Cu Lao Cham, a jewel island recognized by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve, has long been a dream destination for sea lovers. It captivates visitors not only with its pristine and tranquil beauty of smooth white sand beaches and emerald waters but also with its diverse marine ecosystem, especially the vibrant coral reefs. And one of the must-do experiences when visiting Cu Lao Cham is snorkeling and diving to see coral reefs.
Imagine yourself immersed in the cool, crystal-clear water, surrounded by countless schools of fish swimming around. Below, coral reefs appear like a magical underwater garden, with diverse shapes and colors, from soft corals swaying gently in the current to sturdy, towering coral blocks. A coral reef snorkeling and diving experience in Cu Lao Cham is sure to be an unforgettable memory in your journey to explore the beauty of Vietnam.
1. Why is Cu Lao Cham a Paradise for Coral Reef Snorkeling and Diving?
Cu Lao Cham boasts ideal natural conditions for the development of a rich and diverse coral reef ecosystem. Located in a warm sea area with year-round clear blue waters, it is less affected by environmental pollution. In particular, Cu Lao Cham is strictly protected, and tourism activities are tightly managed to minimize negative impacts on the marine ecosystem.
As a result, the coral reefs in Cu Lao Cham retain their pristine beauty, with high coverage density and a variety of species. Scientists have recorded more than 300 species of hard and soft corals here, belonging to 43 families and 17 genera. Among them, many rare coral species listed in the Vietnam Red Book are also found in Cu Lao Cham.
Not only diverse in species, Cu Lao Cham corals also have extremely rich shapes and colors. From plate-like, table-like, and branch-like coral reefs to mushroom-shaped and pillar-shaped coral reefs, they all create a vivid and colorful underwater painting. The colors of corals are also very diverse, from white, yellow, orange, pink, red to green, blue, and purple, making anyone who admires them marvel in amazement.
In addition, the seawater in Cu Lao Cham is famous for being crystal clear with high visibility, making it easy to observe and admire the beauty of corals even when diving at shallow depths. Sunlight shining down through the clear blue water further enhances the shimmering, magical beauty of the coral reefs, creating a stunning underwater scene.
Tourists snorkeling to see coral reefs in Cu Lao Cham
2. Top 4 Best Spots for Coral Reef Snorkeling and Diving in Cu Lao Cham
Cu Lao Cham has many beautiful beaches and attractive coral reef snorkeling and diving spots. Here are the 4 most popular destinations for visitors:
2.1. Hon Dai – Pristine Beauty and Intact Coral Reefs
Hon Dai is one of the small islands belonging to Cu Lao Cham, famous for its pristine and tranquil beauty. There are no residents living here, and tourism services are not noisy or bustling, so it still retains its inherent natural beauty.
The coral reefs at Hon Dai are considered one of the most beautiful and intact coral reefs in Cu Lao Cham. Due to less human impact, corals here grow very well, with high coverage density and diverse species. The seawater at Hon Dai is also very clear, ideal for coral reef snorkeling and diving activities.
Coming to Hon Dai, you can freely swim, snorkel, dive, and enjoy the peaceful and fresh atmosphere of a pristine island. This is an ideal destination for those seeking privacy and closeness to nature.
Visitors snorkeling in clear blue water to see coral reefs
2.2. Hon Mo – Explore Coral Reefs Near Cliffs
Hon Mo, also known as Hon Mo, is another unique coral reef snorkeling and diving spot in Cu Lao Cham. The special feature of Hon Mo is that the coral reefs develop very close to the shore, even adjacent to rocky cliffs. This creates both majestic and magical underwater scenery.
Snorkeling and diving at Hon Mo offers a novel experience, where you can both admire the beauty of corals and see the steep, rugged cliffs. This is also a favorite destination for many young people who like to explore and experience new things.
However, due to the rather steep cliff terrain, you need to be careful when moving and snorkeling or diving at Hon Mo. Always follow the instructions of experienced people to ensure safety.
Vibrant coral reefs under the sea
2.3. Bai Xep – “Coral Beach” Ideal for Everyone
Bai Xep is known as the “Coral Beach” of Cu Lao Cham, because it concentrates the most beautiful and diverse coral reefs on the island. Not only that, Bai Xep also has the advantage of very clear seawater and not too deep water, which is very suitable for both non-swimmers or beginners.
Snorkeling at Bai Xep is an easy and enjoyable experience for all ages. You can freely swim, snorkel in shallow water, and admire the beauty of corals right near the shore. Bai Xep is also a beautiful beach, with smooth white sand and green coconut trees, very suitable for relaxing and swimming after snorkeling.
Tourists snorkeling to see coral reefs at Cu Lao Cham
2.4. Bai Bim – Immerse Yourself in Nature and See Corals
Bai Bim is another pristine beach in Cu Lao Cham, offering visitors a peaceful and relaxing space. Bai Bim has a long, smooth sandy shore, clear blue water, and is surrounded by green coconut trees.
