Forget Bali and Phuket, Vietnam’s Cam Ranh is the newest coastal sensation. Situated on the southern coast, this lesser-known gem offers the seclusion and luxury of one of the world’s most in-demand beach destinations, but without the crowds or commercial sheen.
A short ride from the vibrant Nha Trang, Cam Ranh is on a rapid rise as a premier resort locale, thanks to its pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and a growing collection of upscale beachfront resorts, such as the prestigious Alma Resorts.
Sprawling some 300,000 square metres of land on Cam Ranh Bay’s prime coastline, Alma Resorts offers an around-the-clock paradise for nature lovers and families. Conceived by ONG & ONG, Feigin Architects, and ARA Design, with landscapes by Intaran Design, the resort embraces a design mandate of contemporary and cosiness, evident in its 196 pavilions and 384 suites.
During Christmas, I stayed in one of its beach-front pavilions, and it was sublime. Upon arrival, I was greeted with warm mule wine and top-notch service. My suite, a serene retreat accessible via a charming buggy ride, was a haven of tranquillity with expansive living areas, a suite bedroom, and guest bathroom – all complemented by a stunning private infinity pool that gave way to killer ocean and island views.
By the private pool is a discreet shortcut to the nearby soft, white sands of the beach. Even in the cooler winter months, a morning stroll along the shore was a pleasure, with the unruly surf and ridges hemming the bay providing a rather dramatic backdrop that entices the walk. Safety is paramount here, with flags signalling when swimming conditions are less than ideal.
The morning’s highlight was the “floating breakfast” in the private pool – a lavish spread of pastries, charcuteries, fruits and champagne for you to enjoy in the balmy waters.
Water is the heart and soul of the Alma experience. Starting from the entrance, a line of swimming pools cascade towards the beach, each affording a view of the vast ocean, some even equipped with bars for that perfect poolside cocktail.
For the more adventurous, the resort’s water park is a destination in itself, designed for both the young and the young at heart. Here, you can laze on an inflatable, brave the surges in the Wave Pool, or get an adrenaline fix on the water slides, available at varying thrill levels.
But as a landlubber, the Alma Spa is more to my liking. After a refreshing tea and a brief sauna session, I was ushered down a meandering path to a treatment villa for a massage that leaves you wanting more. The resort also houses a fitness centre, a yoga room and an 18-hole putting green.
The Christmas celebration featured a full-on seafood feast at the Atlantis. In summertime, guests can enjoy their meals under the stars at its ample alfresco area.
Including Atlantis, each dining venue here has its own character – the sophisticated Italian trattoria La Casa for special occasions (such as the Christmas Eve we spent); the Asiana for a delightful Asian fusion experience, where I had the most satisfying Pad Thai; and an eclectic Food Court that re-images street food from around Asia with an upscale twist.
To deepen its cultural ties, Alma partners with local agencies for tailored town excursions. From markets to mango plantations and historical sites such as the Ponagar Cham Tower, the experience offers an insider look into authentic Vietnamese life.
Beyond leisure, Alma is also well-equipped for business travellers, offering, among other things, a versatile ballroom that can accommodate up to 800 guests, meeting rooms equipped with AV facilities, and a 70-seat cinema for private screenings.