Nha Trang Islands: 3 Island Day Tour with Mud Bath & Seafood Lunch

Summary

Swim, taste seafood & soak in mineral mud across Nha Trang’s islands

You’ll swim in clear waters off Hon Mieu island, share seafood dishes on a floating restaurant, and sink into warm mineral mud baths at Hon Tam — all with a local guide who knows every shortcut and story. Expect laughter, new flavors, gentle sun, and moments you’ll want to pause before heading back to Nha Trang city.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I noticed was the water — not just blue, but that kind of blue that makes you want to jump in even if you’re still half asleep from the drive. We’d barely stepped off the boat at Hon Mieu when a local woman waved us toward Bai Tranh beach, grinning like she knew something we didn’t. The sand felt warm and gritty underfoot, and there was this faint smell of grilled fish drifting over from somewhere behind the palm trees. I tried to ask about jet skis (my Vietnamese is… let’s say “developing”), but mostly just got laughed at by our guide Linh. It was friendly though, not mocking — people here seem quick to smile.

Lunch came sooner than I expected — maybe because swimming always makes me hungry. The floating restaurant bobbed gently while we ate; I kept thinking it would tip over with every passing boat, but somehow it never did. Shrimp steamed with lemongrass hit first (that smell!), then clams with chili and these crispy bits of fried fish that disappeared fast. Linh showed us how to wrap morning glory greens around rice with a dab of sour soup. I tried copying her but mine fell apart halfway to my mouth. She just shrugged and said “style doesn’t matter if it tastes good,” which honestly made me feel better about the mess.

Hon Tam was quieter — maybe everyone else was napping after lunch? The air got heavier as we walked toward the hot mineral mud baths, like stepping into a different season for an hour or two. Slipping into that warm mud felt odd at first (like sitting in chocolate pudding?), but then my shoulders finally relaxed for the first time all week. Some older men nearby were playing cards and arguing softly; their laughter mixed with birdsong and the splash of water from the pool next door. I lost track of time until Linh called out that our ride back was waiting.

I still think about that view leaving Hon Tam — sunlight flickering on the bay and salt drying on my skin. It wasn’t what I expected from a “day trip Nha Trang islands” tour; it felt slower, more personal somehow. Maybe it’s just something about being surrounded by water and strangers who don’t stay strangers for long.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Island swimming and hot mineral baths

• Swim and relax on Hon Mieu beach
• Enjoy water sports on Hon Mieu island
• Have lunch at Floating Restaurant
• Experience hot mineral mud bathing on Hon Tam
• Swim and visit waterfalls on Hon Tam island

Top questions

How long does the 3 Islands Tour of Nha Trang last?

The tour typically runs for one day, starting around 9:30 AM and ending in the afternoon after visiting three islands.

Is lunch included on the Nha Trang islands tour?

Yes, lunch is included at a floating restaurant on Hon Mieu island with various seafood dishes.

Are mud baths included or extra cost?

Mud bath tickets at Hon Tam are included in your tour package—no extra charge.

What activities can I do on Hon Mieu island?

You can swim at Bai Tranh beach or try water sports (some may cost extra).

Is hotel pickup provided for this tour?

The tour includes pickup by air-conditioned vehicle from your accommodation or a central location.

Are there any health restrictions for this tour?

The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with poor cardiovascular health.

What should I bring for the day trip Nha Trang islands?

Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sandals, and some cash if you want to try optional water sports.

Is this tour suitable for children or infants?

Infants must sit on an adult’s lap; otherwise it’s suitable for all fitness levels.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup by air-conditioned vehicle, entry tickets for each island stop including hot mineral mud baths at Hon Tam, bottled water throughout the trip, lunch at a floating seafood restaurant on Hon Mieu island (with plenty of local specialties), plus your friendly local guide making sure everything goes smoothly until you’re back in town again.