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Sunday, December 22, 2024

Where to Stay in Nha Trang (Best Areas & Places)


If you’re planning where to stay in Nha Trang, I’m here to help. There’s an impressive mix of stunning beaches, relaxed neighborhoods, and fun activities waiting to be discovered. It’s an often overlooked Vietnamese city that I enjoyed visiting and working remotely from.

From its lively beachside streets to the quieter, local areas, this city has something for every type of traveler. This guide explores the best areas to stay in Nha Trang and where to call home during your stay.

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Best Areas to Stay in Nha Trang

Tran Phu Beach: Best Place To Stay in Nha Trang for Your First Time

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Tran Phu Beach, often referred to as Beachfront Avenue, is the city’s busiest region and is the best starting point for first-timers. With a scenic coastline, popular attractions, and a wide range of accommodation options, there’s a nice mix of everything.

If you’re only planning a few days in the city, Tran Phu Beach is the best place to stay in Nha Trang. The central location and abundance of amenities make it a friendly, safe, and enjoyable place to base yourself for a first visit.

Pros of Staying in Tran Phu Beach

  • Central: Its ideal location makes access to many of the main tourist spots easy.
  • Beaches: The stunning sandy beach is the perfect place for relaxing.
  • Dining Options: There are a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and nightlife spots.

Cons of Staying in Tran Phy Beach

  • Crowded: As the busiest part of the city, Tran Phu Beach can become crowded, especially during peak season.
  • Noisy: Although better than other Vietnamese cities, the traffic noise and busy streets can be annoying at times.
  • Higher Prices: Accommodation prices are higher compared to other areas in Nha Trang.

Best Places to Stay in Tran Phu Beach

Tran Phu Beach is among the top places to stay in Nha Trang center. You’ll find everything from high-rise hotels with stunning views along the waterfront to budget-friendly hostels with easy access to the beach. Here are my top picks:

1. Sun Kiss Hotel: A hotel right on the Tran Phu beachfront with stunning ocean views. The pool and gym are a nice bonus and you can enjoy a hearty breakfast for just a couple of dollars a day. Click here for details.

2. Grand Gosia Hotel: Enjoy private beach access at one of the best hotels in Nha Trang. This incredible resort boasts a fabulous buffet-style breakfast in its excellent onsite restaurant. The hotel has hundreds of fantastic reviews. Click here for details.

3. Best Western Premier: Among the finest Best Western Hotels I have ever seen, this beachfront resort has everything you need for an amazing stay in Tran Phu Beach. I think you’ll love the spa and breathtaking infinity pool. Click here for details.

Top Things to Do in Tran Phu Beach

Life’s a beach in Nha Trang so embrace it! Aside from securing a sunbed and catching plenty of rays, here are some excellent activities to add to your travel plans:

1. Go Snorkelling: Tran Phu is one of the top Nha Trang neighborhoods for water activities. Consider booking a snorkeling tour of the nearby coral that finishes at a floating bar with unlimited cocktails. Click here for more information.

2. Scuba Dive: Take your underwater exploration to the next level with a scuba dive. Perfect for beginners and uncertified divers, this is an unforgettable, thrilling experience beneath the waves. Click here for a great scuba tour.

3. Visit the Alexandre Yersin Museum: Explore the life and work of the renowned bacteriologist who contributed greatly to Vietnam’s medical field. A small but interesting museum that’s well worth the $1 entrance fee. Find it here.

Where to Eat and Drink in Tran Phu Beach

Food and drink are a big consideration when figuring out where to stay in Nha Trang city center and Tran Phu Beach offers a fantastic range of options, from seafood restaurants to some of the coolest cafes and bars in town.

1. Lousiane Brewhouse: A beachside brewery with a nice range of in-house brews. Offering a decent variety from the standard beers found around town they have everything from a dark lager to a light witbier. It’s well worth a visit. Click here for directions.

2. Sea High Restaurant: The best fish restaurant in Nha Trang, where you can enjoy the freshest seafood while enjoying ocean views and great service. Click here for directions.

