1. Overview of Ngoc Vung Island, Quang Ninh
Overview of Ngoc Vung Island, Quang Ninh. (Source: Collected)
1.1. Geographical location and area of Ngoc Vung Island.
Located peacefully amidst the Hai Van archipelago, Ngoc Vung Island, Quang Ninh is situated in the Southwest of Van Don Special Administrative Region, at coordinates 20°4' to 21° North latitude and 107° East longitude. This location gives the island the role of a natural connection point between the mainland and the outer archipelagos.
With an area of about 40 km², Ngoc Vung commune consists of 42 large and small islands along with a unique limestone mountain system. Ngoc Vung Island, Quang Ninh is the largest island in the area, home to nearly 1,000 residents belonging to the Kinh, Dao, Muong, Thai, San Diu, and Tay ethnic groups, who live and maintain long-standing cultural traditions.
The surrounding small islands such as Ha Mai Island, Hon Net, Hon La, Hon Nut Da... create a diverse ecosystem, each island possessing its own unique charm. Notably, the island's location between Phuong Hoang Island and Hon Net forms a natural sheltered bay, an ideal place for relaxation and leisure.
1.2. Natural features and Ngoc Vung beach.
Nature's favor brings to Ngoc Vung Island, Quang Ninh Truong Chinh beach, stretching nearly 3 km, with fine white sand as soft as powder. The sand here gently slopes alongside clear blue waters, creating a serene seascape rarely found in the North.
The island's coastline has a moderate slope, making it very suitable for swimming and water activities. Thanks to its distance from the mainland and lack of industrial impact, the seawater is always clear and pure. On sunny days, you can easily see the sandy bottom.
Besides the blue sea and white sandy beaches, Ngoc Vung Island, Quang Ninh also boasts a rich ecosystem with gently winding limestone mountain ranges and lush green forests covering the slopes. The climate on the island is pleasant year-round, with cool sea breezes, keeping the air fresh and suitable for those wishing to escape the city life.
2. How to get to Ngoc Vung Island, Quang Ninh
Detailed guide on how to travel to Ngoc Vung Island, Quang Ninh. (Source: Collected)
2.1. Moving from Hanoi and surrounding provinces to Ngoc Vung Island.
The journey to Ngoc Vung Island, Quang Ninh usually begins with traveling from Hanoi to the ports in Quang Ninh. You can choose to take a high-quality bus or drive your own car to Cai Rong Port (Van Don), Vung Duc pier (Cam Pha), or Ha Long Port.
The distance from Hanoi to these ports ranges from about 200 - 220 km, with a travel time of about 3 - 4 hours. Modern buses, with air conditioning and comfortable reclining seats, cost around 200,000 - 280,000 VND per trip. Some major bus companies like Hoang Long, Ha Son, Kumho Samco serve this route with multiple departures daily from 6 AM to 5 PM.
If you prefer independence, driving your own car offers a novel experience. The Hanoi - Ha Long route via the highway not only saves time but also allows you to admire the majestic limestone karst scenery of the Uong Bi area. The total cost for fuel and tolls for a round trip is approximately 800,000 - 1,200,000 VND.
From the seaports, the journey continues by traditional wooden passenger boats or high-speed ferries. Wooden boats offer a sense of closeness to maritime culture, with a travel time of about 90 minutes and ticket prices ranging from 70,000 - 120,000 VND per trip. High-speed ferries shorten the travel time to just 45 minutes, with ticket prices starting from 150,000 VND per trip.
2.2. Getting around Ngoc Vung: transportation and how to explore the island.
Upon arriving at Ngoc Vung Island, Quang Ninh, you will feel the peaceful rhythm characteristic of the coastal region. Bicycles are a popular choice for many tourists because they are environmentally friendly and suitable for exploring the small paths on the island.
Bicycle rental services are available at most homestays and guesthouses with prices ranging from 50,000 - 70,000 VND per day. Bikes are well-maintained and can carry personal belongings and water. Cycling along the coastal road in the morning or late afternoon brings a sense of relaxation under the fresh sea breeze.
Groups of friends or families can opt to rent motorbikes for longer distances and carrying more luggage. Motorbike rental prices are around 120,000 - 150,000 VND per day, including a helmet and a full tank of gas. Homestay owners here are always enthusiastic in guiding directions and suggesting interesting attractions.
Walking remains the best option to clearly feel the island life. The main attractions are located close to each other, allowing you to easily explore fishing villages, small markets, and seaside cafes in a leisurely afternoon.
3. Outstanding experiences at Ngoc Vung Island, Quang Ninh
Outstanding experiences unique to Ngoc Vung Island, Quang Ninh. (Source: Collection)
3.1. Visiting historical sites and symbols.
The history of Ngoc Vung Island, Quang Ninh is still marked by many important historical sites, especially the Mac Dynasty Citadel located on Pha Dai Islet. This ancient architectural work not only holds historical value but is also an ideal scenic spot, where you can cast your eyes over the entire archipelago.
