Nha Trang is a beautiful coastal city in Vietnam, known for its stunning beaches, islands, and seafood. If you are planning to visit Nha Trang from Ho Chi Minh City, you may wonder what is the best way to get there. One of the options that you can consider is traveling by private car, which can offer you comfort, convenience, flexibility, and safety.

1. How to get to Nha Trang  from Ho Chi Minh?

The distance from Ho Chi Minh to Nha Trang is about 430 km and it will take approximately 8.5 hours for the transfer from Ho Chi Minh to Nha Trang by private car if you go directly. However, there are so many attractive sightseeing along the way, it’s a pity if you skip or miss the beautiful scenic views of the attractions the way to Nha Trang such as Beach in LaGi town, Hoa Thang - Hoa Phu sea route, Ninh Thuan coastal road. etc. Transferring from Ho Chi Minh to Nha Trang by private car is the most exciting and joyful journey in central Vietnam. 

1.1 Train 

1.2 Taxi 

1.3 Bus 

1.4 Private car 

2. Direction to Nha Trang from HCM

To travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Nha Trang by private car, there are two main routes available. You can choose the route that is most suitable for your mode of transportation:

Option 1: The first route for traveling from Ho Chi Minh City ( HCMc) to Nha Trang by private car is approximately 430 km long and takes about 8 hours and 20 minutes (estimated):

From the city center, head towards Thu Thiem Tunnel, then enter the TP.HCM - Long Thanh - Dau Giay Expressway. After driving about 55 km on the expressway, take a right turn and continue on National Highway 1A for about 7 km until you reach Long Khanh City in Dong Nai Province.

From there, take a shortcut onto Ho Xuan Huong Street and drive for about 6 km before making a left turn. Continue on National Highway 1A for about 40 km until you reach Binh Thuan Province.

In Binh Thuan Province, continue driving on National Highway 1A for approximately 180 km, passing through Phan Thiet City, until you reach Ninh Thuan Province.

From Ninh Thuan Province, continue on National Highway 1A for about 60 km, passing through Phan Rang - Thap Cham City, Nui Chua National Park, until you reach Khanh Hoa Province. Finally, drive along National Highway 1A for about 70 km to reach Nha Trang City.

Option 2: The second route for traveling from Ho Chi Minh to Nha Trang, spanning approximately 420 km, is suitable for car with a driver who may speak a basic English at all.

From the city center of Ho Chi Minh City, start by heading towards Saigon Bridge, then enter Hanoi Highway for about 18 km until you reach the Vung Tau intersection. Then, turn right and continue for about 5 km before following Vo Nguyen Giap Street straight ahead.

After driving approximately 12 km on Vo Nguyen Giap Street, turn right onto National Highway 1A. Continue straight on National Highway 1A for about 25 km until you reach Long Khanh Town in Dong Nai Province. From here, follow the directions of the first route to reach Nha Trang City.

Note: If you feel tired, make sure to find a suitable place to rest and take a break or my driver will do any rest stop on the road for your sighseeing such as:

3. Where to stay in Nha Trang

When planning a trip from Ho Chi Minh to Nha Trang by private taxi, one of the first considerations should be where to stay. Nha Trang offers a wide selection of luxurious 5-star hotels, and I will highlight three of the best options for you to consider.

1. Vinpearl Beachfront Nha Trang

Vinpearl Beachfront Nha Trang is widely regarded as one of the top hotels in Nha Trang, Vietnam. Its central location offers convenient access to popular city attractions. Moreover, the hotel provides breathtaking views of the stunning Nha Trang beaches, making it an ideal choice for accommodation in the area.

2. Florida Nha Trang  

Florida Nha Trang is a renowned 5-star hotel that is attracting a large number of visitors. When you choose to stay here, you not only experience a luxurious and relaxing destination but also benefit from a comprehensive range of services and exceptional care provided by a highly professional and attentive staff.

