Cu Lao Cham is a beautiful cluster of islands located just off the coast of Hoi An, Vietnam. With its crystal-clear waters that shimmer in layers of blue and green, soft sandy beaches, and lush hills, Cu Lao Cham offers a tranquil getaway from the crowds of Hoi An’s ancient town.
I’ve had the chance to visit Cu Lao Cham multiple times, most recently in May 2025, and each trip still leaves me impressed by the untouched charm of this marine paradise. Whether it’s your first time or a return visit, here’s everything you need to know to enjoy Cu Lao Cham to the fullest.
Where is Cu Lao Cham?
Cu Lao Cham (Cham Islands) is a small archipelago of eight islands covering about 15 km². It belongs to Tan Hiep Commune in Quang Nam Province and lies roughly 18 kilometers (a 20-minute speedboat ride) from Cua Dai Beach in Hoi An. It’s also just 45 km from Da Nang, making it an easy side trip from either city.
The largest island is Hon Lao, home to most of the local population (around 3,000 residents). The surrounding islands include Hon Kho Me, Hon Kho Con, Hon La, Hon Tai, Hon Mo, Hon Dai, and Hon Ong.
During my last visit in late May, the weather was warm and sunny, but the sea breeze and clear waters made the heat more bearable and refreshing.
How to Get to Cu Lao Cham
From Hoi An
To reach Cu Lao Cham from Hoi An, travel to Cua Dai Port, about 8 km from the city center (15 minutes by car). From there, take a high-speed boat (15–20 minutes) or a traditional wooden boat (slower and less common). Speedboat tickets are available online, at the port, or through local travel agencies.
Due to the short travel time (30–35 minutes total), many travelers include Cu Lao Cham as a day trip while staying in Hoi An.
From Da Nang
From Da Nang, it takes around 1.5 hours to reach Cu Lao Cham. First, drive 30 km to Cua Dai Port, then take the 15 km boat ride. Many tour companies offer full-day packages that include round-trip transport and boat fees.
First Impressions – Is Cu Lao Cham Worth Visiting?
With clear skies and stunning turquoise waters, I immediately felt I made the right decision. Cu Lao Cham turned out to be a highlight of my Hoi An itinerary, providing a much-needed escape from the bustle of the old town.
The speedboat ride was smooth and quick—just 20 minutes across calm morning waves. If you’re prone to seasickness, don’t worry; it’s a gentle ride under normal conditions. Still, it’s wise to carry medication just in case of rough seas.
Although I’d heard Cu Lao Cham could get busy, I was pleasantly surprised. Even on a Sunday, it felt peaceful, especially once I left the main pier behind. Compared to Hoi An’s beaches like An Bang or Cua Dai, this felt like a well-kept secret.
What to Do in Cu Lao Cham
Arriving at Hon Lao
We docked at Bai Lang, the main pier on Hon Lao. Fishing boats floated lazily nearby, and the sea displayed mesmerizing shades of navy and turquoise. After a short walk, we arrived at the Marine Specimen Conservation Museum, a small but interesting place with displays of marine life, fishing tools, and a model of the islands.
Ancient Champa Well
Next, we stopped at the 200-year-old Champa Well, known as Gieng Xom Cam. Located at a village crossroad, this moss-covered well is part of local legend. The water supposedly never runs dry, and when boiled with herbs, is said to cure seasickness.
Hai Tang Pagoda
We then visited Hai Tang Pagoda, nestled at the base of a green hill. A peaceful courtyard, lotus ponds, and a statue of Guan Yin welcome you. The temple is maintained by villagers and stands out for its “four no’s”: no monks, no abbot, no electricity, and no votive papers.
Snorkeling and Diving
After the cultural stops, we boarded the boat again for snorkeling. Those who opted for diving paid extra, but snorkeling was included in the tour. As a non-swimmer, I was nervous—but the guide gave us life jackets and simple instructions. Floating above colorful coral reefs, watching fish dart through the water, was absolutely magical.
Lunch by the Sea
Once back on land, we had lunch at a beachside restaurant. The seafood—grilled squid, steamed fish, prawns—was fresh and flavorful. For those not into seafood, options like pork stir-fry and omelets were available.
