Top Diving and Snorkeling Spots in Vietnam 2025: Nha Trang, Phu Quoc, Con Dao & Hidden Gems

Why Dive and Snorkel in Vietnam?

When travelers think of Southeast Asia’s underwater world, countries like Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines often steal the spotlight. But in recent years, Vietnam has emerged as a hidden gem for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. With more than 3,260 kilometers of coastline, dotted with islands, lagoons, and coral reefs, Vietnam offers everything from calm, shallow waters perfect for beginners to thrilling drift dives for the experienced.

Imagine swimming above kaleidoscopic coral gardens, spotting schools of tropical fish, and even encountering sea turtles gliding gracefully through the current. Unlike more commercialized dive destinations in Asia, Vietnam’s underwater world still feels relatively raw, authentic, and less crowded—making it a refreshing alternative for ocean lovers seeking something new.

Beyond its marine biodiversity, Vietnam also shines in accessibility and affordability. Whether you’re a backpacker seeking budget snorkeling tours, a digital nomad craving weekend dives, or a seasoned diver chasing dugongs and manta rays, Vietnam delivers experiences to fit every level and budget.

In this complete 2025 guide, we’ll take you through the best diving and snorkeling spots in Vietnam—from the bustling coral gardens of Nha Trang, to the beginner-friendly waters of Phu Quoc, the pristine marine park of Con Dao, and the emerging island gems of Binh Thuan. Along the way, you’ll find practical advice, insider tips, and updated information to help you plan your perfect underwater adventure.

When Is the Best Time to Dive and Snorkel in Vietnam?

One of the most common questions travelers ask is: “When should I plan my diving or snorkeling trip to Vietnam?” The answer depends on which part of the country you’re visiting, since Vietnam’s long, S-shaped geography spans multiple climate zones.

Here’s a breakdown of the best seasons by region:

Southern Vietnam (Phu Quoc, Con Dao, Binh Thuan)

Best months: November to May
Why: This is the dry season in southern Vietnam, with calm seas, little rainfall, and excellent visibility (10–20 meters in some areas).
What to expect: Warm water (27–30°C), clear skies, and smooth boat rides—ideal for beginners and snorkelers.

Central Vietnam (Nha Trang, Cham Islands, Whale Island)

Best months: April to October
Why: Central Vietnam has the opposite weather pattern compared to the south. April–October brings sunny days, calm seas, and great visibility. The monsoon hits from late October to December, making diving risky.
What to expect: Warm, tropical water (26–29°C), especially good between June and August.

Average Water Temperature by Season

Region	Dry Season (°C)	Rainy Season (°C)	Best Visibility
Phu Quoc	28–30	26–28	Nov–May
Con Dao	27–29	26–27	Mar–Sep
Nha Trang	27–29	25–27	Apr–Oct
Binh Thuan	27–30	26–28	Mar–Aug
North Vietnam	26–28	20–23	May–Oct

Quick Seasonal Tips for Travelers

March–May: Best time overall if you want to combine both southern and central Vietnam dive sites.
June–August: Peak visibility in central Vietnam (Nha Trang, Cham Islands). Great for families on summer holidays.
September–November: Risk of storms in both the south and central coast—avoid booking dive-heavy itineraries.
December–February: Excellent for Phu Quoc and Con Dao, but central and northern spots are off-season.

Traveler’s Tip: If you’re flexible, plan your Vietnam diving trip to match regional weather patterns. Many divers create a loop: start in the south (Phu Quoc or Con Dao) during the dry season, then move up to central Vietnam (Nha Trang, Binh Thuan, Cham Islands) as the months shift.

Nha Trang – Vietnam’s Diving Capital

If you ask any Vietnamese local where the country’s scuba heart beats, the answer is almost always the same: Nha Trang. This coastal city, nestled along Central Vietnam’s turquoise coastline, has earned its reputation as the diving capital of Vietnam—and for good reason.

With its protected marine reserves, warm water, and well-established dive shops, Nha Trang is often the first stop for travelers who want to explore Vietnam’s underwater world. Beyond the ocean, the city itself buzzes with nightlife, international restaurants, and a laid-back beach culture—making it the ideal base for divers who like a mix of adventure and comfort.

