1. Overview of Van Don Beach 2025
Overview of Van Don Sea (Source: Collected)
1.1 Location and Attraction of Van Don Sea
Located in Van Don district, northeastern Quang Ninh province, Van Don Sea occupies a prime location adjacent to Bai Tu Long Bay, just 60 km from Ha Long. What makes this sea area a tourism highlight in 2025 is the perfect combination of nature and history. Van Don district has over 600 large and small islands, notably Quan Lan, Minh Chau, Ngoc Vung, and Cai Bau. Surrounding limestone mountain ranges, combined with jade-green seawater, create a majestic landscape. This place also boasts abundant seafood, diverse mangrove forests, and white sandy beaches like Bai Dai, Son Hao, painting a beautiful natural picture.
The tropical monsoon climate with cool summers and calm seas from April to August creates ideal conditions for resort tourism. Van Don Sea possesses many beaches that have not been heavily exploited, retaining their pristine natural beauty. The rich ecosystem with mangrove forests, natural lakes, and caves is suitable for those who love unique ecological experiences.
1.2. Brief Overview of the Ancient Van Don Trading Port
The Van Don Trading Port was established in 1149 during the Ly Dynasty, holding the title of the first seaport of Dai Viet. Through the Ly, Tran, Mac, and Le dynasties, Van Don was once the busiest international trading gateway in Northern Vietnam, serving as a maritime commercial center for centuries.
Van Don Sea once served as an important trading gateway, connecting Dai Viet with China, Japan, Southeast Asia, and even Europe. It was an export point for agarwood, pearls, and fish sauce, while also receiving valuable products from the North and the West, forming a bustling trading port.
1.3. Remaining Historical Imprints
The system of trading port relics still exists with ancient wharves, village temples, pagodas, and ramparts such as Cai Lang Temple and Cong Cai Temple in Quan Lan commune. Tourists can visit these ancient architectural structures, and combine them with island exploration tours. Experiencing the history of the trading port during an island journey offers a deep insight into the local culture and the stories of ancient merchant ships that once anchored at Van Don Sea.
2. Latest Guide to Traveling to Van Don Sea in 2025
Guide to traveling to Van Don beach (Source: Collected)
2.1. From Hanoi, Hai Phong and northern provinces to Van Don
To reach Van Don beach, tourists often choose private cars or high-quality coaches from Hanoi. The Hanoi - Hai Phong - Ha Long - Van Don expressway takes only 3 - 4 hours, with a cost of about 250,000 - 400,000 VND/trip depending on the vehicle type. If you want more comfort, you can choose a premium limousine service.
Tourists can also choose to travel by train from Hai Phong to Cai Rong, then continue the journey by bus or taxi to the resorts. This route offers an interesting experience as you can admire the coastal scenery along the way.
2.2. How to travel from Ho Chi Minh City and the South to Van Don beach
Van Don International Airport is a great advantage for tourists from the South with direct flights from Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang. The flight time is about 1 hour and 50 minutes, significantly saving travel time compared to by road. From Van Don airport, tourists can easily travel to Cai Rong town or directly to resorts on the islands by taxi, bus, or hotel shuttle service.
2.3. Internal transportation in Van Don
The system of high-speed boats and ferries from Cai Rong port to Quan Lan, Minh Chau, and Ngoc Vung islands operates regularly with reasonable ticket prices. On the islands, tourists can use taxis, local buses, or rent motorbikes/cars for flexible exploration.
Especially, experiencing kayak boats or small boats to visit mangrove forests and natural lakes offers an exciting feeling of immersing yourself in Van Don beach. These trips allow tourists to get close to nature and discover the most beautiful hidden corners of the sea.
3. Must-visit attractions and experiences at Van Don beach 2025
Attractions and experiences at Van Don beach (Source: Collected)
3.1. Famous Islands: Quan Lan, Minh Chau, Ngoc Vung
Quan Lan Island is famous for its long white sandy beach and crystal clear turquoise water. Besides swimming, visitors can go kayaking, camping, and experience the local fishing life. The ancient communal houses and pagodas on the island bear the strong imprint of the trading port's history, creating a unique cultural highlight.
Minh Chau impresses with a beach that retains its natural beauty, with clear blue sea water ideal for swimming and photography. Many high-end resorts have chosen this island as a location for developing luxury tourism services.
