Buzz
Thanh Lan Island is a renowned tourist destination of Co To Island. It is well-known for its pristine and peaceful scenery. Unlike the bustling atmosphere of Co To, Thanh Lan Island boasts serene blue waters and pure white sandy beaches. Many liken Thanh Lan Island to a hidden gem in the vast ocean. Once you set foot here, you'll be captivated forever.
About Thanh Lan Island
Thanh Lan Island covers an area of approximately 20 km2, situated to the east of Co To district. It is about 4 km away from the center of Co To by coastline. The island is home to around 1,500 residents and attracts tourists with its rich vegetation, with natural forests covering up to 70% of the island.
The island is the ideal destination for your summer getaway (Photo source: Collection)
That's why Thanh Lan Island looks like an oasis in the middle of the blue sea. This island plays a crucial role in our country's security and defense strategy. Although not very large, it harbors incredibly rich and abundant resources. The beaches on the island are pristine and untouched by human intervention. Even the islanders are very enthusiastic, close-knit, and friendly.
When is the best time to visit Thanh Lan Island?
The best time for tourists to visit Thanh Lan Island is during the summer. At this time, the island is bathed in sunlight, and the clear blue water looks stunning. The climate, temperature, and weather are perfect for outdoor activities. Moreover, you can sunbathe and immerse yourself in the refreshing sea water.
Don't forget to check the weather forecast for an island adventure beyond expectations (Photo source: Collection)
Absolutely avoid visiting Thanh Lan Island in winter. Because the winter weather in the Northern region is extremely cold. The island will be engulfed in mystical fog during this time. Therefore, recreational activities will also be somewhat affected. This will leave you with little to experience during your trip.
How to travel to Thanh Lan Island
Currently, there are no direct routes to Thanh Lan Island by boat. Therefore, your travel process will take quite a bit of time. It will be convenient for travelers coming from Hanoi. So if you are from other distant provinces or cities, you'll have to take a flight to the capital first. Then, follow the travel route suggested by Mytour as below.
1. Route from Hanoi to Cai Rong Port, Van Don
There are many ways for you to get to Cai Rong Port, Van Don. Among them, the most popular option is to travel by coach. By doing so, you can catch a bus at My Dinh or Nuoc Ngam bus station. Or, it's more convenient to contact the bus owner in advance with fares ranging from 150,000 to 200,000 VND.
There are quite a few bus companies for you to choose from with various departure times. However, to ensure you have tickets at the right time, you should book early. Especially during peak seasons like holidays and festivals. Most bus routes only take you to the Van Don intersection. After that, you will have to catch another bus to get to Cai Rong Port.
The motorcycle route is very beautiful, so it's often chosen by 'adventure travelers' (Photo source: Collection)
Besides, some people will choose to travel by self-driving vehicles. For example, by motorcycle or car. This helps you save time and have more flexibility. As well as being able to comfortably stop along the way. Especially, you can directly admire and experience the natural scenery. However, if you choose this method, you need to have a steady hand behind the wheel.
2. Cai Rong Port, Van Don - Co To Island
Next, to reach Thanh Lan Island, you have to go to Co To Island first. There are two ways to get there: by wooden boat or speedboat. You can buy tickets at the ticket counter at the port.
Wooden Boat
Wooden boats are traditional vessels with very affordable prices. A one-way trip costs only about 100,000 VND. If you enjoy experiencing and admiring the beauty of the sea, then take the wooden boat. However, traveling by this method will take quite a lot of time, from 3 to 4 hours. If you easily get seasick and want to arrive quickly, then please consider carefully!
Speedboats
There are many high-speed boat companies to Co To Island that you can choose from. The earliest boat to Co To starts at 6:00 in the morning. And the latest is around 4:00 in the afternoon. Remember to pay attention to these time points to adjust your schedule properly. Ticket prices range from 230,000 VND to 250,000 VND.
