Self-sufficient Cham Island (Cu Lao Cham) Travel Experience 2024 to Explore the Pearl Island

For convenience and savings, visitors should experience in the form of a tour.

Cham Island (Cu Lao Cham) has emerged as an attractive eco-tourism destination in recent years. It has a cool climate all year round, rich flora and fauna, and especially many beautiful beaches and diverse coral systems. However, this island is still quite wild, the facilities are still lacking. So before you go, you must definitely refer to the Cham Island (Cu Lao Cham) travel experiences of danangprivatecar.com below to have a complete itinerary.

Table of Contents

Cu Lao Cham island tourism and some information you need to know

Where is Cham Island (Cu Lao Cham) located, in which province?

Many people mistakenly believe that Cham Island (Cu Lao Cham) belongs to Da Nang, because this place often appears in Da Nang tours. However, this is actually a cluster of 8 small islands, located in Tan Hiep commune, Hoi An city, Quang Nam province. Located 15 km from the mainland and about 23 km from Hoi An ancient town.

Cu Lao Cham is a cluster of islands located 15 km from the mainland.
Cu Lao Cham is a cluster of islands located 15 km from the mainland.

Although not in Da Nang like Cham Island , it is only about 45 km from Da Nang (both by land and by sea), not too far away, so you can completely make a day trip back.

What’s attractive about Cham Island  tourism?

In 2009, Cham Island  was recognized by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve. Thanks to its unspoiled beauty, this place has become a trend, the first choice of most tourists in recent years. So what’s interesting about Cham Island ?

This place is attracted by the fresh nature and beautiful beaches.
This place is attracted by the fresh nature and beautiful beaches.
  • Firstly: Natural environment, very fresh air that is not found anywhere in the country, an island that “says no” to plastic bags.
  • Second: On the island, there are beautiful beaches with crystal clear blue water such as Bai Ong, Bai Xep, Bai Huong, etc., ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
  • Third: There are many attractions bearing the imprint of Sa Huynh culture, Champa culture such as marine protected areas, ancient wells, ancient pagodas, etc.
  • Fourth: This place has gentle, simple, hospitable people and even simple but attractive and irresistible local specialties.

Traveling to Cham Island, you will experience the feeling of ice on the waves, immersing in the immense sea and sky. Participating in many interesting activities at extremely low cost, ensuring that you will have a trip with many unforgettable memories.

In which season, what month is the ideal time to travel to Cham Island ?

Timing is an important factor that you need to pay attention to. If it is said that the best time to explore the “raw pearl” of Hoi An is probably from March to the end of August every year. The weather at this time is extremely beautiful, warm sunshine, calm waves, calm sea, is an opportunity for you to freely explore. Boat travel is also more convenient and safer.

The remaining months from September to February next year, most tourists rarely travel to Cu Lao Cham . Because it often rains, rough seas, big waves, ships are often not allowed to leave, the island is now isolated. You should consider carefully, it’s better not to go because if you get to the island, it is very likely that you will be stuck on the island for many days.

Note: For tourists who want to combine visiting Hoi An, they should choose the full moon days of the 14th and 15th of the lunar month. At this time, the whole old town will become shimmering and brilliant by the colors of the lanterns, looking very romantic.

What to prepare when traveling to Cham Island ?

If this is your first time experiencing the island, you need to be fully prepared in terms of both costumes and some of the following items:

What clothes to wear to Cham Island ?

Depending on the preferences of each person to prepare the appropriate suits. However, this is a beach tourism destination, you need to prioritize neat and comfortable clothes such as: shock pants, t-shirts (for men), shock pants, t-shirts, style shirts, skirts, dresses (for men). for women) and a long-sleeve sunshade shirt if you’re afraid of the sun.

In addition, swimwear (swimsuit, bikini) is an indispensable accessory when going to the beach. Remember to prepare sunglasses, hat, hat, sunshade, sunscreen, a pair of sturdy shoes to walk comfortably… more!