Ngoc Vung is a peaceful small island with rustic beauty, suitable for those who want to explore wild nature. Picnicking on the beach and watching the sunset from Ngoc Vung island are memorable experiences at Van Don beach .
3.2. Beautiful Beaches: Bai Dai, Bai Son Hao, Bai Viet My
Bai Dai has long been likened to an ideal stopover for those who love peaceful beauty. Fine white sand, gentle waves, and the famous wooden bridge make this place a favorite check-in spot. Camping overnight and watching the sunrise from the beach offer visitors unforgettable moments.
Continuing the journey, Son Hao beach appears with a soft curve like a crescent moon. The clear sea water, pristine mangrove forests, and simple fishing villages create a captivating natural picture. This is also an ideal place for fishing, exploring coastal life, and enjoying a quiet night of camping.
Not only possessing wild beauty, Van Don also offers a more convenient option at Bai Viet My. This area is developing into a modern resort destination, suitable for families who want to enjoy a private beach with full services.
3.3. Explore Caves, Natural Lakes, Mangrove Forests
Hang Sau is famous for its magnificent stalactite system, creating unique shapes. Mountain climbing to explore caves offers an exciting adventure for discovery enthusiasts.
Voòng Tre Lake and Mat Rong Lake are two must-visit destinations with clear blue water and pristine landscapes. Kayaking on the lake allows visitors to immerse themselves in nature and capture impressive photos.
The diverse mangrove ecosystem at Van Don beach is suitable for environmental education tours. Visitors can participate in programs to learn about marine flora and fauna and the important role of mangrove forests in environmental protection.
3.4. Spiritual and Cultural Tourist Attractions
Cai Bau Pagoda is a famous spiritual site on Cai Bau island, surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. Many visitors come here to pray for peace and admire the panoramic view of Van Don beach from above.
The ancient communal houses and pagodas bearing the strong imprint of the trading port's history create unique cultural values. Traditional island and sea festivals held annually from April to August offer opportunities to learn about the rich local culture.
3.5. Combine with Sun World Ha Long Experience
A trip to Van Don beach will be more complete if you combine it with a day exploring Sun World Ha Long - the most modern entertainment complex in the North, only about 70 km from Van Don. Here, visitors can experience a series of exciting activities such as the Queen Cable Car for panoramic views of the bay, the challenging Dragon Park, or the fascinating aquarium with hundreds of marine species.
Thanks to its convenient location, you can rent a private car to be flexible with your time or book a package tour for a prepared itinerary. Whichever method you choose, a trip combining beach relaxation with vibrant entertainment activities will provide a complete experience for the whole family and group of friends.
4. Resort, Culinary, and Entertainment Experiences at Van Don Beach
Experience accommodation, cuisine, and entertainment at Van Don Sea (Source: Collected)
4.1. Accommodation: Outstanding Hotels, Resorts, and Homestays in 2025
High-class resorts on Quan Lan Island offer a premium accommodation experience with infinity pools, relaxing spas, and 5-star services. Homestays near Minh Chau beach provide visitors with an experience close to nature, while enjoying private and peaceful spaces.
Hotels in Cai Rong offer sea-view rooms with private balconies, ideal for watching the sunrise and sunset. Seafood restaurant services and island exploration tours are integrated into the accommodations, providing maximum convenience for visitors.
Many new resorts invested by major brands like Sun Group are elevating the resort experience in Van Don Sea, promising to deliver the most premium and modern services.
4.2. Van Don Sea Cuisine - Must-Try Delicacies
Fresh and roasted sea cucumbers are specialties not to be missed when visiting Van Don Sea. Fresh oysters, abalone, shrimp, and squid are prepared in the local style, bringing rich flavors of the sea. Grouper, sea bass grilled over charcoal, fragrant squid cakes, and boiled sea crabs are the most attractive dishes in the island region.
The row of beachfront restaurants and Cai Rong market have become a paradise for fresh seafood at reasonable prices. Visitors can choose their own seafood and request it to be prepared according to their personal preferences.
Experiencing night squid fishing with local fishermen, then preparing the fresh squid yourself, becomes an interesting activity that attracts many visitors. Participating in the fishing and preparation process helps visitors better understand the lives of fishermen in Van Don Sea.
