Top 9 Must-Visit Locations in Van Don, Quang Ninh

If Cap Tien Temple is dedicated to honoring the daughter of the Third Duke Trần Quốc Tảng, then Cua Ong Temple was established to worship him, the third son of the legendary General Trần Hưng Đạo. Trần Quốc Tảng played a crucial role in defending the coastal regions, ensuring peace and prosperity, and thwarting the Mongol invasion. Locals built this temple to honor his contributions and revere him as Đức Ông (the Great Duke).

The temple also honors other national heroes such as Trần Quốc Tuấn, Trần Khánh Dư, Dã Tượng, Yết Kiêu, and many others who made significant contributions to the nation. During the annual temple festival, a large number of visitors come to pay respects and honor these legendary figures.

Minh Chau Beach is a small island commune located in Van Don District. Just 3 meters above sea level, it's often referred to as a gem floating in the sea. With its long stretches of white sand, fresh and cool air, and largely untouched natural beauty, this beach has become a favorite destination for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat, especially during the summer months.

Visitors can explore Minh Chau's beauty by various means, including tuk tuk electric cars, motorbikes, or bicycles. At Minh Chau Beach, guests can enjoy swimming, camping, island tours, and learn about the local marine life. You can also join in beach sports activities, and enjoy the serene beauty of the sea at night in a peaceful and stunning atmosphere.

Minh Chau Beach is also close to several other attractions, including Turtle Beach, Ria Edge Beach, Tram Forest, and Pha Le Sand Dunes, which are worth visiting if you have time.

The island is named Ngoc Vung due to its past abundance of rare pearls that would glow brightly under the night sky. It was once said that ships sailing from a distance could see the shimmering light of the pearls, creating an aura around the island at night.

The best time to visit is during the summer months when the sea is calm, offering a perfect view of the turquoise waters, white sands, and golden sunshine. The island's population is still sparse, with only a small town and limited accommodations, making it ideal for adventurous young travelers and camping enthusiasts rather than families looking for a resort-style vacation.

From the center of the island, visitors can explore historical sites such as the Ho Chi Minh Memorial, enjoy panoramic views of the island from the 12.7mm artillery hill, or visit the flagpole. One of the most enjoyable experiences is riding a cyclo or cycling through towering trees to explore the coastal pine forest, Trường Chinh Beach, and the Pháo Đài Rock at the end of the beach.

Known for its stunning beauty, Quan Lan Island offers a peaceful retreat where you can immerse yourself in nature, with pristine beaches stretching for miles, crystal-clear waters, and rich historical and cultural landmarks. It's the perfect spot for sightseeing and beach activities, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Besides relaxing on the Quan Lan Beach, visitors can explore other attractions like the Quan Lan Communal House, and the Tran Khanh Du Temple. The Quan Lan Communal House is an impressive architectural structure and serves as the cultural center of the island's community. The Tran Khanh Du Temple is a sacred place with a statue of Tran Khanh Du from the Nguyen Dynasty, accompanied by wooden panels and inscriptions praising his heroic deeds. The island is also close to Ngoc Vung Island, which you can easily visit either before or after exploring Quan Lan.

The cuisine in Quan Lan is centered around seafood, with local delicacies including sá sùng, tu hài, clams, cù kì, and bề bài. A must-try dish is grilled tu hài with scallion oil, which has become a local favorite!

While destinations like Ha Long Bay or Co To Island are well-known, Van Don Island is still a relatively new name for many tourists. However, once you step foot on this island, you'll discover its unique charm that adds even more beauty to the already picturesque Quang Ninh region. Van Don is a poetic blend of sea and mountains. The beaches here are peaceful, with long stretches of white sand, clear waters, and an untouched natural environment.

However, visitors should avoid traveling to Van Don in September and October as the weather can be unfavorable with frequent storms. The best time to visit is between the 10th and 20th of the 6th lunar month when the local festivals are in full swing, making the atmosphere lively and vibrant.

