Explore Vietnam’s Islands by Region – Ideal for Vietnam Package Tours

How Many Islands Are There in Vietnam? (2025 Updated Answer)

How Many Islands Are There in Vietnam? Until 2025, there are nearly 4,000 islands and islets in Vietnam’s sea territory used by the State for unitary economic activities and combined use. They are an assortment of mainland-adjacent islands along with the remote isles adjacent to the exclusive economic zone; the majority are uninhabited, with an abundance of coral reefs and marine life.

The best-known are Phu Quoc Island, Ly Son Island, and the Paracel Islands, but even the strategic outposts like Amboyna Cay are currently defended by the Vietnamese coast guard. The islands stretch from Hai Phong in the north to Da Nang, and then south to the tip, near Ho Chi Minh City.

How many island are there in Vietnam spratl commune, how many island districts are there in Vietnam? Vietnam now has some earmarked island districts, all strategic to its sovereignty, ecology, and tourism. These islands and archipelagos are crucial for Vietnam’s identity and appeal.

Island Groups by Region (With Travel Tips & Highlights)

North Vietnam

Ha Long Bay – Quang Ninh Province (no change after 2025 reform)

Even when visitors ask How Many Islands Are There in Vietnam, they are still often stunned to discover the answer is almost 2,000 islands all in one spot, Ha Long Bay, within Quang Ninh Province on the East Sea. These are the iconic limestone formations and tiny islands that have become legendary across Southeast Asia, with surreal landscapes, concealed lagoons, and dramatic coral reefs.

There are some signature spots – such as Ti Top, Bo Hon, Hon Ga Choi, and Dau Be – which are easily reached by traditional wooden fishing boats or modern cruise ships. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this is a must-visit for those who love nature and also serves as the perfect starting point for your next adventure in Vietnam.

• Updated administrative location: Thanh Pho Ha Long, Quang Ninh Province (unchanged in 2025 reform)
• Top experiences: overnight cruises, kayaking, cave discovery
• Best time to visit: October to April (dry, cool season)

Hon Ga Choi in Ha Long Bay (Source: halongbaytours)

Cat Ba Archipelago – Cat Hai Special Administrative Zone, Hai Phong

The Cat Ba Archipelago consists of more than 360 islands and islets and is directly next to the Cat Hai Special Administrative Zone, which the central government decided to open up to large-scale development by Hai Phong City after 2025. This biodiverse haven, which is home to the rare white-headed langur, mangrove ecosystems, and abundant corals that are protected by the Vietnamese government.

The biggest of these, Cat Ba Island itself, offers green hiking trails in Cat Ba National Park and picturesque bays, plus you can arrange for boats to take you to the emerald waters of Lan Ha Bay – a lesser-known (and more tranquil) alternative to Ha Long. This is an ideal alternative for travelers wondering how many island districts are there in Vietnam, insofar as Cat Hai is one of the geographically planned island districts.

• Updated administrative location: Cat Hai Special Administrative Zone, under Hai Phong City
• Activities: jungle trekking, coral reef snorkeling, boat tours
• Traveler tip: Pair Ha Long with Cat Ba for a seamless escape to the region!

Cat Ba Archipelago (Source: baochinhphu)

Central Vietnam

Cu Lao Cham – Thanh pho Hoi An, truc thuoc thanh pho Da Nang

Sitting just 15 km from the shores of Hoi An, the Cu Lao Cham Archipelago comprises 8 tiny islets, enveloped by crystal waters and colorful coral formations. Designated a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, it’s one of Vietnam’s finest marine conservation sites, great for snorkeling, kayaking, and eco-exploration.

In case you’re asking How Many Islands Are There in Vietnam then don’t miss other of these not-so-popular gems. The serene beaches, motor-free island living, and an abundance of wildlife, Cu Lao Cham a top attraction for fans of nature who are designing a customized Vietnam escape tour. 

Updated Administrative Location (2025): Tan Hiep Commune, Hoi An City, now in Da Nang, separated from Quang Nam province

•  Don’t miss: coral reefs, seafood markets, and visiting centuries-old Champa wells.
• Travel tip: Visitors to the island can take the speedboat at Cua Dai Port (Hoi An)

Cu Lao Cham (Source: vnexpress)

Ly Son Island – Quang Ngai-Kon Tum Administrative Region

Emerging out of the East Sea, Ly Son Island is a natural wonder of volcanic outcroppings and today, its tiered cliffs, coastal culture, and famous garlic farms. Formerly an island district of Quang Ngai, it is now part of a marine subregion in the Quang Ngai-Kon Tum Administrative Region.

Yet Ly Son is one of Vietnam’s most unique islands: a place of not just scientific interest, but raw natural beauty. A must go to travel spot for anyone tracking down how many island districts are there in Vietnam, and a great highlight for any epic Vietnam escape tour. 