4.3. Recreational Activities
Amidst the clear blue waters of Quan Lan or Minh Chau, visitors will immerse themselves in a journey to explore the vibrant coral world beneath the sea. The diverse coral ecosystem with many tropical fish creates a colorful scene.
Night squid fishing on a boat with local fishermen is an attractive activity for the whole family. Visitors will learn how to use squid fishing lights and experience the thrilling sensation when the squid bite the hook.
Cruising to admire Bai Tu Long Bay, and picnicking on a deserted island offer relaxing moments amidst nature. Day tours to explore caves, mangrove forests, and Voong Tre lake allow visitors to experience diverse landscapes in Van Don Sea.
5. Development Potential and New Policies for Van Don Sea Tourism - Economy in 2025
Development potential of Van Don Sea (Source: Collected)
5.1. Key infrastructure projects and development plans
Van Don International Airport has created a breakthrough in connecting Van Don Sea with major domestic and international cities. Large-scale tourist ports and passenger terminals are being expanded to serve the increasing number of tourists.
Large-scale 5-star resorts and entertainment casinos are being heavily invested in by Sun Group and many other corporations. These infrastructure projects promise to transform Van Don Sea into a world-class international tourist destination.
Quang Ninh Provincial People's Committee has oriented Van Don to become a leading northern coastal tourism and economic center by 2025. This is considered a solid foundation for the sustainable development of the locality.
5.2. Investment attraction and ecological conservation policies
The local government is implementing major preferential policies to attract foreign investment, especially in the fields of resort, entertainment, and casinos. The investment from major brands like Sun Group is contributing to elevating Van Don Sea to new heights.
The development orientation of "green" tourism is prioritized, with strict control over water environment quality and conservation of island marine ecosystems. Development projects must strictly comply with environmental protection regulations and preserve the historical trading port heritage.
6. Suggested itinerary for a complete 2D1N/3D2N exploration of Van Don Sea
Suggested itinerary for exploring Van Don beach (Source: Collected)
6.1. 2-day 1-night itinerary "beach - island - heritage"
On the first day, visitors travel to Van Don beach and visit Quan Lan island with its beautiful beach. Explore ancient communal houses and pagodas bearing the mark of the trading port's history, then enjoy a special seafood dinner at a seaside restaurant.
The second day is dedicated to exploring Bai Dai beach with its famous wooden bridge and Hang Sau cave to admire the majestic stalactites. Visit the trading port relic, stop by Cai Bau Pagoda before returning to Hanoi or the original departure point.
6.2. 3-day 2-night itinerary for a high-class resort experience
On the first day arriving at Van Don beach , check into a high-class resort and enjoy Minh Chau beach. In the evening, savor seafood specialties at a restaurant with a beautiful sea view.
The second day involves joining a tour to explore caves and natural lakes, experiencing kayaking amidst mangrove forests. In the afternoon, have a picnic on a deserted island, and in the evening, participate in a night squid fishing activity with local fishermen.
On the last day, visit spiritual tourist attractions, take photos at the most prominent spots of Van Don beach . Experience relaxing spa services before heading to Van Don airport or continuing your journey to explore Quang Ninh.
7. Experience and notes for traveling to Van Don beach in 2025
Experiences and tips for traveling to Van Don Beach (Source: Collected)
The most ideal time to explore Van Don Beach is from April to August when the weather is beautiful, the sea is clear, and it's suitable for all outdoor activities. Visitors should prepare swimwear, sun protection, sports shoes for hiking and picnicking, light clothing, and a wide-brimmed hat.
Booking accommodation, experience tours, and attraction tickets in advance during peak season is essential to avoid sold-out situations. Insect repellent should also be prepared for mangrove forest exploration activities.
To capture the best photos, visitors should choose early morning or sunset hours for photography. Bai Dai wooden bridge, Minh Chau beach, ancient pagodas and temples, Mat Rong Lake, and resort areas with sea views are unmissable photo spots.
Visitors must comply with regulations for the protection of the marine and island environment, avoid littering, and preserve the natural landscape. When swimming, pay attention to the weather and avoid times with strong winds to ensure safety.
Van Don Beach is asserting its position as a new strategic destination for Vietnamese tourism in 2025 thanks to the perfect combination of natural beauty, historical heritage, and modern infrastructure. Especially with strong investment from Sun Group, this coastal area promises to elevate the resort experience with modern services. Plan your exploration and share your wonderful impressions of this emerging island destination!
