Snorkelling in Vietnam & Must-Try Vietnamese Food: A Complete Guide for Your Trip to Vietnam (2025)

Vietnam is a traveller’s dream, offering an unmatched combination of natural beauty, rich history, and mouthwatering cuisine. Whether you’re soaking up the sun along its stunning coastline or wandering through bustling food markets, Vietnam’s charm is undeniably magnetic. For those planning a memorable trip to Vietnam, two things must top your itinerary: snorkelling in Vietnam and indulging in authentic Vietnamese food. From the turquoise waters of Nha Trang to the flavour-packed alleyways of Hanoi, this guide will show you how to experience Vietnam’s best above and below the surface.

Snorkelling in Vietnam: A Marine Wonderland

Vietnam's coastline stretches over 3,000 kilometers, lined with tropical islands, coral reefs, and hidden coves. Snorkelling here isn’t just about swimming—it’s about discovering a vibrant underwater world teeming with life.

Top Snorkelling Spots in Vietnam:

1. Nha Trang

Often called the scuba capital of Vietnam, Nha Trang is just as great for snorkellers. Head to Hon Mun Island, a protected marine park with crystal-clear water and colorful corals.

2. Con Dao Islands

A remote archipelago off the southern coast, Con Dao offers pristine snorkelling with the chance to see sea turtles, rays, and vibrant coral gardens.

3. Phu Quoc Island

Off Vietnam’s southwest coast, Phu Quoc is ideal for beginner snorkellers. The An Thoi Archipelago is especially popular for boat-led snorkel tours.

4. Cham Islands

Located off Hoi An’s coast, these islands offer excellent visibility and a diverse array of marine life.

Best Time to Go Snorkelling in Vietnam

• April to September: Calm seas and warm water, especially in central and southern Vietnam.

• Avoid October to December: Waters can be rough due to the monsoon season.

What to Expect Underwater

• Coral gardens with soft and hard corals

• Schools of tropical fish like clownfish and parrotfish

• Occasional sightings of seahorses, rays, and sea turtles

Essential Tips for Snorkelling in Vietnam

• Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine ecosystems

• Always follow your guide’s safety instructions

• Don’t touch or step on corals—they are living organisms

Recommended Tours

• Day tours to Hon Mun Marine Park (Nha Trang)

• Private snorkel boat tours in Phu Quoc

• Eco-conscious tours in Con Dao with marine conservation briefings

Diving Deeper into Culture Through Vietnamese Food

When you're not exploring coral reefs, Vietnam’s culinary scene offers its own version of a deep dive. From steaming bowls of pho to crispy banh mi, Vietnamese food is all about balance, freshness, and flavor.

Must-Try Dishes in Vietnam:

1. Pho

Vietnam’s national dish. A fragrant noodle soup typically made with beef or chicken, garnished with fresh herbs, lime, and chili.

2. Banh Mi

A French-inspired sandwich stuffed with meats, pickled veggies, and chili, all wrapped in a crispy baguette.

3. Goi Cuon (Spring Rolls)

Fresh rice paper rolls filled with shrimp, pork, vermicelli, and herbs. Often served with a peanut or hoisin dipping sauce.

4. Bun Cha

Grilled pork served over rice noodles with fresh herbs and a dipping sauce. A Hanoi specialty that’s both smoky and refreshing.

5. Cao Lau

A Hoi An exclusive. Chewy noodles served with slices of pork, local greens, and crispy rice crackers.

6. Ca Kho To

Caramelized fish in clay pot—a sweet and savory dish that’s popular in the south.

Street Food Culture

Vietnam's street food is a must-try. Wander through night markets in cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang to taste local favorites.

• Don’t miss Banh Xeo (Vietnamese crepes)

• Try Che (a colorful dessert made from beans, fruits, and jelly)

• Sip egg coffee in Hanoi—a rich, sweet caffeine treat

Foodie Tips

• Always eat where the locals eat—it’s usually fresher and more affordable

• Try at least one meal at a family-run eatery

• Don’t fear the plastic stools—some of the best food is served there!

Sample 7-Day Itinerary: Snorkelling & Food Tour

Day 1–2: Arrive in Hanoi, sample street food and take a local cooking class

Day 3: Fly to Da Nang and head to Hoi An; snorkel the Cham Islands

Day 4: Explore Hoi An’s old town and enjoy Cao Lau and local coffee

Day 5: Fly to Phu Quoc or Nha Trang; start your snorkelling adventure

Day 6: Snorkel in the morning, relax on the beach in the afternoon

Day 7: Return to Ho Chi Minh City for a street food walking tour

Where to Stay

• Hanoi: Stay in the Old Quarter for easy access to food tours

• Hoi An: Riverside boutique hotels offer great views and comfort

• Nha Trang/Phu Quoc: Choose beachside resorts for snorkelling access

Responsible Travel Tips

• Respect the ocean: Don’t litter, and support eco-friendly tours

• Eat local: Helps sustain small businesses and preserves food culture

• Be respectful: Learn a few Vietnamese phrases and observe dining etiquette

Final Thoughts

Few destinations offer the sensory richness that Vietnam does. Whether you’re floating over coral gardens during snorkelling in Vietnam or slurping down noodles in a bustling alleyway, every experience is layered with color, culture, and joy.

A trip to Vietnam isn’t just a vacation—it’s a journey into a vibrant world where nature and flavor go hand in hand. Dive in, taste everything, and let the memories linger long after you return home.