Discover Cu Lao Cham, Hoi An’s stunning island cluster in Da Nang City! Explore activities, ticket prices, sustainable tours, and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve highlights. Book your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group today!
Capture the turquoise beauty of Da Nang’s UNESCO gem (Source: Internet)Cu Lao Cham, a pristine archipelago 15 km off Hoi An’s coast in Da Nang City’s Tan Hiep Ward, is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve (2009) renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and rich cultural heritage. Comprising eight islands—Hon Lao, Dai, Mo, Kho Me, Kho Con, La, Tai, and Nom—this 15 km² cluster offers unspoiled beaches, diverse marine life, and historic sites like the 200-year-old Cham Well. Attracting thousands of Da Nang’s 8 million annual visitors, Cu Lao Cham is perfect for snorkeling, diving, and immersing in traditional fishing village life. With sustainable tourism initiatives like eco-lodges and plastic-free practices, it’s a haven for eco-conscious travelers. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, offers curated eco-tours to explore this island paradise, bookable via links throughout this guide. Dive into Cu Lao Cham’s beauty—reserve your tour now
Legend Travel Group delivers authentic Southeast Asia experiences, prioritizing sustainability and cultural immersion. Our Cu Lao Cham tours feature low-impact transport like electric boats and bicycles, guided by local experts who share the islands’ history and ecology. We support Tan Hiep’s fishing communities and align with Da Nang City’s “Green Heritage” initiative to preserve the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless adventure. Explore Cu Lao Cham responsibly with our curated tours—book via the links on this page!
Quang Nam Province has merged into Da Nang City, making Hoi An Minh An Ward and Cu Lao Cham part of Tan Hiep Ward under Da Nang’s administration. This restructuring eliminates the district level, but Cu Lao Cham’s UNESCO status remains robust. Da Nang City enhances sustainable tourism with electric transport, plastic-free initiatives, and a VND500 billion flood mitigation project (2023), ensuring reliable access to the islands, though ferry services may pause during storms (September–February).
Photograph the historic allure of Da Nang’s heritage (Source: Internet)Located 15 km from Cua Dai Beach, Cu Lao Cham spans 1,549 hectares of forest and 6,716 hectares of marine waters, hosting over 135 coral species, 202 fish species, and rare wildlife like long-tailed monkeys and salangane birds. Recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2009, it balances biodiversity conservation with sustainable tourism. The islands’ cultural heritage, tied to the Cham, Sa Huynh, and Dai Viet civilizations, includes relics like Hai Tang Pagoda (1758) and the Temple of the Nest Craftsman, a national relic since 2006. Tan Hiep’s fishing villages preserve traditional practices, making Cu Lao Cham a living cultural and ecological treasure.
Experience Da Nang Tours with sustainable adventures (Source: Internet)Cu Lao Cham is accessible from Hoi An’s Cua Dai Port (15 km, 20–30 minutes by speedboat) or Da Nang (45 km, including 30 km road to Cua Dai). Below are updated transportation options, emphasizing sustainability:
Cost: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND) round-trip per person; private speedboats $50–$100 (1,250,000–2,500,000 VND, up to 10 people).
Duration: 20–30 minutes from Cua Dai Port.
Schedule: Daily departures 7:00 AM–10:30 AM; returns 1:00 PM–3:00 PM. Limited service September–February due to rough seas; check weather via AccuWeather.
Sustainable Tips: Choose group speedboats to reduce emissions; book via Klook or Legend Travel Group for eco-friendly operators.
Pros: Fastest; scenic ride.
Cons: Weather-dependent; no evening ferries.
Tip: Arrive at Cua Dai by 7:30 AM to secure tickets; included in our Cu Lao Cham Snorkeling Tour ($75–$95).
Cost: $5–$8 (125,000–200,000 VND) round-trip per person.
Duration: 1–1.5 hours from Cua Dai Port.
Schedule: 7:00 AM–8:00 AM departures; returns 12:00 PM–1:00 PM. Suspended during storms (September–February).
Sustainable Tips: Ferries emit less CO2 per passenger than speedboats; carry reusable water bottles.
Pros: Budget-friendly; authentic experience.
Cons: Slower; limited schedule.
Tip: Book via local agents at Cua Dai; combine with a market visit.
Cost: Group tours $20–$45 (500,000–1,125,000 VND); private tours $100–$150 (2,500,000–3,750,000 VND, up to 4 people).
