Buzz
When you arrive in Kiên Giang, you step into the most beautiful island paradise in Vietnam. Besides the famous Phu Quoc Island, Nam Du Island, Pirate Island, Son Island, Rai Island, and Tre Island, now Kiên Giang will enchant you with Hon Nghe Island. This island exudes a peaceful, rustic beauty, perfect for travelers who love experiential journeys and exploring pristine nature.
Let Vntrip share some insights for your trip to Hon Nghe Island – Kiên Giang.
1. General Information about Hon Nghe Island, Kiên Giang
Hon Nghe Island is situated in Hon Nghe Commune, Kien Luong District, Kien Giang Province, covering an area of 3.8 km² with around 2000 residents. It is embraced by a lush green landscape, long stretches of white sandy beaches, and calm, crystal-clear waters.
The pristine beauty of Hon Nghe Island. Image: @thaongan1311
This small island is approximately 15 km from Hon Chong Cape, 8 km from Ba Lua Archipelago, and about 24 km southwest of Ba Hon town (Kien Luong district, Kien Giang) as the crow flies. Hon Nghe is like a raw, beautiful gem hidden within the protective embrace of Mother Nature.
The path leading to the sea. Image: @quanhki
Hòn Nghệ boasts a refreshing and cool climate. Moreover, its location within the bay shields it from the impact of stormy winds. Hence, you can explore Hon Nghe Island at any time of the year. However, for a complete appreciation of the island's beauty, it's advisable to choose sunny and dry days, avoiding rainy and humid ones.
An Instagrammable corner that's 'picture-perfect' on Hon Nghe Island. Photo: @ngnhatphuong
2. Traveling to Hon Nghe Island, Kiên Giang
To reach Hon Nghe Island, you first need to purchase tickets to Ha Tien, using either a high-speed boat, passenger boat, or a bus. If coming from Saigon, the ticket price is approximately 200,000 VND per trip. If you wish to bring a motorcycle, the fee is 250,000 VND per trip. Then, proceed to Ba Hon town to buy tickets for the boat to the island.
If you're planning a Hon Nghe adventure, feel free to bring your motorcycle along. Photo: @kelvin_huynh_521
Boat to Hon Nghe:
There are only two trips each day, one from the island to the mainland and one from the mainland to the island. This means that in a day, you can either travel to the island or the mainland.
- Trip from the island to the mainland: 7:30-8:30 AM (takes nearly 2 hours to reach the mainland).
- Trip from the mainland to the island: 10:30-11:30 AM
The departure time depends on the number of passengers and the amount of cargo; the boat may leave a bit earlier or later.
- Departure point for the island: across from the commercial center of Ba Hon town (Kiên Lương district, Kiên Giang province). You can use Google Maps to locate the exact position.
Tickets for Hon Nghe ferry:
35,000 VND per person per trip
On the boat journey to Hon Nghe Island. Photo: @anhgipsytic
3. Beautiful Sightseeing Spots in Hon Nghe, Kiên Giang
Beaches
Hon Nghe Island, with its enchanting oval shape formed by intermingling basalt and karst limestone, is considered the most beautiful among the 140 islands in the western coastal region. The beaches on the island may not be as vast as those in Phu Quoc or Mui Ne, but they are exceptionally clean, free of litter, with crystal-clear seawater. You can immerse yourself in the turquoise sea, white clouds, golden sun, and enjoy the peaceful island scenery during early morning or sunset.
The water color around Hon Nghe Island is a clear shade of green. Photo: @apo_ni_ka_norma
When in Hon Nghe, don't hesitate to strike a pose amidst the blue sea for some stunning photos. Photo: @nakyxinh
Sunset on Hon Nghe Island. Photo: @truong_huong_luong
The most exciting activity on this small island is undoubtedly fishing. Just prepare a fishing rod and some bait, sit by the shore for hours, and haul in dozens of catches, including various seafood species. Among them, the grouper is the characteristic fish of this marine region.
Lau Chuong Mountain
When in Hon Nghe, make sure to visit Lau Chuong Mountain to admire the giant statue of the Goddess of Mercy. From the statue's base, you can overlook the entire island, gaze over the abundant sea, and the waves crisscrossing. The scenery is as beautiful as a painting. Despite the challenging climb with hundreds of treacherous stone steps, along the way, you'll have the opportunity to closely observe intricately carved statues of arhats, incredibly beautiful.
Giant Goddess of Mercy on Lau Chuong Mountain. Photo: Collected
After climbing hundreds of steps, you'll reach the ancient Linh Son pagoda at the mountain's summit. The uniqueness of Linh Son Pagoda lies in its main temple built inside a cave, providing a serene, isolated space where you can shed the worries of everyday life, meditate on the teachings of Buddhism in a heavenly setting.
Cave System
Hon Nghe Island is also home to an extensive cave system, including notable caves like Diamond Cave, Lonely Buddha Cave, and King Gia Long Cave. These caves are often places for meditation, attracting those seeking refuge from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Stepping into the caves, you'll feel like entering a mystical and tranquil space.
Inside King Gia Long Cave. Photo: Collected
The cave system in Hon Nghe has winding paths, going up and down, twisting and turning, ensuring an adventurous experience. Particularly, reaching King Gia Long Cave involves traversing a rugged path with majestic standing cliffs on one side and the vast sea on the other. If you enjoy an adrenaline rush, take the time to explore all these reputedly 'hidden gems' in the caves.
A challenging mountainous path for those with the stamina and a passion for exploration. Photo: Collected
4. Accommodation on Hon Nghe Island, Kiên Giang
Hon Nghe Island may not be suitable for luxury resort-style travelers as there are hardly any high-end hotels or resorts. Accommodation options include homestays or seeking shelter in temples. Most homestays on the island are well-built, clean, and the locals are incredibly gentle and friendly. They only charge a nominal fee, or you can contribute as much as you wish.
Children on Hon Nghe Island. Photo: @anhgipsytic
The children are all incredibly gentle and friendly. Photo: @anhgipsytic
If it's your first visit to Hon Nghe Island, don't be surprised to see all homestays wide open at night. This island is absolutely safe, free from theft or any other vices.
5. Tips for Visiting Hon Nghe Island, Kiên Giang
- If you're prone to seasickness, take motion sickness medication before the trip. The sea conditions can vary from calm to choppy, quiet to rough waves.
- You need to be in good health to conquer the cave system in Hon Nghe. Otherwise, opt for a sea route, which is easier.
- If traveling in a group, find some budget-friendly eateries on the island for breakfast and arrange for lunch and dinner.
Every corner on Hon Nghe Island is picture-perfect. Photo: @vie.dg
Hon Nghe Island remains a truly 'raw gem,' dazzling and vibrant in Kiên Giang. Once you've set foot on Hon Nghe, you'll undoubtedly want to return for the island's irresistible charm – pristine climate, refreshing scenery, tranquility, and a diverse ecosystem encompassing the sea, mountains, and forests. Come and experience it for yourself!
