Underwater Vietnam: 12 Amazing Sea Creatures You Should Know (and Protect)

As a traveler with an interest in the natural world, Vietnam offers a unique experience beneath its waters. Its extensive coastline is home to an astonishing diversity of marine creatures, each with its own peculiarities and a story to tell. This article is your guide to meeting some of the most fascinating inhabitants of these seas, with the hope that, by recognizing their value, you will join the cause of their protection and enjoy responsible tourism.

Phu Quoc horned starfish:

This peculiar, spiny starfish can be found in the shallow waters of Vietnam's tropical seas. Its upward-pointing black spines are used to ward off predators and sometimes startle tourists. However, they can't cause any real harm. For the best chance of seeing one or more of these beautiful creatures, head to Phu Quoc and find the aptly named Starfish Beach. It's a reminder that the ocean's beauty is often found in the most unexpected details.

Whale sharks of Nha Trang:

Reaching lengths of over 12 meters and weighing more than 20 tons, the whale shark is one of the largest creatures in the sea. This gentle giant approaches the harbors and bays north of Nha Trang each spring to feed on the plankton and krill that are often trapped among the islets. Sighting one is a privilege, and its presence indicates the health of the most basic marine food chains.

Ocean sunfish:

The ocean sunfish, or Mola mola, can reach weights of over 900 kilograms. This slow-moving giant has been sighted all along Vietnam's winding coastline. It is not a food source and is, in fact, endangered. A massive two-meter specimen was donated in 2016 to the Vietnam National Museum of Nature for research, an example of how science is trying to better understand it for its conservation.

Hawksbill turtle:

This critically endangered species is one of five varieties of sea turtles found along Vietnam's extensive coastline. The hawksbill turtle is most often sighted in the clear waters near Nha Trang. However, in recent years, populations have declined significantly due to illegal fishing. Police have uncovered smuggling operations across the country that have resulted in thousands of dead turtles, a grim reality that underscores the urgent need for their protection.

Japanese flying squid:

This spectacular squid can often be seen in large groups off much of the Vietnamese coast. When they sense danger, these two-finned creatures forcefully expel water, creating a propulsion system capable of launching them nearly 30 meters across the sea to safety. It's a remarkable example of adaptation and survival.

Reef pineapplefish:

Found along Vietnam's increasingly scarce coral reefs, the pineapplefish is one of the most intriguing additions to our list. A repeating pattern of thick, armored, yellow scales edged in black runs along its body. At night, a bioluminescent organ in its lower jaw produces a blue-green glow, demonstrating the incredible strategies marine life employs to communicate or hunt in the dark.

Con Dao green turtle:

The remote and underdeveloped islands of Con Dao are home to Vietnam's largest turtle populations, including the green turtle. Between May and October, hundreds of turtles crawl ashore on the secluded, sandy beaches to lay their eggs. For the best chance of spotting them, head to Con Son Island and book a tour with Con Dao Turtle Tour through the national park office. It's an experience that respects natural cycles and contributes to their conservation.

Ha Long Bay finless porpoise:

Sometimes seen in Vietnam's iconic Ha Long Bay, this mammal is the only member of its family that lacks a dorsal fin. As fishing industries in Vietnam and other Southeast Asian nations have expanded, the population of this smiling species has declined rapidly and is now critically endangered. Its potential sighting serves as a reminder of the fragility of ecosystems, even in such iconic locations.

Acrobatic dolphins:

Capable of surviving in salt and brackish water, the spinner dolphin is an incredibly rare sight in Vietnam. Those fortunate enough to spot a pod of these social mammals may be alerted by the spectacular spectacle of the dolphins leaping and twisting in the air. Their presence is an indicator of the health of the open ocean.

Dugongs:

This friendly cousin of the manatee can sometimes be seen in the seas off Phu Quoc or in the shallow waters surrounding the Con Dao archipelago. The nation's southernmost island has hosted the Dugong Festival to raise awareness of this endangered species, which is prone to drowning in fishing nets. Its conservation is vital for the balance of seagrass beds.

Lionfish:

Beautiful and as unfriendly as you can imagine. If you spot one of the many lionfish lazily drifting through the tropical waters of Vietnam, be sure to keep your distance. This fascinating, spiny fish may not look dangerous, but it possesses an extraordinarily painful sting, which can cause anything from vomiting and fever to limb paralysis in those who come into contact with it. Admire its beauty, but respect its space.

Getting to know these animals is just the first step. As a visitor, your choice of responsible tour operators, your respect for boundaries and ecosystems, and your support for local conservation initiatives are concrete actions that help ensure these species continue to exist. Vietnam opens the door to an underwater world full of rarities and wonders; it's up to all of us to help preserve it.