Early Cham history is characterised by conflicts between the rival tribes of the Dua and the Cau. The conflicts were eventually settled and interbreeding between the two commenced. The origins of the Cham are a combination of Austro-Asian and Malayo-Polynesia. They still exist to this day, but their numbers have diminished greatly and are now estimated at about 77,000 making them a distinct minority group. Cultural characteristics of the Cham have remained constant with the same spoken language, written language, religious beliefs and ethnic rites as from the early days of their existence.
The decline of the Cham began around the 15th century with their first defeat at the hands of the Vietnamese people occurring in 1446. The next four centuries saw a number of battles between the two peoples for control of the area with the end of the 18th century seeing a major revolt launched against the Cham. They stood their ground and the revolt was defeated. The days of Cham control were numbered however and officially came to an end in 1832, with the annexation of the area by the Emperor Minh Mạng. In the 20th century, Nha Trang was in the spotlight as the site of a US Air Base during the Vietnam War.
Today it is a popular holiday destination and is developing every year. It is popular with Asian and European holiday makers and has become known for its stunning beaches and laid back atmosphere.