National Oceanographic Museum of Vietnam
The basics
Displays at the National Oceanographic Museum are arranged across two floors. The ground floor is home to a range of aquarium tanks housing a variety of marine life, including reef sharks, turtles, anemones, pufferfish, lionfish, clownfish, seahorses, and a whole array of colorful coral. Upstairs, visitors will find preserved specimens, a collection of local boats and various fishing-related articles, and a 60-foot (18-meter) long humpback whale skeleton. Many half and full-day tours of Nha Trang include a stop at the museum, as well as the Long Son Pagoda, Po Nagar Cham Towers, and the Dam Market.
Things to know before you go
- Don’t forget your camera; photography is permitted inside the museum.
- Visit the museum with a local guide for a deeper insight into the history and significance of what you’re seeing.
- Informational displays within the museum are in both Vietnamese and English.
How to get there
The National Oceanographic Museum of Vietnam is located in the port village of Bao Dai, approximately 3 miles (5 kilometers) from Nha Trang. The best way to reach it is by taxi or motorcycle.
Trip ideas
When to get there
Its location a bit outside of town means the National Oceanographic Museum of Vietnam rarely gets crowded. The air-conditioned facility makes an excellent escape from a downpour or particularly hot afternoon.
Must-Visit Temples in Vietnam
Long sandy beaches and a laidback vibe make Nha Trang a surprisingly family-friendly destination. Visitors traveling with kids in tow will find several attractions and activities to choose from. The hands-on Alexandre Yersin Museum appeals to curious kids with interactive exhibits near the city center, while the Vinpearl cable car takes families to Vinpearl Land, a theme park with rides, an arcade, and an aquarium. Head out of town to Yang Bay to walk the nature trails or spend some time in the colorful butterfly garden.
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- Hon Mieu Island
- XQ Historical Village
- Stone Church (Nha Tho Nui)
- Nha Trang Beach
- Dam Market (Cho Dam)
- Long Son Pagoda (Chua Long Son)
- Vinpearl Land Nha Trang
- 100 Egg Theme Park (Khu Du Lich Tram Trung)
- Hon Chong
- Thap Ba Hot Springs
- Po Nagar Cham Towers
- Hon Mun Island
- Nha Phu Bay
- Hon Ba Nature Reserve (Khu Bao Ton Thien Nhien Hon Ba)