Quick answer: Vietnam’s islands are among the best beach destinations in Southeast Asia, offering tropical beaches, coral reefs, limestone landscapes, and authentic local culture. Popular islands like Phu Quoc, Con Dao, Cat Ba, Cham Islands, and Ly Son attract travelers looking for snorkeling, diving, hiking, seafood, and relaxing beach stays.
At a glance:
- 🏝️ Top islands: Phu Quoc, Con Dao, Cat Ba, Cham Islands, and Ly Son.
- 🌊 Activities: Snorkeling, diving, kayaking, hiking, and boat trips.
- 🌿 Nature: Beaches, coral reefs, tropical forests, and limestone cliffs.
- 🎣 Local culture: Fishing villages, seafood markets, and traditional lifestyle.
- 🚢 Transport: Accessible by ferry, speedboat, or domestic flights.
- 🏨 Accommodation: Budget hostels, eco-resorts, and luxury beach hotels.
Last updated in July 2026.
🏝️ Vietnam’s Top Islands
Vietnam is home to beautiful tropical islands, from the lively beaches of Phu Quoc to the peaceful national parks and coastline of Con Dao.
🌊 What to Expect
Discover white-sand beaches, clear water, coral reefs, island villages, hiking trails, fresh seafood, and unforgettable sunsets across Vietnam’s coast.
💡 Practical Tips for Visiting the Best Islands in Vietnam
📅 Plan Before You Go
Visit during the dry season, check the weather in Vietnam, pack light, and read what to pack for Vietnam. Booking ferries or flights in advance is recommended during peak travel periods.
🏝️ Make the Most of Your Visit
Enjoy fresh Vietnamese food, discover local culture, relax on beautiful beaches, and try snorkeling or diving where coral reefs and marine life are protected.
Vietnam’s islands are connected by domestic flights, ferries, and speedboats. Before traveling, check available transportation in Vietnam and book tickets early, especially for popular destinations such as Phu Quoc or Con Dao.
Respect local communities and help preserve the natural environment by avoiding littering, protecting coral reefs, and following local regulations. Responsible travel helps keep Vietnam’s islands beautiful for future visitors.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, quiet beaches, or island-hopping experiences, planning ahead will help you enjoy a smooth and unforgettable trip across Vietnam’s tropical islands.
🏝️ 1. Co To Island (Quang Ninh)
Co To Island is a peaceful island in Quang Ninh Province, famous for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear water, fresh seafood, and beautiful coastal scenery. It is one of the best beach destinations in northern Vietnam, perfect for relaxing, swimming, and exploring nearby islands.
🚌 Getting There
Travel from Hanoi to Cai Rong Port (4–5 hours) before taking a high-speed ferry to the island.
🚢 Ferry Information
Ferries operate daily from Ao Tien Pier or Cai Rong Pier. Schedules may change due to weather.
🏨 Accommodation
Choose from guesthouses, homestays, hotels, and beachfront resorts. Book early during the summer season.
🏖️ Beaches & Activities
Relax at Hong Van and Van Chay beaches or enjoy swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, cycling, and fresh seafood.
🛵 Explore the Island
Rent a motorbike to discover quiet beaches, the lighthouse, fishing villages, and nearby islands such as Thanh Lan.
☀️ Best Time to Visit
The dry season from October to April offers the best weather. Check the island’s location on Google Maps.
Accommodation in Co To Island ➜
🏝️ 2. Quan Lan Island (Quang Ninh)
Quan Lan Island is a peaceful island in the Gulf of Tonkin, known for its long sandy beaches, clear water, quiet fishing villages, and unspoiled natural beauty. It is an excellent destination for travelers looking to experience a more authentic and relaxing side of northern Vietnam.
🚌 Getting There
Travel from Hanoi to Cai Rong Town (4–5 hours), then continue by ferry or speedboat to Quan Lan Island.
