7 Family-Friendly Things to Do in Nha Trang, Vietnam

Located in South Central Vietnam, the coastal city of Nha Trang doesn't always get as much attention as it deserves. But if you're dreaming of the ultimate beach vacation, there's a lot to love about this city.

Nha Trang is lined by a seven-kilometre stretch of white sand and dotted with a handful of lovely smaller beaches, making this one of the premier beach destinations in Vietnam.
 

Beaches aside, Nha Trang offers plenty of fun and quirky attractions that the whole family will love. Check out the massive 14-metre-tall white Buddha at the top of Long Son Pagoda, ride roller coasters at VinWonders theme park, take a mud bath at the whimsical 100 Egg Mud Bath Theme Park, or spot sea creatures on a snorkelling trip. The list of fun things to do in Nha Trang goes on and on.
 

If you're planning a visit to Nha Trang but you're not quite sure where to start, this family-friendly guide has got you covered with the best activities and attractions, as well as a few tips and tricks to help you make the most of your beach vacation. 

Long Son Pagoda is a must-visit attraction in the heart of Nha Trang. It was originally built in a different location in 1886. But after being badly damaged by a typhoon in 1900, the pagoda was relocated to its current location at the foot of Trai Thuy Mountain.

When you enter the complex, you'll see the beautiful Buddhist temple. But keep walking up Trai Thuy Mountain, and you'll also come across a huge reclining Buddha, a bell tower, a cemetery, and a spectacular 14-metre-tall white Buddha at the top of the hill. The panoramic views of Nha Trang from up here are pretty spectacular too.

Did you know that Nha Trang has a series of islands right offshore? These islands are home to some of the best snorkelling and diving spots in the area. If you've got an extra day, you'd be remiss if you didn't sign up for a snorkelling trip. 
 

There are a variety of tours that depart from Nha Trang, but one of the most popular options is to go to the Hon Mun Marine Protected Area. You'll have the chance to snorkel in two or three different spots, giving you plenty of time to marvel at all of the colourful fish and marine life. Most tours also offer the option of a barbecue lunch, so you don't have to worry about going hungry. 

When it comes to family fun, spending the day at the VinWonders theme park is one of the coolest things to do in Nha Trang. To access the island where the theme park is located, you'll take a cable car ride over the ocean. It's worth taking the cable car for the views alone. 
 

Once you arrive at the theme park, you'll find endless entertainment. You can go on adrenaline-pumping rides at Adventure Land, get up close with aquatic creatures at Sea World, splash around in the Tropical Paradise water park, ride kid-friendly ziplines in Fairy Land, and so much more. You can easily spend a whole day in this massive theme park, so get there early.

A visit to the Po Nagar Cham Towers is easily one of the best things to do in Nha Trang. The complex was built between the 8th and 12th centuries and serves as a prime example of Cham architecture.
 

You'll find these historic Cham towers and their detailed reliefs just two kilometres outside of the city centre. It's surreal to see them juxtaposed with the city's modern buildings. While you can easily hail a taxi to reach them, it's well worth walking to them in order to see the complex framed by the lush mountains in the background and the fishing boats in the foreground. The site is small, so you really don't need more than half an hour to tour the Po Nagar Cham Towers.

Bai Duong Beach is one of the best stretches of sand in Nha Trang. This crescent-shaped beach is located a 10-minute drive north of the city's main beach. With its calm waters and relaxed atmosphere, this is a great beach for families with young kids. Make your way to the southern end of the beach and you'll find Hon Chong. Famous for its massive boulder formations and seaside setting, this place is insanely picturesque and is a popular place to watch the sunset.

Getting slathered in mud at the 100 Egg Mud Bath Theme Park is easily one of the most unique things to do in Nha Trang with kids. You'll find this quirky attraction 20 minutes from the city centre.

The park is dotted with egg-shaped tubs that are filled with mineral-rich mud. They're just big enough for about three or four people to sit inside. After you're done with your mud bath, there are plenty more family-friendly attractions here to keep your crew entertained for hours on end, from waterfalls and pools to a full-service spa and a restaurant.

It's no surprise that one of the top things to do in Nha Trang is to while away the days on the city's main beach. Located right downtown, the white sands of Nha Trang Beach (aka Tran Phu Beach) stretch for seven kilometres, meaning you'll always find a spot to spread out your towel and soak up the sun.

If you want to make a day of it, you can rent loungers and umbrellas, go parasailing and jet skiing, have lunch at one of the many restaurants, play in one of the oceanfront parks, or simply splash around in the waves.

Chances are you're looking for a family-friendly hotel in Nha Trang. If that's the case, Novotel Nha Trang might just be the perfect pick. One of the best parts of staying at this hotel is that Nha Trang Beach is literally right across the street. The hotel even has a designated area on the beach for guests, which is a huge perk.
 

At Novotel Nha Trang you'll find an adults' and kids' pool, a fitness centre, a full-service spa, two bars (including a pool bar), and a restaurant serving buffet breakfasts and dinners. 

And then there are the surprisingly spacious guestrooms, where a comfy bed, sofa, flat-screen TV, workstation, and private balcony come as standard. To make the most of the hotel's seaside location, consider booking one of the ocean view rooms. There's nothing quite like waking up to unobstructed ocean views every morning. 

From the perfect beachfront hotel to the many fun attractions and activities, Nha Trang is a wonderful destination for your next family vacation. Follow this guide and you're bound to have a memorable trip to this city by the sea.