3. Moka Cafe: From coffee to cocktails and snacks to full dinner plates, Moka Cafe is a popular spot for all occasions. My favorite way to enjoy this place is to go for breakfast and order a fix of tasty local coffees and an array of local sweet treats. Click here for directions.

Biet Thu Street: Best Area in Nha Trang for Nightlife 

Hannah, GOTR Writer enjoying an evening outHannah, GOTR Writer enjoying an evening out

If a pumping nightlife is more your scene, I suggest picking a spot to stay around Biet Thu Street. With its collection of cool pubs, cocktail bars, and nightclubs it’s the ideal location for anyone deciding where to stay in Nha Trang for nightlife.

It’s location makes it close enough to walk to the beach every day and it’s Nha Trung’s main hub for evening entertainment.

Pros of Staying in Biet Thu

  • Nightlife: There’s a great mix of pubs, cocktails bars, and clubs in this area.
  • Cheap Accommodation: Although they lack ocean views, hotels, and apartments are generally cheaper.
  • Ex-Pat Bars: There’s a nice mix of Vietnamese establishments and Western-style bars where ex-pats congregate.

Cons of Staying in Biet Thu Street.

  • No Ocean Views: However, this means cheaper accommodation, and you can still easily walk to the beach!
  • Built-Up and Busy: This area of Nha Trang has more of a big city feel and can get very busy.
  • Traffic: The traffic can be pretty heavy and chaotic at times.

Best Places to Stay in Biet Thu

Whether it’s a cheap and cheerful hotel to crash in or a fancy boutique to relax after a heavy night, let’s take a look at the best Nha Trang hotels near nightlife:

1. Amber Hotel: An awesome, central hotel with a rooftop pool featuring stunning city views. Walkable to the beach but right in the heart of the nightlife action too. Click here for details.

2. Maple Leaf Hotel & Apartments: Whether you want a stylish and affordable hotel room or a large apartment to stretch out in, this is a great option close to Biet Thu Street that ticks all the boxes. Click here for details.

3. December Hotel: A luxury accommodation option for a very affordable price. This elegantly finished hotel includes an amazing pool, fitness center, and a superb breakfast as standard. Click here for details.

Top Things to Do in Biet Thu Street

Being centrally located is a nice advantage when considering the best places to stay in Nha Trang. Here are some of the best things to do in and around Biet Thu Street:

1. Explore by Jeep: This private jeep tour through Yang Bay offers stunning countryside views, stops at local villages, and a visit to the famous Yang Bay waterfall for swimming and a unique fish pedicure. Click here for more details.

2. Vincom Plaza: Vietnamese shopping malls are usually a sight to behold and the Vincom Plaza doesn’t disappoint. Take a short walk to the beachfront plaza and enjoy a host of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Click here for directions.

3. Take a Cooking Class: Enhance your culinary skills with a private Vietnamese cooking class. This option includes coffee tasting, a market visit, and stops at a vegetable garden and noodle factory. It’s a fantastic Vietnamese experience – click here for more details.

Where to Eat and Drink in Biet Thu Street

Being the best place to stay in Nha Trang for nightlife means there’s no shortage of excellent options worth checking out around Bien Thu Street. Here are my favorites:

1. Kisho Club: A club with great energy and considered by many to be the best nightclub in Nha Trang. Open till 1.30 am daily with live DJs, drink specials, and a party vibe. Find it here.

2. T-Loung & Bar: Karaoke is a big deal across Vietnam and this is a great spot to scream your lungs out. Even if singing’s not your thing, it’s fun to grab a fancy cocktail and watch others have a go until 2 am every night. Click here for directions.

3. Hallo Pub: An excellent choice for first or last drinks, open from 10 am – 3 am daily! Hallo Pub has more cocktail bar vibes than those found in a true pub, but it offers excellent prices on drinks – whether it’s a recovery Bloody Mary or an end-of-the-night shot. Find it here.

An Vien Beach: Coolest Place to Stay in Nha Trang

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An Vien Beach is an upscale area just south of the city. Here, you’ll find a laid-back beach vibe and a chilled bar and restaurant scene. Considered among the posher areas of Nha Trang, it’s a popular location for vacationers seeking a tranquil escape.

