Stretching in a narrow strip (3 thousand km) along the shores of the South China Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, Vietnam is a country of beaches and bays. More and more beach lovers seek to plunge into the turquoise waters, soak up the velvet sand. It is difficult to describe in words the aesthetic pleasure experienced by tourists at the sight of unique monuments of antiquity and the incredible beauty of nature reserves. But the one who discovered the islands of Vietnam has found truly heavenly corners of the earth's land.
Phu Quoc
Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc Island is a combination of modern infrastructure with pristine tropical nature. An international-class airport, luxurious hotels of various levels, restaurants and cafes, diving schools are symbols of modern life in Fukuoka. Literally hundreds of meters from the objects of the tourism industry – wild beaches captivating with their authenticity, virgin jungles and villages lost in them.
There are practically no typhoons and tsunamis here – massive mountains protect Phu Quoc from the winds. You don't have to worry about the safety of your children. Compared to other regions, the island has a milder climate, no intense heat. The abundance of inexpensive seafood allows you to enjoy plenty of delicacies. Friendly, constantly smiling locals sell exotic fruits at bargain prices.
Lovers of secluded relaxation should pay attention to the wild beaches in the northern part of Fukuoka. Snow-white sand, crystal clear water, flat bottom, sparsely populated, stunning surrounding landscapes will decorate your stay here. At the service of fans of parties – the infrastructure beaches of Long Beach, Bai Sao with all the charms of civilization.
View prices for tours to Phu Quoc
Hong Tam
One of the most beautiful among the 29 islands of the world, Hon Tam (silkworm island) is located 7 km from the center of Nha Trang resort. From the city pier Hon Tam every hour from 8 am boats depart with tourists back and forth (last flight from the island at 16.20) 20 minutes of the sea journey – and enthusiastic passengers find themselves in a real fairy tale. The green caps of the mountains, the unrealistically bright turquoise of the sea, the golden placers of sand framed by palm trees enchant the imagination. The sea surroundings are literally teeming with fantastically colored fish, and nooks and crannies are filled with hundreds of species of various tropical birds.
Swimming with fins and a mask around coral reefs is a great pleasure. Walking around the island is a marvelous immersion in the bright world of local flora and fauna. The highlight of staying here is a visit to the authentic village of Hoang Hoa with 150 years of history. Visitors find themselves in the atmosphere of a rural idyll, where they can personally observe the process of making clay products and other crafts.
The main reason why people come here is an amazing beach, very comfortable and beautiful, surrounded by palm trees, with gazebos with thatched roofs, canopies and sun loungers. It offers kayaking, jet skiing, and parachuting. Beautiful nature is successfully complemented by a comfortable infrastructure in the form of cascading pools, restaurants, etc.
Hon Mun
In the bay of Koudy in the vicinity of Nha Trang, there is an “all green” uninhabited island of Hon Mun. 450 hectares of picturesque territory are protected by the World Wildlife Fund as a nature reserve. Hundreds of tourists come to see the amazing natural sights, despite the rather high rent ($120-200) of the ship and the 11-kilometer path.
An independent trip to Hon Moon starts from the South Port of Nha Trang, on a small speedboat (5-6 people). Excursion groups carry on a diesel longboat (20-30 people, $ 20). An environmental fee is paid for visiting the island. We live here only on a beach covered with white sand, washed by clear water. There is a diving school where even an inexperienced beginner can scuba dive to see the stunningly beautiful underwater world. Starfish, corals, exotic fish are amazing.
Hon Mieu
A mini-island off the south coast, not far from Nha Trang, although it does not have convenient beaches, enjoys the attention of tourists. They are not embarrassed by the coast, dotted with large boulders. It is not customary to swim and sunbathe here, but you can take unique pictures with seascapes. Breathtaking views stagger the imagination. Walks in the local park – penetration into the exotic world of amazing flora.
The main activity on Hon Mieu is a visit to the original oceanarium, designed in the style of a pirate ship. Watching the rare inhabitants of the seas is a great pleasure. Sharks and moray eels, enchanting flocks of unusual tropical fish, giant turtles – you will not see them just like that in nature. Therefore, the oceanarium receives crowds of inquisitive guests every day. There are especially many who wish during the hours when marine inhabitants are allowed to feed.