What to prepare when exploring Cu Lao Cham island?

According to Cu Lao Cham travel experience , whether it is a short or long trip, you also need to prepare medicine for seasickness, headache medicine, allergies; Bring necessary personal documents such as ID card, driver’s license. In particular, it is indispensable for a genuine phone or camera, charging cord, spare battery, waterproof bag for electronic devices. If camping overnight, bring tents, sleeping bags and other essentials.

Instructions on how to move when traveling to Cham Island  Hoi An

From Da Nang and Hoi An to Cua Dai port

Starting from Da Nang or from Hoi An, you can also choose one of these popular means of transport:

  •  Take a taxi

This vehicle is suitable for those who do not know the way, are traveling with families with elderly and young children or in groups of 4-7 people. Taking a taxi is quite comfortable and comfortable, but the price is quite expensive, so if you want to save money, you should go in a group. It is not difficult to catch a taxi in Da Nang or Hoi An, you just need to search online and there are many options.

  • Rent a car

Similar to taxis, traveling by car helps you avoid the sun, rain, dust and is very comfortable. You can rent a self-drive car or have a driver. The rental price ranges from 350-400,000 VND/ way from Da Nang, and from Hoi An will be more than 200 / way.

See More: Danang Car Rental With Driver

  • Rent Motorcycles

For young people who want to experience the feeling of “dusty” travel, who like to be flexible, free and proactive in terms of time and schedule, motorbikes are the best choice. Especially, it also saves costs, the price of motorbike rental is only about 100 – 150,000 VND/ car / day. Go to the place where you park your car at the parking lot for 10,000 VND/car then feel free to explore.

  • Ride a tour bus

There is another way visitors can refer to, which is to book a tour bus. That means when you sign up for a Cu Lao Cham tour , you don’t need to worry about travel problems. Because there will be a company car to pick you up. There is not only a shuttle bus, but also many other convenient services such as canoeing to the island, dining on the island, tour guide, etc.

From Cua Dai port to Cu Lao Cham island

Since being put into tourism, transportation services to the island have also been invested more. In addition to traditional wooden ships, there are now more canoes. So according to the self-sufficient Cu Lao Cham travel experience, which means of transport should you choose?

High speed Canoe

Usually, tourists who want to be safe and save time, most choose to go by canoe. This way only takes about 20 minutes to set foot on the island, but the price is high, from 150,000 – 200,000 VND/ way, suitable for adventurers who want to experience thrills.

With this vehicle will save a lot of travel time.

Every day, there are 2 departures from Cua Dai port: one at 8:00 am and one at 2 pm. Tickets can be purchased directly at the pier or from agents. If traveling in a large group, visitors can rent a private canoe for their group but must ensure the number and book in advance.

Wooden ship (market ship)

Choosing to go to the island by wooden boat is a more cost-effective option, but the travel time will be much longer (about 1 hour, sometimes more), in return, you will experience the feeling of floating on the sea quite a bit. adventure. However, this method is not really suitable for people with seasickness.

Another disadvantage you need to note is that if you want to take a wooden boat, you have to move to Bach Dang pier in Hoi An, but Cua Dai port does not have it. The train will depart from the wharf at 8am and return at 13pm. Ticket price is 150,000 VND/Vietnamese, 200,000 VND/foreigner, if you bring a motorbike, add another 50,000 VND.

Means of transportation on the island when traveling to Cu Lao Cham

Unlike other islands, visitors can bring motorbikes from the mainland to the island to move on their own. Otherwise, you can use other forms to visit around the island and discover interesting things here. Some of the most popular means of transportation on the island:

Rent a motorbike to explore

Not much, but on Cu Lao Cham island, there is also a motorbike rental service for about 100 – 150,000 VND/ car / depending on type. You can rent at households or homestays where you stay. With a rented motorbike, you will be able to explore the island according to your preferences. This is a new experience that helps you feel more real about this place, explore every nook and cranny and soak up the fresh air.

