Nha Trang is lined with an uninterrupted, fine stretch of sand: the Tran Phu Beach. This is the beach most used by both locals and tourists, with infrastructure such as changing rooms and bathrooms available throughout at a fee. Although the beach works great for recreation, it's far from being the area's cleanest and most attractive. Alternatives worth exploring include the Bai Dai Beach, frequented by surfers. Bai Tien Beach (stones rather than sand), beaches on nearby islands (such as Bai Tru on Hon Tre, and Hon Tam Island beach). The beautiful Diep Son Beach is known for the spectacular underwater sand path leading to the island (only seen in full during low tide). If you're ready to travel further out, Jungle Beach is a great option but will take a couple of hours to reach. Surrounded by nature and fascinating flora and fauna, this beach is popular with both off-the-beaten-trackers and resort vacationers staying at the nearby Jungle Beach Resort.

One of Nha Trang's most alluring attractions is the Po Nagar Cham Towers, an actively used site of religious significance to Cham, Chinese and Vietnamese Buddhists; only 4 towers remain standing (researchers speculate there may have originally been up to 10). Constructed between the 7th and 12th centuries, the towers have a history that goes back to as early as the 2nd century AD when the location was first used for religious purposes. The complex teems with worshippers and visitors daily – you'll likely see some dozing on the hillside, others having a family picnic, and others yet enjoying a stylised performance at the on-site outdoor stage.

Inaugurated in 2009 to honour Buddha, this golden pagoda has become a major attraction in Mumbai. Loved for its golden decor and massive stone dome, the Global Vipassana Pagoda is surrounded by nature, and the Dhamma Pattana meditation centre offers free 10-day meditation courses.