Introducing Cu Lao Cham, the precious gem of Da Nang – Hoi An
Cu Lao Cham is an island located in Tan Hiep commune, Hoi An city, Quang Nam province, located about 16km from Cua Dai beach. Currently, Cu Lao Cham is recognized by UNESCO as a world biosphere reserve. Cu Lao Cham Island consists of 10 beaches, the most beautiful is Hon Lao and there are currently about 3,000 people living on the island.
Cu Lao Cham Island not only possesses a rich and diverse ecosystem of fish, birds and plants, but is also known for preserving many valuable relics for hundreds of years. Currently, these places are kept and preserved mainly to serve tourists.
Famous tourist destinations in Cu Lao Cham
Champa ancient well
Cu Lao Cham has many typical historical relics, of course, we cannot help but mention Champa ancient well. The well is located about 500m northeast of the pre-Sa Huynh Bai Ong site and about 300m southwest of Bai Lang archaeological site. The well is designed with bold Cham architecture and was classified as a historical relic in 2006. Up to now, the ancient well, up to 200 years old, is a typical destination for many curious tourists who want to set foot in a unique place time.
Hai Tang Pagoda – sacred temple in Cu Lao Cham
Although not hundreds of years old like some other temples in Da Nang, Hai Tang Pagoda is known as a spiritual living spot for people on the island. People often come here to pray for peace for their families as well as for good harvests and to avoid natural disasters.
Cu Lao Cham Marine Protected Area
As a place to preserve rare and endangered marine creatures that need to be protected, the marine reserve is located in Bai Lang. This will also be a truly meaningful experience, giving visitors the opportunity to learn more about the Cu Lao Cham ecosystem as well as the beauty of the pearl island.
Diving to see the coral reefs of Cu Lao Cham
Not only is it the first place to discover coral in Vietnam, but coral in Cu Lao Cham is also very rich with more than 300 species of coral, belonging to 40 genera and 17 families. Therefore, the coral diving service is extremely developed, a highlight of Cu Lao Cham tours that tourists love.
Bai Chong, Bai Huong
The beaches on Cu Lao Cham island are known as the most attractive places for tourists, with fine golden sand along with the poetic space of mountains and forests, you can freely splash around in the cool water. Feel the full vitality of the pearl island. If Bai Chong has a smooth beach that is ranked among the best on Hon Lao, then Bai Huong is famous for its fishing and seafood fishing villages.
Famous specialties
Squid 1 sunshine
When talking about Cu Lao Cham specialties, it must definitely be 1-sun-dried squid. The squid has just been caught, washed and dried in the sun for 1 sun so that the squid has just dried but still has a fresh, sweet and chewy taste. Just grill until fragrant, dip with chili sauce and it’s extremely delicious.
Vu nang snail
This is a precious snail species that lives near steep rocky cliffs. The snail has firm and extremely delicious meat, better than any snail you have ever eaten. They appear most often on full moon days, living in every crevice of rocks. To catch them, fishermen have to soak in water for many hours and use lights to remove snails. Nang breast snails are best when steamed, seasoned with ginger sauce, or made into a salad or grilled, they are all great.
Grilled oysters
Cu Lao Cham Island is located in the middle of a vast ocean so there are many oysters, the most popular among guests is still the grilled oysters with onion fat. Oysters are inherently fatty, so you just need to brush them with a little seasoning and grill them, then sprinkle some onion and peanut fat on top and you can enjoy them while they’re still hot.