Monkey Island Hon Lao
In a series of northern islands of Vietnam, Hon Lao stands out, where a monkey reserve is organized. You can get here as part of a group, after submitting an application to the guide. A boat runs from the North Pier, delivering travelers to the reserve. Usually the guide gives advice on how to behave when meeting with nimble macaques.
They can steal a bag, glasses or some of the clothes, so in order not to draw too much attention to yourself, it is better to leave things in the storage room on the ship. Undoubtedly, communication with agile, funny macaques causes a lot of positive emotions, especially for children. It is allowed to feed them only on the territory of the nursery, so as not to teach the monkeys to go outside the reserve. Before the trip, you should stock up on goodies: cookies, nuts, chips.
Hon Heo Orchid Island
The combination of natural exoticism and man-made beauty make Hon Heo Island a very attractive tourist site in Nyafu Bay. In fact, this picturesque piece of land is part of the peninsula, which can only be reached by water. The journey from Nha Trang lasts 40 minutes, and during this time you can see local wonders more than once – floating farms for breeding various shellfish. Almost the entire territory of Hong Heo has been turned into an orchid garden: royal flowers of kaleidoscopic colors grow everywhere. They border paths and paths, decorate flower beds and lawns, blaze under palm trees, causing admiration.
Streams with openwork bridges, intricate stone installations, mini-waterfalls among giant boulders are also impressive. An appropriate infrastructure has been created here: a well-maintained civilized beach, a good market, rental of various water equipment. In local cafes, seafood and fish dishes are prepared in the presence of visitors, and freshly squeezed juice is served. Visiting the zoo, tourists can closely communicate with its tame inhabitants. Snorkelers have a place to turn around here – the lack of waves allows you to dive with masks.
Ostrich Island Hon Thi
Next to the Monkey and Orchid Islands is the island of Hon Thi, nicknamed the ostrich. On a local farm, ostriches are bred here, which have become one of the local attractions. Tourists are happy to feed the birds, if they wish, they can ride them. Communication with these good-natured giants is a great pleasure. On another farm, there are spotted deer, who have awarded Hong Thi with the second name “Deer”. With emotion, travelers watch harmless animals, they also feed them, pet them, children ride them.
The exotic flora of the island brings a lot of joy to tourists. Where else can you walk along the rows of grapefruit and mango trees? See the extraordinary fruits of pitahaya, nicknamed “dragon eyes”? The landscape beauty of the surrounding landscapes evokes admiration. Perfectly clean wild beaches, charming coves, bizarre rocks, forested cliffs. On one of the slopes, an authentic temple in honor of the God of the Seas captivates the eye.
Lee Song
Numerous travelers aspire to the amazing island, located in the province of Quang Ngai. Li Son, formed as a result of a volcanic lava eruption, attracts everyone with its unique nature. The land, saturated with red basalt, allows the lush growth of tropical vegetation. 5 picturesque mountain peaks crown the territory of the island, which essentially consists of 2 parts – the Big and Small Islands. Green fragrant valleys, white stripes of sandy beaches, fields red from basalt with clear plots of garlic open up from a height. Garlic and onions are the main crops here, which the peasants work on growing.
The main occupation of the locals is fishing. Fishing boats of various sizes and shapes depart from the pier early in the morning and return late in the evening with a rich catch. Lee Son is the center of ancient pagodas, temples, memorials and monuments. Of particular interest is the Chua Hanq pagoda, carved into the coastal rock. Some of them (more than 50 in total) are located on mountain peaks. After sightseeing, swimming in perfectly clear water in the company of crabs, scurrying fish will give you moments of pleasure. A pleasant rest on the soft sand will restore vigor and strength.
Winperl
The Vietnamese pearl (as winpearl is translated) is a grandiose amusement park, similar to Hong Kong Disneyland. It is set up on the bamboo island of Hon Che, although after the opening of the park it was also called Winperl. The entertainment complex impresses with its size and the number of various attractions. In addition to park facilities, a huge complex of luxury hotels ($100 per day) is open here. Those who live in them use all the attractions of the park for free.
The budget option for visiting Vinpearl is to come from Nha Trang for 1 day. This can be done by sailing on a boat by sea or “flying in” on the longest cable car in the world (3 km 320 m). Staying in Winperl is an immersion in a man-made fairy tale, a world of paradise entertainment. Fantastic slides, a huge oceanarium, a modern play area, an extravaganza of water and light from musical fountains, dizzying rides turn respectable adults into enthusiastic children.