Snorkeling at Bai Bim is a great way to immerse yourself in nature and explore the beauty of the seabed. The coral reefs at Bai Bim are not as concentrated as Bai Xep, but there are still many beautiful coral spots and diverse marine life. After snorkeling, you can relax on the beach, swim, or stroll under the coconut trees to enjoy the fresh island air.
3. Types of Coral Reef Snorkeling and Diving in Cu Lao Cham – Which Option is Right for You?
To explore the magical coral world in Cu Lao Cham, you can choose one of the three popular snorkeling and diving methods below:
3.1. Snorkeling – Easy and Popular
Snorkeling is the simplest and most popular form of snorkeling and diving. You only need to use a snorkel, goggles, and a life jacket to easily explore coral reefs at a depth of about 3 meters.
Snorkeling to see coral reefs in Cu Lao Cham is suitable for everyone, including non-swimmers. You will be equipped with a life jacket to ensure safety and instructed on how to use a snorkel and goggles. With this method, you can comfortably swim on the surface of the water and see the corals right below.
Tourists snorkeling to see coral reefs in Cu Lao Cham
3.2. Scuba Diving – Explore the Deep Seabed
Scuba diving is a more professional form of diving, using scuba tanks and specialized diving equipment. With this method, you can explore coral reefs at depths of 6 meters or more, accessing more beautiful coral areas and diverse marine life.
Scuba diving to see coral reefs in Cu Lao Cham offers a completely different experience from snorkeling. You will admire the shimmering, magical beauty of the deep seabed world, explore rare coral species and unique marine creatures. However, scuba diving requires you to be in good health and be properly trained in diving skills.
Tourists scuba diving in Cu Lao Cham sea
3.3. Seawalking – Unique Experience
Seawalking is a unique and novel form of diving, suitable for those who want to experience the feeling of setting foot on the ocean floor without knowing how to swim. You will wear a special helmet that continuously supplies oxygen, allowing you to walk on the seabed as if on land.
Seawalking to see coral reefs in Cu Lao Cham is a fun and safe experience, especially suitable for children and the elderly. You will explore coral reefs up close, observing marine creatures in the most realistic way.
Seawalking to see coral reefs in Cu Lao Cham
4. Prices and Information You Need to Know for a Coral Reef Snorkeling and Diving Trip to Cu Lao Cham
The ticket price for coral reef snorkeling and diving in Cu Lao Cham depends on the type of diving and the services you choose. Below are the reference prices:
- Snorkeling: Approximately VND 200,000/person (including life jacket, goggles, snorkel).
- Scuba Diving: Approximately VND 800,000/person (including scuba tank, diving equipment, guide).
- Seawalking: Approximately VND 1,150,000/person (including seawalking helmet, guide).
Note that the above ticket prices only include coral reef snorkeling and diving services for about 15-20 minutes. Other costs such as meals, towels, and Cu Lao Cham entrance tickets are usually not included in the ticket price. You should carefully research information and book tickets in advance to ensure a smooth trip.
Tourists preparing to snorkel and dive to see coral reefs in Cu Lao Cham
5. Tips for a Wonderful Coral Reef Snorkeling and Diving Experience in Cu Lao Cham
To have a complete and memorable coral reef snorkeling and diving trip in Cu Lao Cham, keep these tips in mind:
- Choose the ideal time: The best time to snorkel and dive to see coral reefs in Cu Lao Cham is during the dry season, from March to September. At this time, the weather is sunny and beautiful, the sea is calm, and the water is clear, which is very favorable for diving activities.
- Check diving equipment carefully: Before getting into the water, carefully check your life jacket, goggles, snorkel (if snorkeling), or specialized diving equipment (if scuba diving) to ensure safety.
- Warm up thoroughly before getting into the water: Gently warm up your joints, arms, legs, and whole body before getting into the water to help your body get used to the water temperature and avoid cramps when diving.
- Follow the instructions of experienced people: Always listen to and follow the instructions of the guide or experienced diver to ensure safety and have the best experience.
- Wear appropriate clothing: You should wear neat swimwear that is comfortable to move around in. Bring waterproof shoes to move easily on the beach and boats.
- Protect your skin from the sun: Use sunscreen, wear a hat, and sunglasses to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun when snorkeling and diving.
- Do not touch corals and marine life: Admire corals and marine life with your eyes, do not touch them to protect the marine ecosystem.
- Maintain environmental hygiene: Do not litter in the sea, do not affect the natural environment of Cu Lao Cham.
Sunny weather and crystal clear water at Cu Lao Cham sea
Coral reef snorkeling and diving in Cu Lao Cham is a wonderful experience that you should not miss when visiting this beautiful island. Come and discover the underwater paradise, admire the vibrant beauty of the coral reefs, and enjoy unforgettable moments in Cu Lao Cham!
Contact Cu Lao Cham Discovery for advice and experience the most interesting things
Bai Lang Market Center, Tan Hiep, Cu Lao Cham
Hotline: 079 944 4617
Fanpage: Sunbay Homestay
Mail: [email protected]