10 Breathtaking Islands In Vietnam For A Tropical Getaway

Top 10 islands in Vietnam offer stunning beaches, nature, culture, and adventure escapes

Islands in Vietnam are known for their natural beauty, peaceful beaches, and lively local culture. These top 10 islands are spread across the long coastline and are perfect for both relaxation and adventure. From green forests and clear waters to small fishing villages and great snorkelling spots, each island has something special. They are easy to reach and still feel quiet and untouched. Explore this list to find the islands that show Vietnam’s coastal charm and its lesser-known highlights.

The 10 Best Islands In Vietnam Worth Visiting

Our comprehensive list of the 10 islands in Vietnam worth visiting guarantees a coastal escape unlike any other you have experienced before:

1. Phu Quoc Island

Phu Quoc Island known for its white-sand beaches, among the best islands in Vietnam.

Photo: HaiLightHouse / Wikimedia Commons

Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam’s largest island, is renowned for its stunning beaches, lush tropical forests, and vibrant local culture. The island boasts a diverse range of attractions, from the bustling night markets in Duong Dong to the serene landscapes of Phu Quoc National Park. Visitors can explore the Vinpearl Safari, Vietnam’s largest wildlife conservation park, or take a cable car ride to Hon Thom Island for panoramic views. People also consider Phu Quoc Island one of Vietnam’s most beautiful islands.

Nearest Airport: Phu Quoc International Airport
Nearest Seaport: Bai Vong Port

2. Con Dao Islands

Côn Đảo Island coastline with rocky shores, dense greenery, and bright blue waters.

Photo: Lam Tr Th / Wikimedia Commons

The Con Dao Islands, a 16-island archipelago, are famous for their pristine beaches, coral reefs, and historical significance. Once a French colonial prison site, the main island houses the Con Dao Museum and the infamous “Tiger Cages,” offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s tumultuous past. Nature enthusiasts can explore the Con Dao National Park, home to diverse flora and fauna, including the endangered dugong.

Nearest Airport: Con Dao Airport
Nearest Seaport: Ben Dam Port

3. Cat Ba Island

A serene image with the view of the sea from Cannon Fort Park on Cat Ba Island, Vietnam

Photo: Jakub Hałun / Wikimedia Commons

The largest island in Halong Bay, Cat Ba Island, provides a combination of leisure and adventure. The island is a gateway to the UNESCO-listed Cat Ba Archipelago Biosphere Reserve, featuring limestone karsts, caves, and diverse ecosystems. Cat Ba National Park covers a significant portion of the island, providing hiking trails through dense forests and opportunities to spot the endangered Cat Ba langur.

Nearest Airport: Cat Bi International Airport, Hai Phong
Nearest Seaport: Got Ferry Terminal

4. Cham Islands / Cu Lao Cham

A group of picturesque islands off the coast of Hoi An, known for marine biodiversity

Photo: Robert Quan/ Wikimedia Commons

The Cu Lao Cham Marine Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, includes the eight islands that make up the Cham Islands, which are located off the coast of Hoi An. These islands are renowned for their rich biodiversity, which includes coral reefs, seagrass beds, and diverse marine species. Visitors can engage in snorkelling and diving to explore the underwater ecosystems. The main island, Hon Lao, houses traditional fishing villages and ancient temples, reflecting the island’s cultural heritage.

Nearest Airport: Da Nang International Airport
Nearest Seaport: Cua Dai Port, Hoi An

5. Ly Son Island

A volcanic island famed for its garlic fields, lava cliffs, and historic temples by the sea

Photo: Kim Yong Soo/Doosan / Wikimedia Commons

Off the coast of Quang Ngai Province, Ly Son Island is well-known for its garlic farms and volcanic scenery. The island comprises two main parts: the larger Dao Lon and the smaller Dao Be. Thoi Loi and Gieng Tien, two volcanic craters, provide expansive views of the island and the East Sea. Cultural sites such as the Hang Pagoda, built into a cave, and the Hoang Sa Soldier Memorial commemorate the island’s maritime history.