Service reference: Rent a motorbike in Da Nang

People’s motorbike taxis

If you do not want to drive yourself or simply do not know the way on the island, then the travel experience of Cu Lao Cham thinks you can use a motorbike taxi service run by the locals themselves. They will also act as both a driver and a guide for you free of charge. Of course, the price will also be slightly higher than if you rent a motorbike yourself.

Wooden boat or speedboat

To tour around the island and surrounding islets, visitors can contact to rent wooden boats or canoes to move and experience services such as snorkeling, fishing, etc. Depending on the type and schedule where the price will be different. The price of renting a wooden boat is about 400,000 – 500,000 VND/ 5 people, the more you go, the cheaper it is. As for canoes, the rental price is around 800,000 VND or more. Note that if you want to rent a canoe, you must have enough people or it will not work.

Where to self-sufficient travel to Cu Lao Cham? Is there a hotel on the island?

Are there hotels on Cu Lao Cham island?

Besides some tourists choose to go back during the day, some also choose to stay here for 1 night to learn and experience the idyllic life of local fishermen; to exchange, learn about culture and participate in night activities on the island… However, it is worth mentioning here that due to the lack of material conditions and the lack of strong investment in tourism, the travel service should Island residence is limited.

The concept of the hotel seems to be very strange, if you want to find a comfortable and luxurious hotel when traveling to Cu Lao Cham , it is impossible. But if not too high requirements for quality, this place still meets. On the island, there are quite a few guesthouses, especially stylish homestays, which are also quite comfortable for you to choose from.

Hostels, homestays should stay in Cham Island

Homestay Cu Lao Cham is mainly concentrated in the areas of Bai Lang, Bai Ong and Bai Huong. Prices range from 200-300,000 VND/room/night. Most of these homestays not only provide sleeping services but also food services, car rentals, boat rentals, snorkeling, etc. Here are a few suggestions you can refer to:

There are many lovely homestays with enough facilities to meet the needs of visitors.
There are many lovely homestays with enough facilities to meet the needs of visitors.

At Bai Lang area:

  • Sunbay Homnestay – Tel: 0898 982 509
  • Truong Kep Homestay – Tel: 0935 403 669
  • Monkey Homestay – Tel: 0985 673 864
  • Hammock Homestay – Tel: 0976 605 750

At Bai Huong area:

  • Ms. Hiep Homestay – Tel: 0986 651 448
  • Ms Lan Homestay – Tel: 0510 3863 822
  • Nhi Lo Homestay – Tel: 0354 199 944

At Bai Ong area:

  • Ms Tam Hien Homestay – Tel: 01206 183 516
  • Ms Bich Van Homestay – Tel: 0395 007 779
  • Trang Vu Homestay – Tel: 05103 864 783

NOTE: If you travel to Da Nang or Hoi An, you can buy tickets to Cu Lao Cham in the morning, return in the afternoon and rest in the evening in one of these two cities. Thus, there will be more options because there are many forms from hotels, high-class resorts and even affordable guesthouses and homestays.

Where to go when traveling to Cham Island ? Revealing the hottest attractions 

An unspoiled island seems to have nothing to explore, but it’s quite the opposite. This place attracts domestic and foreign tourists with many hot places, which can be mentioned below:

Cham Island marine protected area

Right after setting foot on Bai Lang, visitors will visit the marine reserve. This is a place to help you better understand the history, customs and culture of fishermen on the island. Recreate the entire island of Cu Lao Cham in miniature to have the most comprehensive view of the 8 surrounding small islands. In addition, there are samples of marine species such as sea turtles, rock crabs, fishes, coral reefs… and pictures of the fishermen’s wild life are also displayed here.

