What is Yen Island?
Yen Island (also known as Bird's Nest Island, Hòn Nội) is an island cluster within Nha Trang Bay, located approximately 25 km from Cau Da port and requiring about 1 hour 20 minutes by boat. Home to thousands of swiftlets, it is Vietnam's largest bird's nest harvesting resource area. The traditional industry of harvesting and processing bird's nests originated around 700 years ago with Nha Trang and Khánh Hòa residents.
Tour Booking & Access
Visit Only Through Organized Tours
Yen Island is managed by Sanest (Khánh Hòa Bird's Nest Company), so independent visits are not permitted. Access is allowed only through local operators or authorized travel agencies. Daily visitor numbers are limited to preserve the island's natural resources, so it is recommended to contact a travel agency in advance to book, especially during peak weekend periods.
Departure Point & Travel Time
Tours depart from Cau Da port in Nha Trang, and tickets must be purchased through Khánh Hòa Bird's Nest Company. Using a speedboat, you can arrive in approximately 40 minutes.
Price Range
Basic tour fees typically start from 490,000 VND (approximately 27,200 KRW). Please confirm exact current pricing and what is included (meals, activities, etc.) with your travel agency before booking.
Main Tourist Programs
1. Double Beach (Shuang Beach)
Double Beach is a distinctive feature of the island, where pristine white sand divides two water bodies. One side has warm currents while the other has cold currents, resulting in different water temperatures and colors. This unique geography makes it a popular photo spot.
2. Bird's Nest Cave Tour & Harvesting Observation
Visitors can learn about the traditional bird's nest harvesting industry, explore the mysterious bird's nest caves, and enjoy magnificent seascapes of Nha Trang Bay. When moving along the cave's cliffs, visitors cross bridges made of bamboo and wood.
3. Bird's Nest Harvesting Season & Best Visit Times
Bird's nest harvesting occurs twice yearly (March and August). The optimal tourist seasons are March and August, though weather remains pleasant from April through late August. From April to August is particularly popular as the dry season coincides with the bird's nest harvesting season.
4. Hon Ngoai Island
Hon Ngoai is the island with Vietnam's largest bird's nest cave. Landing is extremely restricted to protect natural resources, but the island's pristine beauty can be appreciated from a distance.
Museums & Cultural Facilities
Temple of the Nest Craftsman
Located opposite Double Beach and nestled among palm trees, the Temple of the Nest Craftsman is accessible by a short walk. It offers fascinating insights into the history and development of Yen Island and Khánh Hòa's bird's nest industry.
Bird Nest Festival
The Bird Nest Festival is designated as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage. Held annually around June 5 on Yen Island, it commemorates the achievements of ancestors, bringing together bird's nest craftsmen from Khánh Hòa and across Vietnam. Festival ceremonies include worshipping the occupational ancestor and praying for a bountiful bird's nest harvest.
What to Bring & Precautions
Essential Items
Pack swimming goggles, swimsuit, spare clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat, camera, and power bank. Motion sickness medicine, towel, and waterproof bag are also useful additions.
Travel Precautions
Waves can be high when boarding boats, so consider taking motion sickness medicine. Since visits are limited to preserve the island's natural resources, follow local guide instructions and strictly adhere to protected area restrictions.
Additional Activities
Boat rentals to nearby islands such as Hon Tem and Hon Sem are available, just minutes away. In this area with beautiful coral reefs, you can rent snorkeling equipment from locals to enjoy underwater sightseeing.
Booking & Latest Information
Tour prices, exact departure times, operating schedules, daily visitor limits, and included meals and services may vary by season. Check current rates and booking availability through travel agencies in Nha Trang or hotel concierges before making advance reservations. During peak season (April–August, especially weekends), booking at least 1–2 days in advance may be necessary.
Verify Current Information
Admission fees, operating hours, transportation, and tour inclusions may change depending on the season and operator circumstances. Please confirm through official channels before booking.