How to Spend Your Vacation at Cham Island? The Priceless Guide

Cham Island is an archipelago consisting of 8 small islands, recognized as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. This island is famous for its rich ecosystems, pristine beaches, clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs. Discover the ultimate travel guide to this special island in the article below!

1. General Information about The Cham Island

Address: Tan Hiep Commune, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province

Cham Island is an archipelago located about 18km from Cua Dai Beach in Hoi An. The group consists of 8 islands: Hon Lao, Hon Dai, Hon Mo, Hon La, Hon Kho Me, Hon Kho Con, Hon Tai, and Hon Ong. Hon Lao is the main island where approximately 2,400 - 3,000 people reside, primarily engaged in fishing activities. The total area of the archipelago spans 13.82km².

Recognized by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve, Cham Island features a rich marine ecosystem with 165 hectares of coral reefs and 500 hectares of seaweed, making it a premier destination for nature lovers and sustainable travelers.

Cham Island maintains wild beauty with clear blue water, white sand, and a diverse ecosystem (Source: Internet)

2. Transportation Options to and Around The Cham Island

Cham Island is located about 23km from Hoi An. There are two main transportation options for visitors to get there, depending on time and budget:

• Speedboat: The fastest option at just 30 - 35 minutes with multiple morning departures from the mainland (08:00 - 10:00 AM). While convenient, the high-speed journey might cause seasickness in some passengers, and at 350,000 VND per person round-trip.
• Traditional Wooden Boat: A gentle, slower-paced journey preferred by locals, making it ideal for travelers prone to seasickness despite the longer 1.5-hour duration. At 100,000 - 150,000 VND per person, these more affordable boats typically depart at 08:00 AM with additional sailings throughout the day, weather permitting.

Speedboats are the main transportation to Cham Island (Source: Internet)

Here are some popular transportation to get around the Cham island:

• Motorbike Rental: Perfect for independent explorers, motorbikes (100,000 - 150,000 VND/day) offer complete freedom to discover the island's hidden corners, though riders must be experienced and observe safety regulations by wearing helmets.
• Small Boat Rental: Ideal for beach-hopping between Bai Lang, Bai Huong, and Bai Xep (300,000 - 500,000 VND/trip), these boats access secluded shores unreachable by land, though passengers should have basic swimming abilities and prepare for potential seasickness.
• Electric Car: This eco-friendly option (30,000 - 50,000 VND/person) provides comfortable, stress-free sightseeing along scenic routes without driving concerns, though the fixed itineraries limit exploration off the established tourist path.
• Bicycle: Budget-friendly and environmentally conscious, bicycles (50,000 VND/day) allow an intimate connection with the landscape and flexible pacing, but require reasonable fitness levels for the island's occasionally challenging terrain.

3. Exploring the Most Beautiful Beaches in Cham Island

Cham Island is home to stunning, picture-perfect beaches. Each one has its unique charm, with crystal-clear waters, pristine white sand, and a rich marine ecosystem. Here are the top 4 famous beaches on Cham Island:

3.1. Bai Ong Beach - The Water Sports Paradise with Spectacular Scenery

Bai Ong is the closest beach to Cua Dai Port, making it an easy and popular stop for visitors. It stands out with its clear emerald waters, wide stretches of soft white sand, and rows of tall coconut trees.

Bai Ong Beach is a famous beach on Cham Island with beautiful natural scenery, unique water sports and entertainment (Source: Internet)

This beach offers a variety of water activities, including jet skiing, parasailing, and coral diving. Surrounding the beach, visitors can find many seafood restaurants serving fresh dishes, including lobster, abalone, v.v., ensuring a perfect combination of relaxation, adventure, and local culinary delights.

3.2. Bai Chong - A Snorkeler's Dream with the Clear Waters

Bai Chong is one of the most famous beaches on Cu Lao Cham, known for its crystal-clear waters and peaceful atmosphere. The marine ecosystem here is incredibly diverse.

Bai Chong Beach is known for its clear blue waters, making it a top spot for diving and coral viewing on Cham Island (Source: Internet)

This makes it an ideal spot for those who want to engage in activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, and exploring the stunning beauty of the ocean. In addition to these activities, Bai Chong is also a paradise for visitors who wish to relax, sunbathe, and discover the untouched natural beauty of the surroundings.

3.3. Bai Xep - A Peaceful, Untouched Sanctuary by the Sea

Bai Xep is a relatively small and lesser-known beach. This helps preserve its pristine beauty and peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal getaway for those wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life.

Bai Xep Beach stands out with its unique coral ecosystem and privacy, making it a paradise for underwater explorers (Source: Internet)

This beach is enchanting with its crystal-clear waters and smooth, soft sand. Visitors can unwind beneath the shade of palm trees, take a refreshing swim in the transparent sea, or enjoy the breathtaking views of the sunset when coming to Bai Xep Beach.