Ancient wells of Champa people

This ancient well is located in the area of ​​Cam hamlet, dating from 200 years ago, classified as a national monument (in 2006). This is an ancient well typical for Cham Pa culture with a round tubular body, square bottom, and a turban built in concrete and brick. Wells are the main source of fresh water for people on the island and have the characteristics of never running out, even in the driest season. In particular, there are many traditional beliefs that drinking well water cures seasickness, cures infertility, and prays for happiness.

Hai Tang Temple

Coming to Cua Lao Cham , tourists can also visit Hai Tang Pagoda, built in the 19th Canh Hung period. The temple is located at the foot of the mountain, in front of you is a large majestic field. This is a religious architecture that combines worshiping Buddha and gods, becoming a place of activities and beliefs of fishermen on the island as well as traders from other places. Tourists also often come here to pray for health and peace.

Most visitors come here to pray for health and peace.
Most visitors come here to pray for health and peace.

Tan Hiep Country Market

If you want to find a place to better understand the life of the people on the island, then visit Tan Hiep market located right next to the Cang bridge area. The market consists of two separate areas: an indoor area selling dry specialties and local specialties; The outside area sells all kinds of fresh seafood. There are also souvenir stalls, unique shell and shell jewelry. After a tour, you can enjoy some food and buy things as gifts for relatives and friends.

Beaches in Cu Lao Cham

One thing that according to Cu Lao Cham travel experience, anyone who comes here will quickly be overwhelmed is the beauty of the beaches. The immense sea, clear and blue water, blending with the color of the sky, along with the long white sand and golden sunshine… make it so enchanting. One of them is Xep beach, Ong beach, Chong beach, Huong beach, etc., which are ideal for a summer vacation.

The right places to take “virtual life” photos when traveling to Cu Lao Cham

For those who like to take pictures, they can also unleash their passion when coming here. On the island, in addition to the beaches, there are many ideal “coordinates” to check-in:

Harbor Bridge at Bai Lang Beach

The first stop of the Cham Island tour is Bai Lang Harbor Bridge. It is the most densely populated place and the main center of the island. This beach is a place to anchor boats, not for bathing, but the water is also extremely blue and clear, to the point that you can see the bottom. This is an ideal place for young people to take pictures of “virtual life”.

Eo Gio Cu Lao Cham

Eo Gio is located to the east of Lang beach, belonging to Hon Lao – one of 8 small islands of the island with a large area. This is considered the ideal place to watch the sunrise, standing on the cliff hundreds of meters high, you will feel how vast and beautiful the East Sea is. It is likened to a solid wall on the sea to protect the people on the island. Here you can also easily find “rewards” of beautiful pictures.

Ngo Dong flower road

Ngo Dong flower is a typical red flower only found in Cu Lao Cham. Usually at the end of summer and early autumn, from the end of May to August, flowers begin to bloom on the streets around with vibrant red colors, creating a very romantic space. Visitors here can freely pose and take sparkling pictures.

What to do in Cham Island tourism experience and the most interesting experiences?

Bathing in the sea, immersing in cool water

This is definitely something not to be missed in the journey to discover this beautiful island of Hoi An. Standing in front of the beauty of the pristine and poetic beaches is like a puzzle who can resist. In particular, the sea water here is not only clean and extremely clear, you can find yourself in the blue water. Come here freely to dive, relax to dispel the sweltering heat of summer.

Diving to see the corals of Cham Island

One of the experiences that you can never ignore in the cheap Cu Lao Cham travel experience is diving to see the coral. Thanks to the advantage of clear blue sea and favorable marine environment, this place possesses a diverse and beautiful coral reef system. When participating, you will be fully equipped with equipment: snorkel, diving goggles, life jacket and detailed instructions so please rest assured.

Experience walking under the sea

Do you believe you can walk in the sea like on the shore? Actually, this is also a form of diving to see corals, but it does not need mischievous tools such as an air tank, an oxygen mask, etc., but will be equipped with specialized equipment, a hat that provides oxygen. That is enough for you to enjoy walking in the sea to see the colorful coral reefs, feed the fish yourself or touch the sea creatures. Of course, the price will be quite high about 950,000 VND/person for 20 minutes.

