Cù Lao Chàm Island

Address: Cù Lao Chàm (Cham Islands), off the coast of Hoi An, Quảng Nam Province, Vietnam

Website: http://www.chamislands.com

Hours: Boat services typically run daily from early morning until late afternoon; islands open year-round

Admission: Marine park permits and diving fees may apply; island fees vary-purchase tickets at the Cua Dai or Hoi An boat piers

Cù Lao Chàm is an archipelago of eight small islands off the central Vietnamese coast near the historic port town of Hoi An. It was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2009.

The islands are known for coral reefs, clear-water snorkeling and diving sites, small sandy beaches, and traditional fishing villages. Day trips typically include short coastal hikes, reef snorkeling, and visits to local markets and simple seafood restaurants.

Historically the islands were used by local fishing communities and served as stops for coastal trade; conservation and management measures increased after the UNESCO designation to protect marine habitats. Local authorities now regulate fishing and tourism to protect coral and reef fish.

The archipelago sits in the South China Sea off central Vietnam, close to Hoi An and within the coastal waters between Hoi An and Da Nang.

• UNESCO status: Designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2009.
• Access: Regular boats and speedboats run from Hoi An (Cua Dai) with the speedboat crossing typically taking around 20-30 minutes.

Regular boats and speedboats depart from Cua Dai pier (about 20 minutes from Hoi An) and take roughly 20-40 minutes depending on the vessel. Tickets are sold at the pier; some hotels and tour operators in Hoi An include transfers.

• Take the 30-40 minute boat from Cua Dai or Hoi An early to beat the day-trippers and to get calm seas for snorkeling.
• Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a reusable bottle-supplies on the islands are limited and more expensive.
• Visit the Cham Cultural Village on the main island to learn about the islands' history before heading to the beaches.