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.

Hire a boat captain at the Bastimentos boat dock on Main Street or arrange a tour with a tour operator and they will navigate you up the Bahia Honda River. You will then hike for about 20 minutes before reaching Bocas' most spectacular cave located in the Bastimentos National Marine Park. There’s a guide from the Bahia Honda community who will take you through the cave. The water comes up pretty high so expect to get wet. There are other bat caves in the area but not as impressive as Nivida.

A few kilometres south of central Nha Trang lie several floating villages, whose inhabitants make a living by fishing and fish farming. It's a world fascinating to foreign visitors in its stark contrast to city life, both in Vietnam and beyond. The trip makes for an interesting excursion, and visits support local communities. The best way to visit is as part of an organised boat tour – these often include a stop at a floating fishing village in the itinerary.