Why Dive in Nha Trang?

Marine biodiversity: More than 350 species of coral and 230 species of reef fish.
Accessibility: Easy boat trips from the city (15–45 minutes to most sites).
Variety: From shallow coral gardens for beginners to thrilling drift dives for advanced divers.
Training hub: PADI and SSI dive centers offer affordable certification courses.

Top Dive Sites in Nha Trang

1. Hon Mun Marine Protected Area

Highlight: Vietnam’s first marine protected zone.
What you’ll see: A kaleidoscope of corals—brain corals, staghorn, and soft coral forests—plus clownfish, butterflyfish, and groupers.
Depth: 5–18 meters (perfect for snorkelers and beginner divers).
Traveler’s Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds, as this is the most popular spot.

2. Moray Beach

Highlight: Famous for “macro diving”—spotting tiny, unusual sea creatures.
What you’ll see: Pipefish, nudibranchs, frogfish, and moray eels hiding in crevices.
Depth: 10–18 meters.
For whom: Great for divers who love photography and critter-spotting.

3. Madonna Rock

Highlight: A series of caves and swim-throughs.
What you’ll see: Lionfish, glassfish, and lobsters hiding in rocky shelters.
Depth: 12–25 meters.
For whom: Best for certified divers seeking a fun, slightly adventurous dive.

4. Electric Nose

Highlight: Strong currents, dramatic drop-offs, and pelagic sightings.
What you’ll see: Barracudas, tuna, and sometimes reef sharks.
Depth: 18–40 meters.
For whom: Advanced divers only. Bring a dive computer and be comfortable with drift dives.

Snorkeling in Nha Trang

If diving feels too technical, snorkeling in Nha Trang is just as rewarding. Most day tours combine snorkeling, swimming, and island-hopping with stops at Hon Mun, Hon Tam, and Mot Island. Expect to see coral gardens, tropical fish, and sometimes sea urchins clinging to rocks.

Cost: Around $15–25 USD per person for a half-day snorkeling trip (including boat ride, gear, and lunch).
Tip: Bring your own mask and snorkel if you prefer higher-quality equipment.

Diving Courses in Nha Trang

One of Nha Trang’s biggest strengths is its status as Vietnam’s training hub for new divers. If you’ve always wanted to get certified, this is the place to do it.

Discover Scuba Diving (DSD): ~$70 USD, includes 1–2 dives with an instructor, no license needed.
Open Water Diver (PADI/SSI): $350–400 USD, 3–4 days, internationally recognized certification.
Advanced Open Water: $280–350 USD, 2–3 days, for divers who want to go deeper and try specialties (night diving, drift diving).

Dive shops in Nha Trang are generally safe, professional, and experienced with international tourists. Popular operators include Rainbow Divers, Sailing Club Divers, and Amigos Diving.

Best Time to Dive Nha Trang

April to October: Calm seas, best visibility (10–15 meters).
June–August: Peak season, excellent coral viewing.
November–February: Rough seas, poor conditions—not recommended.

Costs of Diving in Nha Trang

Fun Dives: $50–60 USD (2 dives, including boat trip and equipment).
Snorkeling tours: $15–25 USD.
PADI Open Water Certification: $350–400 USD.
Gear rental (if diving independently): $20–30 USD/day.

Compared to Thailand or Bali, Vietnam’s diving prices are often cheaper while still offering high-quality experiences.

Phu Quoc – Coral Gardens & Calm Waters

If Nha Trang is Vietnam’s energetic diving hub, Phu Quoc Island is its laid-back snorkeling paradise. Nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, just a short flight from Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc is known for gentle waters, shallow reefs, and beginner-friendly dive sites.

For travelers who want to dip their toes—literally—into Vietnam’s underwater world without tackling strong currents or deep dives, Phu Quoc delivers some of the most accessible and scenic marine experiences in the country. It’s also one of the few destinations in Vietnam where you can snorkel directly off the beach or combine diving with island-hopping adventures.

Why Snorkel and Dive in Phu Quoc?

Gentle waters: Minimal currents, calm seas—great for beginners and families.
Accessibility: Many reefs are close to shore or reachable within 30–45 minutes by boat.
Island-hopping: Combine snorkeling with fishing, kayaking, and exploring secluded beaches.
Biodiversity: 260+ species of fish, 100+ species of coral.

