Diving in Vietnam: The 10 Most Beautiful Dive Spots

The best times for a diving trip in Vietnam

The best time to dive along the East Sea beaches, including Danang, Hoi An, Ly Son, Whale Island in Nha Trang, and the Con Dao Archipelago, is from March to August. The weather is dry and sunny during this period, and the sea is calm. The summer months, especially June, July, and August, offer the best diving conditions with clear water, making it easy to observe a variety of colorful tropical fish and beautiful corals.

However, the rainy season lasts from September to February. During this time, the weather is dreary and the sea is rough, making it unsuitable for diving. Many days of heavy rain result in zero visibility, especially during storms. Additionally, the waves can stir the bottom, further reducing visibility. A lot of diving services also close from mid-September or October to February.

In contrast, snorkeling spots in the south, such as the Gulf of Thailand islands like Phu Quoc, are ideal from November to May of the following year. Therefore, carefully plan your diving trip in Vietnam to make the most of your experience!

Where to snorkel in Vietnam? The 10 best diving spots in Vietnam

The best scuba diving spots in Vietnam are found in central and southern Vietnam, where conditions are generally favorable almost all year round. 

On the central coast near Da Nang, Hoi An, Nha Trang, and Quy Nhon, temperatures are temperate and vary between 22°C and 28°C, with the coolest temperatures observed between November and March. 

On the south coast, in Con Dao and on the island of Phu Quoc, the water is a bit warmer, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 31°C. From the center to the south, discover the most beautiful dive sites in Vietnam!

Where to Snorkel in Danang

Just a 30-minute drive (35 km) from Da Nang city center, the Son Tra Peninsula is a must-visit natural site. You can enjoy breathtaking sights like Linh Ung Pagoda and But Beach. The Da Nang scuba diving area offers a unique and diverse ecosystem, perfect for diving enthusiasts.

Hon Sup, located in the south of the peninsula, boasts an incredible marine environment with 54 different species of corals, creating a magical underwater landscape. The crystal-blue waters allow for clear coral viewing and a wide range of underwater activities. If you're an experienced diver or a beginner, Hon Sup has plenty of entertainment options and diving services to satisfy your every craving. 

Thus, enjoy an unforgettable day discovering the underwater wonders of Son Tra. Rent your dive equipment and find the colorful marine fauna, or opt for a guided tour to learn more about this unique and unspoiled environment.

>>> Complete Guide: What to do and see in Danang? All our travel tips and tricks!

Cham Islands Diving Experience, Hoi An

The Cham Islands, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve located offshore from Hoi An in Central Vietnam, are considered a divine diving haven from April to September. The crystal-clear waters harbor vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish that make for an unforgettable underwater experience.

From diving and snorkeling to sunbathing at the beach, the Cham Islands cater to everyone. For starters, snorkeling doesn't require any certifications, and it is way more relaxed than scuba diving; thus, it is regarded as great for beginners and children. When the kids feel too tired, it is easy to get back to the boat to set their feet up.

Those not wanting to engage in water activities can take a walk along the beach, check out local fishing villages for fresh seafood, or trek through green forests until they reveal views worth every step. Hon Dai, Bai Bac, and Hon Tai are some of the best dive sites that hold picturesque underwater scenery among the most stunning views on the island.

Visit and observe the corals on Đảo Bé, Lý Sơn Island

Far away, 100 kilometers (about a 2-hour drive) from Hoi An ancient town, Ly Son Island's Dao Be (Little Island) is a must-see for lovers of nature and tranquility. Unlike more touristy spots, this island boasts wild, unspoiled beauty.

A trip wouldn't be complete without exploring Dao Be's underwater wonders. The crystal-blue sea is home to vibrant corals and fascinating marine life. Visit the impressive volcanic lava rock arch and snorkel among the corals. Whether you're an experienced diver or new to snorkeling, you'll be amazed by the Dao Be's marine beauty.

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Scuba diving in Nha Trang

Nha Trang, situated on Vietnam's South-Central Coast, is a scuba diver's haven, best visited from February to October in favorable weather and calm seas. The main dive sites on Hon Mun Island, where the Hon Mun Marine Reserve is situated, harbor over 350 types of corals and a rich assortment of marine life, including barracudas, clownfish, and lionfish. Dive masters handle everything, from equipment to boat transfers, ensuring a safe diving experience.

Another place that should not be missed is Whale Island (Hòn Ông), 100 km from Nha Trang in Van Phong Bay. This includes snorkeling and diving opportunities to swim with barracudas and spot migrating whales from April to July. Small-group tours guarantee safety and enjoyment.

Beyond that, Yen Island (Hon Noi) boasts crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and the biggest bird's nest reserve in Vietnam. Aside from diving, Nha Trang offers plenty of other things to do, including snorkeling, kayaking, fishing, and beach volleyball, making it a great vacation spot for relaxation and adventure.

>>> Read also: Nha Trang, coastal pearl in central Vietnam

The most beautiful snorkeling spots in Quy Nhơn

Discovering the seabed of Quy Nhon is an unforgettable experience to live during your trip to Vietnam. Hon Kho is a true underwater treasure where you can admire incredible marine life, especially the coral reefs. No matter if you are a professional diver or a beginner, this remote island provides even purer and more pristine water, where you can also practice snorkeling.

In addition, Ky Co Beach, with its pristine white sand and crystal-clear water, is a must-visit gem. Take a refreshing dip and enjoy the gentle waves before exploring nearby Bai Dua Beach or Hon Seo Island. These spots are renowned for their beautiful coral reefs and diverse marine life. Arrive at Hon Seo, a small, untouched island resembling a boat heading to the sea, which features clear waters teeming with colorful corals.