The ramparts, built from local limestone, still remain sturdy over time. Standing on the ancient citadel, you will realize why this place was once a strategic defense position, with a wide view allowing observation of all passing ships from afar.
The Ngoc Vung Communal House and Temple plays a central role in the spiritual life on the island, serving as the place of worship for Village Guardian Deities and sea gods. The architecture of the communal house and temple carries strong traditional features with curved roofs and skillfully carved parallel sentences. During festivals, especially Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year) and the Fish Blessing Festival, the festive atmosphere becomes more solemn and cozy throughout the fishing village.
The National Flag Tower, 29 meters high, is built on the highest point of the island, serving as a sacred symbol of national sovereignty. The red flag with a yellow star flutters in the sea breeze, creating a proud image. The area around the flag tower features a small park and stone benches, where visitors often stop in the afternoon to watch the sunset over the sea.
3.2. Relaxation and island activities.
Truong Chinh Beach is a prominent highlight of Ngoc Vung Island, Quang Ninh . The jade-green seawater is so clear that you can see the layers of sand at the bottom, bringing a sense of relaxation. The water temperature is stable year-round, especially in summer, ranging from 25 to 28°C, which is very pleasant.
Swimming here is delightful thanks to the gently sloping sandy shore and gentle waves. Even those who cannot swim can safely play in the shallow waters near the shore. Early morning is when the water is clearest and the waves are calm, making it ideal to start your day with the blue sea.
The moments of welcoming the sunrise or watching the sunset on the island are special experiences worth trying. When the sun rises in the East, a shimmering golden hue stretches across the water, while the sunset is brilliant with orange-red light reflecting on the sea waves. Many couples choose this time to capture beautiful romantic photos.
Cycling around the island is an interesting way to explore every corner. The coastal road stretches about 14 km, passing through small fishing villages, quiet beaches, and hidden coves. Camping overnight by the sea will bring you closer to nature, listening to the gentle sound of the waves under a starry sky.
3.3. Exploring traditional fishing villages and pearl farming.
The life of the fishing village on Ngoc Vung Island, Quang Ninh has remained simple and rustic through generations. Before dawn, the sound of boats leaving the harbor signals the start of a new day. Visitors can join fishermen in pulling nets, experiencing the thrill of not knowing what fish will be caught today.
On coracles, fishing brings unexpected joy. Fishermen will guide you on how to bait the hook, cast the line, and patiently wait for a bite. The freshly caught fish are often prepared right on the boat by grilling over charcoal, served with salt, pepper, and lime, full of the sea's flavor.
The pearl farming industry is a characteristic feature of the island. Pearl farms are usually located in calm waters no more than 2.5 meters deep. Visitors have the opportunity to learn about the process from selecting oyster breeds, implanting nuclei, to caring for them over a period of 18-24 months.
The moment of opening oysters to find pearls always excites everyone. An oyster can yield 5-15 pearls in various colors and sizes. Perfectly round pearls with natural luster are always the most highly valued. Jewelry crafted from local pearls is very suitable for purchasing as souvenirs for loved ones.
3.4. Ngoc Vung Cuisine and must-try specialties.
The cuisine of Ngoc Vung Island, Quang Ninh focuses on fresh and delicious seafood caught daily. The seafood here has firm flesh and natural sweetness because it is raised in clean waters. Fish such as mackerel, red snapper, and grouper are prepared in many ways, such as charcoal grilling, steamed with ginger, cooked in sour soup, or served raw as salad.
The island's shrimp stand out for their large size and translucent shells. Sweet and sour tamarind shrimp, fragrant grilled shrimp with chili salt, or boiled shrimp served with a ginger-garlic dipping sauce all have a rich sea flavor.
Fresh squid has thick flesh and a sweet taste; it is grilled whole or stir-fried with lemongrass and chili, which is very appealing.
Pearls are not only for jewelry but are also used to prepare nutritious dishes. Pearl congee has a delicate flavor and is good for skin health and kidneys. Steamed pearls with lime leaves retain the full sea flavor, served with a pungent fish sauce, garlic, and chili dip which is very distinctive.
Blood cockles are a unique specialty of certain clean coastal areas. The cockle meat is bright red and rich in nutrients. Grilled blood cockles with scallion oil are very fragrant; the meat is tender, deeply sweet, blending the richness of scallion oil and the smoky aroma of banana leaves.
4. Accommodation at Ngoc Vung Island, Quang Ninh
How to stay on Ngoc Vung Island, Quang Ninh. (Source: Collected)
4.1. Accommodation types: homestays, guesthouses, experience services with local residents.
The homestay model on Ngoc Vung Island, Quang Ninh offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture. Fishing families often provide clean rooms equipped with beds, mosquito nets, and fans for guests. Homestay prices range from VND 250,000 to VND 400,000 per night, including accommodation and potentially breakfast with the hosts.
