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Diving in Vietnam

Diving in Vietnam: Best time, top spots & must-know tips

30/06/2025 590 views

If you are searching for crystal-clear waters and colorful reefs, diving in Vietnam might just be what you need. With stunning dive sites scattered from north to south, this country has something for every underwater explorer.

1. Is Vietnam a good place for diving?

The 3,260 km coastline makes Vietnam a top diving destination, with diverse marine ecosystems and vibrant island life. In 2023, Traveldudes named Vietnam one of the world’s most attractive diving destinations. Top spots like Nha Trang, Phu Quoc, Con Dao, and Cham Islands offer stunning coral gardens, seaweed meadows, and tropical marine life. 

Diving in Vietnam

Vietnam, one of the world’s most exciting diving destinations (Source: Collected)

Diving in Vietnam has two main forms: scuba diving and freediving. Certified dive centers are available in major cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Nha Trang. These centers follow international standards and issue PADI or SSI certifications. A basic course usually includes at least five sessions and costs between VND 6 to 9 million. Meanwhile, diving tours at popular destinations range from VND 1 to 3 million, depending on duration and services. These options make diving in Vietnam both accessible and affordable for travelers.

Explore: snorkeling in Vietnam: An A-to-Z guide for ocean explorers

2. Best time to dive in Vietnam

The ideal months to dive in Vietnam fall between March and October, with calm seas, manageable currents, and high underwater visibility. May to July stand out as the prime season, with exceptionally clear water offering visibility up to 20-30 meters.

However, conditions vary by region and time. Sea conditions, including waves, tides, currents, and water clarity, can change rapidly, sometimes within hours. Diving at the wrong time could mean missing prime spots or encountering murky waters with poor visibility. That is why you should always check the local forecast before planning your trip.

Vietnam diving season

The Vietnam diving season is typically best between March and October (Source: Collected)

Explore: Vietnam’s weather: A detailed guide to time your perfect trip

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3. Top spots for the best diving in Vietnam

3.1. Co To Island, Quang Ninh

Kick off your diving in Vietnam journey at Co To Island, the only licensed coral diving destination in northern Vietnam, located 80 kilometers off the coast of Quang Ninh. Its vibrant, restored coral reefs teem with diverse marine life.

Perfect for all ages, including children six and older, diving here includes scuba diving and sea walker tours. A standard package covers car pick-up, speedboat rides, gear, snacks, drinks, and insurance. You can also enhance your trip with kayaking, underwater photography, or a seafood meal right on the water.

  • Best time to dive: From May to August
  • Best dive sites: Vung Tron, Hon Chim, and Hon Ong Tich
Scuba diving in Co To Island, Vietnam

Don’t miss out on Co To Island, one of the best diving spots in Vietnam (Source: Collected)

3.2. Cham Islands, Quang Nam

Continuing to the central region, diving in Vietnam leads you to the Cham Islands, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve just 18 kilometers away from Hoi An. Its 5,000-hectare marine protected area, with 165 hectares of coral reefs and 500 hectares of seagrass beds, teems with biodiversity. 

During the dry season, calm, clear waters create ideal conditions for diving in Cham Islands for all levels. Don’t be surprised to spot hawksbill turtles or butterflyfish amid the coral gardens. Additionally, the speedboat ride from Cua Dai Port offers stunning views of the outer islands and the tranquil horizon.

  • Best time to dive: From April to September
  • Best dive sites: Hon Dai, Bai Bac, and Hon Tai

3.3. Son Tra Peninsula, Da Nang

Diving in Vietnam also unfolds in the waters off Son Tra Peninsula, Da Nang. Favorable sea currents and ongoing conservation efforts sustain a thriving marine ecosystem, perfect for shallow-water snorkeling and coral viewing.

Most tours are designed for beginners, equipping you with a life vest, a mask, and a snorkel to gently float above vibrant coral reefs bursting with diverse shapes and colors. The primary snorkeling spot, Hon Sup, lies 1.8 kilometers offshore, offering shallow and clear water that allows you to admire the reef from the surface.

  • Best time to dive: From April to August
  • Best dive sites: Hon Sup 
diving in Son Tra Peninsula

Son Tra Peninsula is a rising favorite for those who enjoy diving in Vietnam (Source: Collected)

Delve into: Scuba diving in Da Nang: Top dive spots & expert tips 

3.4. Nha Trang City, Khanh Hoa

No list of diving in Vietnam would be complete without Nha Trang. With warm, calm waters year-round, it is perfect for exploring vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish and colorful corals just offshore.

While Hon Mun Island, once a top coral diving spot, has been closed for swimming and diving since June 2022 to restore its ecosystem, you can still dive at nearby islands like Hon Rom, Hon Tam, or San Ho Bay. From the city center, it is easy to book a day tour to nearby islands such as Hon Rom Island, Hon Tam Island, and San Ho Bay. These tours usually include boat rides, island visits, and various diving activities. Remember to check local regulations for updated diving locations to ensure a sustainable trip.

  • Best time to dive: From February to October
  • Best dive sites: Hon Rom Island, Hon Tam Island, San Ho Bay

More on: Nha Trang snorkeling: Explore stunning coral reefs

3.5. Ly Son Island, Quang Ngai

Ly Son Island, about 30 kilometers off the coast of Quang Ngai Province, is another famous spot for diving in Vietnam, boasting crystal-clear water and well-preserved coral reefs. Most diving occurs around Dao Be (An Binh Island), where dense coral reefs thrive just 1-2 meters below the surface, ideal for beginner snorkeling. 

A standard tour here includes transportation, fishing, snorkeling, and SUP paddling in one fun-filled day. Dive tours here also explore underwater volcanic lava arches that stretch up to 100 meters deep, teeming with diverse corals.