Van Don, with its vast area and varied landscapes, is divided into several smaller destinations to help tourists navigate and maximize their time exploring. You can visit Quan Lan Island, Ngoc Vung Island, Ba Mun Island, and Van Xuan Mountain, among others. Particularly, Ba Mun Island is a fascinating spot for those interested in ecology, as it is home to rare tree species and ancient trees, making it truly unique for an island in the middle of the ocean.

When visiting Van Don, don't forget to take home dried seafood, fish sauce, and shrimp paste as souvenirs. If you have time on your way back, consider stopping by other attractions like Ha Long Bay or Yen Tu.

Truc Lam Giac Tam Zen Monastery (also known as Cai Bau Pagoda) is a spiritual destination for those seeking inner peace and tranquility. The serene atmosphere, along with the sounds of temple bells and monks chanting, creates an otherworldly experience that transports visitors away from the mundane and into a heavenly realm.

The architecture of Cai Bau Pagoda bears the hallmarks of ancient temples, with intricate carvings, decorative motifs, and steep stairways that lead you through its sacred space. The monastery currently features a two-story meditation hall covering 6,000 square meters, a main gate, the ancestral hall, a bell tower, monk and nun accommodations, and a parking lot. Phase II of the development will include additional facilities such as the abbot’s residence, meditation halls, exhibition areas, and the construction of a 50-meter-tall statue of the Buddha at the mountain peak behind the monastery.

This pagoda is deeply intertwined with the heroic history of the region, having witnessed numerous victories by legendary heroes who safeguarded the northeastern frontier. Not only is the natural scenery stunning, but the spiritual significance of this site makes it an essential stop when visiting Van Don.

Banh Sua Island, also known locally as Ong To Island or Tu Hai Island, is famous for its thriving marine life, particularly its cultivation of shellfish like clams and tu hai. The island attracts numerous visitors each summer as part of their tour of Quang Ninh. With a total area of less than 1 square kilometer, Banh Sua Island is considered the youngest sibling in a family of hundreds of larger and smaller islands in the area.

On Banh Sua Island, visitors can immerse themselves in the local way of life. Wake up early to witness the stunning sunrise, or take a leisurely walk along the beach to enjoy the sunset. In addition to swimming, the island offers snorkeling services, allowing tourists to explore the vibrant coral reefs in the clear blue waters.

Cai Bau Island is a beautiful and pristine island located in Van Don District. Like Banh Sua Island, it remains relatively untouched by large numbers of tourists, offering a peaceful escape. Nature has blessed Cai Bau with abundant marine life and stunning landscapes. For those who want to experience the island's poetic beauty, a morning walk along the beach at low tide is a must. The receding tide reveals fertile sandy shores, and you might spot local fishermen collecting seafood, which adds to the charm of the scene.

In addition to its natural beauty, visitors can explore fascinating caves and discover the island's wildlife. For city dwellers, seeing these animals in their natural habitat is an exciting experience. If you visit Cai Bau between the first and third lunar months, you'll also have the opportunity to join in the lively atmosphere of the Cai Bau Pagoda Festival. The pagoda itself is a peaceful and spiritual place, welcoming visitors to enjoy the island's tranquil setting.

Cap Tien Temple, also known as the Temple of the Little Girl at Cua Suot, is a folk religious site dating back to the Nguyen Dynasty. Today, this temple attracts both local and international visitors who come to explore its history. According to legend, the temple was built to honor the daughter of Tran Quoc Tang, and it was later known as the Quan Chanh Temple, as the locals also revered a village official here. The temple is situated in a picturesque location, offering a scenic view of the surrounding landscape.

The temple complex consists of three main structures: the main temple, the Tien Well, and the Son Trang Cave. Over time, the small temple at the base of the hill has been expanded and renovated, creating a spacious and welcoming environment. Visitors to Cap Tien Temple can explore the main temple, the Son Trang cave, and also visit the Tien Well, located within the temple grounds.

Every year, from the first to the third lunar month, visitors flock to Cap Tien Temple to offer prayers for good fortune, happiness, and health for themselves and their families.