Best Islands in Vietnam That Belong in Every Vietnam Package Tour

Northern Vietnam Islands: Untouched Serenity & Heritage

Co To Island – The Jewel of Quang Ninh

Located in the far northeast of Quang Ninh Province, Co To Island is an up-and-coming one of the Best Islands in Vietnam. With pristine white sand beaches, a dreamy old lighthouse, and vibrant local seafood markets, Co To is ideal for anyone in search of seclusion with added local color.

A must-do? Hire a bike and cycle along Con duong Tinh Yeu (Love Road) at sunset. The sun setting behind crystal clear waters is pure poetry. From April to August, the island is at its brightest with its calm seas and sunny weather, perfect for island hopping and beach picnics.

And while you’re up north, carve out some time for a weekend getaway to Monkey Island Vietnam in Hai Phong, home to cheeky monkeys, coastal hiking, and lookouts over Lan Ha Bay – a fine northern complement to Co To for your retreat.

Co To Island (Source: vietnamdiscovery)

Cat Ba Island – Gateway to Lan Ha Bay

Part of Cat Hai District in Hai Phong City, Cat Ba Island is a bona fide behemoth of northern coastal escapes – and a deserved entry on the Best Islands in Vietnam list. A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Cat Ba stuns with dense forests, hidden caves, and some of the most photogenic beaches on the whole island.

Swim and lounge in the renowned Cat Co 1, 2, and 3 beaches, which all have their distinct atmosphere, from bustling to peaceful. For an adventure, kayak across the emerald waters of Lan Ha Bay, scramble to the top of limestone cliffs, or hike secret trails that end in jungle-draped summits.

The blend of wild nature and convenient homestays or plush resorts means Cat Ba has something for everyone, from backpackers to honeymooners.

Cat Ba Island (Source: asianwaytravel)

Quan Lan Island – Tranquil Getaway in Van Don

A little less touristy, even further Northeast in Van Don District, Quang Ninh Province, lies Quan Lan Island, one of the Best Island Holidays in Vietnam. Considerably less built-up than its neighbors, Quan Lan epitomizes the laid-back coastal getaway.

Saunter among old fishing villages, towns whose lives haven’t altered significantly in the last 50 years. Relax at Minh Chau Beach or Son Hao Beach afterward – there are seemingly endless spots of untouched sandy coast here, kissed by warm blue water and framed by whispering pines.

Tourism here is developing slowly and thoughtfully. Tiny eco-friendly homestays, seafood feasts with local families, and peaceful beach mornings are what make it different from hundreds of others.

Quan Lan Island (Source: evivatour)

Central Vietnam Islands: History Meets Natural Drama

Cu Lao Cham – The Island That Breathes

Only a short boat ride from Hoi An, Cu Lao Cham rests in Quang Nam Province, a UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve that deserves its spot on the list of the Best Islands in Vietnam.

This island paradise is how sustainable tourism can work – no plastic bags, a ferocious protection for the precious coral reefs, and a community that opens its arms to travelers. Here, the beauty of nature is unpolished: picture clear waters, quaint fishing villages, and bamboo houses under the shade of coconut palms.

Sleep in a comfy homestay, wake to the lull of the sea, then spend the day snorkeling a kaleidoscope of coral gardens or learning how villagers brace seaweed and dry squid. Whether you are in search of a soulful retreat or an eco-adventure, Cham Island is a part of any list of the best island holidays in Vietnam.

Cu Lao Cham (Source: bestprice)

Ly Son Island – Volcanoes, Garlic, and Sacred Land

The only one of its kind in Vietnam, Ly Son Island in Quang Ngai Province. Shaped by prehistoric volcanic activity, the island welcomes you with black basalt cliffs, otherworldly lava rocks, and one of the most impressive coastlines in the nation – an assurance that places it a place among the Best Islands in Vietnam.

The cultural heritage runs deep here. Climb to the peak of Thoi Loi Flagpole for sweeping views that render you speechless, and then descend to the spiritual lair of Chua Hang (Cave Pagoda), carved directly into a volcanic cliff face.

And don’t forget the food! This is the home of garlic fields that scent the island air – and oc tuong (giant snail), a delicacy pulled fresh from the sea. If you seek authenticity and want to be left wondering, Ly Son can be added to your list of the best islands in central Vietnam.