3. Horizon Nha Trang

Horizon Nha Trang, often referred to as the 'Roof of Nha Trang,' stands tall with its 36 floors and over 370 different room categories. This modern and majestic European-style hotel is adorned with transparent glass layers, resembling a wide sail ready to set sail when viewed from a distance. Stepping inside, guests are mesmerized by a space exuding luxury and intricate design in every detail.

4.  When to visit Nha Trang

The best time to visit Nha Trang Vietnam is from Septermper to Febnuary in around year, it should be noted that Nha Trang has a tropical weather pattern, characterized by high temperature and humidity all year round. The city experiences two main seasons: the dry season, which lasts from January to September, and the rainy season, which runs from October to December.

To fully enjoy your trip, it's essential to consider the optimal time to visit Nha Trang. Whether you're a honeymooner or a culture enthusiast, everyone desires favorable weather conditions for their journey.

For the optimal experience, the recommended period to visit Nha Trang  is during the dry season, which spans from January to September. Throughout these months, the weather is typically sunny and pleasant, with warm temperatures and lower humidity levels. This creates a favorable environment for engaging in outdoor activities like swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the city's various attractions.

It is important to note that the months of June to August tend to be quite busy in Nha Trang. Therefore, it is advisable to make advance reservations for accommodations and activities to ensure availability and avoid any potential inconvenience.

5. How much time should you spend at Nha Trang ?

If you have a limited timeframe, a 3-day and 2-night trip to Nha Trang can still offer a fulfilling experience. To make the most of your time, consider arranging private transfers from Ho Chi Minh City to Nha Trang. Whether you prefer a taxi from Ho Chi Minh Airport to Nha Trang or a comfortable private car, these options provide convenience and ensure a smooth journey.

During your stay, it is recommended to prioritize popular tourist destinations such as VinWonders, Hon Tam, and Po Nagar Cham Towers for sightseeing. These attractions showcase the cultural and natural beauty of Nha Trang. With private transfers, you can easily reach these destinations and optimize your exploration time.

On the other hand, if you have the luxury of more time, extending your stay to 4 days and 3 nights in Nha Trang is highly recommended. This allows for a more immersive experience, where you can indulge in various forms of entertainment, relish in the famous local delicacies, and delve deeper into the unique cultural aspects of the city. Having a private car rental from Ho Chi Minh City to Nha Trang would be advantageous, as it gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace.

Take the opportunity to explore the vibrant markets, try local street food, engage in water sports, and immerse yourself in the local lifestyle for a more enriching visit. With the convenience of private transfers and the freedom of a private car rental, you can make the most of your time in Nha Trang and create lasting memories.

6. Beach Entry

To enter the beach in Nha Trang, you don’t need to pay any fee or buy any ticket. The beach is open to the public and free for everyone to enjoy. However, if you want to use any facilities or services at the beach, such as sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, lockers, or water sports equipment, you may need to pay a small fee to the vendors or operators. The prices may vary depending on the season and the location, but generally they are not very expensive. You can also bring your own towel, mat, or chair if you want to save some money.

If you prefer to have more control over your beach experience, you can also consider car rental services from Ho Chi Minh City to Nha Trang. This allows you the flexibility to explore various beaches and attractions in Nha Trang at your own pace. By having a rental car, you can easily transport your own towels, mats, or chairs and save some money on renting beach equipment.

7. Best things to do in Nha Trang 

Nha Trang has many interesting places for you to easily move to, the private car is the perfect choice. Let's see interesting activities in Nha Trang:

Trek to the waterfalls: Nha Trang is known for its waterfalls and some of the most famous ones are Ba Ho and Fairy Spring Waterfalls. These offer you the perfect opportunity to get out of the city and enjoy nature. Ba Ho is a series of three cascades that are located about an hour away from Nha Trang. You can swim in the pools, jump from the rocks, or hike along the trails. Fairy Spring Waterfalls are also a great place to visit, as they have a large spring that fills a swimming pool at the base of the falls. You can also walk along the stream that winds through red rock formations.

