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Cam Ranh Layover Guide (CXR)

What are you looking for in CXR?
Tours/To do | Relax/Sleep | Internet/SIM | Transport | Storage | Money

Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR) is an international airport located in Cam Ranh, Khánh Hòa Province, Vietnam. It’s located about 35 km (22 miles) from downtown Nha Trang. The airport first opened officially in 2004. Nha Trang is a coastal city on Vietnam’s south-central coast and it is considered one of the country’s premier beach destinations. It’s also known for its turquoise waters and for its diving and water sports.

Can you leave Cam Ranh Airport (CXR) airport during a layover? Do you need a visa?
You can leave Cam Ranh Airport (CXR) during a layover exceeding six hours if you hold a valid multiple-entry visa or qualify for a visa exemption. Single-entry tourist visas or e-visas must be secured in advance via official channels. No visa-free transit is offered here. Travelers should verify requirements beforehand. (more info).

Tours, Things to do, Sightseeing

Layover Guide Organized Tours

Layover Guide Things to do / Sightseeing

• Bãi Dài Beach Relax on the pristine white sands of Bãi Dài Beach, swim in warm turquoise waters, sunbathe under swaying palms, and enjoy fresh seafood at nearby shacks by the sea. (Time required: 2–3 hours / Airport to here: Taxi ~30 min or shuttle bus)
• Po Nagar Cham Towers Explore the ancient Po Nagar Cham Towers complex, admire intricate Hindu Cham architecture, climb stone steps for river vistas, and learn about Cham heritage amidst tropical gardens and temple ruins. (Time required: 1–2 hours / Airport to here: Taxi ~35 min or Grab)
• Tháp Bà Mud Baths Indulge in therapeutic Tháp Bà mud baths, soak in mineral-rich hot spring pools, experience skin-rejuvenating mud treatments, and unwind in hydrotherapy baths surrounded by lush tropical greenery. (Time required: 1.5–2 hours / Airport to here: Taxi ~30 min)
• VinWonders Nha Trang Spend a fun-filled day at VinWonders amusement and water park featuring thrilling rides, slides, wave pools, and live performances on an island just off Nha Trang’s coast. (Time required: 4–5 hours / Airport to here: Taxi ~40 min + cable car)
• Hon Mun Snorkeling Take a boat to Hon Mun Marine Protected Area for snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, swim with tropical fish, and enjoy an onboard seafood lunch in crystal-clear waters. (Time required: 3–4 hours / Airport to here: Taxi ~45 min to pier + boat)
• Long Sơn Pagoda Visit Long Sơn Pagoda to see the giant white Buddha statue, wander serene temple grounds, and climb the hill for panoramic views of Nha Trang city and coastline. (Time required: 1–1.5 hours / Airport to here: Taxi ~30 min)
• Nha Trang Night Market Stroll through Nha Trang Night Market, sample local street foods, shop handicrafts and souvenirs, and soak up vibrant nighttime atmosphere steps from the beach. (Time required: 1–2 hours / Airport to here: Taxi ~30 min or public bus)
• Monkey Island Kayaking Paddle through the tranquil mangroves of Monkey Island, spot wildlife, explore hidden lagoons, and experience a peaceful eco-tour away from city crowds. (Time required: 2–3 hours / Airport to here: Taxi ~40 min to launch point + kayak)

Things to Do in Cam Ranh Airport (CXR)

Relaxing and Sleeping

Airport Lounges and Relaxing
Cam Ranh Airport offers two main pay-per-use lounges: the Sun Coast Lounge (International Departures, Terminal 2, 08:00–02:30) and the SH Premium Lounge (Priority Pass, Terminal 1). Both feature comfortable seating, complimentary snacks, hot and cold beverages, fast Wi-Fi, charging stations, and basic workstations. Access is via membership, lounge passes, or instant online booking. » view all lounges or buy a lounge pass or membership online