3.4. Bai Huong - Explore the Local Fishing Village and Enjoy the Fresh Seafood

Nestled near the fishing village of Cu Lao Cham, Bai Huong offers a tranquil setting that reflects the simple lifestyle of the local fishermen. Visitors can immerse themselves in the daily rhythms of the village or join the fishermen on a boat trip to experience their work firsthand.

Bai Huong Beach is a peaceful fishing village, which is known for its serene beauty, featuring activities like net fishing and fish sorting (Source: Internet)

Additionally, Bai Huong is renowned for its fresh seafood, including specialties like stone crab, sea snail, and other delicious catches, all set against a backdrop of pristine nature and fresh air. When visiting Bai Huong, travelers can ask local fishermen for permission to join them on a fishing trip and enjoy freshly caught seafood right on the boat or at nearby local eateries.

3.5. Bai Lang Beach - A Hub of Heritage and Friendliness

Lang Beach is celebrated for its untouched beauty and the friendly nature of its locals. It offers an authentic experience for those who want to immerse themselves in the local way of life while savoring traditional, flavorful dishes.

Bai Lang offers a rustic, natural beauty with warm and welcoming locals, ensuring unforgettable experiences for visitors (Source: Internet)

Along the beach, visitors can find numerous shops offering unique souvenirs, including handcrafted items and seashell jewelry. It's the perfect place to pick up gifts for loved ones or to keep as lasting mementos of the journey.

4. Top Unmissable Destinations to Experience on Cham Island

Cham Island is a must-visit destination when coming to Hoi An City. Take your time to discover these famous places and soak in the island’s peaceful beauty and local charm.

4.1. Cham Island Marine Museum

Address: Bai Lang Beach, Tan Hiep Commune, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province

The Cham Island Marine Museum is an engaging destination that introduces visitors to the island's marine biodiversity. Visitors can explore:

• Marine life collection: Admire over 135 species of coral and 202 marine species, including rare creatures like lobsters and crabs, providing a clear understanding of Cham Island's vibrant marine ecosystem.
• Marine conservation efforts: Learn about efforts to protect marine environments and endangered species through informative presentations and interactive experiences.

Cham Island Marine Museum is a place to display artifacts and specimens of animals and plants typical of this sea area (Source: Internet)

4.2. Ancient Cham Well (Gieng Xom Cam)

Address: Xom Cam Village, Tan Hiep Commune, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province

The Xom Cam Well, also known as the Ancient Cham Well, is a historic site over 200 years old and has been a crucial freshwater source for the residents of Cham Island. Visitors can enjoy the following activities:

• Taking photos of the well: Surrounded by a picturesque, historic setting, the well is an ideal spot for capturing memorable photos, enhanced by its tranquil atmosphere and ancient structure.
• Discovering Cham culture: Learn about the well's significance in the daily life of the island’s people.

Xom Cam Well is deeply connected to the culture of the ancient Cham people in Quang Nam and serves as a vital water source for the locals (Source: Internet)

4.3. Hai Tang Pagoda

Address: Bai Lang Beach, Tan Hiep Island Commune, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province

Hai Tang Pagoda is a serene and culturally significant site, dating back to the 18th century. It remains a vital place, where visitors can:

• Admire the architecture: The pagoda showcases traditional Cham architectural styles, with intricate carvings that highlight the island's rich cultural history, making it a perfect spot for exploration and photography.
• Discover local spirituality and history: Learn about the pagoda’s religious significance and its role in the daily lives of the island's residents, providing a deeper understanding of Cham culture.

A peaceful view of Hai Tang Pagoda, offering both spiritual serenity and scenic beauty (Source: Internet)

The thousand-armed Buddha statue stands gracefully at the main hall (Source: Internet)

4.4. Tan Hiep Market

Address: Tan Hiep Island Commune, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province

Tan Hiep Market is a lively local market on Cham Island, bringing the authentic experience of daily island life. It is the perfect place to explore fresh seafood, fruits, vegetables, and unique handmade crafts. In this market, you can:

• Sampling local cuisine: The market is a great spot to taste local dishes such as seafood pancakes, grilled fish, and traditional Cham snacks, offering an authentic flavor of the island.
• Experiencing island life: Interact with local vendors and have a deep understanding of the island’s vibrant community.

Tan Hiep Market specializes in selling agricultural products, food, dried goods, and souvenirs (Source: Internet)

4.5. Windy Strait (Eo Gio)

Address: Tan Hiep Island Commune, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province

Windy Strait, or Eo Gio, is a beautiful natural spot on Cham Island, known for its stunning landscapes and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can:

• Admire the breathtaking views: Surrounded by towering cliffs and clear, turquoise waters, Eo Gio offers magnificent panoramic views, perfect for sightseeing and photography.
• Capture memorable moments: The scenic surroundings provide excellent opportunities for photography, allowing visitors to capture the tranquility and beauty of the area.
• Watch the sunrise and sunset: Eo Gio is an ideal location to enjoy both the serene sunrise and mesmerizing sunset, creating unforgettable experiences.