Top Snorkeling and Diving Spots in Phu Quoc

1. An Thoi Archipelago (South Phu Quoc)

Highlight: A cluster of 15+ small islands with vibrant reefs.
Top spots: Hon Dam Ngang, Hon May Rut Trong, Hon Mong Tay.
What you’ll see: Soft coral gardens, parrotfish, damselfish, and colorful nudibranchs.
Depth: 5–20 meters, great for snorkelers and beginner divers.
Traveler’s Tip: Book a full-day boat tour to visit 3–4 islands, usually including a seafood lunch.

2. Turtle Island (Hon Doi Moi, North Phu Quoc)

Highlight: Crystal-clear water with high visibility.
What you’ll see: Butterflyfish, angelfish, barracuda schools, and sometimes sea turtles.
Depth: 5–15 meters.
For whom: Snorkelers looking for calm, shallow coral reefs.

3. Fingernail Island (Hon Mong Tay)

Highlight: White sandy beach, perfect postcard scenery.
What you’ll see: Healthy coral gardens, perfect for photography.
Traveler’s Tip: Great for travelers who want a balance of snorkeling + beach relaxation.

4. Night Diving in Phu Quoc

Highlight: A unique way to experience the island’s underwater life after sunset.
What you’ll see: Octopus, squid, cuttlefish, lobsters, and bioluminescent plankton.
For whom: Certified divers looking for something different.

Snorkeling Tours in Phu Quoc

Unlike Nha Trang’s dive-centric scene, Phu Quoc is snorkeling first, diving second. Local tour operators run affordable boat trips daily, taking visitors to multiple islands in either the north or south.

Cost: $15–30 USD per person (includes boat, gear, guide, and lunch).
Popular packages:
- South trip: An Thoi Archipelago (3–4 islands).
- North trip: Turtle Island + Fingernail Island.
Tip: Choose smaller, eco-friendly operators to avoid overcrowded boats.

Diving in Phu Quoc

Though not as famous as Nha Trang or Con Dao for scuba, Phu Quoc offers safe, beginner-friendly dives.

Discover Scuba Diving (DSD): ~$65 USD, includes pool training and one open-water dive.
Fun Dives: $55–70 USD for 2 dives.
Open Water Certification: $350–400 USD, typically 3–4 days.
Dive Centers: Flipper Diving Club, Rainbow Divers (seasonal), and local PADI operators.

Eco Issues in Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc’s reefs have faced coral bleaching and damage in recent years due to mass tourism, overfishing, and unregulated anchoring. However, there are conservation projects underway:

Some operators run “no anchor” policies to protect corals.
Efforts to promote reef-safe sunscreen and reduce plastic waste are increasing.
Snorkelers and divers are encouraged to avoid touching or stepping on coral.

Traveler’s Tip: Bring your own eco-friendly mask and biodegradable sunscreen to minimize your impact.

Best Time to Visit Phu Quoc for Diving & Snorkeling

November to May (Dry Season): Calm seas, sunny skies, visibility 10–15 meters.
June to October (Rainy Season): Rougher seas, reduced visibility, but still possible to snorkel in the north.

Costs in Phu Quoc

Snorkeling tours: $15–30 USD.
Fun dives: $55–70 USD.
Night dive: $70–80 USD.
Open Water Course: $350–400 USD.

Compared to Con Dao, Phu Quoc is cheaper and easier to reach, making it ideal for casual divers and snorkelers.

Con Dao – Vietnam’s Untouched Marine Paradise

If Phu Quoc is Vietnam’s most accessible snorkeling hub, Con Dao is its hidden treasure chest. A remote archipelago of 16 islands off the southern coast, Con Dao is where divers go when they want untouched reefs, rare wildlife encounters, and world-class visibility.

The islands are often described as Vietnam’s last diving frontier—a place where marine life still thrives relatively undisturbed. While tourism is slowly growing, Con Dao remains blissfully under the radar compared to Nha Trang or Phu Quoc.

Why Dive in Con Dao?