A separate area with shallow pools, intricate fountains, and many slides with surprises has been organized for children. Funny figures of elephants, hippos, penguins do not go unnoticed. Adults here are also not at all bored – extreme slides, artificial rivers, crazy descents and ascents – sheer adrenaline!
Thuan Tin
The rocky formation, protruding high above the water in an acute triangle, was called island N 46 until 1962. After the visit of Soviet cosmonaut German Titov, who swam in the cool sea near the island, he was given the name of the famous conqueror of space. Not really delving into linguistic subtleties, the authors of the inscription used the English transcription of the famous surname. The result is: T-Top.
An observation deck was built at the top of the “triangle”. To climb it, you need to walk up 300 steps, which many tourists willingly do. The enchanting panorama that opens from a height justifies the effort – its view is breathtaking! But not only the intriguing name of a respected cosmonaut and island beauties attract travelers here.
Enterprising residents of Thuan Tin (2nd name of the island) have invented a new way to attract guests by organizing culinary special tours with master classes in cooking national dishes. Under the strict guidance of venerable chefs, tourists (groups of up to 8 people) not only cook popular Vietnamese dishes, but eat them themselves. Everyone is delighted with the beautiful background on which the action takes place, from the tasting of exotic food, unusual passion fruit and, in general, from the environment.
Namzu Archipelago
A complex of large and small islands (21), located southeast of Fukuoka, the Namzu archipelago is just beginning to be explored by travelers. But it is already clear to everyone that these pristine places will gain immense popularity. A clear sea of fantastic blue hues, little touched by civilization, slender rows of relic coconut palms, pristine beaches – this is the general picture of Namzu. The focus of amazing beaches in a necklace of palm trees is the island of Hon Lon (translated as “big island”), already chosen by numerous tourists.
The local lighthouse offers stunning views of the archipelago, an enchanting spectacle of sunsets and sunrises. In 30 minutes sailing by sea is the most densely populated and economically developed island of Hon Ngang. In its port you can see countless fishing boats – almost all the inhabitants are engaged in fishing and growing fish in cages. Here, tourists enjoy fresh seafood dishes and admire the fantastic landscapes. No less attractive is the island of Hon Mau with a wonderful coastline, sapphire sea and other exotic. However, the entire Namzu archipelago is a place of complete merging with pristine nature and a truly heavenly vacation.
Bin Ba
Almost near Nha Trang with overflowing life there is an idyllic island of Binh Ba, almost untouched by civilization. Like a guard, he closes the most beautiful bay in the world Cam Ranh. Virgin forests and groves, aquamarine waters of the bay, the luxury of sandy beaches generously flooded with sun, enchant with their originality. The local population is fishermen engaged in fishing for shellfish and fish. Different-sized boats at the evening berth eloquently testify to this. Tourists coming here have the opportunity to try many seafood delicacies at very low prices.
Since there are no hotels, they stay overnight in private houses with the permission of the police. But this inconvenience is more than offset by excellent rest. In warm clear water you can swim and swim as much as you like. Divers here expanse: the underwater world is fabulously beautiful and diverse. Those who love to soak up the velvet sand will experience incredible pleasure. Given the increased demand for Binh Ba, the Vietnamese airline opened a direct flight from Domodedovo to Cam Ranh.
Turtle Island Con Dao
A hundred kilometers from the southern coast there is a group of 16 islands that are part of the country's National Park. The name Con Dao (1977) was assigned to the archipelago, thanks to the largest of the islands with an area of 51 square meters. km. Informally, it is called Turtle because of the large number of turtles crawling ashore to lay eggs in May-November (rainy season). The remoteness from the coast makes Con Dao a place of calm intimate relaxation against the backdrop of luxurious nature. Here the surface and underwater world is equally good. Exotic trees, unique tropical plants and animals, a variety of birds turn your stay here into an educational excursion.
Explorers of the underwater depths get real pleasure – fantastic-looking marine life, algae, corals amaze the imagination with their beauty and quantity. There are cultural and historical monuments on the island. For example, a former prison for political prisoners, now turned into a museum, and a cemetery for dead slaves. Con Dao is aptly called the “Castle of If” among the people. Interesting to visit the Museum of the Revolution and the local temple. Despite the lack of an entertainment industry, you can spend unforgettable days on Con Dao.
