Thạnh An Island commune stands apart from Can Gio district and Ho Chi Minh City. Nevertheless, it serves as a captivating destination. Here, you can experience an unusual serenity amidst the hustle and bustle of Saigon.
( Photo: collected )
1. Where is Thạnh An Island located?
Located 70 km east of Saigon, this island commune belongs to Can Gio district, Ho Chi Minh City, making it very convenient for you to explore Thanh An even if you only have a day.
To reach the island commune: You must take a ferry from Saigon. There are several ways to get there from Saigon.
If traveling by motorbike or car: head straight to Huynh Tan Phat Street to Binh Khanh ferry, then to Can Gio. At Can Gio, buy a ticket to Thanh An island. The ticket price is 10k/way and just 30 minutes later, you will set foot on Thanh An.
Experience the tranquility and charm of Thanh An island, where nature welcomes you with open arms and adventures await at every corner.
You can also reach here from Saigon by bus: at Ben Thanh Market, you can catch bus number 20 to Binh Khanh ferry. Then, board the ferry and take bus number 90 to the ferry terminal. From here, you can board the boat to the island. Pay attention to the boat schedule to avoid missing it.
- Boat schedule to the island: 6:30 AM, 9:00 AM, 10:30 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM. Boat schedule from the island to the mainland: 6:30 AM, 7:30 AM, 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM.
Must-visit spot on Thanh An island: The iconic stone pathway that begs for a photo opportunity.
In the midst of the sea lies a unique stone pathway, simply lift your camera and capture beautiful shots. The stretch of stone pathway towards the open sea creates a stunning backdrop for Instagram-worthy photos. This is where young people flock to when visiting Thanh An.
Furthermore, it's a popular spot for couples to capture memorable moments. Whether it's early morning at sunrise or any other time, you'll still get beautiful photos.
4. Dining and Leisure on Thanh An
Thanh An is an island of fishermen and fishing boats, so naturally, you can encounter and buy fresh seafood right when the boats dock here. If you wish to enjoy them immediately, you can rely on restaurants for preparation. Alternatively, you can visit the seafood market to savor a variety of fresh delicacies such as shrimp, squid, octopus, clams... These dishes are prepared only after you order, ensuring freshness that will surely not disappoint.
Thanh An Island remains quite isolated from the mainland, hence its infrastructure is still quite rudimentary, and lively activities are scarce. Aside from the aforementioned stone pathway amidst the sea, you can explore the coastal embankment road, immerse in the simple life of fishermen, venture into the mangrove ecosystem by kayak, or observe local fishermen at work. All are experiences worth trying.
5. Island Life
Exploring around the island, you'll come across vast stretches of white salt fields. These salt fields serve as the main source of income for the locals here. The fishermen, with their simple smiles, have created such a peaceful Thanh An island.