Binh Hung Island – Nha Trang’s Best-Kept Secret
Everyone knows Nha Trang for its beautiful beaches and clear blue waters, but hidden along the coastal road between Vinh Hy and Binh Tien lies one of Vietnam’s most enchanting and overlooked island treasures: Binh Hung Island. Part of the Tam Binh trio of islands in Cam Ranh Bay, Binh Hung — also known locally as Hon Ty or Hon Chut — is a raw, wild jewel that rewards travellers willing to venture beyond the tourist trail.
The island features a unique freshwater cave, colourful rocky beaches, and swimming waters so clear you can see the seabed from dozens of metres away. Add in the extraordinary fresh seafood and you have one of the most memorable island experiences in all of Vietnam.
Getting to Binh Hung Island
Travel first to Cam Ranh City, Khanh Hoa Province, then take a boat out to the island.
From Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
- By sleeper bus: Reputable carriers include Gia Phuc, Hoa Thuan Anh, Huynh Gia, Khanh Phong. Standard sleeper fares from 250,000–300,000 VND; private cabin buses under 400,000 VND. Journey time approximately 9 hours.
- By motorbike: Perfect for free-spirited travellers who want to experience the scenic coastal road at their own pace.
From Hanoi
- By sleeper bus: Carriers include Hoang Long, Phuong Hoang, Hien Phuoc Hoa, Tam Hong Ha. Fares from 600,000–700,000 VND; journey time approximately 25 hours.
Tip: Consider booking a guided tour with Nha Be Trieu Hoang Binh Hung (tel: 0825 216 201, ask for Mr. Den) — an operator who handles transfers, meals, and access to all key island sites.
Must-Visit Spots on Binh Hung Island
Bai Kinh – The Gateway Beach
Your first stop upon arriving is Bai Kinh, a pristine beach with long white sand and clear water. Unusually shaped rock formations frame the shoreline, creating a naturally photogenic landscape. Nearby, Ba Bong Beach offers gentle waves, blue water, and scattered boulders perfect for climbing up to get elevated views of the sea.
The Trieu Hoang floating raft house serves a traditional breakfast here — a memorable start to the island day. From the floating raft, guests can also view the on-site aquaculture: lobsters, grouper fish, pomfret, octopus, and snails being raised in sea cages.
Hang Tau (Swallow Island / Bird Cave)
In the afternoon, the tour moves on to Hang Tau, a magnificent sea cave that serves as a nesting ground for thousands of swallows. Local fishermen have long used the cave as shelter from storms — hence the name “Tau” (boat). The water inside is remarkably transparent: even from far away, you can see straight through to the sandy bottom below.
Bai Da Trung (Egg Rock Beach)
One of the island’s most surreal sights is Bai Da Trung — a beach covered in enormous round boulders that look exactly like giant dinosaur eggs. While this beach isn’t suitable for swimming (it’s all rock), the visual spectacle is extraordinary. Access requires a short hike along the lighthouse trail at Hon Chut; look for the right-hand path near the summit. The descent takes about 10 minutes and is manageable for most fitness levels.
Suoi Tien Sheep Ecological Farm (Day 2)
On your second day, visit the Suoi Tien Sheep Ecological Farm — a newly opened ecological park that feels like stepping into a European fairytale. Rolling green hillsides, roaming sheep, and open landscapes create a stark and beautiful contrast with the island scenery of the day before.
Vineyard
The tour typically visits a local grape vineyard around 10am, where guests can photograph the lush grapevines, sample fresh produce, and buy local specialities including grape juice and grape wine — wonderful souvenirs to bring home.
Food on Binh Hung Island
Fresh seafood is the undisputed star of any Binh Hung visit. Must-try items include:
- Lobster — grilled or steamed with butter and garlic
- Snails — multiple preparations
- Grilled squid with green chilli
- Banh can muc — miniature savoury squid pancakes, a Nha Trang speciality
- Sea urchin (nhum nuong) — grilled and served in the shell
All seafood is sourced locally and caught fresh that morning — the quality and flavour are incomparable.
Important Tips Before You Go
- Bring cash: ATM access is very limited on the island. Prepare sufficient Vietnamese dong before departure.
- Sun protection: Sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-protective sunglasses are essential.
- Carry ID documents: Binh Hung is located in a military zone area; always carry your national ID card or passport.
- Drone restrictions: Due to the sensitive military location, drone use requires advance permission. Don’t bring a drone without arranging this first.
Final Thoughts
Binh Hung Island is exactly the kind of hidden gem that travel bloggers dream of — raw, beautiful, and not yet overwhelmed by mass tourism. Its extraordinary beaches, crystal water, ancient swallow caves, and incredible seafood make it one of Vietnam’s most rewarding island escapes. Add it to your next Nha Trang itinerary and discover a side of the region that most visitors never see.
✍️ Phan The Anh – one of Vietnam’s most popular travel bloggers. Follow on YouTube @ThayGiaoAnh, Instagram @lecturer.anh & TikTok @phantheanh88.
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