Pristine reefs: Some of Vietnam’s healthiest coral ecosystems.
High biodiversity: 1,300+ species of marine life recorded.
Unique encounters: Sea turtles, rays, reef sharks, and the elusive dugong.
Visibility: Often 20–30 meters, the clearest in Vietnam.
Seclusion: Far fewer tourists, making it feel like your private ocean.

Top Diving & Snorkeling Sites in Con Dao

1. Hon Bay Canh

Highlight: Vietnam’s largest sea turtle nesting ground.
What you’ll see: Hawksbill and green turtles, healthy coral gardens.
Depth: 5–18 meters.
Traveler’s Tip: Visit during turtle nesting season (May–October) for a chance to see hatchlings released into the sea.

2. Hon Cau

Highlight: Great spot for beginners and snorkelers.
What you’ll see: Shallow coral gardens, clownfish, parrotfish, sea anemones.
Depth: 3–10 meters.
Bonus: Beautiful beaches for relaxing post-snorkel.

3. Hon Tre Lon

Highlight: Advanced dive site with strong currents.
What you’ll see: Reef sharks, manta rays, schools of jackfish.
Depth: 18–30 meters.
Traveler’s Tip: Best dived with experienced local guides.

4. The Dugong Mystery

Dugongs (sea cows) used to be more common around Con Dao, though sightings are now extremely rare. Conservationists still hope the population will recover.
Even if you don’t spot a dugong, you’ll encounter rays, turtles, and pelagic fish in deeper waters.

Turtle Conservation in Con Dao

Con Dao is Vietnam’s leading site for sea turtle conservation.

Hundreds of turtles come ashore yearly to nest, especially on Bay Canh Island.
From June to September, visitors can witness egg-laying or baby turtle releases under ranger supervision.
Diving near nesting sites gives you a rare chance to see turtles in their natural habitat.

This makes Con Dao not just a diving trip, but also a wildlife experience unlike anywhere else in Vietnam

Snorkeling in Con Dao

For travelers who don’t dive, Con Dao still offers rewarding snorkeling:

Depths of 1–5 meters are full of colorful corals and reef fish.
Calm beaches like Dat Doc Beach and Dam Trau Beach are great starting points.
Boat trips to Hon Cau or Hon Tai often include snorkeling options.

Diving in Con Dao – Practical Info

Best Season: March to September (calm seas, high visibility).
Off-season (October–February): Rough seas, limited dive operations.
Dive Conditions: Warm water (27–30°C), visibility 15–30 meters, currents at some advanced sites.
Certification: Perfect place to get advanced certification due to excellent visibility and diverse dive profiles.

Diving Costs in Con Dao

Diving in Con Dao is slightly pricier than other destinations due to its remote location:

Fun Dives: $75–90 USD for 2 dives.
Night Dives: $85–100 USD.
Discover Scuba Diving (DSD): $70–85 USD.
Open Water Course: $380–420 USD.
Advanced Courses: $400–450 USD.

Tip: Book in advance during peak turtle season (June–August), as dive shops have limited capacity.

How to Get to Con Dao

Con Dao’s remoteness is both its charm and challenge.

By Air: 45-minute flights from Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) or Can Tho.
By Ferry: From Vung Tau or Soc Trang (2.5–4 hours depending on departure point).
Note: Flights and ferries are often weather-dependent.

Eco-Tourism & Conservation in Con Dao

Con Dao is a national park and marine protected area, which has helped its ecosystems remain healthy.

Travelers can support conservation by:

Choosing dive shops that follow reef-friendly practices.
Using reef-safe sunscreen.
Avoiding single-use plastics during boat trips.
Respecting turtle nesting zones at night.

Because of its protected status, Con Dao offers a rare opportunity to see Vietnam’s marine life in its healthiest state.

Insider Tips for Travelers to Con Dao

Plan longer stays – weather can delay flights or ferries.
Pack motion sickness pills for ferry rides.
Stay near Con Son town for easy access to dive shops.
Bring cash – limited ATMs on the islands.
Combine diving with hiking in Con Dao National Park for a full eco-adventure.

Con Dao is not for travelers looking for cheap, easy tours. It’s for those who want authentic diving adventures in one of Southeast Asia’s most underrated marine sanctuaries.

