Are you ready for an unforgettable journey into the depths of the ocean? Look no further than the Oceanographic Museum of Vietnam. Located at 1 Cau Da St., just 5km from the heart of Nha Trang City, this grand French-colonial building has been captivating visitors since its opening on September 14th, 1922. With its rich history and fascinating exhibits, it continues to be a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists.
History & Location
The museum is nestled at the foot of the outcrop where Bao Dai Village stands, offering a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape. Its location alone is enough to capture your attention, but the wonders within are not to be missed.
What To See
Prepare to be amazed by the extensive collection of marine life from the Eastern Sea. This museum showcases a diverse array of sea creatures from various regions, including the bays of Thailand, the archipelagoes of Paracels (Hoàng Sa) and Spratlys (Truong Sa), the shore regions of Vietnam, and the Gulf of Vat Bo. From reef sharks and turtles to living coral and colorful reef species, this museum provides a unique opportunity to witness the beauty and diversity of the Eastern Sea.
The museum’s collection extends over two floors. On the ground floor, you’ll find fish tanks of varying sizes that house an impressive array of marine life. Every type of fish you would encounter in the sea area of Khanh Hoa Province is beautifully displayed, complete with labels indicating their name, origin, and characteristics in both Vietnamese and English.
Venture to the upper floor to explore the world of marine specimens, local boats, fishing artifacts, and an astonishing 18-meter-long whale skeleton. With over 20,000 tropical marine creatures, including rare species preserved in formaldehyde solution, this museum offers a true feast for the eyes. Don’t miss the opportunity to see endemic species from Kampuchean Vietnamese seas and nearby countries, such as the elusive dugong or sea cow. Kids, in particular, will be thrilled to encounter giant tropical turtles and crocodiles.
In addition to the museum’s aquariums, there are themed rooms dedicated to marine science, showcasing the history of research equipment and technology. From the fascinating world of algae and phytoplankton in “From Light to Life” to the microscopic aquatic organisms in “Life in a Drop of Water,” these rooms provide insight into the wonders of the underwater world. Other rooms illustrate coastal natural disasters, sacred legends, and the rich fishing culture of Vietnam.
How To Get There
The museum is open from 6.00AM to 6.00PM, with an entrance fee of VND 30,000 per adult. Getting there is convenient whether you’re traveling by motorbike or car.
Ready to dive into the secrets of the ocean? Come and experience the Oceanographic Museum of Vietnam for yourself. Don’t miss out on this truly unique opportunity to explore the wonders of the Eastern Sea.
Useful Information:
- Location: Oceanographic Museum Of Vietnam
- Best for: Family, Couple, Solo
- Entrance: VND 30,000/adult
- Hours: 6.00AM – 6.00PM
- Distance to city center: 3.7km (2.3 mi)
