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When it comes to vacations, we explore different spots like mountains, beaches, historical monuments, lakes, etc. But, one of the most beautiful spots that we often miss out on exploring is the underwater marine world. Filled with so many mysteries, unique creatures and a lot of exhilarating experiences, scuba diving in Vietnam is an experience that you must not miss out on. Be it in the crystal-clear waters of Nha Trang to the untouched beauty of Con Dao Islands, there are several spots to explore.
10 Spots For Scuba Diving In Vietnam
With its diverse marine life and breathtaking coral reefs, Vietnam is a scuba diver’s paradise. The only thing is that you need to be mindful of the spots you check out for a unique diving experience.
1. Nha Trang
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Nha Trang is a stunning coastal town that is renowned for its breathtaking beaches and exceptional diving spots. The city’s proximity to several dive sites makes it a popular base for divers. Some of the most popular diving spots include the Hon Mun Marine Protected Area, which is home to a diverse range of coral species and marine life. Under the water, you can explore the vibrant coral gardens, swim alongside schools of fish, and encounter larger species like reef sharks and barracudas.
Location: Hon Mun Marine Protected Area
Timings: March to September
Cost/Person: $75 / ₹6293
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2. Phu Quoc Island
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Another one of the popular spots for scuba diving in Vietnam is in Phu Quoc Island. It is the largest island in Vietnam and is renowned for some of the most pristine and intriguing diving locations. The coral reefs around the diving spots on this island are relatively untouched, enabling you to witness a vibrant ecosystem with the surrounding marine life. Some of the most popular diving spots there include Turtle Island, Finger Island, and An Thoi Archipelago.
Locations: Turtle Island, Finger Island, An Thoi Archipelago
Timings: November to April
Cost/Person: $75 / ₹6293
3. Con Dao Islands
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The Con Dao Islands are a remote and less-visited diving destination, offering a great spot for diving enthusiasts. What’s great about scuba diving on these islands is the accessibility. These islands are known for their dramatic underwater landscapes, including submerged mountains and deep drop-offs. Getting to witness large pelagic species such as manta rays and whale sharks is often a possibility, depending on how good the visibility is. You can also witness the vibrant coral reefs and the wide range of marine life around.
Location: Hon Tai Island, Bay Canh Island, and Con Son Bay
Timings: March to September
Cost/Person: $80 / ₹6712
Suggested Read: Places To visit In Vietnam
4. Hon Gom
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Another one of the fun spots for scuba diving experience in Vietnam is in Hon Gom. It is quite an underrated and unexplored spot, which explains why you wouldn’t have to wait for long hours to wait for your turn. The experience is quite exhilarating too. The dive sites here feature dramatic rock formations, underwater caves, and vibrant coral reefs. Hon Gom is particularly well-known for its rich marine biodiversity, including various species of nudibranchs, sea slugs, and exotic fish. Also, there are diving courses available for beginners in the shallow waters and for advanced divers too.
Location: Hon Gom, Vietnam
Timings: March to September
Cost/Person: $90 / ₹7551
5. Cham Islands
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The best time for scuba diving in Vietnam is between April and September and Cham Islands come to life during these months. This is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve located around Central Vietnam, more specifically off the coast of Hoi An. For non-divers, you get to relax and indulge in a variety of beach activities. However, if you are interested in exploring the underwater mysteries, consider indulging in the diving experiences available on the islands. Some of the best diving sites on the islands include Hon Dai, Bai Bac and Hon Tai, allowing you to witness some of the most unique marine ecosystems underwater.
Location: Hon Dai, Bai Bac and Hon Tai
Timings: April to September
Cost/Person: $80 / ₹6712
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6. Bai Tu Long Bay
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For travellers who want to acquire scuba diving certification in Vietnam but for a cheaper price, Bai Tu Long Bay is your best spot to explore. It is less crowded too, which adds to the convenience and the overall learning experience. The dive sites here include submerged limestone formations and pristine coral reefs, which add to the charm of the place. Also, as you dive inside the water, getting to witness colourful fish, sea turtles, and occasional reef sharks is quite common in this area.
Location: Bai Tu Long Bay
Timings: April to October
Cost/Person: $60 / ₹5034
7. Cat Ba Island
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For the cheapest scuba diving learning and diving experience in Vietnam, you have to visit Cat Ba Island. It is part of the Cat Ba National Park, offering tourists access to a variety of unique diving spots and experiences. There are colourful coral reefs, fascinating underwater caves and an overall exhilarating experience for you to indulge in. Some of the common marine life that you can spot around include clownfish, seahorses, and vibrant coral species. Also, since it’s quite secluded and less infiltrated by tourists, it becomes easier for you to have a serene and laidback diving experience without any rush.
Location: Cat Ba Island
Timings: March to October
Cost/Person: $40 / ₹3355
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8. Son Tra Peninsula
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Located in Da Nang, Son Tra Peninsula is another one of the best diving spots in Vietnam. The peninsula covers an area of around 4,000 hectares and has long stretches of crystal-clear waters and beaches around. However, the highlight of the visit is getting to experience diving and snorkelling experiences without any hassle. The available tours enable you to indulge in a variety of unique experiences underwater like coral diving, and surfing and even meals are included. There are experienced divers on board, so your safety is without a doubt the main priority during the dive.
Location: Son Tra Peninsula, Da Nang
Timings: November to April
Cost/Person: $50 / ₹4195
9. Whale Island Bay
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Another popular diving site in Vietnam you wouldn’t regret exploring is Whale Island Bay. Getting to witness colourful coral fish, sea horses and other marine life adds to the highlight of this experience. The blend of unidentified nudibranchs with amazing macro life adds to the beauty of the diving experience in this particular spot in Vietnam. There is a full range of PADI courses available for the guests to indulge in as well. Most of the diving tours around Whale Island Bay have all the amenities included in the package.
Location: Whale Island Bay
Timings: March to September
Cost/Person: $120 / ₹10068
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10. Nudibranch Gardens
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For an unforgettable diving experience in Vietnam, another spot that you can’t miss out on exploring is the Nudibranch Gardens. Getting to witness the colourful marine life with the vibrant coral reefs makes this a roundabout experience like no other. One of the highlights of diving here is getting to witness the elusive bamboo shark hiding under rocks and coral. You might get to witness Godiva nudibranchs and other marine species as well. There are amazing operators and diving instructors with translators available, making your diving experience fun yet safe.
Location: Nudibranch Gardens, Phu Quoc
Timings: March to September
Cost/Person: $100 / ₹8390
Indulging in scuba diving in Vietnam is one of the less explored and unique activities that you can experience. Not only does it allow you to take a closer look into the charming marine life but you get to unfold the mysteries that you didn’t know about the underwater world. To get your scuba diving certification and experience the beauty of this experience in Vietnam, ensure that you secure all your bookings for the next vacation with TripXL.
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