A trip to Cham Island Hoi An offers visitors exciting experiences like fishing with local fishermen, camping by the sea, snorkeling to see vibrant coral reefs, and enjoying fresh, delicious seafood. Today, let’s join HoaBinh Tourist to explore the irresistible charm of this amazing destination!
1. Introduction to Cham Island
Located about 15 kilometers off the coast of Hoi An, Cham Island (Cù Lao Chàm) is a pristine archipelago consisting of eight small islands in Quang Nam Province. Also known as Cham Island Vietnam, it is part of the Cu Lao Cham Marine Protected Area, recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
The island is celebrated for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. Beyond its natural beauty, Cham Island Hoi An is home to a rich fishing culture, historic temples, and authentic coastal life, offering visitors both peace and discovery. That’s why exploring Cu Lao Cham is one of the most recommended things to do in Hoi An.
Discover the raw beauty of Cu Lao Cham Vietnam, where nature and tradition live side by side.
2. Best Time to Visit Cham Island During the Year
The best time to visit Cham Island is from March to September, when the weather is sunny, the seas are calm, and underwater visibility is ideal for snorkeling and diving. From October to February, rough seas often limit access to the island, and most tour services are paused.
Plan your trip during the dry season to enjoy boat rides, beach lounging, seafood feasts, and coral adventures at their best. For quieter crowds, weekdays in May or early June are perfect.
Bask in the warm, turquoise glow of Cham Island Vietnam during the sun-kissed dry season.
3. Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors to Cham Island
Before visiting Cu Lao Cham Island, pack lightly and wisely. Essentials include swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, waterproof phone pouch, and cash (as few vendors accept cards). Eco-awareness is important here – the island restricts plastic use, so bring your own reusable items.
In addition, cell coverage is available, but limited in some areas. So, it’s a good idea to prepare by downloading maps or important information beforehand and informing your group about possible communication gaps during your trip. Finally, booking a Cham Island tour with a reputable agency like HoaBinh Tourist ensures reliable transport, entrance coordination, and optional snorkeling or cultural tours.
3.1. How to Get to Cham Island from Hoi An
To reach Cham Island from Hoi An, travelers first head to Cua Dai Port, about 5 km from the city center. From there, speedboats take around 20-25 minutes to reach the island. Morning departures are best, with return trips in the early afternoon. While independent travel is possible, most opt for guided tours by HoaBinh Tourist, which include hotel pickup, port transfers, boat tickets, and full itinerary services – offering peace of mind and time optimization.
3.2. Opening Hours and Entrance Fees for Cham Island
Cham Island is open to visitors from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, though most activities wrap up by early afternoon. Entrance fees are modest – currently 70,000 VND per person (including environmental fee). Extra charges apply for snorkeling, diving, and guide services. If traveling with HoaBinh Tourist, all fees are included in a single package, helping guests avoid queues and paperwork at the port.
With simple fees and welcoming hours, Cham Island is an accessible escape just off Vietnam’s coast.
3.3. What to Eat When Visiting Cham Island
Seafood is the star of any visit to Cham Island Vietnam. Local specialties include grilled scallops, squid with tamarind sauce, and sea urchin porridge – freshly caught and prepared by islanders. Don’t miss Banh It La Gai, a sticky rice cake wrapped in local leaves. Most meals are served in modest beachside eateries or included in tour lunch packages. When booking with HoaBinh Tourist, guests enjoy pre-arranged meals at hygienic, scenic restaurants with curated local menus.
Savor the ocean’s freshest treasures with every bite of Cham Island’s authentic coastal cuisine.
4. What to See and Do on Cham Island
More than just sun and sand, Cham Island Vietnam invites you to discover centuries-old culture, sacred temples, and vibrant island life such as:
4.1. The Windy Strait of Cham Islands
Known locally as Eo Gio, this breezy coastline boasts stunning views of the sea, craggy cliffs, and turquoise waves crashing below. It’s a favorite spot for photographers and a quiet moment of reflection for travelers enchanted by nature’s rhythms.
Let the sea breeze embrace you at Eo Gio, where wind, rock, and waves compose Cham Island’s natural symphony.
4.2. The Ancient Well of the Cham People
This historic well, built by the Cham people over 200 years ago, continues to provide fresh water to locals and holds deep spiritual value. Said to never dry up or go salty – even in dry seasons – it’s a living symbol of sustainability and heritage.
Sip from history at the Ancient Cham Well, where legends flow as freely as water.
4.3. Hai Tang Temple
Nestled at the foot of a green mountain, Hai Tang Temple dates back to 1758 and is a serene space for prayer, reflection, and cultural immersion. Dedicated to sea gods and Buddha, it reflects the spiritual heart of island life.
Pause in peace at Hai Tang Temple, where sea prayers and mountain whispers intertwine.
4.4. The Temple of the Nest Craftsman
Honoring the skilled harvesters of salanganes’ nests, this temple reflects Cham Island’s unique role in Vietnam’s bird’s nest trade. Beautiful carvings and ceremonial relics shed light on a craft passed down through generations.
Discover the legacy of a rare tradition at the Nest Craftsman Temple, a tribute to island resilience.
4.5. Diving Experience on Cham Island
Beneath the waves lies another world – the Cham Island Marine Reserve, home to colorful coral reefs and exotic marine life. Diving and snorkeling tours offer a close-up view of sea turtles, clownfish, and natural reef formations. Water visibility peaks between May and August.
4.6. Tan Hiep Market
Your final stop before leaving, Tan Hiep Market is where the island’s soul comes alive. Browse handwoven baskets, dried seafood, and coral jewelry – or simply soak in the chatter of local life under colorful tarps near the jetty.
Bring home the essence of island life from Tan Hiep Market, a seaside bazaar full of charm and color.
Read more: Hoi An Ancient Town: Top Attractions & Travel Tips
5. Sail Away with HoaBinh Tourist: Your Seamless Cham Island Adventure Awaits
At HoaBinh Tourist, we believe that every island journey should be effortless, enriching, and unforgettable. Our Cham Island Hoi An Tour is crafted for travelers who want to experience the island’s true spirit, naturally and comfortably.
Our Cham Island tour includes:
- Round-trip hotel pick-up in Hoi An or Da Nang
- Speedboat tickets to and from Cham Island
- Full-day itinerary: diving, temple visits, Eo Gio, Tan Hiep Market
- Set a seafood lunch at a beachfront local restaurant
- English-speaking local tour guide
Entrance fees and travel insurance are included.
With HoaBinh Tourist’s all-in-one Hoi An tours service, we ensure:
- Private cars from 7 to 45 seats, including VIP limousine pick-up
- Flight tickets booked flexibly at the best rates
Premium resort or hotel stays for total relaxation
And in 2025, your Cham Island getaway becomes even more accessible. Thanks to the national tourism campaign Vietnam: Timeless Journey – Endless Love, travelers from Poland, the Czech Republic, and Switzerland enjoy visa-free entry, opening the door to breathtaking destinations like Cu Lao Cham Island with greater ease than ever.
Let us take you beyond the shore, into the heart of Vietnam’s ocean heritage.
Your Cham Island story begins with HoaBinh Tourist.
Travel with ease, explore with joy – discover the best of Cham Island with HoaBinh Tourist