Binh Thuan Islands – Vietnam’s Emerging Diving & Snorkeling Gems

While Nha Trang, Phu Quoc, and Con Dao dominate Vietnam’s diving map, the Binh Thuan coastline—famous for Mui Ne and Phan Thiet—is slowly gaining attention among adventurous travelers. Beyond its windsurfing beaches and sand dunes, Binh Thuan hides rugged islands with surprisingly rich coral ecosystems.

Among them, Phu Quy Island stands out as the rising star, joined by smaller gems like Hon Cau and Hon Ba, which are part of the Con Dao–Binh Thuan marine ecosystem. These destinations are still raw, with limited infrastructure, but they offer authentic, crowd-free experiences for divers and snorkelers.

Why Choose Binh Thuan for Diving & Snorkeling?

Undiscovered reefs: Far fewer tourists compared to Nha Trang or Phu Quoc.
Budget-friendly: Accommodation, tours, and food are cheaper.
Local charm: Strong fishing culture and small-island hospitality.
Adventure feel: Getting here requires effort, but that’s the appeal.

Top Islands in Binh Thuan

1. Phu Quy Island (The “Pearl” of Binh Thuan)

Location: ~120 km from Phan Thiet, reachable by high-speed ferry (2.5–3 hours).
Highlight: Volcano-formed island surrounded by coral reefs and crystal-clear waters.
What you’ll see: Staghorn corals, damselfish, groupers, cuttlefish, and occasional sea turtles.
Best sites: Hon Tranh, Hon Trung, Bai Nho beach area.
For whom: Snorkelers, beginner divers, and offbeat explorers.

Traveler’s Tip: Rent a motorbike (~$6/day) to explore the island between snorkeling trips—Phu Quy is only 18 km².

2. Hon Cau Island

Highlight: Part of the Con Dao National Park but administratively linked to Binh Thuan.
What you’ll see: Dense seagrass beds (home to dugongs in the past), coral gardens, and small reef fish.
Depth: 3–15 meters.
Experience: Less commercial, often visited as part of eco-tours.

3. Hon Ba Island (Mui Ne area)

Highlight: Small island with rocky reefs.
What you’ll see: More modest marine life—anemones, starfish, urchins—but culturally interesting thanks to the temple of Po Nagar goddess located here.
For whom: Casual snorkelers and those combining cultural & natural experiences.

Diving & Snorkeling in Phu Quy

While still developing, Phu Quy Island has started offering structured diving and snorkeling trips:

Snorkeling tours: ~$15–20 USD, usually include island-hopping.
Scuba diving: $50–65 USD for fun dives (organized by small local operators).
Discover Scuba Diving: $60–70 USD with local dive instructors.
Courses: Not widely available yet—best for certified divers seeking exploration.

Best Time to Visit Binh Thuan for Diving

December – June: Best season, calm seas, visibility 10–15 meters.
July – November: Windier months with choppier waters (Mui Ne is popular for kitesurfing then, but not great for diving).

How to Get There

To Phan Thiet: 4–5 hours by train or bus from Ho Chi Minh City.
To Phu Quy: High-speed ferry from Phan Thiet port (2.5–3 hours).
Note: Ferries are weather-dependent, so plan buffer days.

Eco & Local Culture

Phu Quy and nearby islands are heavily dependent on fishing, so sustainable tourism here is crucial. Overfishing and plastic waste are challenges, but eco-conscious travelers can make a difference by:

Choosing operators with “no touch, no anchor” policies.
Supporting local homestays and community-based tourism.
Bringing reusable water bottles and eco-friendly sunscreen.

The islands are also culturally unique: Phu Quy has strong links to Cham traditions, and Hon Ba is home to local spiritual practices. Combining cultural immersion with marine exploration makes Binh Thuan a rewarding stop.

Insider Tips for Binh Thuan Islands

Bring your own snorkel gear – rentals are basic and limited.
Stay in homestays or guesthouses – affordable, authentic, and family-run.
Pack motion sickness meds – ferries can be rough.
Expect limited English – a phrasebook or translation app helps.
Try the seafood – Phu Quy is famous for fresh lobster and squid dishes.