🚢 Ferry Services
Daily ferries depart from Ao Tien Pier or Cai Rong Pier. Departure times may vary depending on weather conditions.
🏨 Accommodation
Stay in guesthouses, homestays, or beachfront resorts. Advance booking is recommended during peak travel months.
🏖️ Beaches & Activities
Relax at Quan Lan and Son Hao beaches, enjoy swimming, snorkeling, cycling, and peaceful coastal walks.
🛵 Explore More
Visit fishing villages, scenic viewpoints, or take boat trips to Minh Chau and Ngoc Vung islands.
📍 Useful Tip
Check the island’s location on Google Maps before your journey and check ferry schedules in advance.
Accommodation in Quan Lan Island ➜
🏝️ 3. Cat Ba Island (Halong Bay)
Cat Ba Island is the largest island in Halong Bay, offering a perfect mix of beautiful beaches, limestone landscapes, outdoor adventures, and local culture. It is one of the most popular destinations in northern Vietnam for nature lovers and active travelers.
🚌 Getting There
Travel from Hanoi to Hai Phong, then continue by ferry from Ben Binh Harbor or via Tuan Chau Island to Cat Ba.
🚢 Travel Tips
Read How to get from Hanoi to Cat Ba Island? and check the island’s location on Google Maps.
🏨 Accommodation
Choose from beachfront resorts, boutique hotels, guesthouses, and budget hostels. Early booking is recommended in high season.
🏖️ Beaches & Activities
Relax at Cat Co beaches, go kayaking, snorkeling, sailing, or enjoy boat trips around the spectacular limestone islands.
🥾 Explore the Island
Rent a motorbike, visit Cannon Fort, or hike through Cat Ba National Park.
🚤 Halong Bay Tours
Cat Ba is one of the best starting points for cruises and boat tours exploring the limestone karsts, caves, and emerald waters of Halong Bay.
Accommodation in Cat Ba Island ➜
🏝️ 4. Tuan Chau Island (Halong Bay)
Tuan Chau Island is the main gateway to Halong Bay, offering sandy beaches, modern resorts, entertainment, and easy access to boat cruises. It is one of the best places to stay before exploring the spectacular limestone islands of Halong Bay or traveling to Cat Ba Island.
🚌 Getting There
Travel from Hanoi by bus, limousine, taxi, or private car to Tuan Chau Harbor in about 3–4 hours.
🚢 Travel & Cruises
Read How to get to Tuan Chau Island and browse the best Halong Bay cruises departing from the harbor.
🏨 Accommodation
Stay in luxury resorts, hotels, or guesthouses close to the marina and cruise terminals. Book ahead during high season.
🏖️ Beaches & Activities
Relax on Tuan Chau Beach, enjoy water sports, entertainment parks, dolphin shows, and family-friendly attractions.
🚤 Halong Bay Gateway
Tuan Chau is the main departure point for cruises exploring Halong Bay’s limestone islands, caves, and emerald waters.
📍 Useful Tip
Check the island’s location on Google Maps before your trip or continue by boat to Cat Ba Island.
Accommodation in Tuan Chau Island ➜
🏝️ 5. Cham Islands (Quảng Nam)
Cham Islands are a beautiful island group off the coast of Central Vietnam, famous for pristine beaches, crystal-clear water, colorful coral reefs, and peaceful fishing villages. Located just a short boat ride from Hoi An, they are one of the best destinations for snorkeling, diving, and relaxing by the sea.
🚌 Getting There
Travel to Hoi An, then take a speedboat from Cua Dai Harbor. The journey takes about 30–60 minutes.
🏨 Accommodation
Stay in local homestays, guesthouses, or beachfront resorts. Booking ahead is recommended during holidays and the high season.
🏖️ Beaches & Snorkeling
Relax on Bai Chong and Bai Ong beaches or explore vibrant coral reefs while snorkeling and diving in protected marine areas.
🦀 Local Experience
Enjoy fresh seafood, visit traditional fishing villages, ancient temples, and learn about the islands’ rich marine heritage.