• Updated Administrative Location (2025): Ly Son Marine Subregion, part of the Quang Ngai-Kon Tum Administrative Region
•  Experience: hiking ancient volcanoes, visiting Hang Pagoda, sampling garlic-based dishes
•  Ecological note: Ecological note: sensitive sea-level zones & conservation (under Vietnamese government protection)

Ly Son Island (Source: vietnamcoracle)

Hon Mun & Hon Tam – Thanh pho Nha Trang, tinh Khanh Hoa

Hon Mun and Hon Tam, two stretches of islands, adorn the bright blue of Nha Trang Bay, these being a must-see in Vietnam’s island fest. Bursting with life in its coral reefs and warm waters, a blend of eco and luxury tourism draws both divers and honeymooners to these islands and archipelagos.

Hon Mun is famed as a marine protected area, while Hon Tam is home to luxury resorts with private beaches. Both islands epitomize why you should ask how many island are there in Vietnam, only to find eco-friendly, stylish gems. 

• Updated Administrative Location (2025): Nha Trang City, Khanh Hoa Province
• Note: Khanh Hoa was merged into Ninh Thuan but retains the name Khanh Hoa Province
• Best for: Diving to coral, boat charters, and bespoke access to high-end retreats via a curated Vietnam escape tour

Hon Tam (Source: crystalbay)

South-Central Coast & Highlands

Phu Quy Island – Binh Thuan – Lam Dong – Dak Nong Administrative Region

Craving serenity? Phu Quy Island, however, doesn’t jip, as the locals who run the ferries serving it like to say. This volcanic island in the heart of the South China Sea is one of dramatic cliffs, colorful reefs, and windswept coastlines. While it is not so large, it is home to some of the best untrodden beaches in Southeast Asia – perfect for those who wish to go lost in the off-grid world.

Less famous in most how many island are there in Vietnam catalogues than the rest, Phu Quy is fast becoming popular. Now, with the much-needed push on sustainable marine tourism, led by the Vietnamese government, the island offers a rare, serene escape – the perfect stop on an exciting Vietnam escape tour. 

• Updated Administrative Location (2025): Phu Quy District, now part of the Binh Thuan – Lam Dong – Dak Nong Administrative Region
• Don’t miss: Cao Cat Mountain, Ganh Hang reef, and motorbike island loops
• Travel tip: Get to Phu Quy by ferry from Phan Thiet or on a private charter through Ho Chi Minh City

Phu Quy Island (Source: vietnamcoracle)

Con Dao Archipelago – Ba Ria – Vung Tau – Binh Duong – Ho Chi Minh City Administrative Zone

Stop 2: the notorious Con Dao Archipelago. Made up of 16 small islands, this remote cluster is one of the most historically and ecologically important island groups in Vietnam. Formerly a site of colonial prisons, today it’s a marine sanctuary, home to sea turtles, coral gardens, and spiritual heritage.

How Many Islands Are There in Vietnam, you ask? Con Dao shows that some of the smallest islands have the most developed tales. Situated in a highly guarded marine ecospace, not far from the exclusive economic zone, these islands are rich in both biological diversity and awe-inspiring silence, regulated by the watchful eyes of the coast guard and environmental agencies. 

• Updated Administrative Location (2025): Con Dao Marine District, under the Ba Ria – Vung Tau – Binh Duong – Ho Chi Minh City Administrative Zone
• Explore: Con Son Island trails, coral snorkeling, and wartime heritage sites.
• Tour tip: Include Con Dao on your southern itinerary with a luxury Vietnam escape tour from Ho Chi Minh City

Con Dao Archipelago (Source: vietnamcoracle)

Southern Vietnam

Phu Quoc Island – Kien Giang-An Giang Administrative Region

Let’s go south, to where the sunset kisses the sea. Welcome to Phu Quoc Island, the biggest island in Vietnam, with an area of approximately 574 km². Fringing the southwestern coast in the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc is a destination that combines modern luxury with wild nature – coral reefs, tropical forests, and a 5-star resort are all included.

This is one of the islands you’ll find on our answer to How Many Islands Are There in Vietnam and is also one of the most developed tourist areas in Vietnam, though its roots as a fishing village are not too far in the past. With well-protected areas, such as Phu Quoc National Park, and marine sanctuaries located along the line of the exclusive economic zone, it has been recognized as a biodiversity hotspot by the Vietnamese government. 

• Updated Administrative Location (2025): Phu Quoc Special Zone, part of the Kien Giang-An Giang Administrative Region
• Activities: Snorkelling coral gardens, visiting pepper farms, lounging on Bai Sao Beach
• Must-do: book a tailor-made Vietnam escape tour with island hopping and inland trekking around Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc Island (Source: vietnamtravel)

Nam Du & Hon Son – Kien Giang – An Giang Administrative Region

Want something quieter, less eyebrow-plucked? Nam Du, then Hon Son, is calling. These tiny islands, more remote from Rach Gia, are up-and-coming with backpackers and off-the-grid adventurers. Here, there are no skyscrapers – just clear blue waters, palm-fringed beaches, and working fishing villages.

