The Cu Lao Cham – Hoi An World Biosphere Reserve carries the mission of conserving and developing coastal and marine resources for the central coastal region of Vietnam.
On May 26, 2009, at Jeju Island, South Korea, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) recognized Cu Lao Cham – Hoi An as a World Biosphere Reserve.
The biosphere is a part of the Earth formed by the close interaction of three spheres: the lithosphere, the atmosphere, and the hydrosphere, within which living matter and the products they create exist. Its upper boundary is the densest layer of the ozone layer (about 25 km), while its lower boundaries extend to the deepest part of the ocean floor (about 11 km) and the base of the weathering crust.
The Cu Lao Cham – Hoi An World Biosphere Reserve covers a total area of 33,737 hectares, including the entire mainland area of Hoi An City and the marine zone defined by the boundary points of the Cu Lao Cham (Cham island) Marine Protected Area connected to the inland boundary points of Hoi An. It is divided into three functional zones: the core area, the buffer zone, and the transition zone.
- Core Area: This includes all the islets and functional zones (strictly protected zone, ecological restoration zone, development zone, and sustainable exploitation zone) within the Cu Lao Cham Marine Protected Area. Covering an area of 11,560 hectares, the core area primarily fulfills the conservation function of the Cu Lao Cham – Hoi An World Biosphere Reserve through the operations of the Marine Protected Area and the Cu Lao Cham Special-Use Forest Conservation force.
- Buffer Zone: This consists of the marine area surrounding the core zone, along with the entire system of rivers, canals, natural lakes, natural wetlands, and beaches of Hoi An City, covering an area of 20,660 hectares. It is home to important ecosystems closely connected to the core zone, including the sea, rivers, wetlands, mangrove forests, tidal flats, beaches, sand dunes, and estuaries. The buffer zone plays a crucial role in regulating water quality before it flows into the sea and in maintaining ecological connectivity between the mainland and the ocean.
- Transition Zone: This covers the remaining part of Hoi An City with an area of 1,517 hectares, highlighted by the Hoi An Ancient Town – a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site – along with traditional craft villages that reflect the harmony and interaction between humans and nature.
HIGHLIGHTS
Beaches of Cu Lao Cham: Cu Lao Cham is home to many beautiful beaches such as Bai Ong, Bai Chong, Bai Lang, and Bai Xep. Among them, Bai Ong is a favorite stop for visitors, offering restaurants, fresh-water bathing services, and serving as the starting point for water sports activities such as coral diving. Bai Lang and Bai Huong are quieter beaches, ideal for relaxation and leisure.
In addition to its stunning beaches, Cham island also offers many other fascinating destinations for those wishing to explore more deeply the island’s culture, history, and nature. Visitors can stop by Tan Hiep Market, where they will find local specialties, or visit the Cu Lao Cham Marine Conservation Center to learn about the area’s rich biodiversity. Another interesting attraction is the Heritage Banyan Tree, a natural symbol closely associated with the island’s history and culture.
In addition, Cu Lao Cham is notable for its historical sites, valuable architectural works, and traditional crafts recognized as National Relics. These include two archaeological sites: Bai Ong Site and Bai Lang Site; five historical sites: Tien Hien Temple, Xom Cam Well, Ancestor Temple of the Swiftlet Nest Harvesting Craft, Ong Ngu Mausoleum, and Co Hon Mausoleum (Am Linh Temple); one architectural relic: Hai Tang Pagoda; and two traditional crafts inscribed as Intangible Cultural Heritage on the National List: the Thanh Chau – Hoi An swiftlet nest harvesting craft and the craft of weaving sedge hammocks in Cu Lao Cham.
TRANSPORTATION
To reach Cham island, visitors can choose to travel by high-speed canoe or wooden boat, depending on their preferences and personal needs.
- High-speed canoes are the most popular and fastest means of transport, taking only about 15–20 minutes from Cua Dai Port (Hoi An) or other docks. This option is favored by many visitors for its convenience and speed.
- Wooden boats are another option; however, the travel time is longer, about 90 minutes. They are typically used by local residents and for group trips.
In addition to the canoe or wooden boat fare, visitors should note a few additional fees: the Cu Lao Cham entrance fee of 70,000 VND per person and the environmental protection and security fee of 20,000 VND per person. Children under 12 months old are exempt, while children from 1 to under 8 years old receive a 50% discount on the adult ticket price.
SUGGESTED ITINERARY
Best Time to Visit: Cham island is renowned for its stunning natural scenery, from pristine white sandy beaches to primeval forests and rich marine ecosystems. The ideal time to visit Cu Lao Cham is from March to August, when the weather is stable, the sea is calm, and the skies are clear. During this period, boats operate regularly, making it convenient for visitors to travel to the island. However, from September to February, while Cu Lao Cham remains open to visitors, this is the rainy and stormy season in Central Vietnam. Rough seas and unstable weather conditions may affect transportation, especially by boat. Still, if you wish to experience the island’s untouched beauty during this time, be prepared for possible disruptions to your trip and ensure you monitor weather forecasts for the best preparation. Tourism services such as canoes or boats may not operate consistently due to rough sea conditions.
Other Notes: When visiting Cu Lao Cham, tourists are required to observe the following regulations: Comply with specific rules at each destination; Do not bring plastic bags when visiting the island; Wear life jackets while swimming, snorkeling, and traveling by boat; Do not hunt wild animals; Do not step on, exploit, or harvest coral and marine species within strictly protected areas; Only consume stone crabs labeled with eco-certification; Wear appropriate attire when visiting cultural and religious sites.
Cu Lao Cham, with its natural beauty and rich ecosystems, truly deserves to be one of the most attractive destinations in Central Vietnam. It captivates visitors not only with its beautiful beaches and exciting activities but also with the unique culture of the island’s local community. A trip to Cham island will surely leave every visitor with unforgettable memories.
DA NANG TOURISM PROMOTION CENTER