Nearest Airport: Chu Lai International Airport
Nearest Seaport: Sa Ky Port

6. Nam Du Islands

A lesser-known island chain with crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and peaceful villages

Photo: Trungydang / Wikimedia Commons

The Nam Du Archipelago, located in the Gulf of Thailand, comprises 21 islands known for their untouched beauty and clear waters. The main island, Hon Lon, features rugged coastlines, sandy beaches, and fishing villages. Visitors can rent motorbikes to explore the island’s scenic routes and viewpoints. Snorkelling around the smaller islands reveals vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. The archipelago remains relatively undeveloped, offering a peaceful retreat from bustling tourist spots. This makes it one of Vietnam’s nicest islands, well worth visiting for a unique holiday experience.

Nearest Airport: Rach Gia Airport
Nearest Seaport: Rach Gia Port

7. Binh Ba Island

an island paradise popular for fresh seafood, snorkelling spots, and quiet, sandy shores.

Photo: Violetbonmua / Wikimedia Commons

Binh Ba Island, situated in Cam Ranh Bay, is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. Bai Chuong and Bai Nom are two of the island’s best beaches for swimming and snorkelling. Visitors can sample fresh seafood dishes at Binh Ba, which is well known for its lobster farming. The island maintains a tranquil atmosphere, with limited tourist facilities preserving its natural charm.

Nearest Airport: Cam Ranh International Airport
Nearest Seaport: Ba Ngoi Port

8. Hon Tre Island

An island home to Vinpearl Resort, this island features luxury resorts, amusement parks

Photo: calflier001 / Wikimedia Commons

The largest island in Nha Trang Bay, Hon Tre Island, is a well-liked spot for adventure and leisure. The island is home to Vinpearl Land, an amusement park featuring water slides, an aquarium, and entertainment shows. A cable car that offers sweeping views of the bay may take visitors to the island. Beyond the resort area, the island boasts natural beaches and hiking trails through lush landscapes. Tourists popularly consider Hon Tre Island one of Vietnam’s party islands for creating fun memories.

Nearest Airport: Cam Ranh International Airport
Nearest Seaport: Nha Trang Port

9. Hon Son Island

An untouched island gem with hiking trails and scenic beaches ideal for a quiet retreat.

Photo: Luis Miguel Bugallo Sánchez / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Hon Son Island, also known as Lai Son, is a hidden gem in the Gulf of Thailand, offering unspoiled beaches and a laid-back atmosphere. The island’s terrain features lush forests, rocky hills, and serene coastlines. Visitors can hike to Ma Thien Lanh peak for panoramic views or relax on beaches such as Bai Bac and Bai Bang. Traditional Vietnamese coastal life can be observed in the nearby fishing communities.

Nearest Airport: Rach Gia Airport
Nearest Seaport: Rach Gia Port

10. Cu Lao Cham Island

Cham Islands eco-tourism haven features coral-rich waters and sustainable homestays.

Photo: Kok Leng Yeo / Wikimedia Commons

A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Cu Lao Cham Island, is a component of the Cham Islands and is renowned for its cultural legacy and marine life. Its crystal-clear waters and coral reefs draw snorkelers and divers to the island. Traditional fishing villages and ancient temples reflect the island’s rich history. Efforts to promote sustainable tourism include bans on plastic bags and initiatives to protect marine life.

Nearest Airport: Da Nang International Airport
Nearest Seaport: Cua Dai Port, Hoi An

Vietnam’s islands offer a lovely mix of natural beauty, quiet beaches, and local charm. From the clear waters of Con Dao to the peaceful vibe of Hon Son, each place has something special. These islands are ideal for those who enjoy beaches, nature, and a bit of history. It’s more than just a trip – it’s a chance to explore hidden gems. Pack your bags and explore Vietnam’s island side with TripXL!

Cover Photo: duylongtran1977 / PxHere

Frequently Asked Questions

Most islands require no permits. However, foreign travellers need prior permission to visit some parts of the Con Dao Islands due to military restrictions.
Larger islands such as Phu Quoc and Cat Ba have ATMs, and many places accept card payments. Smaller islands such as Cham and Hon Son are mostly cash-based.
While seafood dominates island cuisine, vegetarian and vegan options are available, especially in tourist hubs such as Phu Quoc and Cat Ba.
Yes, renting a motorbike is common and affordable on most islands, including Cat Ba, Nam Du, and Ly Son. A valid driving license and helmet are typically required.
Ferry schedules can vary based on seasonal weather. Rough seas during the monsoon season (May - October) may reduce or cancel ferry services.

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