1. What to see at Dau Island, Hai Phong?
Hon Dau Hai Phong possesses wild beauty. (Source: Collected)
Hon Dau Hai Phong is a small island located in the Gulf of Tonkin, famous for its pristine beauty, fresh air, and special cultural – spiritual values. This place is not only a peaceful resort destination amidst nature but also holds many historical imprints and sacred legends of the Do Son coastal area.
1.1. Geographical location of Hon Dau Hai Phong
Hon Dau Hai Phong is located in the Gulf of Tonkin, belonging to the former Do Son district, Hai Phong city. From the city center, visitors travel about 20 km to Nghieng pier, the only departure point to the island. It only takes about 20 minutes by speedboat to set foot on Hon Dau and enjoy the blue, fresh sea space.
The island has a total area of about 120 hectares, including both pristine natural areas and a well-planned tourist area. With its location as both a gateway to the sea and separated from the bustling life of the mainland, Hon Dau Hai Phong becomes an ideal destination for those who want to find peace and immerse themselves in the ocean nature.
1.2. Natural beauty and climate
Hon Dau Hai Phong attracts tourists thanks to its cool climate year-round, creating a feeling like a rare 'Da Lat in the sea'. The entire island is covered in a soothing green color from dense vegetation, bringing a fresh and relaxing atmosphere.
The primeval forest on the island boasts a rich ecosystem with many ancient trees hundreds of years old. Red-budded banyan trees, sea pines, sea almonds… create a dense canopy, lush green all year round. The fauna is also very diverse, from friendly monkey troops to many rare seabird species, enriching the nature exploration experience.
The temperature at Hon Dau is usually 3-5°C lower than on the mainland, making the island an ideal resort destination. Especially in summer, the cool sea breeze blowing through the forest canopy helps visitors fully enjoy a pleasant, peaceful feeling and immerse themselves in nature.
1.3. Historical role and cultural-spiritual significance
Hon Dau Hai Phong not only attracts tourists with its natural beauty but also stands out with its unique historical and spiritual values. On the island, the Nam Hai Than Vuong Temple is recognized as a national relic, an important place of worship visited by locals and tourists during traditional ceremonies.
According to legend, Nam Hai Than Vuong is the guardian deity of fishermen in the Do Son area and the northern coastal provinces. During festivals, many people and tourists flock to the island to pray for peace and luck, creating a sacred and solemn atmosphere characteristic of the relic.
Besides its spiritual value, Hon Dau also preserves many important historical traces, notably defense structures from the anti-American resistance war, such as underground bunkers and secret tunnels. These structures not only testify to the heroic achievements of the army and people on the island but also help visitors gain a deeper understanding of the proud history of the Do Son land.
2. Detailed guide to travel to Hon Dau Hai Phong 2025
Getting to Hon Dau Hai Phong is easy. (Source: Collected)
To reach Hon Dau – the beautiful and peaceful island of Hai Phong, visitors can choose various flexible transportation methods, suitable for their time and budget. Whether departing from Ha Noi, the northern provinces, or the South, the journey to Hon Dau is easy thanks to the modern transportation system and convenient high-speed boat services.
2.1. How to get to Hon Dau from Ha Noi and nearby provinces
To visit Hon Dau Hai Phong, visitors have many convenient transportation options.
From Ha Noi, you can take a bus on the Ha Noi – Do Son route, with a travel time of about 2.5 hours, and ticket prices ranging from 80,000 to 120,000 VND, depending on the type of bus and booking time.
If traveling by private car, the Ha Noi – Hai Phong expressway, about 120 km long, is a quick option, with an expressway toll for a 5-seater car of about 85,000 VND.
Upon arriving in Hai Phong city, continue along National Highway 356 to reach the Do Son tourist area, from where you will depart for Hon Dau by high-speed boat.
For visitors from the South, the fastest option is to fly to Cat Bi Airport (Hai Phong), then take a taxi or bus to Do Son. This journey takes about 45 minutes, with taxi costs ranging from 300,000 to 400,000 VND, convenient for those who want to combine relaxation and island exploration.
2.2. Getting to Hon Dau Hai Phong Island
Previously, visitors often traveled to Hon Dau Island by boat from Nghieng pier. However, in recent years, the departure point has been moved to Nam Do Son pier – located within the international tourist area of Hon Dau. This change has improved the quality of transportation services, while providing a safer and more convenient experience for visitors.