For all that Nam Du is a collection of 21 islets, Hon Son is an island in itself, with dreamy blue bays, friendly locals, and almost no development. If you’ve ever been curious about how many island are there in Vietnam spratl – more precisely, spratl – or which ones have yet to be on your radar, these gems are proof there’s far more to find beyond the traditional backpacker trail. 

• Updated Administrative Location (2025): Nam Du Sub-Island Region and Hon Son Community Island, both under the Kien Giang-An Giang Administrative Region
• Highlights: camping, seafood BBQs, motorbike loops, cliff diving
• Ideal route: pair with Vietnam escape tour packages from Ho Chi Minh City or Can Tho

Nam Du & Hon Son (Source: puolotrip)

Island Travel Tips & Best Times to Visit

Best Seasons to Visit by Region

Vietnam’s coastline is several thousand kilometers long, so weather conditions differ depending on location:

• North & Northeast (Ha Long, Cat Ba – Hai Phong): October – April (cool, dry, clear)
• Central Vietnam (e.g., Cu Lao Cham, Ly Son, Da Nang): March – August (calm seas, excellent visibility for snorkelling and coral reef diving)
• South & Islands like Phu Quoc, Nam Du: November – April (dry, sunny, and perfect for the beach)

It is still feasible to travel outside of peak months, however, and weather can be unpredictable, particularly in the South China Sea, where lightning-fast storms descend on small islands and send waves rocking.

Visa-Free Islands for International Tourists

If you have a foreign passport, you’re in luck! Most top islands, such as Phu Quoc Island, are included in Vietnam’s visa-free areas. For entry into Phu Quoc, travelers no longer need a visa for stays of up to 30 days until 2025, as long as they pass through designated international entry points (by air or cruise ship).

Standard tourist visas may still be required for other islands, particularly those located near exclusive economic zone boundaries such as Amboyna Cay or the Paracel Islands, which are heavily patrolled by the Vietnamese government and coast guard. 

Desire an easy passage as a traveler, no visa stress? We can help you connect the dots as you continue a hassle-free Vietnam escape tour based on your passport and aspirations.

Boat Safety, Local Guides & Eco-Etiquette

With more than 4,000 islands, Vietnam’s waters need to be navigated with caution, and there are seemingly as many darker sides as splendid moments to exploring the country’s marine, often less-visited zones. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Travel with licensed local guides, who understand the weather patterns and tides in their region.
• Stick with certified boat operators – especially when crossing open sea next to coral reefs or island groups such as Nam Du or Hon Mun.
• Observe marine zones and refrain from touching coral or littering; plenty of sites are protected under Vietnamese government endorsed ecological projects.
• Each district in Vietnam (island or not) has its regulations in place to protect the environment, especially in marine protected areas.

Conclusion

With more than 4,000 islands and islets, the coastal regions of Vietnam are a treasure trove, from the towering karsts and emerald waters of Ha Long Bay to the coral reefs surrounding Phu Quoc Island and the faraway beauty of Nam Du. If you have ever been asking How Many Islands Are There in Vietnam, the answer isn’t just the amount – it’s the experiences that come with them. So bring your spirit of adventure and allow a Vietnam escape tour to take you into the heart of their beautiful archipelagos and islands. Your adventure starts here.

FAQ – How Many Islands Are There in Vietnam?

Q1: How many islands does Vietnam have?
A: Vietnam is home to more than 4,000 islands and islets that dot the East Sea, also known as the South China Sea. They include well-known tourist destinations such as Phu Quoc Island, Con Dao, and little-known islands in the vicinity of the Paracel Islands and Spratly Islands. Want the full list? You can peruse our guide How Many Islands Are There in Vietnam where we break it down by regions.

Q2: What is the best island to go to in Vietnam?
A: It’s a matter of what kind of traveler you are! Luxury and beach resorts: Go to Phu Quoc Island. For nature and culture, visit Cat Ba or Cu Lao Cham. For sheer natural beauty, it doesn’t get better than Nam Du or Ly Son Island. You can do all of these on a custom Vietnam escape tour.

Q3: What is the secret island in Vietnam?
A: Hon Son is among the best-kept secrets – a quiet, turquoise blue island in Kien Giang, which doesn’t have any big resorts, and it’s local. Then there is Amboyna Cay, in the Spratly Islands, though it is off limits due to its strategic situation near the exclusive economic zone.

Q4: What is the largest island in Vietnam?
A: Phu Quoc Island is the largest, at roughly 574 square kilometers. Situated in the Gulf of Thailand, close to the Cambodian border, the island is popular for its luxury resorts, coral reefs, and wildlife protected areas. It’s also a visa-free stop for up to 30 days for international travelers.