Vinh Hy Bay
Vinh Hy Bay (Vịnh Vĩnh Hy) is one of Vietnam's most spectacular coastal destinations, located on the eastern edge of Nui Chua National Park in Khanh Hoa Province. Famous for its emerald waters, dramatic granite mountains, coral reefs, and peaceful fishing village, the bay offers an ideal combination of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. Unlike many heavily developed beach destinations, Vinh Hy has retained its tranquil atmosphere and pristine scenery.
Often ranked among Vietnam's most beautiful bays, Vinh Hy is a favorite destination for boat tours, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and exploring hidden beaches. Its close proximity to Nui Chua National Park also makes it an excellent base for combining marine and mountain experiences in a single trip.
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Overview
Location
https://maps.app.goo.gl/ePFsk6BebPmzM7Vh6
- Address: Vinh Hai, Khanh Hoa, Vietnam
- Province: Khanh Hoa
- Category: Bay / Coastal Attraction
- Opening Hours: Open all day
- Entrance Fee: Free (boat tours and activities charged separately)
- Recommended Visit: Half day to full day
- Best For: Boat tours, snorkeling, diving, kayaking, photography, seafood
Pronunciation
Vịnh Vĩnh Hy
IPA: /viɲ˨˩ viŋ˧ hi˧/ Say it like: "vin ying hee" Meaning: Vinh Hy BayHow to pronounce Vịnh Vĩnh Hy
Why Visit?
- Explore one of Vietnam's most beautiful natural bays.
- Take a glass-bottom boat to observe colorful coral reefs.
- Enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and swimming.
- Visit peaceful fishing villages surrounded by mountains.
- Combine the bay with Nui Chua National Park and Hang Rai.
- Taste fresh seafood caught daily by local fishermen.
Things To Do
Take a Glass-Bottom Boat Tour
One of Vinh Hy Bay's signature experiences is a glass-bottom boat trip. Visitors can admire vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish without entering the water, making this activity suitable for families and non-swimmers.
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
The bay is home to one of Vietnam's richest coastal coral reef ecosystems. Guided snorkeling and diving tours allow visitors to explore colorful marine life in calm, crystal-clear waters.
Kayak Around the Bay
Kayaking offers a peaceful way to discover hidden coves, rocky cliffs, and quiet beaches that larger boats cannot easily reach.
Visit the Fishing Village
The traditional fishing village remains the heart of Vinh Hy. Visitors can stroll along the waterfront, watch fishing boats return with their catch, and enjoy fresh seafood served by local restaurants.
Enjoy the Coastal Scenic Road
The coastal road connecting Vinh Hy with Hang Rai and Nui Chua National Park is widely considered one of Vietnam's most scenic drives, offering breathtaking views of mountains meeting the sea.
Nature and Landscape
Vinh Hy Bay is surrounded by steep granite mountains that descend directly into the sea, creating a sheltered bay with exceptionally clear water. Protected by Nui Chua National Park, the surrounding landscape includes dry forests, rocky headlands, sandy coves, and one of Vietnam's most important coral reef ecosystems.
The combination of mountains, turquoise water, offshore islets, and fishing boats creates scenery that changes beautifully throughout the day. Sunrise brings calm seas and soft light, while sunset paints the surrounding cliffs in warm golden colors.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit is from January to August when the sea is generally calm and visibility is excellent for snorkeling and diving. Sunny weather also provides ideal conditions for boat trips and coastal sightseeing.
How To Get There
Vinh Hy Bay is located about 40 km northeast of the former Phan Rang city and approximately 75 km south of Cam Ranh International Airport. Visitors can reach the bay by motorbike, taxi, private car, or organized tours. The spectacular coastal road through Nui Chua National Park is considered one of the highlights of the journey.
Travel Tips
- Book boat tours in the morning when the sea is usually calmer.
- Bring swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, and a waterproof phone case.
- Avoid standing on coral reefs while snorkeling.
- Check weather conditions before booking boat trips.
- Carry cash for small local businesses.
- Combine your visit with Hang Rai, Nui Chua National Park, and nearby vineyards for a full-day itinerary.
FAQ
Is Vinh Hy Bay worth visiting?
Yes. It is widely regarded as one of Vietnam's most beautiful bays thanks to its crystal-clear water, coral reefs, mountain scenery, and peaceful atmosphere.
Can you swim in Vinh Hy Bay?
Yes. The bay offers several calm areas suitable for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities.
Are glass-bottom boat tours available?
Yes. Glass-bottom boats are one of the bay's most popular attractions, allowing visitors to view coral reefs without getting into the water.
When is the best time to visit?
The dry season from January to August offers the calmest sea conditions and the best visibility for marine activities.
Can I combine Vinh Hy Bay with other attractions?
Yes. Many visitors also explore Nui Chua National Park, Hang Rai, the Wind Farm (known locally as Cánh Đồng Quạt Gió), vineyards, and Nam Cuong Sand Dunes.
How long should I spend at Vinh Hy Bay?
Half a day is enough for sightseeing, while a full day allows time for boat tours, snorkeling, seafood, and nearby attractions.
Conclusion
Vinh Hy Bay is one of Khanh Hoa's finest natural treasures, combining crystal-clear waters, dramatic coastal mountains, vibrant coral reefs, and authentic fishing village culture. Whether you are cruising on a glass-bottom boat, snorkeling among tropical fish, or simply enjoying fresh seafood by the waterfront, Vinh Hy offers an unforgettable coastal experience and deserves a place on every itinerary through southern Khanh Hoa.
Nearby attractions
(Distances shown are straight-line estimates, not actual travel distance.)
- Nui Chua National Park - Vietnam's Unique Dry Forest by the Sea (about 5 km southwest)
- Hang Rai - The Famous Waterfall on the Sea in Khanh Hoa (about 5 km south)
- Ninh Thuan Stone Park - Vietnam's Coastal Granite Wonderland (about 11 km south)
- Binh Ba Island - Crystal-Clear Beaches and Fresh Lobster in Khanh Hoa (about 15 km north)
- Ninh Chu Beach - A Long Stretch of Golden Sand on Khanh Hoa's Coast (about 24 km southwest)
- Cam Ranh Bay - Explore One of the World's Finest Natural Harbors (about 26 km northwest)