Explore Po Nagar Cham Towers: These are ancient towers that were built from the 7th to the 12th centuries by the Cham people who ruled this area. They are used as a place of worship by different religions, such as Cham, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Buddhist. There are four towers that are still standing, each with a different style and design. The largest and most impressive one is the North Tower, which has a pyramidal roof and a vaulted interior. The towers are located on the banks of the Cai River and offer a glimpse into the history and culture of Nha Trang.

Go diving or snorkeling: Nha Trang is one of the best places in Vietnam for diving and snorkeling, as it has clear water and rich marine life. You can either swim offshore or take a boat to some of the islands around Nha Trang that have coral reefs and colorful fish. Some of the best spots for diving and snorkeling are Mun Island, Hon Tam Island, Hon Tre Island, and Hon Mieu Island. You can also see some shipwrecks, caves, and tunnels underwater. You can rent or buy equipment from one of the many dive shops or operators in Nha Trang.

Visit Long Son Pagoda: This is a Buddhist temple that was built in 1886 and is one of the most famous landmarks in Nha Trang. It is located on a hilltop and has a large white statue of Buddha sitting on a lotus flower that can be seen from afar. The statue is 24 meters high and has 152 steps leading up to it. You can climb up to see the statue up close and enjoy the panoramic view of Nha Trang city and bay. The pagoda also has other statues, paintings, and carvings that depict Buddhist stories and teachings.

Sunbathe on Nha Trang Beach: This is one of the most popular activities in Nha Trang, as it has a long stretch of white sand and blue water that is ideal for relaxing and swimming. The beach is lined with palm trees, hotels, restaurants, bars, and shops that cater to all your needs. You can also find many vendors and operators that offer sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, lockers, massages, food, drinks, and water sports equipment. You can enjoy activities such as jet skiing, parasailing, banana boating, kayaking, or surfing on the beach.

8. Fashion choices & essentials to pack

When preparing for your trip to Nha Trang, remember to bring the following essentials:

Swimwear: Don't forget to pack your favorite swimwear, whether it's a bikini, one-piece, tankini, or swim trunks. You'll need them to fully enjoy the beach and the sea. Consider adding accessories like sunglasses, hats, or sarongs for sun protection and added style.

Casual attire: Include comfortable and lightweight clothing such as shorts, t-shirts, dresses, or skirts. Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton or linen to stay cool during your stay. It's also a good idea to pack a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings or if you plan to explore the mountains.

Footwear: Choose the right shoes for different activities and terrains in Nha Trang. Flip-flops or sandals are perfect for the beach and casual strolls, while sneakers are suitable for city walks and water sports. If you plan to trek or venture into rough terrains, consider bringing hiking boots for better support and grip.

Toiletries: Remember to pack essential toiletries like sunscreen, moisturizer, lip balm, shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and a razor. Check with your airline and airport for any restrictions and consider packing them in a clear plastic bag or waterproof pouch to prevent leaks.

Remember to pack light and prioritize items that will enhance your enjoyment of Nha Trang's beautiful beaches and attractions.

9. Exploring nearby attractions in Nha Trang

Nha Trang is indeed filled with numerous breathtaking tourist destinations. Let's explore three of the most prominent ones:

Vinpearl Land

Address: 98B/13, Tran Phu, Loc Tho, Nha Trang City, Khanh Hoa

Located on the beautiful Hon Tre Island, surrounded by the ocean and pristine beaches, Vinpearl Land is known as a must-visit destination in Nha Trang, often referred to as the 'paradise of the tropics' that attracts tourists from all over. In addition to conventional means of transportation such as speedboats, taxis, high-speed boats, and ferries, visitors can also reach Hon Tre Island via a 3,320m cable car system. This cable car route is the longest in the world, with 9 pillars on both the sea and land. The cable car system resembles the Eiffel Tower and is illuminated with laser lights at night. It can transport 1000-1500 people per hour, making travel between the island and the mainland easier.

