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Embark on a journey to Quang Binh island and transform into a modern-day Robinson to explore the pristine islands or simply rediscover yourself amidst the chaos. If you're unsure where to go, let Mytour help you find the answer.
1. Discover the primitive beauty of the 'kingdom of caves' - what makes it unique?
Quang Binh is one of Vietnam's rare gems, blessed with not only a long coastline but also a magnificent system of caves, mountains, and forests. Amidst the hustle and bustle of life, nothing beats the peaceful moments by the clear blue waters, welcoming gentle sea breezes on the Quang Binh islands. If so, you can't miss the breathtaking scenery of the Quang Binh islands.
Admire the lush green beauty of Quang Binh island.
With a population density of 936,607 people in 2023, Quang Binh remains relatively sparsely populated, preserving its pristine charm. Quang Binh islands are not glamorous or bustling like the city named after Uncle Ho or the country's capital, Hanoi. They don't boast the charming beauty of Ninh Binh or the ancient streets of Hoi An. However, Quang Binh islands offer a sense of tranquility and warmth to those who visit, with picturesque landscapes filled with grandeur.
Verdant hills and blue sea at Quang Binh island.
To fully enjoy moments of fun on the Quang Binh islands, plan your visit between April and July. Being in the North Central region, Quang Binh islands are susceptible to the impact of storms, especially from August to November. Therefore, the period from April to July is ideal for basking in warm sunshine, gentle sea breezes, and capturing beautiful photos on Quang Binh islands.
2. How to Travel to Quang Binh Islands?
The first step to explore Quang Binh islands is to travel to Dong Hoi city center in Quang Binh province. There are various transportation options for traveling to Quang Binh in 2024: by plane, bus, train, or even backpacking.
2.1. By Plane
Quang Binh's infrastructure system has been continuously upgraded to provide tourists with the most enjoyable experiences when visiting this area in general and Quang Binh islands in particular. To save travel time, you should take a flight to Dong Hoi airport.
Traveling to Quang Binh by plane is quick.
With weekends off, you can also take the time to explore Quang Binh islands because it's only a 1-hour flight from the capital Hanoi to Quang Binh. From Ho Chi Minh City to Quang Binh, it's just a 2-hour flight. With such a shortened time, you can freely visit and admire the pristine, rustic beauty of the 'kingdom of caves'.
Currently, there are many airlines operating flights to Quang Binh from various regions of Vietnam. Therefore, you can comfortably choose flight schedules and departure locations to suit your personal itinerary to fully explore the Quang Binh islands.
2.2. By Bus
Buses are also a favored means of transportation for many travelers to reach this place and begin exploring Quang Binh islands. This mode of transportation is popular and cost-effective. However, it's only suitable for those with long vacation time and no motion sickness. Travel time to Quang Binh typically ranges from 9 to 28 hours (depending on the departure location). Not to mention the additional time spent traveling by boat to reach the Quang Binh islands.
Taking the bus can save you some expenses.
♦ From Hanoi to Quang Binh: Currently, there are many buses operating on this route, so you can easily choose with prices ranging from 250,000 to 650,000 VND with companies like Hung Long, Co Huong, Ha Quang, Hoang Linh, Tan Viet, Thuan Hien,... The travel time for this route is about 9 to 11 hours.
♦ From Saigon to Quang Binh: This route also has many bus companies operating with an average price of around 550,000 VND such as Hoang Long, Chau Tuyet, Sy Quan, Tuan Linh,... However, the travel time for this route is quite long, from 23 to 28 hours, plus the long travel time to reach the Quang Binh islands, so you need to consider when choosing to travel by bus on this route.
2.3. Train
Traveling by train is becoming a trend chosen by many because it offers the opportunity to admire breathtaking scenery. With its slow pace, you can peacefully enjoy the beautiful landscapes of Quang Binh islands passing by along the routes. Thus, your journey to explore Quang Binh islands will become even more meaningful.
Traveling to Quang Binh by train to admire nature.
The train routes to Dong Hoi are quite diverse, departing from Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang. You should carefully consider before choosing train seats to match your travel time while still being budget-friendly.
♦ From Hanoi to Quang Binh: You can choose from SE1, SE3, SE5, SE7, SE9, SE19, SE23 with ticket prices ranging from 300,000 to 900,000 VND (depending on the seat chosen). The travel time is from 9 to 10 hours depending on the departure time at the station.
♦ From Saigon to Quang Binh: You can choose the SE8 route with ticket prices ranging from 830,000 to 1,300,000 VND (depending on the seat chosen). The travel time for this route is about 21 hours so you should consider carefully if you are not used to long train journeys.
2.4. Getting to Quang Binh islands
When arriving at Dong Hoi city center, you can choose a taxi or rent a motorbike for convenient travel to Quang Binh islands. Depending on the island you want to visit, there will be different routes. With experience in independent travel to Quang Binh, not all vehicles can travel by car but must travel by boat, so you need to plan properly before departure.
