Cam Ranh is an emerging destination, where you can truly get the most out of your vacation. I have travelled through lots of vibrant coastal cities and islands, but Cam Ranh totally blew me away. I am so excited to share my trip to this mesmerisingly beautiful city that made my heart skip a beat.
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I left my house eagerly to travel again. As soon as I arrived at the airport, I was overwhelmed by the buzzing crowds and bustling atmosphere. There were big groups of people chatting and socialising together. Their faces were lit up with joy and happiness that they could travel again after the Covid-19 lockdown.
THE LAND OF HEAVENLY ISLANDS
After an hour whizzing through the sparkling blue sky and fluffy white clouds, the plane gradually descended. Looking out of the window, an amazing view of natural surroundings momentarily staggered me. The vast ocean was dotted with various uniquely-shaped islets and islands. Nature painted a stunningly perfect picture and I immediately wanted to explore, indulge in the refreshing atmosphere and let the gentle sea breeze blow the cobwebs away.
When thinking of Khanh Hoa Province, many people think of the vibrant coastal city of Nha Trang. However, Cam Ranh is also a treasure trove of paradise islands. Known as the second-largest island bay in Khanh Hoa, Cam Ranh captivates locals and travellers with its magnificent natural landscapes and unbeatable climate. During my journey to this coastal city, its striking variety of islands had me falling head over heels with the untouched beauty and peaceful ambience.
First and foremost, Binh Ba Island is known as a lobster paradise. Binh Ba intrigues many backpackers with its enriching nature and signature lobster based cuisine. This small island impressed me with its unrivalled beauty, soothing white sand and crystal-clear seawaters that reflected the beautiful azure of the sky. Standing in front of such a breathtaking natural picture, you cannot help but dive into the aquamarine waters and let the crashing waves sweep all your burdens away. In spite of being a tourist destination that has been soaring in popularity for a few years, Binh Ba Island still remains calm and peaceful.
Standing on a large cliff facing the sea at sunset, the giant red sun slowly sunk and disappeared into the calm ocean. I knew when organising my trip that tasting the fresh local lobster had to be on my itinerary for my time on Binh Ba Island in Cam Ranh. Thanks to local cooking methods and fresh ingredients, the freshly caught lobster was even more lip-smackingly delicious than usual. Fresh from the sea, the exquisite deliciousness of local lobster has created a “gourmet, nutritious and affordable” culinary experience on Binh Ba Island.
Situated in a group of four islands called Tu Binh in Cam Ranh, Binh Lap is a wild island that is worlds away from its neighbours. Despite being a peninsula, this place fascinates locals and travellers with its unspoilt charm all year round. On Binh Lap Island, you will have the chance to get away from the stresses of daily life whilst appreciating the tranquil, plastic-free ambience. I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Cam Ranh, just lying on the sand and watching as the small ships and coracle boats bobbed gently up and down on the water.
A MESMERISING BEAUTY IN CAM RANH
With its glamorous beaches, soothing sand, bustle-free ambience and tropical climate, Cam Ranh is a favourable destination amongst travellers. There was nothing more fantastic than taking a walk alongside the coastal road at dusk, meandering along the path whilst watching the lovely kites flying in the sky and feeling my toes wriggle in the sand while marvelling at the waves breaking against the shore. The sea breeze swept away all my troubles and I just held up my phone and captured photos of the most spectacular sunset views in Cam Ranh.
Whilst strolling around some of the popular sights in Cam Ranh, I felt really hungry. I stopped for a romantic candlelit seafood dinner by the beach. Aside from savouring an amazing variety of fine local delicacies, Cam Ranh rewarded me with its pure ambience and refreshing breeze. “Perfect” might be the most suitable word to depict my trip to the beautiful coastal city in Khanh Hoa Province.
There are so many reasons why my trip to Cam Ranh will stay with me forever. The crystal-clear turquoise seawaters add an effulgence and flamboyance to this slice of paradise. The local people always greeted me with warm smiles everywhere I went, from the airport to the resort, out on the roads and until I waved goodbye. Central Vietnam possesses so many mind-blowing natural landscapes. Cam Ranh left a great impression particularly as it was my first post-lockdown destination.
W.TIPS TO CAM RANH
TRANSPORTATION
If you want to reach Cam Ranh as quickly as possible, then taking a flight is a good idea. However, because of the Covid-19 pandemic, passengers need to comply with all airline regulations and restrictions such as wearing face masks and washing hands with sanitizer.
BEST TIME TO TRAVEL
Clear blue skies, a gentle breeze and sunshine are the order of the day from February to August every year, so this is definitely the best time to visit.
ACCOMMODATION
There are many accommodation options in Cam Ranh. On this trip, I opted to stay at Alma Resort which is right on the beach. Alma Resort not only offers an amazing variety of first-class experiences for relaxation, but it also features a chain of luxury restaurants with a flavourful fusion of European and Asian cuisine, recreational centres, water parks and spas. Treat yourself to a fun-filled vacation at Alma Resort and embark on an unforgettable experience.
BEST ATTRACTIONS IN CAM RANH
In addition to its stunning beaches such as Bai Dai, Bai Nom, Bai Ngang and wild islands, Cam Ranh is home to Hon Ba Nature Reserve and Oc Pagoda. Additionally, you can participate in a whole host of thrilling underwater activities.
CUISINE
Cam Ranh cuisine intrigues foodies with its fresh delicious seafood. No food tour would be complete without enjoying a seafood party on the beach. Additionally, you will be spoilt for choice with a spectrum of local delicacies, including rice noodles served with fish balls, Bánh Căn, rice noodle soup, Vietnamese pancakes, chicken dishes, sticky rice and Quang noodles.
OTHER NOTES
Vietnam has successfully brought the coronavirus under control so far, but you should still follow preventive safety measures such as wearing face masks in public places, washing hands often, avoid using toiletries together and of course be happy!
T.H | Wanderlust Tips