Speedboats are a popular means of transportation chosen by many passengers (Source: Collection)
The travel time by high-speed boat is 1 hour and 30 minutes. This is much shorter compared to traveling by wooden boat. If you still want to explore
3. Co To - Thanh Lan Island
After arriving at Co To, you need to take another boat to get to Thanh Lan Island. The journey can be a bit challenging, so make sure you prepare yourself well! Depending on the travel season, the transportation you choose may vary.
To facilitate your journey, you need to monitor the information in advance. Pay attention to the last return time of the day. This will help you avoid missing the boat. If you travel in a large group, you can rent a private boat. This allows you and your group to have more control over the schedule.
Must-Visit Attractions on Thanh Lan Island
What makes Thanh Lan Island so special? This place is blessed with many unique attractions. The island also holds a lot of potential for tourism development. Below are some destinations you can consider and include in your itinerary.
1. Navy Beach
Navy Beach is one of the famous beaches on Thanh Lan Island. The beach is located at the end of the island, considered the farthest from the pier. Due to its pristine beauty, it has attracted many tourists. Navy Beach is well-known because it is conveniently located along the route.
Navy Beach unfolds before tourists with its pristine beauty (Source: Collection)
You can swim here or take a leisurely stroll. The fresh air, filled with the scent of the sea, will make you feel peaceful. If you search on Google Maps, you will see an image showing a small bridge stretching from the trail to the sea. Along the way, in front of the military camp gate, you will also see a similar bridge. But that's not Navy Beach yet! You have to walk a little further to get there.
2. C76 Beach
C76 Beach on Thanh Lan Island is located behind a military camp. The route to C76 Beach is quite challenging and rugged due to the rocky terrain. If you're driving, you need to have a steady hand behind the wheel. You have to pass through the military area with many guard dogs and a small trail to reach the destination.
C76 Beach consists of multiple interconnected crescent-shaped beaches. They are separated by rocky outcrops, creating different beach sections. The majestic and tranquil scenery will leave you deeply impressed. Don't forget to strike a pose and capture some lovely photos when you're here!
3. Ba Chau Beach
Ba Chau Beach, also known as Dong Beach, is another gem on Thanh Lan Island. The journey to this beach is similarly challenging, just like the route to C76 Beach. Ba Chau Beach boasts a stunning crescent-shaped coastline. Along the shore, the winding stretches of sand look incredibly picturesque.
Ba Chau Beach with its crystal-clear waters (Source: Collection)
The landscape vividly showcases lush greenery and dreamy purple flowers. In the afternoon, the water often rises halfway up the sandy shore, while the evening sun adds a shimmering touch to the sea. As dusk descends, the scenery suddenly becomes serene and breathtaking.
4. Community Church
When visiting Thanh Lan Island, don't forget to stop by the community church. The Cô Tô parish was established in 2004 with over 300 members. Similarly, the Thanh Lan parish was founded in 2009 with more than 500 members. Currently, the Cô Tô parish also has a sturdy church inaugurated by Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli in 2013. It stands as the largest community church on Thanh Lan Island.
A corner of the community church captured from a side angle (Source: Collection)
Surrounded by residential areas, lush vegetation, and vast ocean, the church offers a unique architectural experience. Moreover, it provides visitors with peace and relaxation for the soul.
5. Mai Cong Dam Jellyfish Workshop
Jellyfish are considered a lucrative source of income for the people of Thanh Lan Island, with an average jellyfish season lasting for about 3 months. After being caught from the sea, jellyfish are sold to manufacturers. To learn more, visit the Mai Cong Dam Jellyfish Workshop and explore these fascinating processes.
Jellyfish, after being cleaned, are soaked in salt and rotated to reduce viscosity. They are then soaked in a filtering tank for about 1 day. Subsequently, they are packed in nylon bags with salt and placed in tightly sealed wooden barrels. Although the packaging process is complex, it provides employment opportunities for many workers.