Currently, the boat ticket price to Hon Dau Hai Phong Island is listed at 90,000 VND/person, including 70,000 VND for a round trip and 20,000 VND for the entrance fee. Boats operate continuously from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, allowing visitors to easily choose a suitable time to explore the natural beauty of Hon Dau.
Boats only operate when weather conditions are favorable and the number of passengers meets the requirement. During peak season or on weekends, visitors should book tickets in advance via the tourist area's hotline to secure seats. Each boat can accommodate about 50 passengers and ensures full safety standards.
Before boarding the boat, passengers need to prepare identification documents and comply with luggage regulations, especially not carrying dangerous or explosive items. Check-in time at Nghieng pier usually starts 30 minutes before departure, ensuring a convenient and safe journey for visitors.
3. Exploring outstanding symbols and experiences at Hon Dau Hai Phong
Hon Dau Hai Phong Lighthouse is a historical symbol of the city. (Source: Collected)
Hon Dau Hai Phong is not only attractive for its pristine natural scenery but also holds many unique cultural and historical symbols. From the century-old lighthouse, the tranquil primeval forest to the sacred Nam Hai Than Vuong temple and the magnificent ancient stone beach, each destination on the island offers an unforgettable experience for visitors.
3.1. Over 100-year-old lighthouse
The Hon Dau Hai Phong Lighthouse is a prominent historical symbol, built by the French in 1898. Located on the island, the lighthouse features European neoclassical architecture, standing 63.5 m above sea level, serving as a steadfast guiding point amidst the sea storms.
The lighthouse was designed by French engineers in the late 19th century using local granite. The base of the tower has a diameter of 8 m and gradually narrows upwards. The modern 1,000W lighting system illuminates up to 22 nautical miles, ensuring the safety of ships passing through the Bac Bo Gulf.
Visitors can conquer 125 spiral steps to reach the top of the tower, where they can gaze at the panoramic view of Hon Dau, the Bac Bo Gulf, and the Do Son mainland area. The ideal time to visit is at sunset, when the brilliant golden light reflects on the sea surface, creating unforgettable experiences and scenery.
3.2. Hon Dau Hai Phong Primeval Forest
The Hon Dau Hai Phong Primeval Forest is a natural treasure amidst the sea, notable for its ancient, tall banyan trees with red buds, providing a dense canopy. Many trees have a diameter of 3 to 4 m and a canopy covering hundreds of square meters. The forest space is always cool, creating a pleasant feeling and purifying the spirit for visitors.
A 2 km trail winds through the rich green forest, where you can enjoy the natural fragrance of the trees and listen to the vibrant sounds of nature: chirping birds, rustling leaves, and the distant sound of waves, blending into a relaxing natural symphony.
Thanks to the dense vegetation, the air in the forest is rich in oxygen, helping the body stay full of energy. The temperature in the forest is usually 3 to 5°C lower than outside, making it ideal for visitors to rest, relax, and enjoy the freshness even during the hot summer.
3.3. Relic site, Nam Hai Than Vuong Temple and sacred legend
The Nam Hai Than Vuong Temple is located at the highest point of Hon Dau Hai Phong, distinguished by its traditional Vietnamese architecture with graceful curved roofs and a system of columns and beams intricately carved by local artisans.
Inside the temple is enshrined the statue of Nam Hai Than Vuong, the deity protecting fishermen, crafted from precious wood, adorned with a vibrant red dragon robe, and wearing a solemn crown, embodying power and sanctity. Surrounding it are vivid sculptures of divine generals, creating a sacred and solemn space for visitors and devotees to pay homage.
Annually, the Nam Hai Temple festival takes place on the 18th day of the 3rd lunar month, attracting a large number of people and visitors. Special activities such as Cheo singing, dragon dance, boat racing, and traditional folk games create a lively and bustling atmosphere, while preserving the unique maritime belief culture of Hai Phong.
3.4. Discover the ancient stone beach, Hon Dau beach
The beach at Hon Dau Hai Phong is beautiful. (Source: Collected)
Along Hon Dau Hai Phong, visitors can admire the natural rock beaches formed over millions of years. Granite slabs are stacked upon each other in various unique shapes, forming small caves and natural stone steps leading to the sea, creating a scene that is both majestic and poetic.
The rock beach on the west side of the island is a prominent check-in spot, attracting many tourists with its wild beauty and impressive photo angles. As the sun sets, the rocks glow with a brilliant golden hue, creating enchanting frames, ideal for souvenir photos or wedding shoots.