Fishing, squid fishing with fishermen

This is also an interesting activity that many tourists love. If you want to experience life like a real fisherman, don’t miss it. Experiencing the feeling of floating on the sea and fishing with your own hands for fresh fish and squid from the sea. The spoils obtained you can organize your own cooking. But note that if you want to fish for squid, you have to go in the evening and remember to contact the boat owner in advance or book a tour early.

Camping overnight on the island

This experience is for those of you who stay overnight on the island but do not want to rent a homestay. If so, when traveling to Cu Lao Cham , you can bring your own tent/camp or rent it from people on the island to camp on the beach. Because this place is still wild, the air is very open, the sky is high, the view is far away, so you are free to have fun, make a campfire and watch the stars at night. It will be a memorable one.

What to eat and where to eat delicious when traveling to Cu Lao Cham?

The famous delicacies on the island

One of the things that will make you remember the most when visiting this island is the unique cuisine. Although not painted with a high-class taste, it always leaves an indelible impression in the hearts of visitors.

  • Her breast snail

The name sounds funny, doesn’t it? This type of snail can only be caught on the day of the full moon, it has a conical shape, like the rolling mounds of pubescent girls, the body is yellow and green but when touched, it will turn pink. Coming to Cu Lao Cham, you can eat her breast snail with many different ways of processing such as stir-fried or steamed with salt and pepper or mixed. The meat is tender and very sweet.

  • Stone crab

Rock crab is a very rare seafood on the island that many tourists have to admire. This species often lives in caves in the mountains, eats plants and drinks early morning dew, so the meat is very sweet, soft, fatty and not difficult to taste fishy. The way to prepare it is very simple, usually just wash it and then boil, steam or stir-fry tamarind.

  • Neem (sea urchin)

Grilled sea urchin is a dish that tourists love when traveling to Cu Lao Cham. Nhum, also known as sea urchin, is likened to the ginseng of the sea because it is not only delicious but also very nutritious. People usually process it by cleaning, put 2, 3 in the same shell, mix with eggs and then water on coal. When it starts to cook, add the onion fat and you can enjoy it.

  • Jungle vegetable

It is considered a very rustic specialty of the island of Cu Lao Cham. Although simple, it is never absent from the meals of the people here. If you go on a tour or are self-sufficient, there are dishes on the menu from coriander, lucidum, fern, bitter vegetables, etc. Depending on the type, people bring boiled fish sauce or mix. It’s so simple, but it brings a unique flavor that everyone loves.

Suggestions for places to eat in Cu Lao Cham

Where to eat is a matter of concern for many tourists. Rest assured, although not as good as other tourist destinations, there are still a few options for you.

+ Organize your own cooking: You can absolutely go to the market to buy seafood and ingredients for cooking or BBQ on the beach. This method is both fun and economical, but of course it will be quite difficult if you have no cooking experience.

+ Eat at homestay: As mentioned, most homestays here have food service support, if you want you can contact the host to order cooking for about 50,000 – 80,000 VND/ person / meal or buy it yourself. materials for them to process, then send wages.

+ Eat at restaurants: On the island, there are a few restaurants with quite spacious space that often serve tourists with a wide variety of menus. If you go on a tour, you will be arranged to have lunch here. If you are self-sufficient, you can order a meal for 150,000 VND/person or order food. Some restaurants for your reference:

  • Dan Tri Restaurant: Tan Hiep, Cu Lao Cham
  • Truong Kep Restaurant: Bai Ong, Cu Lao Cham, Hoi An
  • Tran Khue restaurant: Bai Lang, Cu Lao Cham

What to buy as a gift when traveling to Cu Lao Cham?

One-day squid in Cu Lao Cham

Almost every sea has this specialty, but the one-day squid in Cu Lao Cham is very famous. The squids that have just been fished from the sea are fresh, cleaned and then dried only once in the crispy sun from 38-40 degrees, so they both retain their softness and sweetness. This is the most meaningful and practical gift chosen by many tourists to travel to Cu Lao Cham .

