Khanh Hoa a 'rising star' of Vietnamese tourism, says US magazine

In an exploratory article, the US-based magazine considered Khanh Hoa’s potential after being merged with neighboring Ninh Thuan Province. TTW noted that such a unified region would become a culturally rich destination, supported by diverse accommodation and entertainment services, significantly enhancing Vietnam's international tourism appeal.

The Ponagar Tower on Cu Lao Hill in Nha Trang. Photo by Xuan Ngoc

According to TTW, an expanded Khanh Hoa would encompass some of Southeast Asia’s most attractive islands and beaches, laying a solid foundation for tourism recovery and drawing in travelers ranging from adventure enthusiasts to luxury seekers.

"Khanh Hoa Province is taking giant leaps forward in renewing its tourism sector, unveiling a string of new products geared toward attracting both domestic and international tourists", TTW wrote. "With the inclusion of its recently consolidated Ninh Thuan Province, Khanh Hoa is blessed with a veritable trove of natural and cultural heritage that makes it a rising star for Vietnam’s cultural, eco, and community-based tours."

One of the standout strengths of the former Ninh Thuan Province is its rich Champa cultural heritage. TTW highlights the opportunity for tourists to explore ancient architecture and centuries-old traditional craft villages, complementing Khanh Hoa’s existing strengths in coastal tourism and infrastructure.

The core zone ecosystem at Nui Chua World Biosphere Reserve in Ninh Thuan. Photo by Huynh Van Truyen

TTW further emphasized the region's potential for ecological tourism, spotlighting diverse experiences from coastal resorts and culinary tours to agricultural and mountainous adventures. Visitors can relax at premier beaches such as Bai Dai, Vinh Hy, Binh Tien, and Ninh Chu, or savor fresh seafood at local markets and coastal eateries.

Agricultural tourism, an emerging trend, is also featured prominently. Plantations in Cam Lam and vineyards in Phan Rang offer visitors immersive, hands-on farming experiences. Additionally, the UNESCO-recognized Nui Chua National Park, famed for its biodiversity, and Mui Dinh sand dunes, popular for sandboarding and trekking, rank among the region’s top attractions.

The magazine commended local efforts to promote regional connectivity for multi-destination tourism. Proposed routes such as Nha Trang - Ninh Hai - Da Lat or Nha Trang - Mui Dinh - Mui Ne enable travelers to conveniently explore sea, highlands, and forests in one trip. TTW advised travelers, however, to carefully plan their itineraries for a seamless experience.

Runners at the start line of the VnExpress Marathon Nha Trang 2024. Photo by VnExpress Marathon

To further enhance its appeal, Khanh Hoa actively hosts international cultural, entertainment, and sporting events. Programs such as the Sea Festival, yachting festivals, and the VnExpress Marathon stimulate tourism, benefiting airlines, accommodation providers, and culinary services.

The VnExpress Marathon Libera Nha Trang 2025, in particular, has grown into a significant annual sporting event. Last year, it attracted over 11,000 athletes, including more than 500 international runners, underscoring the strength and attractiveness of sports tourism.

With its wealth of experiences and strategic destination development initiatives, Khanh Hoa is well-positioned to emerge as a leading tourism hub in Vietnam, distinguished by cultural depth, natural beauty, and innovative tourism services.