Meanwhile, the sandy beach on the east side is about 500m long with a stretch of fine white sand, clear blue sea water, and gradually increasing depth, making it very suitable for swimming and water activities. Thanks to the protective coral reefs, the waves here are gentle, ensuring safety for children and less experienced swimmers, allowing everyone to fully enjoy the resort space by the sea.
4. Ideal time to explore Hon Dau Hai Phong
Choose the best time to explore Hon Dau Hai Phong. (Source: Collected)
To have a complete exploration trip to Hon Dau Hai Phong, choosing the right time plays an important role. Each season of the year, the island has its own beauty, but summer is still the most ideal time to fully enjoy the beauty of the blue sea, primeval forest, and fresh air here.
4.1. The most beautiful tourist season of the year
The ideal time to travel to Hon Dau Hai Phong is from April to July, when the weather is stable, temperatures range from 25–30°C, with little rain and light winds, creating favorable conditions for traveling to the island by speedboat.
In May and June, the red flamboyant flowers bloom brilliantly on the mainland, bringing vibrant backgrounds to the island exploration journey. The clear blue sea, gentle sunlight, and pleasant temperature are ideal conditions for experiencing activities like swimming, boating, or sightseeing the natural landscape.
Notably, the Nam Hai Than Vuong Temple festival usually takes place in April or May (the 3rd lunar month), which is an occasion for tourists to both admire the island's beauty and experience its unique spiritual culture. However, this is also a time when the number of visitors increases, causing service prices to potentially rise compared to other months of the year.
4.2. Suggested clothing and essential items when visiting Hon Dau Hai Phong
Choosing clothing and accessories when traveling to Hon Dau Hai Phong is an important factor for a safe and comfortable trip.
When trekking or visiting the island, you should wear non-slip sports shoes, convenient for climbing the Hon Dau lighthouse and walking on the trails, and also prepare flip-flops for beach activities.
Prioritize light, bright-colored, and loose-fitting cotton clothing to keep your body cool, combined with a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes from the sun. SPF 50+ sunscreen is an essential item, as the sunlight on the island reflects strongly from the water surface, easily causing skin burns.
Additionally, bring a waterproof bag to protect your phone and camera when traveling by boat, along with a power bank and a personal trash bag, which is both convenient and contributes to preserving the pristine marine environment of Hon Dau.
5. Suggested itinerary for traveling to Hon Dau Hai Phong
Move to Cat Ba Island by Sun World cable car. (Source: Collected)
Hon Dau Hai Phong is an ideal destination for those who want to combine exploration, relaxation, and spiritual experiences in one trip. Here is a suggested detailed itinerary to help you fully enjoy the pristine beauty of the island, from the ancient lighthouse to the ancient rock beach and the primeval forest.
A day exploring Hon Dau Hai Phong usually departs from Nghiêng pier at 7:30 AM. Upon arrival, visitors should spend the first 2 hours visiting the Hon Dau lighthouse, admiring the panoramic view of the island and the Gulf of Tonkin from above. Conquering the 125 steps is tiring, but the reward is a spectacular view and a beautiful photo opportunity.
In the afternoon, you can visit the Nam Hai Than Vuong Temple, learn about the unique beliefs and culture, and utilize the traditional architectural corners for photos. Afterwards, it's the ideal time for a picnic on the sand or to enjoy fresh seafood at a restaurant on the island.
In the afternoon, a trekking journey through the Hon Dau primeval forest and exploring the approximately 2 km long ancient rock beach will help you immerse yourself in nature. Sunset on the island, usually between 6:00 PM and 6:30 PM, is a beautiful and unforgettable moment of the trip.
With a 2-day, 1-night itinerary, visitors can experience camping on the beach or staying at a resort. In the evening, participate in a campfire, stargaze, and listen to stories from the local residents. The next morning, wake up early to catch the sunrise, go fishing, or engage in other outdoor activities on the island.
If combining the trip to Cat Ba Island, visitors can travel by Sun World cable car in less than 15 minutes from the mainland. Here, you can swim, kayak, visit caves, and enjoy fresh seafood, enriching the Hon Dau – Cat Ba Hai Phong travel experience.
