The Best Islands In Vietnam

Vietnam is a coastal country with a long coastline stretching over 3,200 kilometers (2,000 miles) along the eastern border. This extensive coastline is dotted with numerous beautiful islands has stunning beaches, each offering its own unique beauty and attractions from north to south. There are many luxury brand beachfront resorts throughout the country, suitable for all ages.

1. Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc Island is known for its stunning beaches, coral reefs, and dense tropical jungle. It’s the largest island in Vietnam and offers a range of activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving…

Phu Quoc Island is located off the coast of southern Vietnam in the Gulf of Thailand. The most convenient way to reach Phu Quoc is by flying directly to Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) from major cities in Vietnam such as Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang and Hanoi.

What to do in Phu Quoc:

Visitors can enjoy activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving, visiting pepper farms, Phu Quoc Prison exploring the night market, and watching beautiful sunsets or just spend time relaxing on the beach. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and taking in the beautiful coastal views.

Phu Quoc is a family friendly destination, kids and even adults will love to go to VinWonders Phu Quoc, a popular amusement park and entertainment complex offer a wide range of attractions and activities suitable for all ages: Theme Park Rides, the amusement park features various thrilling rides, including roller coasters, Ferris wheels, and carousels. Water Park boasts a variety of water slides, lazy rivers, wave pools, and splash zones. Indoor games zone includes an indoor games zone with arcade games, virtual reality experiences, and interactive activities for both kids and adults. Cultural experiences such as water puppet shows, live music, and dance performances. Entertainment shows including parades, magic shows, and acrobatic performances.

Where to stay in Phu Quoc:

There are a range of accommodation options available on the island, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Some of the popular options include La Veranda Resort Phu Quoc, Salinda Resort, and Fusion Resort Phu Quoc, JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa.

The best time to visit Phu Quoc Island:

From November to March when the weather is dry and sunny. However, Phu Quoc can be visited year-round, and even during the rainy season, there are often breaks in the weather that allow for enjoyable beach experiences.

2. An Thoi Island

An Thoi Island is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs, located on the southern tip of Phu Quoc Island, in Kien Giang Province of Vietnam.

What to do in An Thoi Island:

You can enjoy snorkelling and diving, and explore the underwater world around An Thoi Island, which is home to beautiful coral reefs and a variety of marine life. You can rent snorkelling or diving gear and take guided tours to discover the colourful underwater ecosystem.

Fishing Trips: Join a fishing tour and experience traditional fishing techniques. You can learn how to catch fish using a fishing net or go squid fishing at night.

Island Hopping: Take a boat tour to explore the nearby islands and enjoy the scenic beauty of the archipelago. Some popular islands to visit such as May Rut Island, Gam Ghi Island, and Pineapple Island.

Beach Relaxation: Spend time relaxing on the pristine beaches of An Thoi Island. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and taking in the beautiful coastal views.

Where to stay in An Thoi Island:

Most visitors choose to stay in Phu Quoc Islands and take a day trip to An Thoi Island.

The best time to visit An Thoi Island in Phu Quoc:

During the dry season, which is from November to March. During this period, the weather is generally sunny, and the sea conditions are calm, making it ideal for outdoor activities and water sports.

3. Con Dao

The Con Dao Islands are a group of 16 islands off the southern coast of Vietnam. The most convenient way to reach Con Dao Islands is by flying directly to Con Dao Airport (VCS) from Ho Chi Minh City, Can Tho, Hanoi. Alternatively, you can also reach Con Dao by taking a ferry from Vung Tau, which is about a 12-hour journey.

What to do in Con Dao:

Con Dao is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich history. Visitors can explore the former prison complex that was used during the French colonial era and the Vietnam War, visit the historic temples and shrines, and enjoy snorkeling, diving, and other water sports.

Where to stay in Con Dao:

There are a limited number of accommodation options on the island, with the Six Senses Con Dao being the most luxurious option. Other options are Con Dao Resort and Poulo Condor Boutique Resort & Spa.

The best time to visit Con Dao:

From March to July when the weather is dry and sunny.

4. Cat Ba

Cat Ba Island is located in Hai Phong in northern Vietnam. From Hai Phong, you can take a ferry or a speedboat to Cat Ba Island.

What to do in Cat Ba:

Cat Ba is known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, dense forests, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can take boat tours to explore the bay, go kayaking, hike in the national park, and visit the traditional fishing villages.

Where to stay in Cat Ba Island:

There are many accommodation options available on Cat Ba Island, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Some of the popular options include Cat Ba Island Resort & Spa, Cat Ba Sunrise Resort, and Monkey Island Resort.

The best time to visit Cat Ba Island:

From March to May or September to November when the weather is dry and sunny.

5. Ti Top Island

Ti Top Island is located in Ha Long Bay in northeastern Vietnam. Ti Top Island is often included as a stop on Ha Long Bay cruise itineraries. You can book a cruise tour from Ha Long City or Hanoi that includes a visit to Ti Top Island. The cruise boats will take you to the island, and you can explore the island’s attractions during the designated stop.

What to do in Ti Top:

Ti Top Island is known for its scenic beauty, pristine beaches, and panoramic views of Ha Long Bay. Visitors can hike to the island’s peak to enjoy breathtaking views of the bay, relax on the sandy beaches, swim in the refreshing waters, and explore the limestone caves in the vicinity.