Binh Thuan won’t replace Nha Trang or Con Dao for serious diving yet, but it’s the next frontier for Vietnam’s marine tourism. Travelers looking for an offbeat, affordable, and culturally rich destination will find Phu Quy and its sister islands unforgettable.

Practical Tips, Packing List & Final Thoughts

After exploring Vietnam’s best diving and snorkeling spots—from the bustling reefs of Nha Trang to the remote wilderness of Con Dao and the rising stars of Phu Quy—it’s time to tie everything together. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a first-time snorkeler, proper preparation will make your underwater adventures in Vietnam safer, smoother, and more enjoyable.

Practical Travel Tips for Divers & Snorkelers in Vietnam

Book Ahead During Peak Season
- December–April (dry season) is the busiest time for Vietnam’s southern dive spots.
- Con Dao and Phu Quoc especially get booked out quickly.
Choose Responsible Operators
- Look for dive shops with PADI/SSI certification, small group sizes, and reef protection policies.
- Avoid tours that overcrowd boats or allow touching/standing on coral.
Bring Cash
- Many islands, especially Phu Quy and Con Dao, have limited ATMs.
- Diving tours often prefer cash payments in VND or USD.
Check the Weather & Sea Conditions
- Always ask your operator about conditions before heading out.
- Ferries to Phu Quy and Con Dao can be canceled due to high winds.
Stay Flexible
- If you’re diving in remote areas, allow extra days in case of weather-related delays.
Health & Safety
- Make sure you’re insured for diving activities.
- Wait at least 12–18 hours after diving before flying.

Packing List for Diving & Snorkeling in Vietnam

Mask & Snorkel: Bring your own for comfort and hygiene (rentals can be basic).
Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Protect both your skin and Vietnam’s fragile coral reefs.
Rash Guard or Dive Skin: Helps prevent sunburn and jellyfish stings.
Water Shoes: Essential for rocky beaches and shallow reef entries.
Dry Bag: Keeps phones and valuables safe on boat rides.
Motion Sickness Pills: Ferries and small boats can be choppy.
GoPro or Underwater Camera: Capture your memories—visibility is often excellent.
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated without relying on single-use plastic.
Light Jacket or Poncho: For sudden rain showers during island trips.

Budget Breakdown – What to Expect

Snorkeling Day Trip: $15–30 USD (gear, lunch, boat included).
Fun Dive (2 tanks): $55–90 USD depending on location.
Discover Scuba Diving (DSD): $60–80 USD for beginners.
Open Water Certification: $350–420 USD.
Accommodation:
- Budget guesthouse: $10–20 USD/night.
- Mid-range resort: $40–80 USD/night.
- High-end resort (Nha Trang, Con Dao, Phu Quoc): $120–300 USD/night.

Vietnam remains one of the most affordable dive destinations in Asia, especially compared to Thailand or Indonesia.

Responsible Snorkeling & Diving in Vietnam

Vietnam’s reefs face challenges from overfishing, coral damage, and plastic waste. As a traveler, your choices matter:

Never touch, chase, or feed marine life.
Avoid standing on corals, even in shallow water.
Use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid products with oxybenzone.
Reduce plastic—bring your own bottle and bag.
Support eco-conscious dive shops and local conservation programs.

By traveling responsibly, you help ensure that Vietnam’s underwater treasures remain vibrant for future generations.

Where Should You Dive in Vietnam?

With so many options, choosing your dive destination depends on your style:

Nha Trang: Best for those seeking lively reefs, beginner-friendly diving, and nightlife.
Phu Quoc: Perfect for snorkelers, families, and casual divers looking for calm waters.
Con Dao: A dream for serious divers—pristine reefs, turtles, rays, and rare wildlife.
Binh Thuan Islands (Phu Quy, Hon Cau, Hon Ba): For off-the-beaten-path adventurers who want authenticity and fewer crowds.

Whether you’re floating over shallow coral gardens or plunging into deep channels, Vietnam’s waters offer something for everyone. It’s not just about diving—it’s about connecting with marine life, supporting local communities, and discovering the wild, colorful world beneath the surface.

So, pack your fins, book your trip, and get ready—Vietnam’s islands are calling, and their coral gardens are waiting to be explored.