The breathtaking scenery of Windy Strait, with the calm waters and rolling hills, creates a perfect blend of natural beauty (Source: Internet)

Eo Gio reveals Cham Island’s wild beauty where mountains meet the sea (Source: Internet)

4.6. Whale Temple

Address: Tan Hiep Island Commune, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province

The Whale Temple is an important cultural and spiritual site on Cham Island, dedicated to honoring the whale, a revered creature in local Cham culture. The temple holds great significance for the island's fishermen, who believe that whales protect them during their sea voyages. Visitors can:

• Exploring the temple's architecture: The Whale Temple features traditional Cham architecture with intricate carvings and detailed design, providing a glimpse into the island’s cultural and spiritual heritage.
• Learning about local beliefs: Discover the role of the whale in local traditions and how the temple serves as a place of worship and gratitude for the islanders’ safety and prosperity at sea.

The Whale Temple honors the whale as a protector of fishermen, showcasing the islanders' deep respect for the sea (Source: Internet)

4.7. Bird Nest Ancestors Temple

Address: Tan Hiep Island Commune, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province

The Bird Nest Ancestors Temple is a unique spiritual site on Cham Island, dedicated to honoring the ancestors who helped settle and protect the island. Every year, on the 23rd day of the 3rd lunar month, a festival is held to commemorate these ancestors. In the Bird Nest Ancestors Temple, visitors can:

• Discover the temple’s cultural significance: Learn about the island’s spiritual heritage through its traditional architecture and sacred atmosphere.
• Participate in the festival: The event features procession parades, incense offerings, and traditional rituals, a deeper understanding of the island's customs and beliefs.

The Bird Nest Ancestors Temple reflects the local people’s deep cultural traditions and respect for their heritage (Source: Internet)

4.8. Yen Island

Address: Tan Hiep Island Commune, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province

Yen Island, a serene and beautiful destination, offers a calm escape on Cham Island. Known for its abundant birdlife, particularly seabirds, it’s a great spot for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers. Visitors can:

• Observe the bird: Yen Island is a prime location for birdwatching, with numerous seabird species nesting and soaring around the island.
• Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere: The island’s calm environment makes it an ideal place for those seeking solitude in nature.

Nest Island is famous for its cliffs and bird nests, hosting the annual Yen Nest Festival to celebrate traditional harvesting (Source: Internet)

5. What to Eat on Cham Island?

Cham Island is home to a wide variety of local delicacies, where fresh seafood and distinctive island ingredients take center stage. From flavorful seafood dishes to refreshing herbal teas, here’s a guide to the must-try culinary delights on the island:

• Seafood: Stone crab, Nipple snail, Abalone, Sea urchin, Scallop, Lobster, Sea cucumber.
• Wild vegetables: The island's wild vegetables are both nutritious and flavorful, often served in soups or stir-fries. These locally sourced greens offer a taste of Cham Island's natural bounty.
• Seaweed: Seaweed is a popular ingredient in Cham Island's dishes, often served in salads or soups. It’s known for its health benefits and distinctive oceanic flavor.
• Forest Leaf Tea: This traditional drink is made from local forest leaves, offering a refreshing and herbal taste. It’s a unique beverage enjoyed by both locals and visitors.

Cham Island is famous for its fresh and flavorful seafood, especially stone crab, nipple snails, and abalone (Source: Internet)

Check out these well-known restaurants while visiting Cham Island:

6. 2D1N Suggested Timeline to Explore Cham Island

If you're planning a short getaway to Cham Island, this 2-day, 1-night itinerary will help you make the most of your time. Here's a suggested timeline to explore the island's natural beauty, cultural sites, and delicious local cuisine.

7. Essential Tips for a Memorable Charm Island Adventure

To enjoy the trip to Cham Island, here are some essential tips:

• Best time to visit: The ideal time to explore Cham Island is from March to August, when the weather is dry, sunny, and perfect for outdoor activities.
• Avoid using plastic bags: To protect the island's natural environment, avoid using plastic bags and help preserve its beauty by using eco-friendly alternatives.
• Bring seasickness medication: If you're prone to seasickness, make sure to bring some medication before taking the boat ride to the island.
• Stay hydrated: The weather can be hot and sunny, so make sure to drink water throughout your trip to stay hydrated.
• Respect the local traditions: When visiting religious sites like Hai Tang Pagoda, dress modestly and be respectful of the local traditions and practices.

The best time to scuba dive is from March to May, when the weather is sunny and the water is clear (Source: Internet)

Cham Island offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re exploring its stunning beaches, historical sites, or enjoying fresh seafood, the island is sure to leave lasting memories.

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