1. Introduction to Cai Chien Island, Quang Ninh
Introduction to Cai Chien Island, Quang Ninh. (Source: Collected).
Located 8 km northeast of the mainland, Cai Chien Quang Ninh belongs to Cai Chien commune, Quang Ninh province. The island has an area of 2,600 ha, is 150 km from Ha Long and about 330 km from Hanoi, making it an ideal destination for weekend trips.
The most impressive aspect of Cai Chien Quang Ninh is its pristine natural space. The long beach has fine white sand, crystal clear turquoise water, and a cool climate year-round. Compared to many other tourist coastal areas, this place still retains its tranquility, suitable for those who want to relax and explore its ecology.
This is the only island with residents in Hai Ha district, with over 600 people mainly engaged in fishing and aquaculture. The coastal culture here has been preserved through generations, nổi bật với các sản vật như gà râu, hải sản tươi cùng tinh thần gìn giữ môi trường vì phát triển bền vững.
2. Easiest way to get to Cai Chien Quang Ninh in 2025
Directions to Cai Chien Island, Quang Ninh. (Source: Collected).
2.1. How to travel from Hanoi to Cai Chien Island
To get to Cai Chien Island, Quang Ninh from Hanoi, you can choose a bus to Mong Cai with prices ranging from 200,000 to 230,000 VND per trip/person. The trip lasts about 6 hours, giving you the opportunity to admire the border scenery.
After arriving in Mong Cai, continue by taxi or private car to the Ghenh Vo ferry terminal. This is the only terminal connecting the mainland to the island, with fixed ferry times at 6:00 AM, 10:00 AM, and 4:30 PM daily. The ferry ticket price per person is 20,000 VND, and bringing a motorbike will cost 50,000 VND.
During the summer tourist season, the number of visitors to Cai Chien Island, Quang Ninh increases significantly. Therefore, booking ferry tickets in advance helps you be more proactive about your time and travel itinerary.
2.2. Experience traveling from Ho Chi Minh City and southern provinces
For travelers departing from Ho Chi Minh City or southern provinces, choosing a direct flight will save considerable time. Van Don Airport is the closest destination to Cai Chien Island, Quang Ninh, followed by airports in Hai Phong or Hanoi, with ticket prices ranging from 650,000 to 1,100,000 VND per trip, depending on the time.
Upon arrival at the airport, you can rent a car or take a taxi to the Ghenh Vo ferry terminal. The total time from the airport to the island will be about 3 to 4 hours, including waiting time for the ferry.
Travelers coming from afar should note that ferry times are fixed at three slots per day. During the peak tourist season, it is advisable to book accommodation and ferry tickets in advance for a smooth and uninterrupted trip.
3. Attractive attractions when traveling to Cai Chien Island, Quang Ninh in 2025
Attractions when traveling to Cai Chien Island, Quang Ninh. (Source: Collected).
3.1. Cai Chien Beach
The main beach of Cai Chien, Quang Ninh is considered the heart of the island. It has a stretch of fine white sand, kilometers long, embracing the clear blue sea. The natural scenery is full of vitality, very suitable for those who love swimming and relaxing.
Swimming here brings a pleasant feeling thanks to the clear water and gentle waves. Tourists can swim and play in the water with peace of mind, without worrying about water quality or currents.
Additionally, organizing a light outdoor meal under the cool casuarina trees is an experience many people choose. Many groups of young people set up tents close to the sea to enjoy the quiet space and listen to the gentle sound of the waves all night.
3.2. Casuarina hills, coastal road, and sunset viewing spot
The deep green rows of casuarina trees surrounding Cai Chien, Quang Ninh create a captivating natural landscape. The tall, straight casuarina trees provide shade and a pleasant atmosphere.
The road running along the coast through the casuarina forest is a highlight of the entire island. This is an ideal path for walking or cycling, with each step revealing a new perspective of the sea and nature.
Watching the sunset over the sea is an activity that anyone setting foot on Cai Chien, Quang Ninh wishes to experience. Additionally, night squid fishing and kayaking are also unique experiences that bring tourists closer to the island's nature.
3.3. Explore local culture
The daily life of the residents of Cai Chien, Quang Ninh is deeply marked by island culture. Visitors can meet the locals, learn about aquaculture, and the characteristic way of life on the island.
The aquaculture models here are worth visiting, from raising shrimp, crab, and fish in cages to sustainable fishing techniques, all are very lively and informative.
Notably, Cai Chien, Quang Ninh is known for its ga rau (bearded chicken) breed - a prominent OCOP product of Quang Ninh province. Visitors can visit families raising ga rau, observe the special rearing process, and enjoy this dish right at its origin.
4. Must-try specialty cuisine of Cai Chien, Quang Ninh
Culinary specialties on Cai Chien Island, Quang Ninh. (Source: Collected).
4.1. Cai Chien Rooster - Culinary "superstar" and OCOP product of Quang Ninh
Cai Chien Rooster of Quang Ninh is one of the island's most outstanding specialties. This rare breed of chicken has a beard growing under its chin, creating a very impressive appearance compared to ordinary chickens.