One of the memorable experiences during your stay is sharing meals with fishing families. The simple meal consists of white rice, sour fish soup, boiled water spinach, and fermented shrimp paste, carrying the distinct flavor of the sea. The hosts often share stories about their fishing lives, weather forecasting experiences, and ancient legends of the island.
Ngoc Vung Homestay managed by Ms. Huong is highly praised by many for its proximity to the sea and thoughtful service. The house has 4 rooms overlooking a fruit garden, where guests can enjoy the sound of birds singing and the fresh air in the morning. The hostess enthusiastically assists guests with renting vehicles, finding good places to eat, and suggesting interesting activities on the island.
Hong Duyen Guesthouse is located right in the center of the island, convenient for traveling to many attractions. Rooms are equipped with air conditioning, a TV, a mini-fridge, and a private bathroom with hot and cold water. The front yard is planted with many flamboyant trees, providing shade for guests to chat and drink tea in the afternoon.
4.2. High-end resorts and potential resort projects.
According to the tourism development orientation of Quang Ninh province, Ngoc Vung Island will become a high-end resort destination in the period 2026 - 2030. Several investors have surveyed and are proceeding with the construction of 4-5 star resort projects in the most scenic areas of the island.
The Hon Ngoc Xanh - Green Pearl Retreat Resort project is currently completing legal procedures and is expected to commence construction by the end of 2026. This resort is expected to feature 120 villas and bungalows designed in harmony with nature, integrating high-end amenities such as a spa, luxurious restaurants, a mini-golf course, and an underwater sports center.
Sun Group Corporation has also expressed interest in the potential of Ngoc Vung Island, Quang Ninh, with plans to develop an eco-resort combined with island and sea cultural experiences. This project focuses on environmental conservation and preserving local values, while also creating more jobs for local residents.
The implementation of high-end resort projects will help elevate Ngoc Vung Island, Quang Ninh on the international tourism map, while creating a balance between cultural experience tourism and comfortable resort services. Consequently, tourists will have more choices, from friendly homestays to modern resorts.
5. Suggested 3N2D itinerary for Ngoc Vung Island, Quang Ninh
Suggested travel itinerary on Ngoc Vung Island, Quang Ninh. (Source: Collected)
Day 1: Exploration and Familiarization
The train departs from Cai Rong port at 8 AM and will take you to Ngoc Vung Island, Quang Ninh around 9:30 AM. After checking into your homestay, start your first day with a walk around the fishing village. The peaceful scenery with small houses by the sea, anchored fishing boats, and playing children will give you a first impression of the local pace of life.
In the afternoon, visit the Ngoc Vung communal house and temple to learn more about the beliefs and spiritual beauty of the islanders. If it's a festival occasion, you will have the opportunity to attend traditional fishing rituals typical of the coastal region. End the day with a seafood dinner at a small seaside restaurant, enjoying fresh fish just caught by the fishermen.
Day 2: Unique Experiences
Wake up early at 5 AM to go fishing with the local fishermen. The feeling of sitting on a small boat bobbing on the waves, holding a fishing rod and waiting for a bite is truly exciting. Upon returning to shore, you will be guided on how to prepare the freshly caught fish into simple yet flavorful seafood dishes.
In the afternoon, spend time swimming at Truong Chinh beach, visit the National Flag Tower and the Mac Dynasty Citadel. The sunset light at this time is brilliantly beautiful, perfect for taking commemorative photos. Learning about pearl farming will also provide new knowledge about island culture.
In the evening, try camping on the beach or organizing a BBQ party with friends. Sitting by the bonfire, listening to the sound of the waves under the starry sky will be unforgettable moments of relaxation.
Day 3: Exploration and Departure
The last morning on Ngoc Vung Island, Quang Ninh is for cycling around, visiting pristine beaches with few visitors. Visiting the old artillery positions with preserved ancient cannons will help you understand more about the islanders' combat memories.
Before leaving the island, visit the small market to buy specialties such as sour shrimp paste, natural pearls, or handicrafts made from shells. The 2 PM ferry back to the mainland gives you time to pack your bags and say goodbye to new friends.
From Cai Rong port, you can continue exploring Sun World Ha Long with its famous cable car, visit Quan Lan Island to see Minh Chau beach, or extend your journey with a trip to Co To Island.
Ngoc Vung Island, Quang Ninh is not just a resort destination but also a journey to discover intact natural, historical, and cultural values. In 2026, with reasonable development, this place promises to bring new experiences while retaining its peaceful and simple beauty. Come and feel the wonderful harmony between nature, people, and local culture!
