10 Best Islands in Vietnam (2024)
With thousands of breathtaking islands and 3,000 km long coastline, Vietnam is no less than a paradise to all the nature lovers out there. Besides being a Southeast Asian country with diverse culture and glorifying past, it is one of the best places to visit due to its picturesque landscape. It is a spectacular tourist destination that features lush forests, rare marine life, and astounding beaches. Here is a list of 10 best islands in Vietnam that you need to visit the next time you want a sun-soaked holiday.
10 Best Islands in Vietnam
1. Quan Lan Island
Located on the outskirts of Halong Bay, in Tu Long Bay, Quan Lan remains mostly untouched with three long sandy beaches and serene forest areas. It is an excellent place for local seafood like squid, mackerel, shrimps, and butterfish. Along with affordable hotels and homestays, you may even hire a boat to explore the island’s coastline.
How to get there – Take a bus from My Dinh bus station at Hanoi to Cai Rong (Van Don) port. It takes around 4 hours to reach the port. Once there, you can take a boat to Quan Lan Island. It takes an hour to finally arrive there.
2. Co To Island
Located in the north of Vietnam, Co To Islands is an archipelago consisting of around 50 islands. It is 9 km away from Halong Bay. From beaches to landmarks, Co To Island has a lot to offer. If you are an adventure freak, you might like hiking and rock climbing in the interiors of the island. Do not forget to taste their local delicacies like the abalone, sea urchin, and sea cucumber.
How to get there – There are several means to travel to Co TO Island, with buses being the most common mode of transportation. Take a bus to the Von Don port from Hanoi. From there, you can avail of a ferry or a speed boat to reach Co To Island.
3. Phu Quoc Island
Off the coast of Cambodia in the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc Island is known for its white-sand beaches, dense tropical jungle, wildlife, and palm-lined southwest coast. It is one of the best islands in Vietnam. Apart from the beachside fun, you can take a tour of the traditional villages, Buddhist pagodas, and the natural parks via motorcycle, taxi or even a bus. The dining scene ranges from fresh local seafood to traditional Vietnamese street food.
How to get there – There is an international airport in Phu Quoc. The airlines currently operate both domestic and international flights. It requires no visa to enter the island.
4. Con Dao Island
Located on the southern coast of Vietnam, Con Dao Island offers wide-ranging beaches shaded with evergreen trees, away from the bustling city life. It is also known as Con Dao National Park. It has hiking trails and diving spots to explore the calm, uninhabited wildlife. Stingrays, barracudas, dugongs, and moray eels are found there.
How to get there – Con Dao airport is situated on the main island Con Son, which is 13 km away from town. It is the easiest way of transport to visit the island.
5. Cham Island
It is a recognized UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve and comprises 8 small islands. This serene island is a gateway for water sports lovers. From swimming, diving to kayaking, and snorkeling amid the tropical coral reefs, it is an overall thrilling experience. It has Buddhist temples, traditional fishing villages, along with countryside hotels and seafood eateries.
How to get there – There are three ways to get to Cham Island from Hoi An city. You can hire a private canoe. Though a bit expensive, it takes no longer than 15 to 20 minutes to reach the island. You can also avail of a public canoe. You can also opt for tau cho, a wooden boat that leaves at 8 AM and arrives at 10 AM.
6. Cat Ba Island
It is the largest island in Halong Bay, located off the coast of Hai Phong city. You can enjoy sunbathing sitting on the beautiful beaches and swim in the crystal clear water during the summer. It is best for sightseeing. You can rent a kayak and visit Monkey Island. It is also home to a National Park. It has many restaurants, hotels, and bars, serving their local specialties like oysters, clams, mantis shrimp, etc.
How to get there – Boat is the easiest means of transportation to Cat Ba Island. Avail it from Hanoi. You can also travel via bus to Hai Phong City, which would take about three hours. From there, take a taxi to reach your destination.
7. Nam Du Island
Located about 40km southeast of Phu Quoc Island, Nam Du Island comprises 21 islands. The island is enriched with colorful marine life and coral reefs. It has many historical sites that attract tourists. Its long and wide beaches are perfect for chilling and beach time fun. There are popular spots for water sports, like diving. The main island houses a lighthouse and has plenty of hotels and restaurants. It is among the best islands in Vietnam.
How to get there – Apparently, the boat is the only means of travel to Nam Du Island. But you can also rent a motorbike or a private car for the same.
8. Hon Tre Island
Located off the coast of Nha Trang, Hon Tre Island is best known for its Vinpearl Amusement Park. There is a giant amphitheater, aquarium, and a huge variety of rides to enjoy on the island. The Bai Tru beach has access to a beach swimming pool, buffet lunch, and speedboat rides. The mountains are perfectly suitable for hiking. The Bay Lagoon provides a serene retreat away from the crowd of the town.
How to get there – Transport is not a problem here. It is made easy with the help of the daily speedboat transfers and the ferries that are available throughout the day.
9. Ly Son Islands
Located off the coast of Quang Ngai, it is home to garlic farms, sandy beaches, and over 50 shrines and temples. It is great for outdoor activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, island hopping. You can also enjoy the pristine beaches along with sightseeing of the shrines and temples. Hotels to stay and seafood restaurants are inexpensive. Do not forget to buy some high-quality garlic from there.
How to get there – Taking a three-hour bus ride from Da Nang, you will reach Quang Ngai. From there, you need to avail of a ferry to the main island. It can be a bit time taking and an expensive journey, but the scenic beauty of Ly Son is worth every penny.
10. Binh Ba Island
Last but not least, Binh Ba Island is one of the 10 best islands in Vietnam. This isolated island is an epitome of scenic beauty. Also known as the lobster island, Binh Ba Island is the cleanest island. It is surrounded by varieties of trees and a lot of sandy beaches. The island is famous for its marvelous sunrise view. You can enjoy the memorable floating dinner along with your loved ones. The food is delicious and also reasonable. With the most hospitable people, rich culture, and enchanting beauty, a trip to this island is a dream come true.
How to get there – Transportation is not an issue here. You can take a flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Nha Trang. From there, take a taxi. You will also get many high-quality buses for a comfortable journey.
Conclusion
The next time you get a holiday, do visit Vietnam! No wonder you will be touched with its rich culture, serene seashores, incredible historical sites, and the breathtaking beauty of nature.