The rooster's meat is fragrant, sweet, and firm due to being raised freely in nature across the island. The flock eats corn, wild vegetables, and natural available food, bringing a special flavor.
The two most characteristic dishes from the rooster are salt-steamed chicken wrapped in banana leaves and plain grilled chicken. Salt-steamed chicken retains the sweet taste of the meat, while the plain grilled dish has the aroma of glowing charcoal. The price of rooster at Cai Chien Quang Ninh is usually from 180,000 to 220,000 VND per kg.
Due to limited supply and high demand during the tourist season, rooster is sometimes unavailable. Therefore, if traveling in a large group or wanting to enjoy it on the spot, you should contact your accommodation in advance to book.
4.2. Renowned fresh seafood of Cai Chien Quang Ninh
Razor clams are one of the special seafood types of Cai Chien Quang Ninh. These clams have a long, slender body with chewy and sweet meat. Popular dishes from these clams are grilled with scallion oil, stir-fried with garlic, or steamed with ginger, each method bringing an unforgettable flavor.
Oyster porridge is a rustic but very nutritious dish, made from fresh sea oysters cooked with rice, creating a natural sweetness. The average price is from 30,000 to 50,000 VND per bowl, suitable for many types of tourists, especially children and the elderly.
When choosing seafood at Cai Chien Quang Ninh, you should prioritize eateries around Dau Rong beach area and residential areas on the island. Ask for prices beforehand and choose crowded places to be assured of the quality and freshness of the seafood.
4.3. Some local dishes and "small but quality" specialties
Sea fish, fresh squid, and mantis shrimp are three indispensable types of seafood when enjoying the cuisine of Cai Chien Quang Ninh. Steamed squid retains its fresh sweet flavor, grilled fish carries a strong sea flavor, and salt-cooked mantis shrimp creates a rich and attractive feeling.
Wild vegetables on the island also contribute to the unique character of the dishes. Locals often combine wild vegetables with seafood, creating dishes with unique flavors that cannot be found everywhere.
To fully experience the island's sea flavor of Cai Chien Quang Ninh, you should try simple grilled or steamed dishes, which retain the original fresh taste and are not overpowered by seasonings.
5. Accommodation on Cai Chien Island, Quang Ninh: Homestays, guesthouses, new amenities 2025
Staying on Cai Chien Island, Quang Ninh. (Source: Collected).
5.1. List of outstanding homestays/guesthouses
Choosing a beachfront homestay when visiting Cai Chien, Quang Ninh is an ideal choice. Simple yet cozy wooden houses located right by the sea allow visitors to immerse themselves in nature, listening to the waves every morning.
Private guesthouses in residential areas also fully meet accommodation needs with necessary amenities. Dao Ngoc Cai Chien Guesthouse and Van Ca homestay are loved by many for their quality of service and convenient location.
If you like exploring, you can try camping overnight on the beach with tent services. Sleeping outdoors, stargazing, and listening to the sound of the waves will surely leave an unforgettable impression.
Room prices at Cai Chien, Quang Ninh are very reasonable, homestays range from 350,000 to 550,000 VND per night for a double room, guesthouses from 200,000 to 400,000 VND per night, and tent rentals cost around 100,000 to 150,000 VND per person per night.
5.2. Tips for booking during peak season
During summer and holidays, Cai Chien, Quang Ninh often welcomes a large number of tourists. Booking 2 to 4 weeks in advance helps you easily choose accommodation that suits your type and budget.
Some homestays and guesthouses offer package deals including meals or free services such as bicycle or kayak rentals. If traveling in a large group, you may also receive additional price discounts.
For good prices and a complete vacation, it is advisable to proactively contact homestay owners or use reliable booking platforms. Choosing accommodation near the beach will make it convenient for you to travel and enjoy the natural beauty of Cai Chien, Quang Ninh more.
6. Suggested 3D2N itinerary for Cai Chien, Quang Ninh tourism combining ecological and culinary experiences
Suggested itinerary for tourism on Cai Chien Quang Ninh island. (Source: Collected).
The first day upon arriving at Cai Chien Quang Ninh should be spent getting acquainted with the island's atmosphere. After arriving on the island in the morning and checking into your homestay, you can rest and recover. In the afternoon, start exploring the main beach, swim, and organize a picnic under the cool casuarina trees.
The second day should be dedicated to experiencing ecological activities and learning about the island's culture. In the morning, kayaking or walking along the coastal road are reasonable choices, offering a relaxing feeling. For lunch, enjoying ga rau (a local chicken dish) and fresh seafood is an unmissable highlight. The afternoon is ideal for visiting the islanders' daily life, exploring aquaculture models, and strolling through the small fish market. In the evening, organizing a seafood BBQ party and participating in night squid fishing will bring many new experiences.
On the last day, you should wake up early to catch the sunrise over the sea, take a stroll, and explore more pristine beaches like Van Ca. After checking out at noon, combine your trip with a visit to Ha Long, experience Sun World Ha Long to enjoy more modern entertainment activities.
Cai Chien Quang Ninh is an attractive ecological destination in the East Sea, offering a peaceful resort space while helping you understand local cuisine and culture. Get your luggage ready to personally feel the special charm of this island!