Mai Cong Dam is a renowned jellyfish workshop on Thanh Lan Island (Source: Collected)
Jellyfish on Thanh Lan Island are highly favored for their chewy and crispy texture compared to elsewhere. It's a delicacy you shouldn't miss during your island trip! Enjoy dishes made from jellyfish and the unforgettable flavor that will linger in your memory.
Unmissable Activities on Thanh Lan Island
Combine exploring Thanh Lan Island with exciting activities for a unique and meaningful experience. Let's take a look at some suggested activities by Mytour below!
1. Beach Bathing
The first activity you cannot miss when visiting Thanh Lam Island is beach bathing. There's nothing more wonderful than immersing yourself in the cool blue water, especially during the scorching summer months. The beaches on the island are mostly beautiful, quiet, and free of litter. This place is not as crowded and bustling as Cô Tô Island, making it perfect for those who love tranquility.
The beaches on Thanh Lam Island are crystal clear and ideal for swimming (Source: Collected)
You can choose to swim at Hải Quân Beach, C76 Beach, or Ba Châu Beach. Each beach is clean and boasts equally majestic scenery. Or simply take a stroll along the beach and listen to the gentle waves, feeling relaxed and at ease. Don't forget to capture check-in photos with the magnificent and picturesque natural scenery here.
2. Watching Sunset on Thanh Lam Island
When you're on Thanh Lam Island, don't miss the sunset scenery here. At that moment, the sky gradually turns pink with fluffy clouds floating by. The sun casts its rays onto the sea, making the water shimmer with silver light. In the distance, you can see the fishing boats of fishermen heading out to sea.
The sunset scene on the island is breathtaking (Source: Collected)
Your emotions at this moment seem to be immersed in the island scenery. Combined with the cool breeze from the ocean, all worries seem to dissipate. If you're lucky, you might spot a flock of white storks 'strolling' along the shore. Above, eagles hover gracefully in the sky. The natural beauty here is so pristine that it leaves you in awe.
3. Camping and Beach BBQ Parties
Many travelers visiting Thanh Lam Island enjoy organizing camping trips and beach BBQ parties. If you're with friends or family, this will undoubtedly be a meaningful activity. You'll have moments of togetherness with your loved ones, chatting and sharing stories.
The natural scenery here is perfect for organizing camping trips (Source: Collected)
Don't forget to prepare delicious seafood and refreshing drinks. These will make the camping trip more enjoyable and 'chill'. These will be cherished memories that are hard to come by in daily life. This will help bring people closer together.
4. Squid Fishing at Night
One of the most beloved experiences for travelers when visiting Thanh Lam Island is night squid fishing. Squid fishing seems to be an activity that always occurs in coastal areas. However, experiencing this at Thanh Lam is very different. Because the boats here are not crowded, quiet enough for you to enjoy the space. At that time, you will fully feel the mystery of the ocean.
Things to Note When Visiting Thanh Lam Island
If it's your first time exploring Thanh Lam Island, there are some things to keep in mind. These will make your island journey easier and more complete. Here are some suggestions that Mytour wants to share with you.
The 'watercolor sky' scenery of Thanh Lan Island through the lens of tourists (Source: Collection)
- Before boarding the boat, it's advisable to take motion sickness medication.
- Prepare and bring along some basic medicines as there are not many pharmacies on the island.
- If possible, prepare rechargeable lights, flashlights, and charging fans to prevent power outages during nights.
- Check the weather forecast before departure. Due to rainy and stormy days, the boat trip may be delayed for several hours or even days.
- Don't forget to bring snacks and other beverages!
- The journey to Thanh Lan Island takes quite a long time and requires good health preparation.
- On the way to the island, it's essential to strictly adhere to the regulation of wearing life jackets when boarding the boat.
Traveling always contains many beneficial and interesting things. It's a great opportunity for you to experience new things. If you're seeking a peaceful place, visit Thanh Lan Island. Come here and fully enjoy the beauty of nature. To book a tour to Thanh Lan Island, contact Mytour via hotline Mytour now!
