Cham Island Full Day Tour depart from Da Nang visit Au Thuyen and Ong Temple

Planning a trip to Da Nang and craving a quick escape to Vietnam’s stunning coastline? The Cham Island Full Day Tour offers a balanced mix of cultural discovery, scenic beauty, and leisure activities—all in about eight hours. It’s a straightforward way to experience a renowned ocean getaway without disrupting your travel plans.

What we find particularly appealing about this tour is its blend of authentic local sites like Au Thuyen and Ong Temple, combined with relaxing beach time for swimming, sunbathing, or snorkeling. Plus, you don’t need to worry about logistics—hotel pickup and return are included, and a well-organized schedule ensures you see the highlights comfortably.

The main consideration is the group size and timing, which might feel a bit tight for travelers who prefer slower, more in-depth explorations. This tour is perfect for those on a busy itinerary who want a taste of Cham Island’s charm without sacrificing too much time.

If you’re looking for an activity that combines cultural insights, natural beauty, and hassle-free logistics, this full-day trip from Da Nang could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Balanced Itinerary: Combines cultural sites, scenic boat rides, beach relaxation, and snorkeling.
• Efficient Logistics: Hotel pickup, drops off at your accommodation, and a smoothly run schedule.
• Value for Price: Includes transportation, a guide, lunch, and snorkeling gear—offering a comprehensive experience.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to about 15 travelers, which helps keep the experience more personal.
• Authentic Insights: Visits to Au Thuyen and Ong Temple mean you’ll learn about local history and traditions.
• Time Management: The plan packs a lot into 8 hours, ideal for those with limited days but could feel rushed for some.

An Honest Breakdown of the Cham Island Full Day Tour

Starting the Day: Hotel Pickup and Cua Dai Beach

Your day begins early, with a hotel pickup around 8:00 am. This is a real plus—no need to fret about finding your way to the harbor or navigating public transport. The tour provider, Amazing Nature Travel, has a reputation for punctuality and professionalism, and their guides generally speak good English, making it easier to grasp the tour’s story and ask questions.

Once at Cua Dai Harbor, you’ll have about 30 minutes to acclimate and maybe snap a few shots of the busy port area. The harbor is the gateway to Cham Island, and watching boats prepare for departure adds a lively touch to the morning.

Speedboat to Cham Island: Scenic & Exciting

At around 9:00 am, you’ll hop aboard a speedboat—a lively ride that lasts roughly an hour. Travelers often mention how much they enjoyed the ocean breeze and the panoramic views of the coastline. Keep your camera ready because the scenery here is quite photogenic, with rocky outcroppings and rural islands dotting the horizon.

The speedboat is generally comfortable, and the trip is quick enough to build anticipation for what’s awaiting on the island. Plus, the boat ride itself is a highlight, giving you a sense of adventure early on.

Exploring Bai Lang & Cultural Stops

Your first stop on the island is Bai Lang, a fishing village where you can see traditional ways of life still thriving. Here, visits include Au Thuyen, a historical boat shelter designed to protect boats from storms—a structure that has served local fishermen for over a century. Many reviewers appreciate the opportunity to see authentic local livelihoods rather than just tourist spots.

Next, you’ll visit Tay Tang Pagoda, which reflects the long-standing Buddhist presence in the area. Visitors often remark on its peaceful atmosphere and the chance to get a glimpse of local religious practices. The guide often shares facts about Buddhism’s history on the island, which adds depth to this cultural stop.

Ong Temple is another highlight—home to a revered large fish, which is considered sacred. The temple’s history and the story about the fish make this site more meaningful than just a photo opportunity.

Many describe these visits as a “window into the island’s soul,” appreciating how small groups allow for more engaging explanations and authentic interactions.

Beach Time & Snorkeling at Bai Xep and Bai Ong

By mid-morning, you’ll transfer to Bai Xep for snorkeling. This part is often a favorite, especially for those who love to see marine life. Reviewers mention the well-maintained snorkeling gear and the opportunity to observe colorful fish and coral. The provided fresh fruit and cold water are a thoughtful touch, helping you stay refreshed in the tropical heat.