Cu Lao Cham thorn-leaf cake

This is a unique cake, typical of Cu Lao Cham island. Previously, it was only used in parties or Tet holidays, but now it is sold every day to serve tourists. The way to make this cake is extremely simple, including black sugar, green beans, ai leaves, glutinous rice flour, then wrapped in banana leaves, steamed in water. Although the appearance does not look good, but the toughness and sweet flavor are guaranteed to be liked by everyone. Selling price is only about 20,000 VND/ 10 pieces.

Coming to Cu Lao Cham, you definitely have to buy some cakes with hemp leaves to bring back.
Coming to Cu Lao Cham, you definitely have to buy some cakes with hemp leaves to bring back.

Water of leaves of Cu Lao Cham forest

Forest leaves are one of the folk remedies passed down from generation to generation. With their knowledge, people have picked fresh leaves to dry. There will be about 18-30 types, each of which is a tonic, good for health that every time you taste it you will never forget. They are sold a lot along the way to Gieng Co or Tan Hiep market for about 10,000 VND/pack.

Dried seafood of all kinds in Cu Lao Cham

With the advantage of abundant seafood, if you are not convenient to buy fresh seafood, you can buy different types of dried seafood as gifts such as: dried shrimp, dried fish, dried anchovies, dried squid … all are caught by people to clean and then dry in the sun, without shipping costs, so the price is quite cheap.

Souvenirs at Cu Lao Cham

What to buy in Cu Lao Cham as a gift? Souvenir products are also ideal suggestions. In addition to the tree hammocks made of solidly hand-woven Ngo Dong trees, you can also buy items made from shells and shells with local characteristics such as boats, bracelets, necklaces, and key chains. lock, wind chime…

Cu Lao Cham travel experience should you be able to go on your own?

Although it is an island located separately from the mainland, you can completely go on your own. This form is suitable for those who want to be free and comfortable in their own time to explore Cu Lao Cham in their own way. However, if you decide to go on your own, you have to plan, take care of transportation to Cua Dai port, buy canoe tickets and pre-book services such as snorkeling, eating, etc.

It should also be noted that you should only go self-sufficient if you intend to stay overnight here or after going to Cu Lao Cham, you will return to Hoi An to stay. If not, it is better to consider the tour option.

For convenience and savings, visitors should experience in the form of a tour.
For convenience and savings, visitors should experience in the form of a tour.

So, if you really are not very familiar with this place or do not have much time to plan and arrange everything, this is the right option. Moreover, going on a tour will save a lot more.

Other notes when traveling to Cu Lao Cham island

  • First: Outside the island, although the air is fresh and cool, it is quite sunny, so remember to prepare enough sun protection equipment if you do not want your skin to be dark after the trip.
  • Second: For those of you who go on your own, you need to pay attention to the weather before going because if you go to the island and encounter rough seas, it will be difficult to return to the mainland. If you go on a tour if the weather is bad, the staff will call you to postpone.
  • Third: If you want to save money, visitors can bring food to the island, but according to Cu Lao Cham travel experience , it is not recommended because the food on the island is not only fresh but also very cheap. afraid to experience.
  • Fourth: For tourists with a history of diseases such as bones and joints, blood pressure, heart disease or pregnant women over 5 months should consider traveling to Cham Island. Because in addition to having to take a high-speed canoe, there are some activities that are not suitable.

Important noteCham Island  is an island cluster that says NO to plastic bags. Therefore, tourists should pay attention not to bring plastic bags to the island, if detected, they may be fined. Instead, you can buy biodegradable bags at the harbor to use.

Thus, this article has shared all the self-sufficient Cham Island travel experiences in the most detail. DanangPrivateCar.com’s believes that this will be a useful guide for your upcoming trip. Wishing you and your family a happy and meaningful holiday!

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