Hangray
Whoever one day sees in reality the fabulous beauty surrounding the small island of Hangrai will fall in love with them forever. It seems that all the colors of nature are concentrated in these heavenly places. Even those who have never held a brush and canvas in their hands are ready to become artists to capture unrealistic landscapes. Crimson sunsets and pink sunrises, the emerald blue spectrum of ocean waves, gray and red rocks, white foam lace and bright tropical greenery make you freeze with delight.
Many intricate caves off the coast arouse speleological interest among tourists who are ready to explore mysterious spaces. Huge coral reefs attract the attention of experienced and novice divers. Here, everyone forgets about urban civilization and completely indulges in the feeling of being lost in the ocean and a secluded beach holiday.
Ku Lao Cham
Ku Lao Cham archipelago, consisting of 8 islands, is located 15 kilometers from Hoi An. Almost the entire archipelago is generously endowed with the wonders of nature. High mountain peaks and slopes covered with forests, excellent sandy beaches, mesmerizing sea distances, a fantastic underwater world. A paradise vacation among incredible beauties has made Cu Lao Cham a popular tourist attraction. According to UNESCO, the archipelago is recognized as a biosphere reserve. On the largest islands of Si Lao Cham, Khon Lao, an excellent infrastructure has been created for lovers of water sports.
Diving, parasailing and water skiing schools are open here. A variety of water activities attract hundreds of tourists engaged in kayaking, paragliding, kite flying and rowing. Magnificent coral reefs stimulate lovers of scuba diving and photography. Those who do not swim and dive do not get bored here – boat trips and walking tours are organized for them. An abundance of fresh seafood dishes: shrimp, lobster, crabs and all kinds of shellfish – deliver gastronomic pleasure not only to gourmets.
Kat Ba in Halong Bay
Halong Bay, famous all over the world for its enchanting beauty, contains the Cat Ba archipelago of 366 small islands. The largest of them is the Cat Ba Island of the same name. The entire island complex is a biosphere reserve and a National Park, striking with a variety of tropical flora and fauna. Interesting excursions to natural attractions, water tours with kayaking, hiking, diving and snorkeling are organized here.
Under the supervision of instructors, you can practice rock climbing, explore caves. It is very popular on Cat Be riding on rented bikes in the picturesque surroundings. Today, a large-scale project for the development of ecotourism, the creation of a theme park, a casino, a yacht parking, and resort establishments is being implemented. Cat Ba will become the tourist Mecca of Vietnam in the future.
Koto
Formed millions of years ago as a result of tectonic shifts, Koto Island in Quang Ninh province makes a vivid impression. Yellow coastal cliffs, lush greenery around, red ferralite fields create a picturesque backdrop. Tourists come here on speedboats from Wandon. For a 1.5-hour tour by sea, you can enjoy plenty of sea views and study a detailed price list for accommodation and meals.
All travelers who have visited Koto note the extraordinary hospitality and goodwill of the local population. You can limit yourself to 1 day, or you can live on Koto for a week, settling in a hotel or in the family of a local resident. A special project has been launched here, when tourists not only live in the houses of the islanders, but also actively participate in the household chores of everyday life. Wonderful snow-white beaches, endless blue of the sea, lovely corners of nature give delightful emotions.
Weather on the islands
It seems that in a tropical country like Vietnam, it is warm all year round, so you can visit the islands at any time. However, you need to remember that the weather depends on the seasons, which are dry and rainy. Practically on all islands of the Gulf of Thailand (Phu Quoc, Namzu, etc.), the dry season is established from November to April. The water temperature reaches +27-+29°, the air warms up to 30°. From May to October, the rainy season continues, it gets hot, humidity rises, and typhoons begin to rage in some places. Especially rainy September, daytime temperatures +30°. In October, the heat subsides, but the winds intensify.
When is the best time to rest
You can comfortably relax in January-February in Fukuoka, Koto. In April, a wonderful holiday season in Halong Bay (Cat Ba). It is worth coming to the islands of Con Dao, Koto, Ku Lao Cham, Khon Lao in March-April, when there is still no strong heat. But even during the rainy season, holidays on many islands will be unforgettable.