Bai Ong Beach, Cham Islands: A Local’s Honest Invitation
If you’re looking for a perfectly structured, textbook-style article with all the boring details… well, I apologize, this is not that place. I am a local, a genuine (native) of Cham Islands, and I’ve been connected to Bai Ong for so many years. I want to share my thoughts with you in the most genuine voice possible, like a sincere invitation.
See more >>> The speedboat from Cua Dai port to Cham Island (Bai ong beach)
Let’s skip those flowery phrases like “Bai Ong is the biggest, most beautiful beach…” Yeah, it is big, it is beautiful. But for me, Bai Ong beach on Cham Islands (Da Nang) is more than just a beach. It’s where I make my living, where the cool coconut palms offer shade for my midday hammock nap, and where the village’s small fishing boats gently bob in the distance. Basically, it’s home! Crucially, Bai Ong boasts the best services among all the beaches on Cham Islands, just so you know.
Why Bai Ong? (This is Important!)
Cham Islands have Bai Lang, Bai Chong, Bai Huong… each with its own charm. But if you’re the type of person who enjoys reasonable amenities while still feeling like you’re on a genuine “getaway,” then Bai Ong is the effortless choice.
It’s located on the Northwest side of Hon Lao (the largest island!), part of Tan Hiep island commune. It’s easy to find; just get on the island, and everyone will point you to Bai Ong. The precise location is within Da Nang City.
Cham Islands Speedboat
Bai Ong’s Unique Features (My Personal Take)
- The Sea: Crystal clear, naturally. But the shoreline here is very gentle and shallow, making it safer for children to swim. The waves are also calm. In the late afternoon, schools of small fish often dart toward the shore—it’s lovely!
- The Legendary “Coconut Road”: The towering, lush coconut grove here provides a cool, unparalleled resting space. You’ll find deck chairs and hammocks set up underneath. I challenge you to find a more “chill” spot! *Note: These chairs are cheap to rent for the whole day.
- Services: Because the local population is concentrated here, services at Bai Ong are less scattered than at other beaches. Food, equipment rental, fresh water showers… everything is readily available, so you don’t feel stranded. Arriving at Bai Ong feels just like entering a small, welcoming village.
- Other spots like Bai Chong, often included in group tours, are beautiful, but sometimes going alone feels a bit… lonely. Bai Ong always has people around. It just feels familiar!
Cham Island travel guide
Getting to the Island and Bai Ong – Essential Info!
The “Golden” Time – When I Usually Go!
Well, you can technically go anytime, but I highly recommend visiting from March through the end of August. After August, the sea can get rough, and boat trips can easily cause motion sickness. That’s why the high speedboat canoe is the preferred choice.
The Route to Bai Ong – Speed or Leisure?
To reach Bai Ong, you first need to get to the Cham Islands tour.
From Hoi An to Cham Islands
- Speed boat: Departs from Cua Dai, takes 20 minutes. Quick and convenient. Price is about 500,000 VND/round trip (already includes the 100k entrance and ecological fees). This is fast but can be crowded. Suitable for group day tours.
- Local Market Boat (Leisurely and Cheap): Also from Cua Dai pier, but takes a whole 90 minutes. Suitable for those who love cruising the sea or backpackers wanting to save money. 200,000 VND/one way. *Note: You must purchase the 100,000 VND entrance fee separately for this option!
From Cham Islands (Bai Lang) to Bai Ong
Once you arrive at Bai Lang (the main port), Bai Ong is close. You can rent a motorbike (around 1250,000 VND/day) or take a motorbike taxi (Xe Om). It’s a short ride, only about 10-15 minutes! To reach other beaches, you often need to take a small ferry or boat.
What to Do and Eat at Bai Ong? – My Real-World Tips!
What to Play at Bai Ong?
Swimming in the sea is a given. But besides that, you must try these:
- Snorkeling/Coral Diving (Absolutely Do Not Miss!): This is the soul of any Cham Islands day tour. The coral reefs beneath the waters of Bai Ong/Hon Lao are incredibly diverse and colorful. I see tourists resurfacing, constantly exclaiming in awe. It’s best to book an all-inclusive diving tour for convenience.
- Small Note: Please don’t break the coral! The island’s regulations are strict, and more importantly, we must protect it!
- Check in at the Wooden Bridge: That long wooden pier leading out to the sea has become the “symbol” of Bai Ong. Stand there and snap a photo—with the faint green mountains in the distance and the clear water beneath your feet—it’s enough for a year’s worth of “virtual living” photos!
- Giant Inflatable Water Park: Kids (and adults, too!) love this activity. Jumping, sliding on the sea—it’s an adrenaline rush!
- Camping (My Personal Favorite): Rent a small tent, lie down, listen to the waves, and gaze at the unbelievably sparkling night sky of Cham Islands. Waking up to the sunrise over Bai Ong… honestly, it’s flawless!
What to Eat at Bai Ong?
Along the Bai Ong shore, you’ll find restaurants and eateries lined up. The seafood is incredibly fresh, just hauled in from the sea.
Must-Try Dishes (It’s a wasted trip if you don’t eat these)
- Da Crab (Rock Crab): This crab lives in the rocky mountains and is only available in summer. Its meat is firm, sweet, and naturally fragrant. Cooking it in porridge or steaming it with beer is “out of this world.” It is a bit expensive, so don’t be surprised! This is a Cham Islands specialty.
- Oc Vu Nang (Nipple Snail): Strange name, but the meat is crunchy, and dipping it in ginger fish sauce is the best.
- Rau Rung Mam Nem (Wild Vegetables with Fermented Fish Sauce): The island’s characteristic mixed vegetable dish. Eating it alongside seafood perfectly balances the palate.
My Suggestion: Just take a stroll, find a busy place with fresh seafood on display, and dive in. Feel free to ask for the price beforehand to be sure. The food should be enjoyed under the cool coconut shade, eating while looking at the sea… that feeling is truly different!
tour cù lao chàm
“Made in Cham Islands” Local Advice
- Sunscreen: The sun on this island is intense; if you don’t apply it, you’ll turn into a “boiled shrimp.” Remember to bring a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses too!
- No Plastic Bags: This is a mandatory island rule to protect the environment. Any plastic bags you bring will be confiscated. Please use paper or cloth bags. Don’t let the officials take them away!
- Accommodation: Lodging at Bai Ong and across the island mainly consists of homestays and guesthouses run by locals (like me!). You won’t find large, luxury hotels yet. If you plan to stay overnight, book ahead, especially during peak season.
- Documentation: You’ll need your ID/Citizen Card/Passport for renting motorbikes or boats. Keep it handy in your wallet. This is important; don’t forget it!
All in all, Bai Ong, Cham Islands, is a place you should visit. It’s not just about the beautiful scenery but also the feeling of peace and slowness. Once you’re here, just let everything happen naturally; don’t rush.
Come and you’ll understand why I love this Bai Ong so much! If you get a chance, stop by my place; I’ll treat you to a delicious Cham Islands coconut water! Wishing you a memorable trip to Bai Ong, Cham Islands!