Where to stay in Ha Long Bay:

Since Ti Top Island is a small uninhabited island, there are no accommodation options directly on the island. Most visitors stay in Ha Long City or on cruise ships that explore Ha Long Bay. Ha Long City offers a wide range of hotels and resorts, catering to different budgets and preferences.

The best time to visit Ti Top Island and Ha Long Bay:

From October to December when the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear. This allows for better visibility and enjoyable outdoor activities.

6. Cham

The Cham Islands are a group of eight small islands off the coast of Hoi An, 30km south of Da Nang. Cham Islands are accessible from Hoi An. You can take a taxi or local transportation to Cua Dai Wharf in Hoi An and then catch a boat or speedboat to Cham Islands. The boat journey takes around 30-45 minutes.

What to do in Cham Islands:

The Cham Islands are known for their crystal-clear waters and coral reefs, making them a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, exploring the traditional fishing villages, and learning about the local culture and history.

Where to stay in Cham Islands:

Most visitors choose to stay in Hoian or Da Nang and take day trip to Cham Island.

The best time to visit the Cham Islands:

From March to September when the weather is dry and sunny.

7. Phu Quy Island

Phu Quy Island is located in the Binh Thuan Province, off the southeastern coast of Vietnam. To reach Phu Quy Island, you can take a ferry or speedboat from Phan Thiet with daily ferries available. The ferry journey takes around 2-3 hours. It’s advisable to check the ferry schedules in advance, as they may vary depending on weather conditions.

What to do in Phu Quy Island:

Phu Quy Island offers a serene and untouched atmosphere, making it perfect for those seeking a peaceful getaway. Here are some activities you can enjoy:

Beaches and Swimming: Phu Quy Island is known for its pristine beaches with clear turquoise waters. You can relax on the sandy shores, take a refreshing swim, or simply soak up the sun.

Snorkeling and Diving: Explore the underwater world around Phu Quy Island, which boasts vibrant coral reefs and a diverse marine ecosystem. Snorkeling and diving trips are available, allowing you to discover the beauty of the island’s underwater life.

Cultural Exploration: Visit the historical and cultural sites on the island, such as Linh Son Pagoda and Van An Thanh Temple. These sites provide insights into the local culture and history.

Where to stay in Phu Quy Island:

Phu Quy Island offers guesthouses and small hotels. Some popular choices include Minh Chau Hotel, Anh Dung Guesthouse, and Hai Yen Hotel. Keep in mind that the island’s accommodation options might be basic compared to larger tourist destinations.

The best time to visit Phu Quy Island:

From December to June when the weather is dry and the sea is calm. During this period, you can expect clear skies, warm temperatures, and optimal conditions for outdoor activities. However, the island can be visited throughout the year, and even during the rainy season, there may still be periods of sunshine and calm seas.

8. Hon Tam

Hon Tam Island is located off the coast of Nha Trang in central Vietnam. To reach Hon Tam Island, you can take a boat or ferry from Nha Trang city. Many hotels and travel agencies in Nha Trang offer boat transfers to the island, which usually take around 10-20 minutes.

What to do in Hon Tam:

Hon Tam Island is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and lush landscapes. Visitors can relax on the sandy beaches, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and engage in water sports such as snorkeling, kayaking, and jet skiing. The island also offers spa services, hiking trails, and a cultural village showcasing traditional Vietnamese customs.

Where to stay in Nha Trang:

You can stay in Nha Trang City and take a day trip to Hon Tam island. There are many luxury beach-front resorts in Nha Trang City.

The best time to visit Hon Tam Island:

From February to April or from August to October when the weather is dry and sunny, and the sea is calm.

9. Binh Ba

Binh Ba Island is located off the coast of Cam Ranh in the Khanh Hoa Province. From Cam Ranh, you can hire a boat or join a tour to reach Binh Ba Island.

What to do in Binh Ba:

Binh Ba Island is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and fresh seafood. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and fishing, as well as exploring the island’s traditional fishing villages and sampling local delicacies such as lobster and sea urchin.

Where to stay in Binh Ba:

There are a limited number of accommodation options on the island, with most visitors choosing to stay in the nearby city of Cam Ranh. Some of the popular options include Fusion Resort Cam Ranh, Anam Resort Cam Ranh, and Alma Resort Cam Ranh, Amanoi.

The best time to visit Binh Ba Island:

From February to April or from August to October when the weather is dry and sunny.

10. Ky Co

Ky Co Island is located in Quy Nhon, Binh Dinh Province, along the central coast of Vietnam. From Quy Nhon, you can hire a boat or join a tour to reach Ky Co Island.

What to do in Ky Co:

Ky Co Island is known for its stunning white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic cliffs. Visitors can relax on the beaches, go swimming and snorkeling, and take boat trips to nearby islands. You can also explore the surrounding landscapes, including the iconic Ky Co lighthouse.

Where to stay in Quy Nhon:

Most visitors choose to stay in nearby Quy Nhon city and take day trips to Ky Co Island. Some recommended hotels in Quy Nhon are Avani Quy Nhon Resort, Zannier Hotels, Anantara Quy Nhon Villas, Mia Resort Quy Nhon.

The best time to visit Ky Co Island:

From May to September when the weather is sunny and the sea is calm.

Written and Shared by Youin Travel Team