During my trip through Vietnam and Cambodia, I experienced a wide range of accommodations, from boutique hotels to luxury resorts. While most of my stays were in boutique hotels, being a luxury travel blogger meant I had to indulge a bit during my journey.
In collaboration with Vietnam Private Tours, I had the chance to enjoy two of the best hotels in Vietnam and Cambodia. The first was the stunning Six Senses Ninh Van Bay, where we stayed halfway through our North to South Vietnam itinerary. Here’s the story of my pampered experience at Six Senses Ninh Van Bay…
A Hidden Gem Beyond Nha Trang
If you were to name the top destinations in Vietnam, Nha Trang might not make the list, but that shouldn’t dissuade you. Nestled on a private peninsula, Six Senses Ninh Van Bay boasts a unique location that feels entirely exclusive. The resort is accessible only by water, requiring a scenic 20-minute speedboat ride from Nha Trang, with this transfer available for all guests.
After an exhausting overnight bus journey from Hoi An, we arrived in Nha Trang feeling a bit worn out. Luckily, our transfer from Six Senses was already there, ready to take us to the resort’s private dock. We were craving some luxury, and that experience began the moment we got into the car.
As we glided toward Ninh Van Bay, the view of the resort’s jetty slowly coming into focus was truly memorable. Arriving by boat highlights just how secluded and tranquil the resort really is.
Breakfast with a View
After our overnight journey and early morning arrival, breakfast was at the top of our minds. We were greeted on the jetty by Hon, our Guest Experience Manager (GEM) for the stay. The GEMs at Six Senses serve as private butlers, although they don’t use that term. Hon gave us a brief tour of the central grounds before taking us to Dining By The Bay, the main restaurant where breakfast is served. He told us he was just a phone call away for any needs during our stay, like reservations, special requests, or transportation.
I’ve tried many breakfast buffets, but nothing could compare to the amazing options at Ninh Van Bay. The spread included everything from a Full English breakfast to pho, dim sum, and fresh sushi, catering to all tastes. Waffles, pancakes, and eggs are made to order, and there’s a smoothie station where you can create your own juices. Deciding what to put on my plate first was the hardest choice I had to make that day.
Stepping into Our Beach Villa
After a relaxing three-course breakfast, it was time to check in. Six Senses Ninh Van Bay is all villas, with a total of 59. There are four types: Hill Top Villa, Rock Pool Villa, Beach Villa, and Water Villa. We stayed in a Beach Villa, which was perfect for us.
I was amazed by how big and beautiful our beach villa was. The attention to detail was the best I’ve ever seen. The duplex villa had a large master bedroom with a king-size bed and great views of the bay. It also had a spacious bathroom with a wooden tub, two sinks, an outdoor shower, and an indoor shower and toilet. There was even a chilled bottle of bubbly and fresh fruits waiting for us. Upstairs, we found a big open-air living room with comfy furniture, a mini bar, and coffee-making supplies—great for entertaining guests.
The best part was the stylish private pool and outdoor area. A path led from the pool right to the beach. I couldn’t wait to wake up and jump into the ocean!
Exploring The Bay
After we settled into our gorgeous villa, it was time to hit the beach and enjoy the exciting water sports included with our stay. While at Six Senses Ninh Van Bay, we tried snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). The water was super clear, and the nearby coral reef was full of beautiful marine life, just a short swim from the shore. It was such a treat that all these activities were included!
The beach even had a marked snorkeling route to help us find the best spots while keeping the coral safe. We got all our gear and information from the Discovery Centre, where I also discovered the resort’s amazing eco-friendly and sustainability programs.
A Refreshing Spa Experience
As someone who loves spas, I couldn’t wait to check out the Spa at Six Senses Ninh Van Bay, which has a fantastic reputation. My visit there turned out to be one of the best parts of my stay, especially since it offered a unique experience. Perched in the hills, the spa feels like its own little retreat. A lovely stone pathway leads to the central reception, surrounded by tranquil spa villas.
I decided to go for the 60-minute Vietnam Massage, which combined pressure point techniques with uplifting movements. One of the standout features was the heated suction cups they used on my back during the treatment. It was such an unusual and warm sensation that really enhanced the experience. My therapist had a magical touch, making the treatment feel special and tailored just for me.
Gourmet Delights
Our first evening at the resort was a treat as we decided to dine at Dining By The Rocks, the resort’s signature restaurant. Let me tell you, this place is a game-changer! Set high on a rocky hillside, it offers an al fresco dining experience that’s both atmospheric and incredibly romantic. The ambiance, along with the fantastic food and top-notch service, make it a must-try during your stay.
While I loved Dining By The Rocks, I also enjoyed the relaxed vibe at Dining By The Bay. Picture this: a candlelit table with a stunning view of the calm bay, a gentle ocean breeze, and the sound of crickets serenading you. After a rejuvenating massage and a day soaking up the sun, it was pure bliss. Trust me, these dining experiences add a whole new level to your vacation!
A Vietnamese Cooking Class
One of the standout moments of our stay at Six Senses Ninh Van Bay was the private Vietnamese cooking class. It all began in the resort’s amazing herb garden, where the chef introduced us to some of the key herbs used in Vietnamese cuisine.
We learned to prepare four delicious dishes, and the best part? We got to enjoy everything we cooked! Even though I’m not exactly a cooking whiz, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed the whole experience. It really opened my eyes to how simple it can be to create fresh, aromatic, and flavorful dishes when you have the right ingredients and guidance.
The Verdict
This was my first experience staying at a Six Senses Resort, and I’m already eager to explore more! From the stunning location to the delicious food, the friendly staff, and the incredible villa, every aspect of this stay went above and beyond my expectations. We were only here for two nights, but I can only imagine how rejuvenated and happy you’d feel after a full week. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious stop on a longer journey or a two-week escape in an Asian paradise, make sure Six Senses Ninh Van Bay is at the top of your list.
Perfect for: Honeymoons, wellness and spa enthusiasts, and groups of four adults sharing a villa.
What did you think of my review of Six Senses Ninh Van Bay? Have you visited this resort, or are you inspired to check it out now? If you enjoyed this post, I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
If you’re interested in booking a stay at Six Senses, please contact Vietnam Private Tours for more information.
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