Beach Time at Bai Ong
After lunch, we relaxed at Bai Ong Beach. The water was clear and inviting, and we played volleyball before taking a swim. It was surprisingly quiet, with just a few other tourists and a couple of beach pubs like Sunset Pub. Locals were friendly and spoke enough English to help with small purchases.
Other Beaches to Explore
If you have more time, check out other beaches such as Bai Xep, Bai Bim, or Hon Dai—popular for snorkeling. Bai Huong and Bai Lang offer peaceful village vibes, perfect for a deeper cultural experience.
Travel Tip: Bring a waterproof pouch for your phone and valuables. Seawater can cause serious damage to electronics.
Additional Things to Do on Cu Lao Cham
Tan Hiep Market
Located next to the main pier, this small market is great for buying dried seafood and local souvenirs. Dried squid and fish are popular gifts. Prices are reasonable, and bargaining is common.
Eo Gio Viewpoint
One of the best sunset spots on the island, Eo Gio is 3 km from Bai Lang. Follow the road past Tan Hiep Market and turn toward Border Post 276. The views are breathtaking—an ideal picnic spot.
Golden Monkeys
You might spot golden monkeys around rocky cliffs. Avoid feeding or approaching them, as they’re wild and unpredictable.
Fishing Tours
For those who love fishing, join a local tour. Fishermen provide equipment and even cook your catch afterward. My friend did this and came back with a good haul of squid and fish.
Island-Hopping by Boat
Besides Hon Lao, the other seven islands include Hon Tai, Hon Mo, Hon Dai, Hon Ong, Hon La, Hon Kho Me, and Hon Kho Con. While it’s hard to explore all in one day, you can visit a few by joining an island-hopping tour.
How Much Does It Cost to Visit the Cham Islands?
Speedboat Fees
A round-trip speedboat ticket to the Cham Islands typically costs between 400,000 and 500,000 VND per person.
In addition, there are two mandatory fees:
- Entrance fee: 70,000 VND
- Environmental protection fee: 30,000 VND
Cham Islands Tour Packages
If you want a more organized experience, various travel agencies in Hoi An and Da Nang offer day-trip tours to Cu Lao Cham. These usually include:
- Round-trip speedboat transfer
- All required entrance and environmental fees
- Snorkeling equipment and life jackets
- Lunch featuring local dishes (usually seafood or vegetarian options)
- A guide
- Visits to key island attractions such as Hai Tang Pagoda, Cham Island Museum, ancient well, and beaches
Price Breakdown
- Group tours: 500,000 – 800,000 VND per person
- Private tours: From 1,200,000 VND per person, depending on group size and services included
Summary
Visiting Cu Lao Cham independently can end up being more expensive, especially when you factor in transportation, meals, and activities. If you’re short on time or prefer a seamless experience, a day tour offers much better value and convenience.
I chose a group tour since I was traveling with friends, and it turned out to be one of the most enjoyable parts of our trip to Hoi An.
What Should You Eat in Cu Lao Cham?
One of the best things about Cu Lao Cham is the fresh local seafood, some of which you can’t easily find elsewhere in Vietnam.
- Stone crab: A seasonal delicacy harvested between March and June. These purple crabs are caught from rocky mountain areas and are typically grilled, steamed, or cooked with tamarind for a tangy kick.
- Vú Nàng conch: Named for its distinctive shape, this rare mollusk is harvested during low tides, especially around full moons. The flesh is firm, slightly sweet, and best when grilled or steamed.
- Lobster: Usually prepared simply—either steamed with beer or grilled to preserve its natural sweetness.
- Sun-dried squid: A flavorful snack and a popular gift item you can purchase at the local market.
Don’t skip the wild forest vegetables, picked in spring and served with fermented anchovy or fish sauce. The taste is simple yet deeply connected to the island’s natural environment.
After spending a full day (about eight hours) on Cu Lao Cham, I left the island feeling recharged and deeply connected to nature. It’s not a large place, but its charm, tranquility, and natural beauty make it unforgettable.
While most people come for the beaches, there’s so much more waiting to be discovered: vibrant coral reefs, green hills, local villages, and cultural heritage that adds real depth to the experience.
Even now, Cu Lao Cham remains one of the highlights of my travels in Vietnam. I hope this guide gives you a clearer idea of what to expect and inspires you to plan your own unforgettable island escape to the Cham Islands.
