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Cham is an island cluster located 23 km off the coast of Hoi An. Designated as a UNESCO world biosphere reserve, this scenic archipelago consists of eight islands and is home to a tight-knit community of around 3,000 residents.

Tran Ngoc Tiep, 42, and his family visited Cu Lao Cham at the end of June during a seven-day road trip from Hanoi. After researching available tours, he and his family decided to explore the island on their own for two days.

“Most people usually buy a day tour, but by doing so, they miss out on 80% of the best things Cu Lao Cham has to offer,” Tiep said.

Tour groups are taken on a whirlwind schedule: boarding a speedboat at 8 a.m., visiting a few historical sites, snorkeling to see coral reefs by 10:30 a.m., having lunch at noon, and heading back to the mainland by 2 p.m.

“You have to leave before you can even feel the island’s sun and wind,” Tiep said.

Once the tour speedboats return to the mainland in the early afternoon, the archipelago regains its inherent tranquility, he said.

He allayed fears about traveling independently saying everything is extremely convenient in the islands.

Visitors can head to Cua Dai Pier in Hoi An and buy round-trip speedboat tickets for VND350,000 (US$13) per person. The travel time is just 20 minutes.

After reaching the island, Tiep suggested renting a homestay at Huong Beach or Lang Beach, which have all basic amenities, private bathrooms, and “incredibly friendly” hosts.

The rental is around VND550,000 per night for a family.

Tiep said: “The sea here is so clear and blue that you can easily spot the coral reefs right from the boat. There is no plastic waste on the island. The locals keep their homeland clean and pristine.”

It was one of the first places in Vietnam to ban plastic bags.

Tourists can visit other beaches like Chong, Bim, and Bac, which are popular sunbathing spots for foreigners.

Bac and Xep beaches are off-limits to speedboats and other motorized vessels, ensuring the air remains free of gasoline fumes.

Visitors can also hire a coracle (basket boat) for VND200,000 per trip.

Cham Islands offer more than just beautiful beaches; it is a harmonious blend of wild nature and indigenous culture. Tourists can rent motorbikes to get around the island for VND150,000-200,000 per day.

The coastal roads winding around the island are fully paved with concrete, making motorbike travel very convenient.

But riders should watch out for several steep slopes along the way.

Children swimming and coral watching in Cham Islands. Photo courtesy of Tran Ngoc Tiep

Hai Tang Pagoda, the Cham Islands Marine Life Conservation Center, the island’s ancient freshwater well, and the heritage banyan tree are must-visit attractions.

Visitors can also catch the sunset at Eo Gio (Wind Strait) or spread out a tarp at night to stargaze under a dense, starry sky. Rising early, tourists can admire the dawn or visit Tan Hiep Fish Market to watch fishermen hauling in their nets.

A trip to Cham Islands would not be complete without indulging in seafood and central Vietnamese specialties.

Thick sun-dried squid, rock crabs, and the local delicacy, cellana snails, are caught and cooked right on the spot.

Visitors can also savor grilled abalone, lobsters, scallops, oysters, fish salad (ceviche-style), and wild forest herbs dipped in seasoned fish sauce along with local classic noodles. Note that raw fish salad and fresh oysters are best enjoyed at lunch for maximum freshness.

Tourists can also handpick live seafood and ask locals to cook it for them.

Tiep said hearty seafood meals for his family of four cost VND1 million.

In all, their two-day, one-night itinerary cost around VND 4.5 million, he revealed.