🚤 Island Hopping
Join boat tours to nearby islands such as Hon Lao and discover secluded beaches, coral gardens, and crystal-clear waters.
📍 Useful Tip
Check the islands’ location on Google Maps and plan your visit during calm weather for the best sea conditions.
Accommodation in Cham Islands ➜
🏝️ 6. Ly Son Island (Quang Ngai)
Ly Son Island is a volcanic island off the coast of central Vietnam, famous for dramatic lava cliffs, crystal-clear water, pristine beaches, and fresh seafood. It is one of Vietnam’s most unique island destinations, combining spectacular scenery with local culture and peaceful fishing villages.
🚌 Getting There
Travel to Quang Ngai City, then continue to Sa Ky Port and take a ferry or speedboat to the island.
🏨 Accommodation
Choose from local homestays, guesthouses, and small seaside hotels. Book early during weekends and holidays.
🏖️ Beaches & Nature
Relax on beautiful beaches, swim in crystal-clear water, snorkel around coral reefs, and admire volcanic landscapes.
🛵 Explore the Island
Rent a motorbike to visit Hang Pagoda, volcanic cliffs, scenic viewpoints, garlic fields, and peaceful fishing villages.
🎎 Local Culture
Experience traditional festivals, visit the Ly Son Museum, and enjoy the island’s famous seafood and garlic specialties.
📍 Useful Tip
Check the island’s location on Google Maps and check ferry schedules before traveling.
Accommodation in Ly Son Island ➜
🏝️ 7. Hon Tre Island (Nha Trang)
Hon Tre Island, located just off the coast of Nha Trang, is a tropical island known for luxury resorts, beautiful beaches, exciting water sports, and the famous Vinpearl entertainment complex. It is one of the most popular island destinations in southern Vietnam.
🚌 Getting There
Reach Nha Trang from Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi, then take a ferry or scenic cable car to the island.
🏨 Accommodation
Stay in luxury beachfront resorts, hotels, or family-friendly accommodation with easy access to beaches and attractions.
🏖️ Beaches & Water Sports
Relax on Vinpearl Beach or enjoy swimming, snorkeling, jet skiing, parasailing, and other water activities.
🎢 VinWonders
Visit the famous VinWonders theme park with roller coasters, water slides, an aquarium, safari, and family entertainment.
⛳ Relax & Explore
Play golf, enjoy spa treatments, explore scenic viewpoints, or discover the island by motorbike or on foot.
📍 Useful Tip
Check the island’s location on Google Maps before traveling from Nha Trang Port.
Accommodation in Nha Trang / Hon Tre ➜
🏝️ 8. Phu Quy Island (Binh Thuan)
Phu Quy Island is a peaceful island off the coast of Southern Vietnam, known for crystal-clear water, quiet beaches, fresh seafood, and authentic island life. Far less crowded than Vietnam’s famous islands, it is an excellent destination for relaxation and nature lovers.
🚌 Getting There
Travel to Phan Thiet from Ho Chi Minh City, then take a ferry or speedboat to Phu Quy Island.
🏨 Accommodation
Choose from local homestays, guesthouses, and small beachfront hotels. Reserve early during weekends and holidays.
🏖️ Beaches & Snorkeling
Enjoy peaceful beaches, swim in clear water, snorkel over coral reefs, or discover colorful marine life around the island.
🛵 Explore the Island
Rent a motorbike to visit scenic coastal roads, fishing villages, the lighthouse, temples, and spectacular viewpoints.
🦞 Local Experience
Taste fresh lobster and seafood, meet local fishermen, and enjoy the island’s relaxed atmosphere away from mass tourism.
📍 Useful Tip
Check the island’s location on Google Maps and confirm ferry schedules before departure.
🏝️ 9. Con Dao Island (Vung Tau)
Con Dao Island is one of Vietnam’s most beautiful island destinations, known for pristine beaches, turquoise water, national parks, and important historical landmarks. It is an ideal destination for nature lovers, divers, and travelers looking for a peaceful tropical escape.
