Cham Islands
Islands Archipelago off Hoi An with beaches and reefs
Island group off Hoi An, the Cham Islands form a marine reserve with coral reefs, fishing villages and day-trip snorkeling; boats run from Hoi An for beach time, diving and visits to the island’s small coastal temples.
The Cham Islands (Cu Lao Cham) are a small archipelago off the coast of central Vietnam near Hoi An, composed of several rocky and forested islets. The group is recognized for coral reefs, clear water, and traditional fishing communities.
Visitors come for snorkeling, diving, day trips from Hoi An, and visits to the islands’ small villages and local seafood markets. The archipelago includes protected marine zones and land areas managed for both conservation and sustainable tourism.
The islands were formally recognized by UNESCO as a biosphere reserve in 2009 and are accessed by short boat trips from the Hoi An and Cua Dai area.
- UNESCO status: Designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2009, recognizing the archipelago's terrestrial and marine biodiversity values.
- Marine protection: A marine protected area surrounds the islands and supports snorkeling and diving on coral reefs adjacent to the islands.
What to See #
- Hon Lao (main island): The largest island in the group, home to the main village and most visitor facilities including homestays, small guesthouses, and docks for dive/snorkel trips.
How to Get to Cham Islands #
The Cham Islands (Cù Lao Chàm) are reached by boat from the Cua Dai area near Hoi An or from Hoi An’s small harbor. Speedboats and ferries run multiple times daily during the tourist season; the crossing from Cua Dai is typically a short boat ride (roughly 15-45 minutes depending on vessel). From Da Nang International Airport it’s about a 25-35 km drive to Hoi An (roughly 30-45 minutes), then a brief taxi or motorbike ride to Cua Dai beach to catch boats to the islands.
Tips for Visiting Cham Islands #
- Take an early scheduled boat from Hoi An (Cua Dai area) so you arrive before the bulk of day-trippers and have first pick of snorkeling slots and beach spots.
- Use a licensed operator and pay the marine-protected-area/entry fee at the park station - many visitors miss the island's inland walking trails and the small local market on the main island.
- Consider staying overnight in a homestay if you want quieter evenings and the chance to snorkel at first light before day boats arrive.
Best Time to Visit Cham Islands #
Best visited between March and September for clearer water, calmer seas and more reliable boat connections.
