Explore Nha Phu Bay: Monkey Island – Hoa Lan Stream

Nha Phu Bay (about 15 km north of Nha Trang city center) is a coastal island complex that still retains its pristine beauty with crystal-clear beaches, mountains, rivers, streams, and a diverse marine ecosystem; attracting thousands of visitors each year. Nha Phu Lagoon (also called Nha Phu Bay) covers nearly 1,500 hectares, connecting Nha Trang Bay and Van Phong Bay, long known as one of Khanh Hoa’s most fertile seafood regions. Here, visitors can swim, go island hopping by canoe, kayak, watch coral reefs, and enjoy fresh seafood amid a peaceful natural setting. Sea You Travel accompanies you to fully explore the beauty and unique activities at Nha Phu Bay – Nha Phu Lagoon.

Introduction to Nha Phu Lagoon (Bay) Nha Trang

Nha Phu Bay (also known as Nha Phu Lagoon) is located 15 km north of Nha Trang city, Khanh Hoa province. In ancient times, the Cham people called it “Nha Phu Lagoon” – a fertile area abundant with shrimp and fish, later adapted by Vietnamese residents into “Nha Phu.” Covering an area of more than 1,500 hectares, Nha Phu Bay lies between Van Phong Bay and Nha Trang Bay, embracing a cluster of beautiful islands such as Hon Lao (Monkey Island Nha Trang), Hon Thi, Hon Sam, Hon Da Bac, and Ninh Van Peninsula.

An Binh Beach on Hoa Lan Island in Nha Phu Bay
An Binh Beach on Hoa Lan Island in Nha Phu Bay

The landscape of Nha Phu Lagoon remains untouched: clear water, smooth sandy beaches, mountains by the sea, and rich ecosystems. Visitors can swim, take a canoe to visit Monkey Island – Hoa Lan Island, kayak, watch coral reefs, and enjoy fresh seafood. Nha Phu Bay is an ideal choice for those seeking peace and quiet while still enjoying unique island experiences when traveling to Nha Trang.

How to Get to Nha Phu Bay

  • To reach Nha Phu Bay, travel to Da Chong Port – Vinh Luong (also known as Nha Phu Port / Long Phu), where you can buy boat or canoe tickets to Monkey Island – Hoa Lan Stream and other destinations within the bay.
  • From Hanoi/Ho Chi Minh City, fly to Cam Ranh Airport (CXR), then take a car/taxi to Nha Trang, and continue along National Highway 1A north for about 20–22 km to the port.
  • If traveling by train, get off at Nha Trang Station and take a taxi or car service to the port; bus travelers can do the same. From central Nha Trang, you can go by taxi, rent a car or motorbike via National Highway 1A to Da Chong Port, buy tickets, and board the boat right away.

What to Do at Nha Phu Bay Nha Trang?

Attractions in Nha Phu Bay are concentrated around four island clusters and coastal ecosystems, each with its own charm.

  • Monkey Island (Hon Lao) is home to over a thousand long-tailed macaques, a clear-water beach, and water sports. Visitors can stroll along the beach, take photos of monkeys, swim, or kayak.
  • On Hon Heo Peninsula, Hoa Lan Stream Ecotourism Area features streams, waterfalls, an orchid garden (over 200 species), and a mini zoo – ideal for families or groups seeking outdoor fun.
  • Hon Sam is a small, untouched island with diverse terrain, perfect for camping, swimming, and watching the sunrise over Nha Phu Bay.
  • Hon Thi covers about 500 hectares and preserves a wild ecosystem. It used to be a deer and stag reserve, suitable for soft eco-tourism experiences.

Surrounding the islands is Nha Phu Bay’s mangrove forest – a “green shield” that prevents erosion and is home to crabs, shrimp, snails, and various aquatic species, enriching the bay’s biodiversity.

Tourist Attractions in Nha Phu Lagoon

Among the unspoiled scenery of Nha Phu Lagoon, the two most notable destinations are Monkey Island (Hon Lao) and Hoa Lan Island. One is lively with its friendly monkey inhabitants and crystal-clear sea; the other is tranquil and rich in natural beauty, with streams, orchid gardens, and beaches perfect for relaxation and nature exploration.

Monkey Island Ecotourism Area – Nha Phu Bay

Monkey Island (Hon Lao) in Nha Phu Bay is about 18 km north of Nha Trang city center and is home to more than 1,500 monkeys living naturally on an area of about 35 hectares. The island is covered with lush forest and thousands of coconut trees, creating a close-to-nature atmosphere. Here, you can observe and photograph playful monkeys (from a safe distance), watch scheduled monkey circus shows, swim, kayak, enjoy the scenery, and check in at many beautiful photo spots.

Monkey Island Ecotourism Area in Nha Phu Bay
Monkey Island Ecotourism Area in Nha Phu Bay

Thanks to its pristine landscape, sufficient amenities, and a variety of outdoor activities, Monkey Island in Nha Phu Bay is an attractive ecotourism destination for families and nature lovers.

Hoa Lan Island Ecotourism Area – Nha Phu Bay

Hoa Lan Island in Nha Phu Bay stands out for its unspoiled beauty and diverse ecosystem. The highlight is the vibrant orchid path with over 100 rare orchid species, a semi-natural butterfly garden, an aviary, and animal zones featuring deer and ostriches. An Binh Beach offers calm, clear water, ideal for swimming and water sports such as jet-skiing, parasailing, and kayaking. Various animal performances add to the fun and lively atmosphere.

Hoa Lan Island Ecotourism Area in Nha Phu Bay
Hoa Lan Island Ecotourism Area in Nha Phu Bay

At Sea You Travel, we offer the Nha Phu 1-Day Tour that allows you to explore both Monkey Island and Hoa Lan Island in one compact itinerary – including canoe/boat transfer, sightseeing, lunch with seafood dishes, and full tour assistance. This is the perfect option for those who love nature and want to relax in the peaceful atmosphere of Nha Phu Bay.

Best Time to Visit Nha Phu Bay

The best time to explore Nha Phu Bay is during the dry season (January–September) when the weather is stable, the sea is calm, and ideal for swimming, kayaking, or taking a canoe trip to Monkey Island – Hoa Lan Stream. From February to May, the weather is cool and clear; from June to August, sunny and perfect for outdoor activities. From October to December, northeast monsoon winds bring scattered rains, but you can still visit by checking forecasts and choosing morning departures.

Unlike the bustling rhythm of Nha Trang city, Nha Phu Bay (Nha Phu Lagoon) retains its serene and poetic charm, yet offers enough modern amenities to delight both domestic and international travelers – an ideal destination to unwind, find peace, and enjoy the sea and islands. We hope this information helps you plan your trip conveniently. For the best itinerary, boat/canoe tickets, and a delicious seafood lunch, let Sea You Travel accompany you on a complete Nha Phu Bay journey.