Vietnam is not just about stunning beaches and famous landmarks; it’s also a treasure trove of lesser-known islands, each with its unique charm and secrets.
From the tranquility of Thanh An Island, a short boat ride from Saigon, to the historical depths of Con Dao Island, these hidden gems are perfect for travelers seeking an authentic experience.
Key Takeaways – Your Quick Checklist
| Island Names | Locations | What Makes It Special | How to Get There |
| Phu Quy Island | Off the South Central Coast of Vietnam | Pristine beaches, historical temples, sun-dried squid; panoramic views from the lighthouse. | Accessible by ferry from Phan Thiet. |
| Co To Island | Northeast, near Ha Long Bay area | Traditional-modern life mix, seafood delicacies, picturesque lighthouse. | Ferry from Van Don District, Quang Ninh Province. |
| Thanh An Island | Close to Ho Chi Minh City | Traditional fishing village, fresh fish cuisine, serene sunsets and rustic scenery. | Short boat ride from Saigon’s Can Gio District. |
| Ly Son Island | Off the coast of Quang Ngai Province | Unique garlic cultivation, volcanic landscape, historical sites. | Ferry from Quang Ngai Province. |
| Con Dao Island | Off the southern coast of Vietnam | Historical significance (former prison island), natural beauty, local cuisine. | Flights to Co Ong Airport or ferry from Vung Tau City. |
| Ba Lua Archipelago | In the Gulf of Thailand, near Kien Giang Province | Clear waters, quiet beaches, and fresh seafood; are ideal for snorkeling. | Boat from Ha Tien town, Kien Giang Province. |
| Nam Du Islands | Off the coast of Kien Giang Province | Laid-back lifestyle, fresh seafood, Nam Du Lighthouse views. | Ferry from Rach Gia City in Kien Giang Province. |
Contents
- 1 1. Phu Quy Island: Where Winds and Buddha Meet
- 2 2. Co To Island: A Mix of Old and New
- 3 3. Thanh An Island: The Quiet Fishing Village
- 4 4. Ly Son Island: The Island of Volcanoes and Lonely Black Garlic
- 5 5. Con Dao Island: A Prison Island Adventure
- 6 6. Ba Lua Archipelago: A Serene Escape
- 7 7. Nam Du Islands: Unspoiled Natural Beauty
- 8 Wrap It Up
1. Phu Quy Island: Where Winds and Buddha Meet
Phu Quy Island, though a bit further away and accessible by ferry, rewards you with pristine beaches and a peaceful atmosphere.
It’s not just about the natural beauty; the island’s historical temples and delicious sun-dried squid add to its allure. Phu Quy Island is a small spot in the ocean, known for its warm community and beautiful scenery.
Visually, the sweeping views from the lighthouse offer a panoramic delight, capturing the island’s rugged charm.
2. Co To Island: A Mix of Old and New
Co To Island stands out with its pristine beaches and welcoming local community. This island offers a vivid snapshot of Vietnamese coastal life, with fishing and agriculture deeply woven into its cultural fabric.
The local cuisine is a seafood lover’s dream, especially the seaweed salads.
Photographers will find the island’s lighthouse a perfect spot to capture stunning coastal vistas.
Despite its remote feel, the island is accessible by boat, offering an off-the-beaten-path experience.
3. Thanh An Island: The Quiet Fishing Village
Close to Ho Chi Minh City yet worlds apart, Thanh An Island offers a glimpse of traditional village life. It’s a place where you can enjoy fresh, locally caught fish and watch serene sunsets.
On Thanh An Island, life moves at a slower pace, offering a calm escape from city life.
The cuisine here is simple yet flavorful, focusing on fresh fish and traditional cooking methods.
For photographers, the rustic wooden boats and the play of the sunset on calm waters make for stunning subjects.
And the best part? It’s just a short, convenient boat ride away from the city.
4. Ly Son Island: The Island of Volcanoes and Lonely Black Garlic
Ly Son is interesting because it was formed by volcanoes long ago. This makes it a great place for growing a special kind of garlic that’s famous in Vietnam (lonely black garlic).
The island also has old temples and tells stories about Vietnam’s past. When you visit, you get to see and learn lots of different things.
The local cuisine here is a flavorful adventure, especially the garlic-infused dishes and fresh seafood.
Photographically, the striking contrast between the green garlic fields and the blue sea creates a unique landscape.
Accessibility is easy with a short ferry ride, making it a convenient yet extraordinary escape.
5. Con Dao Island: A Prison Island Adventure
Finally, Con Dao Island presents a blend of history and natural beauty. Once known for its prison, the island now provides a revealing look into Vietnam’s history.
The local cuisine is a mix of Vietnamese flavors, focusing on fresh, local ingredients.
For those with a camera, the historical sites and stunning beaches are a dream.
With flights and ferries available, Con Dao is an accessible destination that combines historical intrigue with scenic beauty.
6. Ba Lua Archipelago: A Serene Escape
Nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, the Ba Lua Archipelago is a peaceful retreat. Known for its clear waters and quiet beaches, it’s perfect for snorkeling and relaxation.
The local seafood, fresh and simply prepared, reflects the islands’ unspoiled nature.
Photographers will love the golden sunrises and sunsets here.
Reachable by boat from Ha Tien, this archipelago offers a peaceful retreat away from the crowds.
7. Nam Du Islands: Unspoiled Natural Beauty
The Nam Du Islands, a cluster of 21 islands, showcase Vietnam’s rustic charm. Hon Lon, the main island, is lively yet laid-back.
Visitors can enjoy the local lifestyle with fresh seafood and friendly interactions. The Nam Du Lighthouse offers stunning views, ideal for capturing the islands’ beauty.
A ferry ride from Rach Gia City leads you to this untouched paradise.
Wrap It Up
Vietnam’s lesser-known islands offer a unique escape to tranquil beaches, rich culture, and unspoiled nature.
From the Ba Lua Archipelago’s calm waters to the relaxed atmosphere of Thanh An Islands, each destination is full of unique experiences.
So why wait? Pack your bags, set your spirit of adventure free, and embark on a journey to these hidden gems. They are not just places to visit but stories to live and memories to cherish.