Top 12 Incredible Vietnam Islands: Your Ultimate Guide (2025 Updated)
With its stunning coastline and tropical climate, Vietnam is home to some of the most beautiful islands in Southeast Asia. From the untouched beauty of Con Dao to the vibrant shores of Phu Quoc, each island boasts its own unique charm, making Vietnam a must-visit destination for beach lovers, adventure seekers, and luxury travelers alike.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best of Vietnam islands, what makes them special, and the most exciting activities to try.
12 Best Islands in Vietnam (from North to South)
Vietnam is home to stunning islands scattered along its 3,260 km coastline, each offering unique and unforgettable experiences for travelers. If you’re planning a Vietnam island getaway, look no further! Here are the top 12 Vietnam islands that should be on your travel list this year.
Cat Ba Island – Gateway to Lan Ha Bay
Location: Hai Phong Province, Northern Vietnam
Located in northern Vietnam, Cat Ba Island is the largest island in Halong Bay, famous for its limestone cliffs, emerald waters, and lush jungles. Visitors can explore Cat Ba National Park, kayak through hidden caves in Lan Ha Bay, or relax on Cat Co Beach.
Cat Ba Island is one the most must-visit Vietnam islands
Tuan Chau Island – The Entertainment Hub of Halong Bay
Location: Quang Ninh Province, Northern Vietnam
Tuan Chau is a popular tourist island known for its entertainment complex, luxurious resorts, and proximity to Ha Long Bay. It’s ideal for visitors who want to combine relaxation with entertainment.
Tuan Chau Island, Quang Ninh
Ly Son Island – The “Kingdom of Garlic”
Location: Quang Ngai Province, Central Vietnam
Now we will move to central Vietnam with many breathtaking islands. Ly Son, located off the coast of Quang Ngai Province, is known for its volcanic landscapes, historical pagodas, and garlic farms. Its untouched beauty and dramatic cliffs make it a must-visit for off-the-beaten-path explorers.
Ly Son Island, Quang Ngai
Hon Tre Island – A Luxury Getaway
Location: Khanh Hoa Province, Central Vietnam
Located near Nha Trang, Hon Tre is home to VinWonders – Vietnam’s largest theme park, luxury resorts, and private beaches. It’s an ideal destination for families and those seeking a premium vacation experience. Did you know? The island was once a military outpost before being transformed into a luxury resort and tourism hub.
Hon Tre Island, Khanh Hoa
Cham Island – A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
Location: Quang Nam Province, Central Vietnam
Cham Island, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2009, is known for its rich marine biodiversity, snorkeling, and diving sites. Visitors can also experience the authentic fishing village life. In the past, the island was historically a major trading port for the ancient Champa Kingdom, dating back over 1,000 years.
Cham Island, Khanh Hoa
Hon Lao – The Monkey Island
Location: Khanh Hoa Province, Central Vietnam
As a part of Nha Phu Bay and near Nha Trang Beach, Hon Lao is famous for its monkey sanctuary and unspoiled beaches. It is home to over 1,000 wild monkeys that roam freely and interact with visitors. Moreover, it’s a fantastic spot for wildlife lovers and families looking for a fun day trip.
Hon Lao offers tourists interaction with friendly monkeys
Phu Quy Island – A Secluded Volcanic Island
Location: Binh Thuan Province, Central Vietnam
Phu Quy is a lesser-known volcanic island with rugged landscapes and quiet fishing villages. Vietnamese consider it as one of Vietnam’s best-kept secrets. Unlike Phu Quoc or Nha Trang, Phu Quy doesn’t have big resorts, luxury hotels, or theme parks. Instead, visitors stay in homestays and small guesthouses, offering an authentic and peaceful atmosphere.
Unlike more commercialized islands with direct flights, Phu Quy can only be reached by a ferry from Phan Thiet, which takes between 2.5 to 3.5 hours. There are limited ferry departures per day, making spontaneous trips difficult and keeping mass tourism at bay.
Phu Quy Island, Binh Thuan
Binh Ba Island – Lobster Island
Location: Khanh Hoa Province, Central Vietnam
Binh Ba is renowned for its exceptional lobsters, considered some of the freshest lobsters in Vietnam, making it a paradise for seafood lovers. Beyond its culinary delights, the island offers a peaceful escape, where visitors can unwind on pristine beaches, savor freshly caught seafood, and immerse themselves in the laid-back coastal atmosphere.
It is understandable why Binh Ba is considered as “Lobster Island”
Con Dao Island – Vietnam’s Most Pristine Archipelago
Location: Ba Ria – Vung Tau Province, Southern Vietnam
Con Dao is known for its untouched beaches, coral reefs, and sea turtle conservation areas. The island also has historical significance, with the Con Dao Prison Museum offering insight into Vietnam’s past.