6. Hon Dau Hai Phong Travel Experience: Useful Tips and Notes to Know
Maintain hygiene when visiting Hon Dau Hai Phong. (Source: Collected)
To make your journey of exploring Hon Dau Hai Phong complete and meaningful, visitors should prepare thoroughly in terms of attire, attitude, and photography equipment. These small but important notes will help you fully enjoy the sacred space, preserve the natural landscape, and capture the most beautiful moments on this sacred island amidst the sea and sky of Hai Phong.
When visiting the Nam Hai Than Vuong temple on Hon Dau Hai Phong, visitors must adhere to polite dress code: no tank tops, shorts, or short skirts. You can bring a scarf or a long-sleeved jacket to ensure neatness and solemnity.
Absolutely do not pick up any soil, stones, plants, or items from the island to take home. This is both a spiritual rule and protects the island's ecosystem. When taking photos, only do so in permitted areas and turn off the flash in sacred areas.
When offering incense, remain silent and sincere so that the spiritual space is respected. Absolutely do not litter or vandalize relics, as this behavior is prohibited and may be subject to penalties according to regulations.
The lighthouse summit is a place for beautiful panoramic photos of the sea and sky. The ideal time is from 16:00 to 18:00. It is advisable to prepare a mini tripod for high-quality group or individual photos.
The ancient rocky shore on the west has many uniquely shaped rocks, serving as an ideal backdrop for 'virtual living' photos. When shooting, be aware that the rocks can be slippery when the tide rises, and prioritize light-colored clothing such as white, yellow, or light pink to stand out against the sea and rocks.
Drone filming should only be done after obtaining permission from the management, avoiding flying over temple areas or national defense structures. When editing photos, maintain natural colors to accurately reflect the pristine beauty of Hon Dau Hai Phong.
7. Cuisine and accommodation when traveling to Hon Dau Hai Phong
Many quality hotels in Hon Dau Hai Phong. (Source: Collected)
Cuisine and accommodation are two factors that contribute to a complete experience when traveling to Hon Dau Hai Phong. From fresh seafood dishes with the taste of the sea to a system of convenient resorts, hotels, and homestays, this place offers tourists a feeling of both intimacy and luxury amidst the fresh natural scenery.
7.1. Specialties to try when traveling to Hon Dau Hai Phong
The cuisine of Hon Dau Hai Phong is nổi bật with fresh seafood dishes, caught right around the island.
Restaurants on the island serve a variety of special dishes such as crab stir-fried with tamarind, shrimp grilled with salt and chili, clams steamed with lime leaves, and flounder grilled in foil. Prices range from 200,000 to 500,000 VND, depending on the type of seafood and preparation method.
The area around Nghiêng pier – Do Son also has many eateries serving local specialties at reasonable prices. A bowl of spicy fish vermicelli Do Son typically has a rich, fragrant broth combined with shrimp, crab, and fresh herbs, costing only from 35,000 to 45,000 VND. Crab spring rolls with a crispy shell and naturally sweet crab filling are an ideal appetizer choice.
Additionally, tourists should not miss Hai Phong crab noodle soup, a famous specialty of the port region. The chewy red noodles are combined with a delicious broth, served with various toppings and fresh herbs, creating an unforgettable flavor.
7.2. Suggested hotels, homestays, and guesthouses
Accommodation services in Hon Dau Hai Phong are very diverse, meeting the needs of all tourists, from camping and bungalows to high-standard hotels.
On the island, Hon Dau Resort has 30 sea-view rooms, priced from 1,500,000 to 3,000,000 VND/night, including breakfast. The rooms are equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, TV, minibar, and a private balcony for guests to relax and enjoy the sea view.
In the Do Son area, the hotel system caters to various needs. Green Lotus Van Son Resort is located near the beach, with room prices ranging from 800,000 to 1,200,000 VND/night. Many rooms have sea views, an outdoor swimming pool, and an all-day dining restaurant, suitable for both families and groups of friends.
Additionally, homestays in Van Huong ward are an ideal choice for groups of friends or families who want to experience local life. Room prices range from 300,000 to 500,000 VND/night, usually including breakfast and shuttle service from the pier. Friendly homestay hosts are ready to share experiences and suggest interesting activities around the Hon Dau sea area.
Hon Dau Hai Phong offers a perfect combination of pristine nature, historical value, and unique spiritual experiences. In 2025, exploring Hon Dau is an opportunity for tourists to relax amidst the peaceful sea landscape while learning about meaningful historical stories. This is definitely an unmissable destination for a complete Hai Phong exploration journey.