Pros of Staying in An Vien Beach

  • Great Accommodation Options: It’s one of the best places to stay in Nha Trang for groups and families.
  • Relaxing Atmosphere: It’s away from the city center’s crowds and has a relaxed vibe.
  • Beautiful Coastline: An Vien has a stunning beach with scenic views and swimmable waters.

Cons of Staying in An Vien Beach

  • Less Central: Out of the main drag, you’ll be further from the main city attractions.
  • Limited Nightlife: Most of Nha Trang’s nightlife scene is situated around the city’s main center.
  • Quiet Days: A positive for some but perhaps a negative for others – it’s quieter during the day, with fewer daytime activities.

Best Places to Stay in An Vien Beach

You can enjoy oceanfront resorts and boutique hotels in An Vien Beach – perfect for relaxing and unwinding away from the city’s main hustle and bustle. Here are some great places to stay near Nha Trang:

1. Crown Nguyen Hoanh Hotel: Modern, stylish rooms with excellent amenities, and a stunning outdoor pool with exceptional evening views. Enjoy a slice of luxury in An Vien Beach. Click here for details.

2. Boutik Cham: A cozy boutique stay, just a short walk to nightlife spots and the beach. The perfect chill-out option with an on-site spa and wellness center. Click here for details.

3. Monoi Apartment: Previous guests are calling this the best apartment in Nha Trang, it’s certainly the perfect home-from-home option in An Vien Beach. Click here for details.

Top Things to Do in An Vien Beach

An Vien Beach is one of the best places to stay in Nha Trang for trips out on the water. Here are some great activities close by to add to your itinerary:

1. Visit Ba Ho Waterfall: There’s a great half-day trip to the stunning Ba Ho Falls which includes fun hiking, great photo opportunities, and a refreshing dip in the cool waters. Click here for more information about this excellent trip.

2. Sunset Paddleboard Tour: Kick your evening off in a truly unique way with a sunset paddleboard tour of the Cai River. The scenery is stunning. Click here for more information.

3. Visit a Theme Park: VinWonders is a thrilling theme park on Hon Tre Island just off the coast of Nha Trang. With soaring roller coasters and fun water slides it’s a perfect day out. Click here for details.

Where to Eat and Drink in An Vien Beach

Vo Thi Sau is a great street for affordable traditional Vietnamese food options. The first two options on this list are my top picks from this cool collection of restaurants and bars. My last recommendation is an excellent place for dessert. Check them out:

1. Ca Noc Nhim Trung Nguyen: A go-to spot for locals and tourists alike, simple but fresh dishes are cooked on an open BBQ right in front of you. Excellently priced and always delicious. Find it here.

2. Quan Nhau Binh Dan Mai Vy: The name loosely translates to ‘casual drinking spot’ and that about hits the nail on the head. A cheap bar for friendly drinks and some tasty homecooked Vietnamese dishes. Click here for directions.

3. A’memoir Cafe & Kitchen: Whether it’s your first coffee of the day or a nice slice of cake after your evening meal, head to this excellent cafe for a host of food and drink options. Click here for directions.

Loc Tho: Best for Digital Nomads

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Become a freelance writer and work from where you choose – cafes, apartments, coworking spaces, or villas

If you work remotely and are looking for your inspiration, don’t miss – 10 Best Places in Vietnam for Digital Nomads. As a full-time digital nomad, I know the importance of finding the right areas to work from. Loc Tho is the best neighborhood in Nha Trang for fellow remote workers like me.

Home to three dedicated coworking spaces, Loc Tho Ward also has plenty of laptop-friendly cafes and scenic beach spots with decent WiFi. Accommodation options are abundant and there’s a fun scene when the working day is done.

Pros of Staying in Loc Tho

  • Coworking Spaces: Close proximity to dedicated coworking spaces and laptop-friendly cafes and bars.
  • Beach Access: Wherever you choose to stay in Loc Tho, you can easily walk to the beach.
  • Ex-Pat Culture: Being a digital nomad hotspot, there are lots of fellow ex-pats and remote workers staying around here.

