Cham Islands
A pristine archipelago escape.
π₯ Recommended
4.4β (830)
Introduction
Cham Islands (CΓΉ Lao ChΓ m) are an archipelago of eight islands located 18 kilometers off the coast of Hoi An. Recognized as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, the islands are a protected area valued for their rich marine biodiversity, including extensive coral reefs and hundreds of aquatic species. The main island, HΓ²n Lao, is the only one inhabited and serves as the center for all tourism, offering a mix of quiet beaches and small fishing village life.
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HΓ²n Lao Island
This is the largest and sole inhabited island in the archipelago, serving as the hub for all visitor activities. It is home to the main pier, fishing villages like Bai Lang and Bai Huong, local homestays, and the starting point for exploring the surrounding waters.
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BΓ£i Chα»ng Beach
A clean stretch of fine white sand with calm, clear waters, making it one of the most popular beaches for swimming and relaxing. The beach is well-maintained and often a key stop on day tours for lunch and water activities.
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Snorkeling and Divingβ
The islands' status as a marine protected area makes them one of the best spots for underwater exploration in the region. Guided snorkeling and diving trips take you to coral reefs teeming with colorful fish and other marine life.
Getting there
From Cua Dai Pier (Hoi An) to Cham Islands (approx. 18 km):
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π€ Speedboat: 20-30 mins | ~350,000 - 400,000 VND ~ $14 - $16 USD for a round trip.
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πΆ Wooden Boat (local "market" boat): ~90 mins | ~150,000 VND ~ $6 USD one way. Departs early in the morning from Hoi An and returns from the island in the early afternoon.
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π¦ Organized Tour: The most common and convenient option, usually including hotel pickup, round-trip speedboat transport, entrance fees, lunch, and a guided snorkeling session.
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β οΈ The speedboat journey can be bumpy; consider taking medication if you are prone to seasickness. The wooden boat offers a more authentic local experience but is significantly slower. Booking your transport at least a day in advance is advisable, especially during the peak tourist season.
Hours & Admission
π Opening hours:
- The islands are accessible year-round, but boat transport from the mainland generally operates daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. All services are highly dependent on weather and sea conditions.
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π« Ticket prices:
- Entrance Fee: 70,000 VND ~ $2.80 USD per person.
- Ecological Fee: 20,000 VND ~ $0.80 USD per person.
- Notes: These fees contribute directly to conservation efforts and supporting the local community. For visitors on a pre-booked tour, these costs are typically included in the total package price.
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πΆ Best time to visit:
- The ideal time is during the dry season from March to August when the skies are clear and the sea is calm, perfect for boat travel and water activities. It is best to avoid the monsoon season (September to January) due to rough seas and potential trip cancellations.
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β Recommended duration:
- A full day trip (approximately 7-8 hours) is enough to see the main highlights. For a more relaxed experience and to enjoy the island without the crowds, an overnight stay at a local homestay is highly recommended.
Tips from locals
Local tips
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β»οΈ The ban on single-use plastic is strictly enforced to protect the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Your bags may be checked at the Cua Dai pier before you board. Ensure you bring reusable water bottles and a backpack, as carrying plastic bags onto the island is not permitted.
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π° ATMs are not available on Cham Islands. While a few larger restaurants may accept credit cards, the vast majority of services, including homestays, small eateries, and local shops, are cash-only. Bring enough Vietnamese Dong to cover your expenses.
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π All boat services to and from the islands are dependent on the weather. During the rainy season (September - January), trips are often cancelled with little notice due to rough seas. Always check the forecast and confirm your trip with the operator the day before you travel.
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π‘ To truly appreciate the islands' natural setting, book an overnight stay in a homestay. This allows you to escape the midday crowds from day tours and enjoy the quiet beaches in the late afternoon and early morning. It's also the best way to experience the genuine hospitality of the local community.
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Be aware
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π₯ The main beaches and snorkeling spots can get very crowded between 10 AM and 2 PM when all the day-tour boats arrive. If you are traveling independently, plan your swimming and beach time for the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the rush.
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πͺοΈ Because travel is weather-dependent, there is a small risk of getting stranded on the island for an extra day if a sudden storm makes the sea impassable. If visiting during the shoulder months of the rainy season, it's wise to have some flexibility in your travel schedule.
FAQs
How do I get to Cham Islands from Hoi An?
The most common ways are by speedboat (20-30 minutes) or a slower wooden market boat (90 minutes) from Cua Dai Pier. Most visitors opt for an organized tour that includes transportation.
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What is the best time of year to visit Cham Islands?
The best time is during the dry season, from March to August, when the sea is calm and the weather is sunny. The rainy season (September-January) often brings rough seas, causing boat cancellations.
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Can you stay overnight on Cham Islands?
Yes, staying overnight is possible and recommended. Accommodation is available in local homestays in the fishing villages, which must be booked in advance, especially during peak season.
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Are there ATMs on the Cham Islands?
No, there are no ATMs on the islands. You must bring enough cash (Vietnamese Dong) for your entire visit.
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What are the main things to do on Cham Islands?
The main activities are snorkeling or diving in the coral reefs, swimming and relaxing on the beaches (like Bai Chong), visiting the Hai Tang Pagoda, and exploring the Bai Lang fishing village.
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Is the snorkeling good on the islands?
Yes, as a protected UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the islands offer some of the best-preserved coral reefs and marine life in the area, making it an excellent destination for snorkeling.
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Why are single-use plastics banned on Cham Islands?
The ban is in place to protect the fragile marine ecosystem and preserve the natural environment that earned the islands their UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status.
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How much does it cost to visit Cham Islands?
There are two mandatory fees: an entrance fee of 70,000 VND and an ecological fee of 20,000 VND. These are often included in the price of a tour package.
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Is it worth visiting Cham Islands?
Yes, it is especially worthwhile for those who love nature, beaches, and underwater activities. It offers a scenic and ecological contrast to the historic town of Hoi An.
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How long does the boat ride to Cham Islands take?
The journey takes about 20-30 minutes by speedboat and around 90 minutes by the slower, local wooden boat.
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