Ly Son Island (Source: vietnamcoracle)

Ky Co & Hon Kho – The “Maldives” of Binh Dinh

The next leg: the Binh Dinh Province, where two gems (Ky Co and Hon Kho) will make you believe you are in the Maldives! These are the gems of Quy Nhon, one more enchanting than the next.

At Ky Co, the sea glimmers in tiers of turquoise and sapphire. The white-sand beaches are pristine, the cliffs dramatic, and inviting natural sea pools take you for a refreshing dip. Hon Kho, a short ride away, is wilder – perfect for cliff-jumping, coral snorkeling, and going out with local fishermen.

Take a speedboat trip for some gung-ho island hopping, lace up your hiking boots on the trails above the coast, or just drift in the silence of the deep blue sea beneath intense sunlight. If you want to find the best island holidays in Vietnam, this region offers tropical fantasy with a Vietnamese flavor.

Ky Co & Hon Kho (Source: eholiday)

Southern Vietnam Islands: Tropical Escapes with World-Class Appeal

Phu Quoc – The Pearl Island

The jewel in the crown is Phu Quoc, which belongs to Kien Giang Province, and is a globally recognized name on the roster of the Best Islands in Vietnam. Known as the “Pearl Island”, this place has been praised by National Geographic and AsiaOne for its natural beauty and excellent traveling moments.

The star attraction? Sao Beach – often hailed as the best beach in Phu Quoc Island Vietnam. With its powdery-white sand beaches, leaning palm trees, and blue water that looks photoshopped, it’s easy to see why people return again and again.

Discover Dinh Cau, head to the animal lover’s paradise at Vinpearl Safari, or go squid fishing by the starlight for an evening. Phu Quoc also lures you with rambling visits to traditional fish sauce villages where time stands still and the umami is epic.

Offered for overnight is a variety of accommodations from beachfront homestays to luxury resorts and hillside villas with views. There is no wrong way to do this island – just your way.

Need a smooth start? Whether you come by air or by land, our Vietnam escape tour Hanoi can take you there quickly. You can even get a taste of adventure before you start heading south with a trip to Monkey Island Vietnam!

Vinpearl Safari at Phu Quoc Island (Source: vinpearlphuquocresort)

Nam Du – Backpacker’s Paradise

Also within Kien Giang, the Nam Du Archipelago is the secret of the veteran traveler whispered in the shadows. Raw and unspoiled, Nam Du is all about secrets, back roads, and beaches that seem truly wild.

What makes Nam Du an outlier is its authenticity. Quiet fishing villages, lively coral reefs, and lapping waters against colorful boats can all be found. Hike up to the iconic Nam Du Lighthouse for sweeping views, then island-hop to nearby islets like Hon Mau.

Pro tip: Ferry times can be subject to weather, so go with a loose plan – and a little spontaneity in your back pocket.

Nam Du Island(Source: ivivu)

Con Dao – History and Heaven Collide

Con Dao, an island in Ba Ria – Vung Tau Province, is where you encounter the soul of Vietnam and the silence of paradise. One of the Best Island Holidays in Vietnam. No longer a prison and now one of the Best Island Holidays in Vietnam, here you can marry history with incredible lushness.

History enthusiasts will be fascinated by the somber Con Dao Prison and Hang Duong Cemetery, which celebrates Vietnam heroes. Nature lovers? You’ll be wowed by Dam Trau Beach, sea turtle nesting tours on Hon Bay Canh, and the peaceful elegance of spiritual retreats.

Spiritual tourism and marine ecotourism welcome you to one of the most distinctive island experiences of Southeast Asia, where they collide.

Con Dao Island (Source: puolotrip)

Phu Quy Island – The Quiet Wonder of Binh Thuan

Last but not least no way we could skip Phu Quy Island – an island in Binh Thuan Province, that is a silent hero with no other like it. This island is often ignored, but it’s one of the Best Islands in Vietnam for real!

Rent a motorbike for the day for a trip around the entire island, touring cliffside temples, cacti fields, and secluded beaches. Explore Chua Linh Son, built on rocks above the sea, and snorkel on the reefs at Hon Tranh.

Make sure you climb up to Hai Dang Nui Cam for an awesome, panoramic view of the ocean. And for food? Get a taste of the legendary Cua Huynh De (Emperor Crab), the island-dwelling local indulgence that speaks volumes about the heritage of this island’s fishing village.