  • Best time to dive: From June to September
  • Best dive sites: Dao Be, Hang Cau
diving in Ly Son Island

Is there good diving in Vietnam? Ly Son Island proves there definitely is (Source: Collected)

3.6. Quy Nhon City, Binh Dinh

Further down the coast, diving in Vietnam becomes a tranquil experience in Quy Nhon – Binh Dinh, where shallow waters await. Two of the best places to explore underwater are Ky Co and Hon Kho, both featuring shallow, clear seas and rich coral ecosystems that are easy to enjoy.

With just a life jacket and goggles, you can float and witness colorful corals and schools of fish below. During the summer months, brown seaweed covers the surface, casting a golden glow that elevates diving photos. It is a favorite season for both casual snorkelers and photography lovers.

3.7. Phu Quy Island, Binh Thuan

Phu Quy Island off the coast of Binh Thuan offers a peaceful escape for diving in Vietnam with pristine waters and vibrant marine life. A prime spot is Bai Can, a 1-square-kilometer coral reef just 300 meters from shore, with shallow 1-3 meter depths ideal for both first-timers and experienced snorkelers.

The seabed here dazzles with stone, table, and cabbage corals, all interwoven with lush sea grapes and schools of tropical fish. During low tide, especially around the 15th to 17th days of the lunar month or dry season, parts of the reef emerge, creating a magical view.

  • Best time to dive: From March to August
  • Best dive sites: Bai Can
diving in Phu Quy

Phu Quy Island is a top choice for a quiet diving in Vietnam (Source: Collected)

3.8. Vinh Hy Bay, Ninh Thuan

At Vinh Hy Bay in Ninh Thuan, diving in Vietnam reveals a vibrant marine spectacle with more than 300 species, including over 50 newly recorded in Vietnam. Shielded by mountains, the bay offers excellent visibility and safe waters, ideal for both snorkeling and diving.

A glass-bottom boat tour passes Yen Cave, Hon Rua, and Hang Rai before anchoring near the reef zone. Snorkel gear and flotation devices are provided, making the experience safe and enjoyable for all skill levels.

  • Best time to dive: April to August
  • Best dive sites: Bai Hom, Bai Coc, coral zones near Rai Cave

3.9. Con Dao Island, Ba Ria – Vung Tau

Con Dao is a pristine archipelago off Vietnam’s southern coast, made up of 16 islands belonging to the province of Ba Ria – Vung Tau. The coral here comes in many forms: branching, plate-like, massive, and table-shaped, many listed in Vietnam’s Red Book.

Con Dao diving offers both stunning views and rich biodiversity. The calm seas make it beginner-friendly, while experienced divers will still find plenty to explore. Full packages include scuba gear, safety equipment, and expert local guides for a safe, rewarding dive.

  • Best time to dive: From March to September
  • Best dive sites: Hon Bay Canh, Hon Tai, and Hon Cau
Con Dao diving

Con Dao Island is a top contender when deciding where to dive in Vietnam (Source: Collected)

3.10. Phu Quoc Island, Kien Giang

Phu Quoc Island, the country’s largest island, is a standout destination for diving in Vietnam with clear turquoise waters and ideal conditions for all skill levels. Its dense, colorful coral reefs form vibrant underwater gardens.

Top sites include Fingernail Island in the south, with rocky walls and caves teeming with sea creatures, and Turtle Island in the west, known for sea turtles, stingrays, and expansive coral fields resembling underwater meadows. At Coral Park on May Rut Ngoai Island, diving and sea walking let you explore a 500m² coral garden with over 250 species of hard and soft corals, showcasing the island’s colorful marine world.

  • Best time to dive: From November to April
  • Best dive sites: Fingernail Island, Turtle Island, May Rut Ngoai Island

Check out: scuba diving in Phu Quoc: Top dive sites & tips for rookies

4. Important notes for diving in Vietnam

Diving in Vietnam is rewarding, but it’s important to follow a few key rules for a safe and memorable trip:

  • Take seasickness medication 30 minutes before boarding.
  • Avoid diving if hungry, full, or after alcohol.
  • Refrain from diving if you have heart conditions or high blood pressure.
  • Swim slowly, stay with your group, avoid diving alone, and limit depth to prevent oxygen depletion or cramps.
  • Stay out of the water if anxious, panicked, or mentally unprepared.
  • Wear a life jacket if you are not a confident swimmer.
  • Acclimate to the water temperature for 5-10 minutes before going deeper.
  • Reduce ear pressure after surfacing by keeping your mouth closed, pinching your nose, and exhaling gently through your nose.
  • Follow your dive instructor’s directions strictly.
  • Wait at least 22-24 hours after diving before boarding a flight to avoid decompression sickness.
enjoy Vietnam’s underwater world

Proper preparation will help you enjoy Vietnam’s underwater world to the fullest (Source: Collected)

Vietnam’s stunning coastline offers something for every type of diver. Whether you are just starting out or seeking your next underwater adventure, diving in Vietnam promises an experience to remember. So pack your gear, choose your destination, and get ready to explore a whole new side of the country beneath the waves!

Beyond diving, Vietnam also offers a vibrant world of entertainment waiting to be explored. Don’t miss VinWonders – a top destination for thrills, adventure, and family fun. There is something for everyone to enjoy here. You can wander through fairy-tale castles, challenge yourself with heart-pounding roller coasters, or cool off in world-class water parks.

After a day full of adventure, relax in comfort at the hotels and resorts of Vinpearl. Whether you are seeking beachside serenity or a luxurious nature retreat, their professional service and beautiful settings make every stay complete.

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