Best Places to Scuba Diving in Vietnam

Vietnam is a country known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. But did you know that it is also a top destination for diving? With over 3,000 kilometers of coastline, Vietnam offers some of the most diverse and beautiful underwater experiences in Southeast Asia. From vibrant coral reefs to WWII shipwrecks, there is something for every type of diver in Vietnam. In this blog post, we will explore the Best places to Scuba diving in Vietnam and provide tips for planning your next diving adventure.

About Diving in Vietnam

Before we dive into the best places to dive in Vietnam, let’s first discuss what you can expect when diving in this country.

What to Expect

Vietnam has a tropical climate, which means warm waters year-round. The water temperature ranges from 25-30°C (77-86°F), making it perfect for diving in just a swimsuit or thin wetsuit. The visibility can vary depending on the location and time of year, but generally ranges from 10-30 meters (33-98 feet). You can expect to see a variety of marine life, including colorful corals, tropical fish, and even larger creatures like whale sharks and manta rays.

When to Dive

The diving season in Vietnam runs from February to October, with the peak season being from June to August. During these months, the weather is hot and dry, and the sea conditions are calm. However, if you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, consider diving during the shoulder seasons of February-April and September-October. Keep in mind that the monsoon season in Vietnam runs from November to January, and many dive centers may be closed during this time.

How to Choose a Diving Center and How Much It Costs

When choosing a diving center in Vietnam, it is essential to do your research. Look for centers that have experienced and certified instructors, well-maintained equipment, and good safety records. You can also read reviews from previous customers to get an idea of their experiences.

The cost of diving in Vietnam varies depending on the location and dive center. On average, a single dive can cost anywhere from $30-$50 USD, with discounts available for multiple dives or dive packages. Keep in mind that this price usually includes equipment rental, but not accommodation or meals.

Best Places to Scuba Diving in Vietnam

Now that you know what to expect when scuba diving in Vietnam let’s explore the top places to dive in this beautiful country.

Hoi An – Cham Islands

Located in central Vietnam, Hoi An is a charming town known for its ancient architecture and colorful lanterns. But just a short boat ride away lies the Cham Islands, a group of eight small islands that make up a protected marine park. The waters around the Cham Islands are home to over 200 species of coral and 135 species of fish, making it a diver’s paradise.

One of the most popular dive sites in the Cham Islands is Hon Tai, where you can see schools of barracuda, snappers, and trevally swimming among the colorful corals. Another must-see site is the underwater cave at Hon Mo, where you can spot nudibranchs, seahorses, and even bamboo sharks.

Diving in Hoi An and the Cham Islands is suitable for all levels, with shallow reefs for beginners and deeper sites for more experienced divers. There are several dive centers in Hoi An that offer day trips to the Cham Islands, with prices starting at around $60 USD for two dives.

Nha Trang

Nha Trang is a bustling coastal city in southern Vietnam, known for its beautiful beaches and lively nightlife. But it is also a popular destination for diving, with over 20 dive sites in the surrounding waters. The diving here is suitable for all levels, with shallow reefs and gentle currents.

One of the most famous dive sites in Nha Trang is Madonna Rock, named after a rock formation that resembles the Virgin Mary. Here you can see schools of colorful fish, as well as larger creatures like barracuda and stingrays. Another popular site is Moray Beach, where you can spot moray eels, lionfish, and even bamboo sharks.

Dive centers in Nha Trang offer day trips to various dive sites, with prices starting at around $50 USD for two dives. You can also take a PADI Open Water course here, with prices ranging from $300-$400 USD.

Phu Quoc Island

Phu Quoc Island is a tropical paradise located in the Gulf of Thailand, just a short flight from Ho Chi Minh City. It is known for its white sandy beaches, lush forests, and crystal clear waters, making it an ideal destination for diving.

The waters around Phu Quoc are home to over 135 species of coral and 200 species of fish, including seahorses, nudibranchs, and even whale sharks. One of the best dive sites on the island is Turtle Island, where you can see turtles, rays, and schools of colorful fish. Another popular site is Finger Island, where you can explore underwater caves and swim through schools of barracuda.

There are several dive centers on Phu Quoc Island that offer day trips to various dive sites, with prices starting at around $60 USD for two dives. You can also take a PADI Open Water course here, with prices ranging from $350-$450 USD.

Con Dao Island

Con Dao Island is a remote and untouched paradise located off the southern coast of Vietnam. It is known for its pristine beaches, lush forests, and diverse marine life, making it a top destination for diving.

One of the most famous dive sites in Con Dao is Shark Island, named after the resident blacktip reef sharks that can often be seen here. You can also spot schools of barracuda, trevally, and even whale sharks at this site. Another popular site is Hon Tai, where you can see colorful corals, nudibranchs, and schools of tropical fish.

Dive centers on Con Dao offer day trips to various dive sites, with prices starting at around $60 USD for two dives. You can also take a PADI Open Water course here, with prices ranging from $350-$450 USD.

Tips for Scuba Diving in Vietnam

• Always do your research before choosing a dive center.
• Make sure to check the weather and sea conditions before booking your trip.
• Bring your own dive equipment if possible, as rental gear may not always be well-maintained.
• Respect the marine life and do not touch or disturb anything underwater.
• Be aware of potential hazards such as strong currents and marine life like jellyfish and sea snakes.
• Follow all safety procedures and listen to your instructor’s instructions.

FAQs

Q: Do I need any special permits to dive in Vietnam?

A: No, you do not need any special permits to dive in Vietnam. However, some dive sites may require an entrance fee, which is usually included in the price of your dive trip.

Q: Is it safe to dive in Vietnam?

A: Yes, diving in Vietnam is generally safe. However, it is essential to choose a reputable dive center and follow all safety procedures.

Q: What is the best time of year to dive in Vietnam?

A: The best time to dive in Vietnam is from February to October, with the peak season being from June to August.

Conclusion

Vietnam may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about diving destinations, but it should definitely be on your list. With its warm waters, diverse marine life, and stunning underwater landscapes, Vietnam offers some of the best diving experiences in Southeast Asia. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver, there is something for everyone in this beautiful country. So pack your bags, grab your dive gear, and get ready to explore the top places to dive in Vietnam.