Phu Quy Island (Source: vietchallenge)

Best Islands in Vietnam Travel Tips & Practical Advice

Best Time to Visit by Region for the Best Islands in Vietnam

Timing is everything! Here’s when each region’s natural beauty peaks:

• North (Co To, Cat Ba, Quan Lan): April to August is optimal for rare sunny days, still blue water, and quiet walks on the sand.
• Central (Cu Lao Cham, Ly Son, Ky Co): Come anytime between May and September to swim in perfect conditions with excellently clear seas around Cham Island and other little-known islands.
• South (Phu Quoc, Con Dao, Nam Du): Visit between November and April during the dry season when the weather is postcard-perfect – especially at Sao Beach, many say it’s the island’s best beach!

Getting There: Transportation Tips for the Best Islands in Vietnam

Vietnam makes it easy to get to the coast, with a choice of budget and upscale options:

• Flights: With direct flights to Phu Quoc, Con Dao, and the rest of the country’s top beach destinations (think Da Nang and Quy Nhon), it couldn’t be easier to hop over to the best island holidays in Vietnam.
• Ferries & Speedboats: Water routes from Cat Ba to Nam Du bring you to the wildest of white sand beaches – often with sweeping views en route.
• Sleeper Buses: Inexpensive and somewhat comfortable, buses are a good choice when connecting inland cities to the island’s piers. Plan an overnight route for the night because you’ll wake up ready to board!

Insider tip: Starting from Hanoi? Pre-book transferring ahead with Vietnam escape tours Hanoi to have everything covered as you continue south. So what better topping on this full-circle trip than to pair your island adventure with a picturesque pitstop at Monkey Island Vietnam!

What to Pack for Your Island Getaway

Packing smart means more fun and fewer headaches:

• Beachwear & Flip-Flops: Trust me – you’ll want to wear these over and over again!
• Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Protect those beautiful coral reefs while you snorkel in the crystal-clear water.
• Motion Sickness Bands or Pills: Sea crossings can get choppy, especially en route to smaller islands.
• Waterproof Dry Bag: Ideal for boat trips and keeping your gadgets dry near the long beach.
• Cash: In a few islands, and especially some of the hidden gems, ATMs are sparse.

Sustainable Island Travel for the Best Islands in Vietnam

Let’s keep Vietnam beautiful for generations to come!

• Leave No Trace: Always bring all your trash back with you, as when you’re at the beach or hiking through dense rainforests, you don’t want to encounter someone else’s trash.
• Support Local: Spend your nights in family-run homestays, feast from small street food stalls, and sign up for eco-tours with locals.
• Respect Nature & Culture: Use fewer plastic bags (Some islands like Cu Lao Cham are banned), and be modest when entering religious buildings or cultural sites.

Conclusion

Between the peaceful spell of Cham Island and the opulent lifestyle of Phu Quoc’s Sai Gon, the Best Islands in Vietnam have what it takes to call all types of holidaymakers – beach seekers, culture-shakers, or peace-makers. Ready to start your island getaway? Lead the way with Vietnam escape tours Hanoi, and don’t miss out on Monkey Island Vietnam on the other side! Your dream escape is waiting for you – go find it!

FAQ about Best Islands in Vietnam

What is the best island to go to in Vietnam?

Should you be in search of the best all-rounder, Phu Quoc is the Best Islands in Vietnam. Between its luxury resort options, Sao Beach, bustling night markets, and exciting activities (snorkeling and squid fishing among them), there’s just enough comfort and adventure.

What is the most beautiful part of Vietnam?

Vietnam is full of stunning areas, but in terms of coastal beauty, Central Vietnam is special. From the volcanic cliffs of Ly Son to the eco-rich charm of Cham Island, this region packs a punch in terms of both scenery and soul, boasting some of the best islands in central Vietnam.

What is the nicest beach in Vietnam?

Sao Beach, on Phu Quoc Island, is widely regarded to be the best beach on Phu Quoc Island Vietnam – and even one of the best beaches in all of Vietnam. Its white-sand beaches, tranquil blue water, and swaying palms make for a picture-perfect scene that’s tough to beat.

What is the second most beautiful island in Vietnam?

And although other writers will tell you Phu Quoc is the best, many travelers say Con Dao is among the Best Islands in Vietnam. Boasting sacred attractions, coastlines, and attractions such as Dam Trau and beautiful beaches, it’s both a sacred and appealing place.