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 Discover the colorful aquatic world in Hon Yen (Phu Yen)

Positioned just 20 kilometers northeast of Tuy Hoa (Phu Yen), Yen Island is a pristine natural site, untouched by mass tourism. This makes it an ideal destination for nature lovers, who can even admire its beauty without diving.

At low tide, the coral reefs resemble natural sculptures rising from the water, creating a captivating scene under the afternoon sun. You can observe many aquatic animals, such as fish, bivalves, mollusks, starfish, and more. The coral plateau, formed by black cliffs, white sand, and rocky grooves, adds a touch of whimsy to this spectacular landscape.

Vinh Hy Bay (Ninh Thuan): a popular snorkeling spot

Vinh Hy Bay, situated 45 km from Phan Rang city in Ninh Thuan province, is a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and marine life lovers. The bay's pristine waters harbor natural coral reefs of stunning beauty.

To marvel at these underwater wonders, visitors have several options. Glass-bottom boats provide exceptional panoramic views of the coral reefs, which are easily visible just 2 to 4 meters below the water's surface from the edges of the islands.

For a more immersive experience, diving enthusiasts can enjoy excursions to explore the enchanting coral reefs up close. Additionally, Vinh Hy Bay offers boat tours for visitors to explore the bay, visit Hang Rai, and soak in the scenic views of the nearby islands.

Scuba diving in Con Dao

From Con Dao, southeastern Vietnam, you will have a unique chance to visit unspoiled and safe diving grounds for all divers. The islands' coral reefs exhibit all sorts of shapes and colors, featuring soft and hard corals, table-shaped corals, bubble corals, and anemones. There are more than 20 dive sites in the area surrounding Con Dao, and divers can explore sites including Hòn Tre Nhỏ, Hòn Bà, Eggs Island, and Lucky Island.

Moreover, from March to September, visitors can witness gorgeous coral gardens near Bay Canh Island, Hon Tai Island, and inside Con Son Bay. Species include many Moorish idols, clownfish, lionfish, cuttlefish, and octopus, along with pelagics, rays, reef sharks, and green turtles.

Besides diving, the nearby beaches are great for exploration, hiking through the lush forests of Con Dao National Park, or just taking a boat tour to explore the nearby islands, thus promising a perfect mix of an adventurous and relaxed getaway.

>>> Complete Guide: Con Dao Island Travel Guide: 6 Must-Ask Questions Before Your Trip

Diving to see the corals in Bai Can, Phu Quy Island

Based in Binh Thuan's southern province, Bai Can is a stunning coral reef just 300 meters from the shore, featuring a nearly kilometer-wide living coral beach. Visitors can enjoy vibrant coral clusters, green algae carpets, and pristine white sandy beaches in crystal-clear waters.

Despite being a bit offshore, the water at Bai Can is only 1-3 meters deep, making it simple to walk the entire reef. Bai Can's unique feature is its transformation during very low tides (on the 15th, 16th, and 17th lunar days), when coral clusters 200–300 meters from the shore emerge, creating a temporary island.

Scuba Diving in Phu Quoc: An Exceptional Experience

Situated in the southern region of Vietnam, Phu Quoc is a popular scuba diving destination, best visited between November and May, when the seas are calm and visibility is excellent. The southern part of the island is a perfect place to snorkel in clear waters adjacent to vibrant coral reef systems teeming with butterflyfish, parrotfish, angelfish, seahorses, lionfish, and rays.

The An Thoi Archipelago, with its assemblage of more than 18 islands, is a lovely diving location for viewing coral reefs; Turtle Island and Finger Island are prime diving spots, with visibility teeming with colorful fish, starfish, and sea urchins.

Besides diving, other activities in Phu Quoc include sunbathing on pristine beaches, hiking in Phu Quoc National Park, taking a boat trip to the An Thoi Archipelago, enjoying the taste of fresh seafood, and visiting bustling night markets. The PADI-certified dive centers offer complete packages for diving and snorkeling, assuring your safety and enjoyment, irrespective of whether you are a novice or an expert diver.

>>> Learn more about: 7 Useful Phu Quoc Island Travel Tips For First-Time Visitors!

Best Tips for Diving in Vietnam

If you're an experienced diver, you know the necessary equipment and can rent it in Vietnam. For beginners, signing up for a diving course is a great way to get familiar with the gear. Here’s what you’ll need to get started: snorkel, oxygen tank, diving fins, dive computer, and wetsuit.

Here are our top diving tips:

• Honestly assess your physical condition before diving.
• Listen carefully to instructions and memorize the underwater gestures.
• Pay attention to your body signals. If you feel uncomfortable, stop and surface.
• Regularly check all your diving equipment before each dive.

• Control your breathing and descend slowly.
• Practice diving regularly to improve your air conservation.
• Always follow safety regulations, and never dive alone or in unfamiliar areas.
• Avoid using sunscreen when diving to protect coral reefs.
• Do not touch corals or fish to maintain the underwater ecosystem.

Our Final Words

In conclusion, Vietnam is full of many diving opportunities for beginners and experienced divers alike.. With crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life, every dive is unforgettable. Phu Quoc Island, Cham Island, Con Dao Islands, and Nha Trang are among the most beautiful dive sites in Vietnam. Regardless of the location, it is essential to follow safety rules, protect the environment, and fully enjoy this unique underwater experience. We wish you great dives!