Cham Island 2 days tour on a Shoestring: My Super Cheap, Super Satisfying DIY Trip!
Cham Island pristine beaches and turquoise waters usually conjure images of pricey resorts and luxury escapes. But guess what? I just had an amazing 2-day, 1-night adventure on a shoestring budget! If you’re looking for an affordable and fulfilling island getaway, here’s how I did it:
Getting There and Around
- Ferry over Speedboat: Instead of the pricey speedboat, I opted for the public ferry from Cua Dai Beach (Hoi An). It took longer (about 1.5 hours), but the scenic ride and sea breeze were worth it, plus it saved me a significant chunk of change!
- Two-Wheeled Exploration: On the island, I rented a bicycle for only 50,000 VND per day. This allowed me to explore Hon Lao at my own pace, discover hidden beaches, and visit local villages without relying on expensive taxis.
See details >>> The schedule and prices of speed boat from Cua Dai port to Cham Island
Budget-Friendly Accommodation
Homestay Heaven: I skipped the fancy resorts and found a charming homestay in Bai Lang village. Not only was it incredibly affordable (around 200,000 VND per night), but it also gave me a chance to experience local life and enjoy authentic Vietnamese hospitality.
Affordable Eats
- Local Delights: Forget fancy restaurants! I savored delicious and affordable seafood at local eateries. Think fresh grilled fish, steaming bowls of “bun rieu” (crab noodle soup), and mouthwatering seafood spring rolls.
- Market Finds: I explored the local market, where I found fresh fruits, snacks, and local treats for a fraction of the price at touristy spots.
Cham Island 2 day tour Itinerary
Day 1
- Morning speed boat / ferry to Cham Island.
- Checked into my homestay in Bai Lang village.
- Rented a bicycle and explored the island, including Bai Ong and Bai Xep beaches.
- Snorkel adventure at Bai Chong Beach.
- Delicious seafood dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2
- Early morning hike to the Hai Tang Pagoda for panoramic views.
- Relaxed on Bai Bim beach, soaking up the sun and swimming in the crystal-clear water.
- Enjoyed a final seafood lunch before catching the afternoon ferry back to Hoi An.
Total Cost: (Excluding travel to Hoi An)
- Speed boat: 500,000 VND (round trip)
- Accommodation: 200,000 VND
- Motor bike Rental: 100,000 VND (2 days)
- Food: Approximately 300,000 VND
- Snorkeling Gear Rental: 50,000 VND
- Total: Around 750,000 VND (approximately $32 USD)
Cham Island doesn’t have to break the bank! By making smart choices with transportation, accommodation, and food, I had an incredibly fulfilling and affordable island adventure. With its stunning natural beauty, friendly locals, and laid-back atmosphere, Cham Island tour is a must-visit, even on a tight budget.