Cons of Staying in Loc Tho

  • Higher Tourist Activity: Loc Tho is tourist-heavy, leading to crowded areas and increased noise.
  • Less Traditional: This touristy direction means less of an authentic Vietnamese feel.
  • Prices Are High: Although coworking spaces are generally affordable, visitors will pay a premium for hotels.

Best Places to Stay in Loc Tho

This is the best area to stay in Nha Trang for remote workers. Here are the best hotel options to complement a digital nomad lifestyle:

1. Tui Blue: This spot has two restaurants onsite, one of which serves up a delicious daily breakfast buffet FOC for hotel guests. With amazing mountain and ocean views, this option is ideally located for many of Loc Tho’s coworking spaces. Click here for details.

2. Diamond Bay Hotel: There’s a private beach for some serious quiet time, two swimming pools, and a fitness center for blowing off steam. This hotel is rated as fabulous by hundreds of previous guests. Click here for details.

3. The Sea Luxury Apartments: You won’t believe the rates of these seaview, fully-loaded, luxury apartments. Make yourself right at home and get cracking with work whenever you like. There’s even a private beach, gym, and a pool too! Click here for details.

Top Things to Do in Loc Tho

Being quite touristy, Loc Tho is a safe neighborhood in Nha Trang for getting out and exploring. So, when you’ve finished work for the day, check out these great activities:

1. See Thap Tram Huong: A famous and prominent landmark in the city, this striking tower is known for its unique architectural design which resembles a blooming lotus flower. It serves as a proud symbol of the city. Click here for directions.

2. Visit an Independent Art Gallery: Long Thanh Art Gallery and Studio is a small but excellent and free-to-visit exhibition by a local artist. Long Thanh is internationally renowned for his black-and-white photography. Click here for directions.

3. Long Son Pagoda: This is one of the more impressive pagodas I visited in Vietnam. Atop a sizeable hill, a large concrete Buddha looks out on the city. The views and Buddha make for great photo opportunities. Click here for directions.

Where to Eat and Drink in Loc Tho

There’s a heap of great choices around Loc Tho, and staying here means you’ll be right in the thick of the drinking and dining scene. Here are a few of my top recommendations:

1. Pizza 4P’s: My go-to pizza joint across Vietnam. The large national chain always serves excellent food and has great service. Click here for directions.

2. Altitude Rooftop Bar: One of the best places to be at sunset. Sip fancy cocktails while enjoying the stunning ocean views, this incredible bar is located on the top floor of the Sheraton Hotel but is open to everyone. Click here for directions.

3. IVegan Supershop: Hands down the number one vegan restaurant in the city. Whether you’re a vegan or not, this place is worth a visit for some delicious and super healthy dishes. Find it here.

Hon Chong: Best Place in Nha Trang on a Budget 

Digital nomad lifestyle (Dariece Swift cutely swimming in Playa Del Carmen)Digital nomad lifestyle (Dariece Swift cutely swimming in Playa Del Carmen)
Dariece enjoying the balance of a digital nomad lifestyle!

Visitors to Vietnam will find that most things are very affordable, especially when compared with the UK, Australia, and the USA. Nha Trang is no different from the rest of the country in this sense.

However, if you’re keeping a close eye on the purse strings, Hon Chong is the best place to base yourself. It’s a more residential area where prices are super low, but it still has plenty to offer out-of-towners.

Pros of Staying in Hon Chong

  • Cheaper Prices: From hotel rooms to meals out, prices are cheaper than in the center of Nha Trang.
  • Less Touristy: As it’s a more residential area, staying here means being away from the main tourist traps.
  • Traditional Experience: Hon Chong offers more of a day-to-day, realistic Vietnamese experience.

Cons of Staying in Hon Chong

  • Less Tourisy: Yes, I also have this as a pro but this may also be a negative for some visitors.
  • Away from Attractions: Many of Nha Trang’s tours, attractions, and cultural sites will require a taxi ride to visit.
  • Language Barrier: Staying in a more residential area means fewer people will speak or understand English.