3. Must-Visit Beautiful Islands in Quang Binh
3.1. Yen Island
Yen Island is one of the most beloved Quang Binh islands by many travelers. To reach Yen Island from Dong Hoi city, you can take this route for convenience to enjoy at Vung Chua as well as the beautiful island.
Own countless beautiful photos at Quang Binh island.
► National Highway 1A – Ngang Pass – Dong Hung Intersection – Hon La – Vung Chua. From Vung Chua, you need to take a boat for an additional 20 – 30 minutes to reach Yen Island.
Yen Island may only cover about 10 hectares, but it leaves a lasting impression on anyone who visits this Quang Binh island. Here, you can admire the grandeur of the stacked rocks and behold the beauty of freedom expressed through the birds: Swallows, Seagulls, and more.
A panoramic view of the beauty of Yen Island from above - one of the most impressive Quang Binh islands.
Stepping foot on Yen Island, you not only immerse yourself in nature to soothe your soul but also indulge in endless photo opportunities. You can freely strike poses anywhere on Quang Binh island and end up with a dazzling photo set that you can share on Facebook for the whole year without running out.
Combined with the natural beauty of Quang Binh island, you can also indulge in beloved local dishes when visiting this place: porridge, braised fish, snakehead fish porridge, etc.
3.2. Bird Island
Bird Island, also known as Wind Island, is covered in a lush greenery blending with the blue hues of the ocean. This Quang Binh island spans about 100 hectares and has been studied by scientists as the largest purebred bird island in Southeast Asia and a gem in the Quang Binh island system.
Countless famous birds inhabit Bird Island.
Due to the pristine landscape and favorable weather, this place has become a suitable and attractive destination, attracting over 3 million species of seagulls to reside. Additionally, this Quang Binh island is also a habitat for various other bird species such as swallows and swiftlets.
To admire the untouched beauty and unique greenery of Bird Island, you can reach this place by two different routes, each with different distances and durations, specifically as follows:
- First method: From Nhật Lệ Beach, you need to take a boat for over 4 hours to reach Bird Island.
- Second method: From Cảnh Dương Beach, you can reach Bird Island in a shorter time compared to the route from Nhật Lệ Beach, only about 2 hours.
3.3. Grass Island – La Island
Situated in Quang Dong commune, Quang Trach district, Quang Binh province, Grass Island – La Island, along with Cape Ong, has created a stunning natural landscape that touches the hearts of people. However, this island has not been developed for tourism yet. If you are a nature lover, passionate about exploring the authentic beauty of nature, then this will be an ideal destination in your journey to explore the Quang Binh islands.
4. Other tourist attractions in Quang Binh
In addition to the pristine and rustic Quang Binh islands that have captivated countless travelers, you can also explore numerous other fascinating tourist attractions.
4.1. Unique mountain and cave system
When it comes to the beauty of Quang Binh, everyone knows about the 'specialty' of the mountain and cave system. This has attracted many tourists to this region to explore every year. With a 4-day 3-night travel experience in Quang Binh, besides exploring the Quang Binh islands, you should also visit Bo Trach, Quang Binh for further exploration because you can save time as most famous attractions in this area are concentrated here. Here are some tourist spots in Quang Binh that you can visit:
4.1.1. Phong Nha Cave
To introduce the scenic spots in Quang Binh, we must mention Phong Nha Cave. Phong Nha Cave is located in Son Trach commune, Bo Trach district, and is one of the world natural heritages recognized by UNESCO in 2003. Setting foot in Phong Nha Cave, you will be amazed as if admiring the Quang Binh islands.
Explore the natural beauty at Phong Nha Cave.
The charming natural scenery of Phong Nha Cave will immerse you in a 'virtual world' full of wonders created by nature thousands of years ago. As one of the contributing factors to the deserved title 'kingdom of caves' for Quang Binh, this place has many beautiful caves. But it also has shimmering stalactites that are as captivating as those on the Quang Binh islands.
So besides exploring the Quang Binh islands, take some time to explore this majestic and fascinating destination.
4.1.2. Fairy Cave
Currently, there are two Fairy Caves in Vietnam, one in Quang Binh and one in Thanh Hoa. Therefore, make sure not to confuse information about these two places. When you come to Fairy Cave, you will see layers of stalactites stacked like terraced fields.
Just as impressive as Phong Nha Cave, Fairy Cave is also one of the largest caves in Quang Binh. Its unique geographical location nestled amidst mountain ranges and dense forests has endowed Fairy Cave with an extraordinary and mysterious aura.
Conquer the steps inside Fairy Cave.
An important note when visiting Fairy Cave is to only explore about 400 meters from the cave entrance. Venturing deeper into the cave can be extremely dangerous due to underwater areas, making it suitable only for experienced adventurers, much like conquering the Quang Binh islands.
4.1.3. Paradise Cave
Thien Duong Cave is bestowed with the title 'the palace in the earth's heart.' This is because the cave boasts magnificent scenery along with the most mystical charm, justifying its name. Therefore, after enjoying your time at the Quang Binh islands, make sure to spare some time to visit this fascinating destination.
Thien Duong Cave is nestled within a limestone mountain range surrounded by pristine primeval forests, making it a familiar stop for Quang Binh tours.