Then, it’s a short trip to Bai Ong, where most travelers just want to lounge, swim, or sunbathe. The beaches are notably clean and inviting, with soft sand and gentle waves—perfect for unwinding after the morning’s sightseeing. Expect to relax, soak up the sun, and, of course, indulge in fresh seafood, which many find to be a highlight of the day.

Returning and Final Notes

By around 2:00 pm, it’s time to pack up and head back to Hoi An or Da Nang. The return trip is a good opportunity to reflect on the day’s sights, and the guide often shares stories or additional insights during the journey back.

You’ll be dropped off at your hotel around 2:25 pm, concluding a busy but satisfying day. Some travelers mention that the schedule feels a bit tight, especially if you want more leisure time at each stop, but most appreciate the overall value.

The Experience and Practicalities

Transportation & Group Size

The transportation is a key part of this tour’s appeal. The use of speedboats means faster travel and more time on the island, but it also requires some comfort with boat rides. The small group size (max 15 travelers) makes for a more personalized experience, avoiding the feeling of being just another face in the crowd.

Cost & What’s Included

At $78.98 per person, the price offers good value considering the included lunch, snorkeling gear, transportation, and guide. The food is typically fresh, local, and filling—a nice bonus compared to bringing your own snacks or paying separately for meals.

What’s Not Included

Gratuities and personal expenses are not included, which is common for tours like this. You might find that tipping guides or crew is appreciated but not obligatory.

Suitability

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of culture, scenery, and leisure. The schedule might feel rushed for those seeking a very relaxed pace or more in-depth culture, but it’s perfect for visitors with limited time who want a comprehensive taste of Cham Island.

Final Thoughts

The Cham Island Full Day Tour from Da Nang delivers a well-rounded experience that combines history, nature, and relaxation. The small-group setting and professional guides make it a comfortable and engaging choice, especially if you’re keen on cultural insights and scenic cruising.

The included snorkeling and beach time are highlights, giving you a chance to unwind amid stunning surroundings. The logistics—hotel pickup, boat transfers, and lunch—are thoughtfully organized, removing much of the hassle and making the day enjoyable from start to finish.

While the itinerary is packed, most travelers find it offers excellent value for the price, especially given the variety of activities and cultural sites. If you’re after an authentic, hassle-free way to explore Cham Island’s charm, this tour is a solid pick.

Who Would Love This Tour?

It’s ideal for travelers with a moderately busy schedule who want a snapshot of Cham Island’s beauty and culture. Nature lovers will enjoy the beaches and snorkeling, while history buffs appreciate the visits to Au Thuyen and Ong Temple. Families and groups seeking an accessible, all-in-one day trip will find it particularly convenient.

If you’re looking for a balanced tour that offers a taste of local life, scenic views, and leisure — all with minimal fuss — this trip ticks many boxes.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins with hotel pickup around 8:00 am, with the first stop at Cua Dai Harbor. The entire experience wraps up around 2:25 pm.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a meal is part of the package, featuring fresh, local food designed to keep you energized throughout the day.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling equipment is provided as part of the tour, making it easy to enjoy the underwater sights without extra fuss.

How many travelers will be on the tour?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, creating a more intimate environment.

Are there any additional costs?
Gratuities, personal expenses, and taxes are not included. It’s good to budget for tips if you appreciated the guide’s insights.

What are the main cultural sites visited?
Au Thuyen boat shelter, Tay Tang pagoda, and Ong Temple are the key cultural stops, offering a glimpse into local history and religious practices.

Can I customize the schedule?
The itinerary is fixed, designed for efficiency. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, you might find this tour a bit tight.

Is it suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but consider boat ride comfort and the physical demands of some stops. It’s best to assess individual mobility.

What should I wear or bring?
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for the weather, bring sunscreen, and consider a hat. Snorkeling gear is provided, but you might bring your own mask if preferred.

To sum it up, this Cham Island tour offers a hearty mix of cultural exploration, scenic adventure, and beachside relaxation—all organized with convenience and value in mind. It’s a fantastic way to experience some of Vietnam’s coastal charm without overextending your schedule.