Duration: Half-day (6–8 hours) or full-day (10–12 hours), including transport, activities, and lunch.
Sustainable Tips: Legend Travel Group uses electric shuttles to Cua Dai; tours support local fishermen and artisans.
Pros: Hassle-free; includes snorkeling, meals, and guides.
Cons: Less flexibility than independent travel.
Tip: Book sunrise tours for calm seas; included in our Cu Lao Cham Discovery Tour ($75–$95).
Note: An ecological fee of $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND) is required upon arrival to support conservation, included in tour prices. Ferries may cancel during rough seas (September–February); confirm with operators.
Start your Da Nang Travel with serene vistas (Source: Internet)Overview: Explore Cu Lao Cham’s vibrant coral reefs and marine life, including 135 coral species and 202 fish species, at sites like Bai Huong and Bai Lang. Snorkeling and scuba diving reveal tropical fish, sea turtles, and crustaceans in the UNESCO Marine Protected Area.
Cost: Snorkeling $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND); scuba diving $30–$60 (750,000–1,500,000 VND); includes gear and guide.
Time Needed: 1–2 hours.
Sustainable Tips: Use reef-safe sunscreen; join eco-tours certified by the Cu Lao Cham Marine Park to protect reefs.
Highlights: “The coral reefs were a colorful underwater world” (Tripadvisor, 4.6/5 stars).
Tip: Book via Cham Island Diving Center; best visibility March–August. Included in our Cu Lao Cham Snorkeling Tour ($75–$95).
Overview: Walk underwater with a specialized oxygen helmet to observe marine life up close, no diving skills required. Ideal for families or non-swimmers.
Cost: $20–$40 (500,000–1,000,000 VND), including photos/videos.
Time Needed: 30–45 minutes.
Sustainable Tips: Choose operators with eco-certifications; avoid touching marine life.
Highlights: “Walking under the sea was surreal!” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).
Tip: Book via Daily Travel VN for safety; best March–August. Included in our Cu Lao Cham Sea-Trek Tour ($85–$105).
Overview: Explore Cu Lao Cham’s heritage at:
Cu Lao Cham Marine Museum: Displays Cham artifacts, marine biodiversity, and fishing traditions.
Cham Well (Xom Cam): A 200-year-old freshwater source with cultural myths.
Hai Tang Pagoda (1758): A serene temple at Hon Lao’s foot, ideal for spiritual reflection.
Temple of the Nest Craftsman: A national relic honoring salangane nest harvesters.
Cost: Free with ecological fee ($1–$2); guided tours $10–$45 (250,000–1,125,000 VND).
Time Needed: 1–2 hours.
Sustainable Tips: Use QR-coded guides (2023) to reduce paper waste; respect sacred sites.
Highlights: “The Cham Well’s history was fascinating” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).
Tip: Combine with Tan Hiep Market for a cultural morning. Included in our Cu Lao Cham Discovery Tour ($75–$95).
Overview: Unwind at Bai Ong, Bai Xep, or Bai Huong, known for white sands, palm trees, and clear waters. Bai Chong offers unique rock formations symbolizing yin-yang balance.
Cost: Free; sunbed rentals $1–$2/day (25,000–50,000 VND).
Time Needed: 1–3 hours.
Sustainable Tips: Avoid plastic waste; support eco-lodges like Cham Island Homestay.
Highlights: “Bai Ong’s tranquility was unmatched” (Tripadvisor, 4.6/5 stars).
Tip: Visit Bai Xep for snorkeling; best March–August. Included in our Cu Lao Cham Coastal Tour ($60–$80).
Overview: Shop for fresh seafood, dried squid, and shell souvenirs at Tan Hiep Market, near the main pier in Bai Lang. Enjoy local dishes like grilled one-sunny-day squid ($2–$4 or 50,000–100,000 VND).
Cost: Seafood dishes $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND); souvenirs $0.50–$5 (12,500–125,000 VND).
Time Needed: 30–60 minutes.
Sustainable Tips: Buy from local vendors to support fishermen; use reusable bags.
Highlights: “Fresh seafood at unbeatable prices” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).
Tip: Bargain politely; visit early for the freshest catch. Included in our Cu Lao Cham Cultural Tour ($65–$85).
Capture the authentic charm of Da Nang’s eco-tourism (Source: Internet)Transport to Cu Lao Cham:
Speedboat: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND) round-trip.
Ferry: $5–$8 (125,000–200,000 VND) round-trip.