Marvel at the most magnificent cave in Asia.
So besides exploring the Quang Binh islands, you must include Thien Duong Cave in your sightseeing list. Being recognized by the British Royal Cave Association as the longest dry cave in Asia and one of the most magnificent caves ever surveyed by expeditions worldwide, it's truly incomparable.
4.1.4. Hang En Cave
Hang En Cave ranks as the world's third-largest cave, stretching over 1.6km with 3 entrances and a ceiling reaching up to 100m high and 170m wide. Moreover, it stands shoulder to shoulder with Trang An and Ha Long Bay as the backdrop for the famous Peter Pan movie.
Experience trekking in Hang En Cave, an adventure no less thrilling than in the Quang Binh islands.
In your journey to explore the pristine beauty rivaling the Quang Binh islands, Hang En Cave also immerses you in the life of the Bru-Van Kieu ethnic minorities. Additionally, you can enjoy camping activities as beautiful as those on the Quang Binh islands.
4.1.5. Son Doong Cave
When it comes to the ultimate, Son Doong Cave undoubtedly steals the spotlight. Son Doong Cave holds the title of the world's largest natural cave since 2013. Previously, in 2009, Son Doong was declared the world's largest limestone cave by National Geographic magazine.
The lush green beauty of Son Doong Cave shines amidst the Quang Binh islands.
But exploring Son Doong Cave is no easy feat. The tour price to conquer the natural beauty of this cave currently amounts to 70 million Vietnamese dong. With beauty far beyond other caves and islands in Quang Binh, it boasts underground rivers, magnificent stalactites, and a lush vegetation carpet.
Each tour only allows for 10 participants, so the registration spots are estimated to have been fully booked until 2025. This clearly demonstrates the irresistible allure of Son Doong Cave!
4.2. Enchanting Beaches in Quang Binh
In addition to the majestic caves and islands of Quang Binh, the beaches here will fill you with emotions with their crystal-clear waters and the sound of waves crashing. If you desire to stroll along smooth white sand, nestled amidst untouched landscapes unspoiled by human hands, don't miss these beaches:
4.2.1. Nhat Le Beach
Nhat Le Beach is situated in a prime location, just about 1km from the center of Quang Binh city. Not only that, this beach is also hailed as the most beautiful alongside the pristine islands of Quang Binh. Hence, it's one of the must-visit photography spots in Quang Binh that you shouldn't miss.
The perfect blend of elements has always drawn visitors from far and wide to Quang Binh. Nhat Le Beach boasts picturesque scenery, smooth sandy shores, and crystal-clear waters. Despite its proximity to the city center, Nhat Le Beach still retains its rare natural beauty.
Pose gracefully at Nhat Le Beach, dreaming like a tender muse.
As you gaze upon the ever-changing landscape, you'll see Nhat Le Beach adorned with a fresh charm. So, if you desire to capture dazzling and colorful photos, apart from exploring Quang Binh's islands, you should also visit Nhat Le Beach.
4.2.2. Bao Ninh Beach
Apart from Quang Binh's islands, Bao Ninh Beach also preserves the most pristine beauty, akin to the 'kingdom of caves'. Its untamed beauty along the long coastline has made Bao Ninh Beach one of the most stunning islands in Quang Binh.
Enjoying the most pristine beach in the 'kingdom of caves' is no less captivating than Quang Binh's islands.
From the moment you set foot here, you'll be amazed by the serene scenery that this place possesses. The best time to admire Bao Ninh Beach, not much different from Quang Binh's islands, is at dawn and dusk.
Besides enjoying the scenery and swimming, you can also have fun exploring the islands and observing the daily life of the fishermen. This is also where locals hold their rain-praying and fishing ceremonies.
4.2.3. Jumping Rock Beach
With its impressive name, Jumping Rock Beach features rock formations sculpted by the sea. However, these distinct rock formations exude a powerful, unique vitality to the land of Quang Binh.
Countless stunning photos are captured at Jumping Rock Beach.
Being one of the two most beautiful beaches in Quang Binh, Jumping Rock Beach offers tourists a range of different emotions. This uniqueness has made it a significant stop alongside Quang Binh's islands.
4.2.4. Quang Phu Beach
If you're looking for a safe beach to enjoy, Quang Phu Beach is a reasonable choice. The water here is quite shallow, with the depth only reaching the chest of an adult after walking hundreds of meters. However, Quang Phu Beach is also free from deep holes, making it safe for both you and your family.
Strolling on the golden sand dunes at Quang Phu Hill.
Apart from the islands of Quang Binh, Quang Phu Beach is also very clear and spacious. What sets Quang Phu Beach apart is a freshwater stream flowing into the sea right in the middle of the beach, originating from the surrounding forests. Above, there are high, flat sand dunes, perfect for capturing beautiful photos when visiting Quang Binh.
If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life, seeking the pristine beauty of nature to rejuvenate yourself, don't overlook the rustic islands of Quang Binh. If you want to fully enjoy that beauty, spend moments with your loved ones, quickly call Mytour for complete assistance from A to Z.