Best Places to Stay in Hon Chong

Hon Chong is one of the best neighborhoods in Nha Trang if you’re on a budget. Here are three great options that won’t break the bank:

1. Navada Beach Hotel: Who says budget means low quality? This is a 4-star hotel with a stunning infinity pool, a buffet breakfast included, and all the trappings of the top Nha Trang resorts. Click here for details.

2. Moonlight House & Apartment: Clean, bright, and efficient rooms for some of the cheapest rates I’ve seen in Nha Trang. Just two minutes from the beach and with plenty of excellent reviews, it tops the list of cheap places to stay in Nha Trang. Click here for details.

3. Oceanus MT Vien Trieu Thai Ha Hotel & Apartment: As beachfront resort-style properties go, this is the most affordable luxury option in Nha Trang. It’s got everything, and I was quoted under $100 for a week-long stay! Click here for details.

Top Things to Do in Hon Chong

Keeping a tight budget in mind, here are two great ideas that won’t cost a penny, and one great tour you should consider booking having saved some money by staying in Hon Chong.

1. Explore the Boulders: The Hon Chong boulders are a popular attraction in Nha Trang. The outcrop of huge coastal boulders is a scenic spot, good for photo opportunities and swimming when the water is calm. Click here for directions.

2. Vin Hai Market: Explore the real Nha Trang with a trip to one of the biggest markets in the area. Browse and buy everything from fruits and vegetables to souvenirs and clothing. The busy marketplace is an authentic experience. Click here for details.

3. Take a City Tour: Visit the Museum of Oceanography and tick off many of the city’s attractions in a half-day, small-group tour. This is a great excursion to squeeze in if your time and budget are limited. Click here for all the details.

Where to Eat and Drink in Hon Cong

There’s an abundance of street food eateries and local food options around Hon Chong, but there are also a few that might surprise you. Here are my top recommendations:

1. Vandana Gastropub: Opened in 2024 this bar and restaurant has quickly earned many excellent reviews from locals and tourists alike. A predominantly South Indian menu is complimented by various Western and Vietnamese options. Find it here.

2. I Like Buffet: Who doesn’t like a good buffet restaurant? This one specializes in seafood but also has a great salad and dessert selection. It’s a fill-your-boots kind of place, priced at around $10 which also includes drinks. Click here for details.

3. The Balcony Rooftop Bar & Restaurant: Reasonably priced drinks for a skybar with exceptional city, ocean, and mountain views from the 27th floor. The perfect place for a sunset cocktail. Click here for details.

Where to Stay in Nha Trang: FAQs

Here are some answers to the most commonly asked questions about where to stay in Nha Trang:

What area of Nha Trang is best for tourists?

The best area of Nha Trang for tourists is Tran Phu Beach, which offers plenty of attractions, excellent dining choices, and a central location. I highly recommend staying around here for your first visit, or if you’re planning to enjoy the beach.

Where should I avoid staying?

You should avoid staying in the outskirts or far northern parts of Nha Trang, as these can be inconveniently far from the main attractions and have no beach access. An area such as Vinh Hoa doesn’t have a lot to offer visitors.

What is the safest place to stay in Nha Trang?

Nha Trang is generally considered a safe place to visit and the safest place to stay in Nha Trang is Tran Phu Beach. There are plenty of amenities and a secure environment plus the large number of tourists ensure there’s always a security presence.

Should I stay in downtown Nha Trang?

Yes, you should consider staying in downtown Nha Trang. Areas around Biet Thu Street are popular hubs for nightlife and have a great social scene while inner city areas such as Loc Tho are great for digital nomads.

Is Nha Trang walkable?

Yes, Nha Trang is walkable, especially around the beaches, where many attractions are easily accessible on foot. Finding cool bars and excellent restaurants is easy to do without a vehicle, however, taxis are generally very cheap.

How many days should I spend in Nha Trang?

Spending 2-3 days in Nha Trang is ideal to explore beaches, culture, and local attractions comfortably.

In Conclusion

I hope this guide on where to stay in Nha Trang has steered you toward your ideal destination. There’s plenty to enjoy in this amazing Vietnamese city and deciding on the best place to stay is an important decision.

Overall, wherever you choose to base yourself, I’m sure a fantastic experience awaits you in Nha Trang. Enjoy!

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