Wearing protective clothing such as a T-shirt can help prevent stings.

If visiting during summer is not possible, consider going in spring (April to June), but be sure to check the weather forecast, as the sea can still be rough during this season. It is best to avoid autumn and winter due to a higher likelihood of monsoon storms, which can make travel unsafe and lead to being stranded on the islands.

Beautiful Cham Island in summer

Useful Information