✈️ Getting There
Fly from Ho Chi Minh City or travel by ferry from Vung Tau to reach Con Dao Island.
🏨 Accommodation
Stay in boutique hotels, beachfront resorts, eco-lodges, or local guesthouses. Book early during the peak travel season.
🏖️ Beaches & Diving
Relax on Dam Trau and An Hai beaches, snorkel over coral reefs, or explore the island’s protected marine life.
🏛️ History
Visit the historic Con Dao Prison, Hang Duong Cemetery, and other landmarks that tell the story of Vietnam’s past.
🌿 Nature & Exploration
Explore Con Dao National Park, scenic coastal roads, hiking trails, viewpoints, and peaceful fishing villages by motorbike.
📍 Useful Tip
Check the island’s location on Google Maps and book flights or ferries well in advance.
Accommodation in Con Dao Island ➜
🏝️ 10. Phu Quoc Island (Kien Giang)
Phu Quoc Island is Vietnam’s largest island and one of its top beach destinations, famous for white-sand beaches, luxury resorts, tropical forests, and world-class attractions. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, snorkeling, or family entertainment, Phu Quoc has something for everyone.
✈️ Getting There
Fly from Ho Chi Minh City or travel by ferry from Ha Tien or Rach Gia.
🏨 Accommodation
Choose from luxury beach resorts, boutique hotels, family resorts, budget hotels, and beachfront bungalows across the island.
🏖️ Beaches & Water Sports
Relax on Long Beach, Bai Sao, or Ong Lang Beach, and enjoy snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and island-hopping tours.
🎢 Attractions
Visit VinWonders, Vinpearl Safari, the Hon Thom Cable Car, night markets, pearl farms, and tropical waterfalls.
🌿 Nature & Food
Explore Phu Quoc National Park, fishing villages, scenic viewpoints, and taste fresh seafood with the island’s famous fish sauce.
📍 Useful Tip
Check the island’s location on Google Maps and book flights or ferries early during the busy season.
Accommodation in Phu Quoc Island ➜
❓ FAQ + Travel Tips – The Best Islands in Vietnam
What are the best islands to visit in Vietnam?
The most popular islands in Vietnam are Phu Quoc, Con Dao, Cat Ba, Cham Islands, and Ly Son Island.
How to get to Phu Quoc Island?
You can reach Phu Quoc Island by direct flight or ferry from Ha Tien or Rach Gia in southern Vietnam.
What to do on Con Dao Island?
Con Dao offers beautiful beaches, snorkeling, diving, hiking trails, and famous historical attractions.
When is the best time to visit Cat Ba Island?
The best time to visit Cat Ba is from October to April, when the weather is cooler and drier.
How to get to Cham Islands from Hoi An?
You can travel to Cham Islands by speedboat or organized boat tour from Cua Dai Beach near Hoi An.
How to travel to Ly Son Island from Da Nang?
Travel first to Quang Ngai by train or bus, then continue by ferry from Sa Ky Port to Ly Son Island.
Are there historical places on Con Dao Island?
Yes, Con Dao Island is famous for its historical prison complex and museums from the colonial period.
What food is popular on Phu Quoc Island?
Phu Quoc is known for fresh seafood, grilled fish, crab dishes, and traditional fish sauce.
Can you visit Cham Islands as a day trip?
Yes, Cham Islands are a popular day trip from Hoi An with snorkeling and beach activities.
What is the best way to explore Ly Son Island?
Renting a motorbike is the best way to explore Ly Son Island and its volcanic landscapes.
How to book ferry tickets to islands in Vietnam?
What water activities are popular on Phu Quoc Island?
Popular activities include snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, fishing, and island boat tours.
What is the weather in Vietnam like?
Weather in Vietnam varies by region and includes tropical dry and rainy seasons throughout the year.