Hotel and Sleeping
While Cam Ranh Airport has no on-site hotel, numerous properties lie within a five-minute drive. Options range from budget inns in Cam Nghĩa town to upscale resorts like Wyndham Grand KN Paradise, The Empyrean, and Joy Seaview. Free hotel shuttles or taxis deliver guests directly to comfortable rooms, swimming pools, and 24-hour front desk services. view all or book an airport hotel online

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Rest Area and Sleeping in Airport
Designated rest zones are located near gates 3 and 6 in both terminals, offering rows of recliner chairs and quiet corners. Although dedicated sleep pods or sleeping rooms are not available, travelers can find semi-private seating areas with power outlets. Soft lighting and minimal foot traffic during overnight hours make these spots ideal for a short nap.

WIFI/Internet and SIM Card

WIFI/Internet: Cam Ranh Airport provides unlimited free Wi-Fi throughout both domestic and international terminals. Simply select the “#MegaNet Free” network, launch your browser, and accept the terms. Coverage extends to all public and transit areas, offering reliable speeds for browsing, messaging, and simple work tasks. No password or time limit is required.

SIM/eSIM Card: Pre-paid SIM cards from Vietnam’s leading carriers—Vietnamobile, MobiFone, and Vinaphone—are sold at kiosks in the Luggage Claim and Arrival Halls. Packages typically include 4G data, local minutes, and SMS starting from US $5. eSIM plans can be arranged online before arrival and activated instantly upon landing at the airport. » Find out where and how to buy SIM card/eSIM in our Cam Ranh Airport (CXR) sim/eSim page.

Transportation to/from airport

Taxi: Meters run by Mai Linh and Vinasun taxis wait at dedicated stands outside arrival exits. A ride to Nha Trang city center costs about 350,000–400,000 VND and takes roughly 45 minutes. Ride-hailing apps like Grab also operate, offering upfront fares and varied vehicle options. Vehicles are available 24/7, with English-friendly drivers often on standby.

Train: Although no railway line serves the airport directly, Cam Ranh Railway Station lies about 9 km away. A shuttle van or taxi can transfer passengers in about 15 minutes to catch Vietnam Railways services. Trains on the North–South Railway connect north to Hanoi and south to Ho Chi Minh City. (more info)

Bus: Dat Moi Express buses depart from the Reception Hall from 04:30 to 19:30 daily, serving central Nha Trang for 65,000 VND per person. Vehicles feature air conditioning and luggage compartments, dropping travelers at major hotels and the city bus station. Tickets are sold at the airport booth. (more info)

Shuttle: Several beach and resort hotels offer complimentary shuttle services; schedules must be booked in advance. Shared minibuses run between the airport and popular coastal areas like Bai Dai Beach and Vinpearl Land. Timetables vary but typically align with flight arrivals. Airport information counters can confirm availability and pre-book seats for onward transfers.

Car rentals: Major international and local agencies—including Avis, Hertz, and Asianrentals—maintain desks in the Arrival Halls. Vehicles range from compact cars to SUVs. Drivers must present an international driving permit and a credit card for deposit. Daily rates start around US $30, with flexible hourly or weekly rental options and optional insurance packages. view available cars or rent a car now online

Parking: Cam Ranh Airport offers short- and long-term parking in two lots adjacent to each terminal. The first 30 minutes are free, then rates begin at 10,000 VND per hour. Covered and open-air bays are available, with electronic payment via cash, card, or mobile app. Shuttle carts operate between remote lots and terminal entrances.

Luggage Storage & Lockers

A staffed luggage storage counter operates 24/7 in the International Arrivals Hall, accepting bags for hourly (20,000 VND) or daily (100,000 VND) rates. Although no automated lockers exist, the service includes secure tagging and retrieval. Lost-and-found procedures are managed at the same desk, ensuring safe handling of oversized or delicate items. » book a luggage storage or locker at online (subject to availability).

Money Exchange and Withdrawal

- Cam Ranh Airport (CXR) ATMs, currency exchanges and banks