Guided Tours: $20–$45 (500,000–1,125,000 VND); private $100–$150 (2,500,000–3,750,000 VND).
Ecological Fee: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND) per person.
Activities:
Snorkeling: $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).
Scuba Diving: $30–$60 (750,000–1,500,000 VND).
Seabed Walking: $20–$40 (500,000–1,000,000 VND).
Motorbike Rental: $5–$7/day (125,000–175,000 VND).
Boat Excursions: $12–$30 (300,000–750,000 VND, up to 10 people).
Dining: Seafood meals $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND); drinks $0.25–$1 (6,250–25,000 VND).
Accommodation: Homestays $8–$20/night (200,000–500,000 VND); eco-lodges $15–$30/night (375,000–750,000 VND).
Total Daily Cost: $20–$80 (budget: $20–$40; mid-range: $40–$60; luxury: $60–$80).
Tip: Carry VND for small vendors; ATMs unavailable on the islands. March–August offers stable weather, while September–January may have discounts.
Plan Ahead: Book tours or speedboats 2–3 weeks in advance via Legend Travel Group or Klook (+84 938 987 654), especially March–August or during Full Moon Lantern Festival (14th lunar day monthly). Confirm ferry schedules, as services halt during storms (September–February).
Dress Code: Swimwear for beaches; casual attire for villages; modest clothing (covered shoulders, knees) for Hai Tang Pagoda. Bring reef-safe sunscreen.
Pack Smart: Reusable water bottle, biodegradable sunscreen, mosquito repellent, small VND for market purchases, waterproof bag for snorkeling.
Budget Wisely: Expect $20–$80/day; confirm prices to avoid overcharges. Use Grab for mainland transport to Cua Dai.
Stay Safe: Check weather forecasts via AccuWeather; secure valuables at markets; follow snorkeling guides for safety. Avoid September–October typhoons.
Sustainability: Support homestays (e.g., Hạnh Ly Homestay, $8–$20/night); avoid plastic waste; choose eco-certified tours to protect reefs.
Cultural Respect: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you); respect temple etiquette; tip vendors/guides ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND).
Navigation: Allow 6–8 hours for a day trip; combine with Hoi An Old Town (28 km) for a full itinerary. Offline maps (e.g., Maps.me) essential.
Our sustainable tours immerse you in Cu Lao Cham’s natural and cultural wonders, tailored for eco-conscious travelers:
Cu Lao Cham Snorkeling Tour ($75–$95/person): Speedboat to Hon Lao, snorkeling at Bai Huong, Tan Hiep Market, seafood lunch. Includes ecological fee ($1–$2), eco-transfers, and gear.
Cu Lao Cham Discovery Tour ($75–$95/person): Cham Well, Hai Tang Pagoda, Cu Lao Cham Marine Museum, Bai Ong Beach. Includes eco-transfers, lunch, and guide.
Cu Lao Cham Sea-Trek Adventure ($85–$105/person): Seabed walking, snorkeling, fishing village visit, Bánh Bèo tasting in Hoi An. Includes eco-transfers and photos.
Cu Lao Cham Overnight Explorer ($150–$200/person, 2 days): Homestay ($8–$20/night), snorkeling, trekking, Katê Festival (September–October). Includes meals, eco-transfers.
Central Vietnam Coastal Journey ($350–$550/person, 3–4 days): Cu Lao Cham, Hoi An, My Son, Da Nang, homestays ($15–$50/night). Includes all activities, meals, eco-transfers.
Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, ecological fees, and meals/snacks. Group discounts (10% off for 10+ travelers) and seasonal promotions available. Book now via links around this page
Cu Lao Cham, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Da Nang City’s Tan Hiep Ward, enchants with its pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and rich Cham heritage, just 15 km from Hoi An’s Minh An Ward. From snorkeling among 135 coral species to exploring 200-year-old relics like the Cham Well, this archipelago offers a perfect blend of adventure and culture. With sustainable options like eco-tours, electric boats, and plastic-free practices, Cu Lao Cham is a model of responsible tourism. Legend Travel Group’s Da Nang Tours guide you through this island paradise, ensuring a sustainable Da Nang Travel experience that supports local fishermen, preserves biodiversity, and creates unforgettable memories. Don’t miss this island paradise—browse our featured tours and book your Cu Lao Cham adventure today!
Ready to explore Cu Lao Cham’s natural and cultural wonders? Reserve your tour with Legend Travel Group and dive into Vietnam’s coastal gem sustainably!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
Sources: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group
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