It is considered as a beautiful pearl of Hoi An in the central coast province of Quang Nam, Cu Lao Cham (or Cham Islands) includes 8 small islets as: Hon Lao, Hon Dai, Hon Mo, Hon La, Hon Kho mother, Hon Kho child, Hon Tai, Hon Ong. Cham Islands has many interesting things to discover.
Situated about 15 km from Cua Dai beach, it is endowed by nature with terrific advantages: unspoiled and beautiful beaches, nice weather all year round and great landscapes. Tourists can discover and enjoy many things on the island.
Cham Islands was recognized as a world biosphere reserve by UNESCO in 2009. It has more than 1,500 ha of natural forest, more than 6,700 ha of surface water, it also is home to a critical ecosystem that includes sea grass beds, coral reefs and seaweed. This area is also rich in marine resources, including many species of economic and ecological importance.
Besides a rich ecosystem, Cham Islands Marine Protected Area’s ancient monuments absolutely captivate visitors. The excavated ruins are proof of the former cultural, trade exchanges between Cham Islands and countries in the region. Cham Islands was once a transshipment point of international merchant ships on the maritime silk road found in the 13th century. Some famous vestiges such as Hai Tang Pagoda, Temple of the Founder of the Edible Birds Nest Industry, Cham Well in Cam village, Mausoleum of the Tutelary God reflect the prosperity of the ancient Cham and Vietnamese people thousands of years ago.
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For those who like tranquility, unspoiled countryside and relaxation, this island is an appropriate destination. The beaches of Cham Islands which are almost untouched by humans are as beautiful as those on Phu Quoc island of Kien Giang province in the country’s south. Tourists can enjoy the fresh air and warm sunshine. But this island is less known due to insufficient promotion and inconvenient transportation.
Tourists can also stay overnight at a fisherman’s house. The islanders are friendly and honest. Travelers will enjoy savoring rustic but delicious dishes made with wild vegetables, pickles, fish, squid and listen to the home owner’s fishing trip stories or legends about the island.
Given these advantages, the Pearl of Hoi An has attracted tourists who are interested in adventures and nature discovery. Picnic or camping and scuba diving are among the top choices of visitors. There are many positive reviews have been given by international visitors on the famous tourism forum Tripadvisor. A New Zealand tourist who visited Cham Islands in July wrote: “We had a great day out with the team from Cham Islands Diving. It is not only reasonably priced, but a brilliant seafood lunch and beautiful relatively quiet beach stop and great snorkeling spots.” A Hong Kong visitor commented: “I has great atmosphere, nice beach and fun diving!”.
With who want to go to Cham Islands to simply enjoy fresh seafood could take a squid catching or fishing tour. The travel agents and fishermen will take them to a fishing ground. Just caught fish and squid will be served at a restaurant or right on board.
