On TripAdvisor, Ilisae, a tourist from Sydney, Australia, said she came to Nha Trang in 7/2024 after seeing photos of the city online. "Nha Trang is like a city situated on a long sandy beach with many options for those who enjoy outdoor activities," she said.

The walking path between the three islands emerges at low tide. Photo: Bui Toan

Besides the centrally located beaches with their convenient access, Ilisae recommends Bai Dai beach, about a 25-minute drive from the city, as a quiet, clean spot suitable for swimming and escaping the crowds on weekends.

John P (Texas, USA) suggests Hon Mun island and the area around Vinpearl are suitable for diving. Meanwhile, Diep Son island in Van Phong bay, with its walking path between the islands appearing at low tide, offers a rare and unique experience.

It's about 60 km from Nha Trang and consists of three small islands: Hon Bip, Hon Giua, and Hon Duoc. Visitors can walk between the islands on a nearly 1 km path during low tide.

Foreign tourists diving and observing coral in Nha Trang bay. Photo: Bui Toan

Beyond the beaches and islands, many tourists recommend combining visits to natural and historical destinations in the mountainous areas around Nha Trang. Hon Ba mountain, where Doctor Alexandre Yersin lived and conducted research, is located at an altitude of 1,500 m and is suitable for those who enjoy mountain climbing and exploring cultural sites. From the city center, tourists can hire transportation to explore the remaining research station on the summit.

For foreign tourists who enjoy trekking and the mountains, Yang Bay waterfall is a favorite destination. The waterfall is located northwest of Nha Trang, about 40 km away. In the Raglai language, the waterfall's name means "Waterfall of the Sky". It is formed by three mountains: Yang Bay, Hocho, and Yang Khang. Yang Bay is the largest waterfall, with a height of over 80 m and a length of over 2,000 m. It also has two lakes: a large lake and a small lake.

Nha Trang shimmering at night. Photo: Khoa Tran

Some tourists suggest combining Nha Trang and Da Lat in the same trip. The cool highlands with waterfalls and pine forests can provide a pleasant respite after active days by the sea.

For those wanting to participate in large-scale sporting events and mingle with locals, some tourists recommend joining running races. A prime example is the VnExpress Marathon Libera Nha Trang 2025, expected to attract up to 13,000 athletes.

This year's race takes place on 24/8, with the route passing through prominent landmarks such as Tran Phu street, Binh Tan bridge, and especially Luong Son pass - which features a slope of over 10 km and an elevation of 70 m.

Athletes conquering Luong Son pass at VnExpress Marathon 2024. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

Andreeva Sokolov, a Russian tourist who lived in Nha Trang for three years, returned to Vietnam last year to combine tourism with participating in the race. "I chose to return to Nha Trang not only for the beaches but also for the feeling of connection with the people here. The race was a perfect opportunity for me to relive memories," she said.

With many activities suitable for active individuals, Nha Trang is being recognized as a potential destination for the combined sports and leisure model (race-cation). The stable weather and complete infrastructure are also factors that make it a choice destination for international tourists.

Lan Anh