Con Dao Island with the untouched beauty
Thanh An Island – A Peaceful Retreat Near Ho Chi Minh City
Location: Ho Chi Minh City, Southern Vietnam
Just an hour’s boat ride from Ho Chi Minh City, Thanh An Island is an ideal destination offering a tranquil retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. One of the island’s most fascinating sights is the salt fields, where visitors can observe locals harvesting salt using traditional methods.
Locals are harvesting salt by using the traditional methods, Thanh An Island
Phu Quoc Island – Vietnam’s Most Famous Island
Location: Kien Giang Province, Southern Vietnam
Phu Quoc, the largest and most developed island in Vietnam, is known for its luxury resorts, white-sand beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Phu Quoc is Vietnam’s only island where foreigners can enter visa-free for up to 30 days.
If you’re searching for the perfect honeymoon destination, Phu Quoc, the “Pearl Island” in Vietnam, promises a romantic and unforgettable getaway. Are you ready to explore Sao Beach, VinWonders Phu Quoc, Phu Quoc National Park, and the famous night market?
Phu Quoc Island, Kien Giang
Nam Du – A Hidden Gem in the South
Location: Kien Giang Province, Southern Vietnam
Nam Du is a remote and pristine island chain located near Phu Quoc, offering unspoiled beaches, clear waters, and scenic hiking trails. It’s an excellent alternative to the more crowded islands.
Nam Du Island
Interesting Water Activities
Vietnam’s islands offer a diverse range of water activities, perfect for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those simply looking to relax by the sea. From diving in crystal-clear waters to kayaking through hidden caves, it promises the most interesting activities underwater to discover.
Snorkeling and scuba diving
One of the most popular experiences is snorkeling and scuba diving, with top locations like Phu Quoc, Con Dao, Cham Island, and Binh Ba boasting crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life. These islands provide the perfect opportunity to swim alongside colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, and even reef sharks, making it an unforgettable underwater adventure.
Snorkeling at Phu Quoc Island
Kayaking and paddleboarding
For those who love exploring scenic coastlines, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are fantastic options. In places like Cat Bà Island and Tuần Châu Island, visitors can paddle through limestone caves, hidden lagoons, and peaceful bays, enjoying breathtaking views of Vietnam’s natural beauty.
Kayaking at Tuan Chau Island
Jet skiing
Adrenaline lovers can try jet skiing, parasailing, and wakeboarding, which are widely available on more developed islands like Phu Quoc, Hon Tre, and Tuan Chau Island. These activities provide a thrilling way to experience Vietnam’s coastal landscapes while feeling the rush of speed and adventure.
Other activities
For a more immersive cultural experience, visitors can also join local fishermen for a night squid fishing tour, a unique activity in places like Phu Quoc and Binh Ba, where they can learn traditional fishing techniques and enjoy freshly caught seafood.
Try catching lobsters with the locals and enjoy the freshest seafoods
FAQs about Vietnam Islands!
Do Vietnamese islands meet essential needs for visitors (internet, accommodation,…)?
Wi-Fi is widely available in most tourist areas on Vietnamese islands. Many hotels, restaurants, and cafes offer free Wi-Fi. Plus, while basic medical care is available on most islands, it’s recommended to carry a first-aid kit and travel insurance. Most accommodations provide basic amenities such as air conditioning, hot water, and private bathrooms. It’s advisable to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Do Vietnam islands have ATMs and credit card facilities, or should I bring cash?
Not all Vietnam islands have ATMs or accept credit cards, so it’s essential to bring enough cash, especially when visiting smaller or remote islands. Before the trip, we highly recommend you exchange money in major cities.
Is wild camping allowed on Vietnam’s islands?
Yes, wild camping is allowed on some of Vietnam’s islands, but it depends on the location, local regulations, and environmental protection laws. While some islands welcome campers and nature lovers, others are strictly protected due to their national park status or military presence.
Can I rent a motorbike to explore Vietnam’s islands?
Absolutely, motorbike rentals are available on most of Vietnam’s islands, making it a convenient and affordable way to explore. Many islands have scenic coastal roads, fishing villages, and viewpoints that are best discovered by motorbike. Always check the motorbike’s brakes, tires, and fuel level before renting. On some smaller islands, gas stations may be limited, so you need to fill up in advance
Conclusion
Vietnam islands offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences, making them ideal destinations for all types of travelers. From the luxury retreats of Phu Quoc to the volcanic wonders of Ly Son, and from the untamed shores of Nam Du to the haunting yet breathtaking landscapes of Con Đao, each island tells its own unique story.
Now is the perfect time to plan your Vietnam trip to beautiful islands! Start exploring, immerse yourself in local culture, and create unforgettable memories on these stunning tropical gems.
