Built in 1960 on Hon Do, a rocky islet of over 20,000 square metres about 300 metres offshore, the pagoda stands apart from the mainland in Nha Trang Bay.
Its isolated location creates a peaceful, airy setting surrounded by the sea.
Hon Do is linked to the mainland by a submerged sandbar that emerges at low tide, allowing visitors to walk across to the pagoda. When the tide rises, visitors travel by canoe, with three currently operating between the mainland and the islet. Fares are based on voluntary contributions.
Motorbike and car parking is available on the nearby mainland for VND 10,000 (USD 0.38) per vehicle.
The pagoda is shaded by lush greenery and cooled by sea breezes, while naturally reddish rocks fringe the islet, resembling amber-coloured pearls.
From Hon Do, visitors can look south towards Nha Trang's skyline or north towards the Hon Chong scenic area and Co Tien Mountain.
Hieu Giang, a visitor from Nghe An Province, said he had long heard about the pagoda in the sea but was visiting for the first time.
"It is very peaceful here, unlike the busy city centre. I would like to return at low tide if I have the chance," he added.
According to the Khanh Hoa Monument Conservation Centre, the scenic complex comprising Hon Chong, Hon Do and Nha Trang Bay Assembly Hall was designated a national heritage site in 1998.
The popular complex now attracts thousands of domestic and international visitors each day.