Thap Ba Ponagar (Ponagar Tower)

Address: Hai Thang Tu Street, Vinh Phuoc, Nha Trang City, Khanh Hoa

Nha Trang is not only famous for its stunning beaches but also for its unique and beautiful architectural structures. Thap Ba Ponagar is one of the largest Cham Pa cultural architectural complexes in Central Vietnam.

Perched on a hill 50 meter above sea level, Thap Ba Ponagar is surrounded by the greenery of the forest, standing out as a prominent structure amidst the lush natural backdrop. The overall architecture of Thap Ba Ponagar consists of 3 levels, with the lower level being the ancient tower, which no longer exists today.

Stone Church Nha Trang (Nha Trang Cathedral)

Address: 31 Thai Nguyen, Phuoc Tan, Nha Trang City, Khanh Hoa

Stone Church Nha Trang is a famous landmark of the city, holding more historical and cultural value than a regular religious church. As a witness to history, the Stone Church has witnessed the changes that have occurred in the city over time and has now become a beautiful landscape, contributing to the allure of the dreamy coastal city.

10. Food & Drinks in Nha Trang 

Nha Trang is the ideal destination for those who love blue sea, white sand and fresh seafood. You can easily move to places by car retail from Ho Chi Minh to Nha Trang. If you are looking for some delicious food and drinks to enjoy in Nha Trang, you can refer to some of the following suggestions:

If you want to try some local specialties, you can’t miss the Ninh Hoa pork rolls, which are thin slices of grilled pork wrapped in rice paper with fresh herbs, cucumber, and pineapple. They are served with a tangy dipping sauce made of fish sauce, garlic, chili, and lime juice. You can find this dish at many street stalls or restaurants in Nha Trang.

Another popular dish in Nha Trang is the jellyfish rice noodle soup, which is a clear broth with rice noodles, jellyfish, fish balls, and scallions. The jellyfish has a crunchy texture and a mild flavor that goes well with the soup. You can add some vinegar, chili, and lime juice to enhance the taste. This dish is usually eaten for breakfast or lunch.

For a more upscale dining experience, you can visit Skylight Nha Trang, which is a rooftop bar and restaurant that offers a panoramic view of the city and the sea. You can enjoy a variety of dishes, such as seafood, fusion cuisine, and pizza, as well as cocktails, wine, and beer. You can also watch live music and dance performances at night.

If you are looking for a cozy and relaxing place to have a drink, you can check out Sailling Club. This is a beachfront bar and restaurant that offers a stunning view of the sea and the sunset. You can enjoy a variety of food and drinks, such as seafood platters, salads, cocktails, or wine. You can also watch live music and dance performances at night.

11. Handy tips for Nha Trang  Beach experience

Firstly, Nha Trang is known for its sunny weather, so make sure to protect yourself from the sun. Apply sunscreen with a high SPF, wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and lightweight clothing to cover your skin. Don't forget to reapply sunscreen regularly, especially after swimming.

Besides, while enjoying the beach, it's important to prioritize safety. Swim in designated areas and pay attention to any warning flags or signs indicating unsafe conditions. Be cautious of strong currents and follow lifeguard instructions. If you're not a strong swimmer, consider wearing a life jacket.

Moreover, when visiting Nha Trang, you can make your journey more convenient by arranging private transfers from Ho Chi Minh City to Nha Trang. There are options like private cars, taxis, or car rentals available for you to choose from. Taxi services from Ho Chi Minh airport to Nha Trang are also available. These private transfers will ensure a comfortable and hassle-free journey, allowing you to fully enjoy the beauty of Nha Trang.

Finally, Nha Trang offers a variety of water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, jet skiing, and parasailing. Before participating in any water sports, ensure that the operators have proper safety measures and equipment. It's also advisable to have travel insurance that covers these activities.