“Khanh Hoa Accelerates Green Tourism Development, Aiming for a Leading International Marine Tourism Hub”

With its lengthy coastline boasting over 200 large and small islands and world-renowned bays such as Nha Trang, Cam Ranh, and Van Phong, Khanh Hoa has earned the title of Vietnam’s “sea tourism capital.” However, amid rapid development and environmental challenges, Khanh Hoa is undergoing a significant transformation, not only as a center for island tourism but also as a pioneer in sustainable sea tourism.

The recent announcement of Khanh Hoa’s Green Tourism Standards marks a pivotal moment in the province’s strategy to reshape its tourism industry. These standards serve not only as a “filter” to classify and enhance service quality but also as a strong commitment to protecting marine resources, preserving cultural identity, and adapting to climate change.

Introducing the Green Tourism Standards of Khanh Hoa Province.

Over the years, Khanh Hoa has solidified its position on the global tourism map, consistently earning recognition: from being named among the top 15 summer destinations worldwide by Mastercard Economics Institute (2025) to ranking in the top 8 retirement resorts by Travel+Leisure (2024), and most recently, making it to the list of ideal slow tourism spots in Asia according to Agoda. Behind these accolades lies a diverse range of experiences: from luxurious resorts along Nha Trang’s bays, such as Vinpearl, Six Senses, and The Anam, to yacht cruises, water sports, scuba diving, and mud baths.

Nha Trang, Khanh Hoa – One of the Top 15 Summer Destinations Worldwide.

However, the rapid development and increasing tourist pressure pose significant challenges to the marine environment, including coral reef degradation, plastic waste, and ecosystem disruption. Shifting towards green sea tourism is not only an urgent necessity but also a response to the new tourism consumption trend, where travelers increasingly seek environmentally friendly, culturally immersive, and community-contributing experiences.

The recently published Green Tourism Standards for Khanh Hoa Province is a testament to this commitment. These standards will serve as a basis for evaluating resorts, travel companies, restaurants, beaches, and other attractions based on criteria such as energy conservation, use of eco-friendly materials, marine environment protection, plastic waste reduction, community education, and ecological conservation.

Bai Dai in Cam Ranh boasts a long stretch of pristine beach.

Speaking at the announcement ceremony for the Green Tourism Standards, Vice Chairman of the Provincial People’s Committee, Dinh Van Thieu, stated: “This is the result of the local government’s cooperative efforts with businesses and experts and clearly demonstrates our determination to shift to a tourism growth model that aligns with global trends. Khanh Hoa is committed to providing strong leadership, creating favorable mechanisms, and accompanying businesses in the process of applying and replicating these Green Tourism Standards.”

In parallel, the province of Khanh Hoa is also developing its tourism strategy for the period of 2025-2030, with a vision towards 2045. The goal is to establish Nha Trang as an international sea tourism hub, showcasing the unique characteristics of the South Central Coast region.

Khanh Hoa has the potential to become a model for green sea tourism.

Many experts believe that Khanh Hoa has the potential to become a model for green sea tourism in Vietnam, provided it leverages the three key elements: nature, people, and technology, in a holistic manner.

Khanh Hoa’s tourism businesses also emphasize the importance of taking the lead in adopting renewable energy and waste-free tourism while developing immersive experiences, wellness programs, and environmental education centered around the marine and island context. Such offerings will not only attract international tourists but also create a distinct identity for Nha Trang tourism amid fierce regional competition.

Recently, Long Phu Tourism Joint Stock Company launched its Green Tourism program with the message, “Clean Island, Green Sea – We Need Your Help.” As part of this initiative, the company has implemented a regulation prohibiting the use of non-biodegradable plastic items in the Hon Lan Tourist Area and Monkey Island Tourist Area, effective June 1st.

Long Phu Tourism Joint Stock Company promotes a clean island and green sea with the message: “We Need Your Help.”

Mr. Tran Minh Duc, Director of Long Phu Tourism Joint Stock Company, shared, “We launched the green tourism program to create a sustainable, eco-friendly, and waste-free tourism environment, protecting the natural ecosystem and wildlife. We aim for every staff member and visitor to become environmental ambassadors, spreading the message of ‘Clean Island, Green Sea – We Need Your Help.'”

Dual-compartment trash bins are placed on the islands and docks to encourage proper waste segregation.