Cham Island (Cu Lao Cham), a primitive island cluster, is one of the most attractive destinations in Vietnam when the summer comes. With the pristine and stunning landscapes, the island deserves to be an ideal spot for camping, swimming, diving and enjoying marine life.
Cham Island is situated in Tan Hiep, Hoi An, Quang Nam, about 15km from Cua Dai Beach. The island comprises 8 small islands: Dai, Mo, Hon Lao, Kho Con, La, Tai, Ong. After visiting the Hoi An ancient town, many visitors come to Cu Lao Cham to experience the true beauty of nature. In 2009, Cu Lao Cham was recognized by UNESCO as a biosphere reserve in the world and has become an attraction in the heart of both foreign and domestic tourists.
A day in Cu Lao Cham will give you unforgettable experiences. Not only sightseeing, here, you can also discover ancient relics, float on the river or find out about the traditional lifestyle of coastal people.
Best Time To Go To Cu Lao Cham Island
The best time to visit Cham island is from March to August, when the weather is sunny and the sea is calm. At this time, exploring wild beauty and experiencing water activities and sports will be favorable. If you choose other months to travel, the sea is usually stormy and full of large waves. Small boats are not allowed to sail so the islands are pretty isolated.
In case you want to combine the sight of Hoi An ancient town and the discovery of the Cham island on your trip, the best time to arrive here is in the middle lunar month. During this time, the town is filled with vibrant lanterns in many shapes and designs, and the weather is comfortable to fully enjoy the trip.
To go Cham Island From Danang
This island is an isolated destination. So you need to travel to Danang, then move to Hoi An ancient town and take a canoe to the island.
Go To Danang
When it comes to transportation, you will have three options: Plane, train and bus. Depending on your budget and timeline, you can choose the most suitable option to fully enjoy your trip.
Plane
From Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, you can take a straight flight for about one hour to Danang International Airport. There are many airlines like Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, and Jetstar which offer airline tickets at reasonable prices.
Train
If you travel from major cities in Vietnam, there are trains to Danang station with the price from 400,000VND to 1,200,000VND per person which depends on seat class. The travel time is about 14 to 20 hours.
Bus
Traveling to Danang City, there are many car companies that you can choose from. If you depart from Hanoi, the prices range from 300,000VND to 350,000VND. For tourists traveling from Ho Chi Minh city, the fares range from 350,000VND to 400,000VND.
From Danang To Hoi An
Taxi
A convenient and quick way to travel to Hoi An is taking a taxi. The price is about 350,000VND to 450,000VND per transfer.
Bus
The route from Danang Bus Station to Hoi An Bus Station starts at 5:30 am and ends at 17:30 pm daily. The bus service price is about 25,000VND per ticket per way.
Motorbike
A motorbike would be very suitable for those who want to experience and explore along the way. In Danang, there are plenty of stores that offer rental motorbikes at affordable prices.
From Hoi An To Cham Island
To get to Cham Island, you need to be at Cua Dai Port in order to take a canoe. It will take about 20 minutes to get there, and the round trip ticket price is around 450,000VND per person.
Meanwhile, if you enjoy traveling by wooden boat, you will depart from Bach Dang wharf in Hoi An ancient town. The price for a ticket is around 100,000VND. On the cruise, you will enjoy the breathtaking scenery along the way, with beautiful blue sea, stunning landscapes and rustic fishing villages.
Where To Visit Cham Island
Hai Tang Pagoda
Hai Tang Pagoda was built in 1758 to worship Bodhisattva, Buddha, and Local God Sea God. In the past, a storm attacked the pagoda, so residents decided to reconstruct it. The pagoda lies on the foot of Hon Lao Island’s west mountain, opening a beautiful view of the sea.
Location: Hon Lao Island, Cham Island
Ancient Well Of Cham People
Two hundred years ago, Cham people dug this well to use fresh water for domestic purposes. Its architecture is similar to other Cham wells with the pipe shape, a square pillar and annual bricks management. Until now, the well still works well and can be used even during the dry season.
Location: Xom Cam Village, Cham Island
Temple Of Bird’s Nest Business Founders
Built in the early 19th century, the temple worships the bird’s nest business’s founders, as well as the God of the sea. Each year, on the 9th and 10th of March of the Chinese calendar, locals usually come here to pray for a new year full of luck and abundant harvests.
Location: Huong Beach, Cham Island
Cham Island Marine Museum
This museum features an insight of Cham’history, customs, traditions and festivals, along with special sea creatures. In addition, travelers can also have a chance to seek out more about the lifestyle of people living on the island.
Tan Hiep Market
This local market is an ideal place for visitors to buy souvenirs and fresh seafood. Tan Hiep has been well-known as one of the biggest markets there, where you can find all fresh specialties. Tourists usually visit this market to buy half-dried cuttlefish, and the price is reasonable.
Location: Cham Island Pier
Cham Island attract thousands of visitors each year to Danang and Hoi An City. If you love the idea of exploring isolated islands, come to Cu Lao Cham and enjoy your trip.
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