Buzz
If it's your first time heading to Nam Du Island and you're unsure about what to eat and where to go, check out the itinerary suggested by Mytour below.
Weekend Exploration Itinerary for Nam Du Island with Your Besties
Transportation
To reach Nam Du Island, you must first go to Rach Gia.
From Ho Chi Minh City, take a 6-hour bus ride to Rach Gia. You can choose Phuong Trang, Kumho, or Mai Linh buses for the 23:15 departure. The overnight 40-seat sleeper bus is priced at around 145,000 VND.
Travelers departing from Rach Gia can catch a ferry to Nam Du, taking approximately 2 hours on a high-speed boat or 5 hours on a regular one. Departures are suspended if sea conditions reach level 6 or higher. Currently, the two reputable high-speed ferry companies are Ngoc Thanh and Superdong, both offering tickets at 210,000 VND per leg. It's advisable for travelers to book tickets at least a week in advance.
The Ngoc Thanh ferry departs from the Rach Gia pier at 8:15 AM and arrives at Nam Du at 12:15 PM. For reservations, contact 0773 691 888 – 0773 692 888.
The Superdong ferry leaves the Rach Gia pier at 7:20 AM and reaches Nam Du at 10:15 AM. For bookings, call 0919664660.
The high-speed ferry takes you to Cu Tron Island. To explore the surrounding islets, you can rent Duy Tan or Sau Co boats for approximately 250,000 VND per person.
Accommodation
On the island, there are numerous guesthouses, ranging from air-conditioned rooms priced at 350,000 VND to fan-cooled rooms with a maximum rate of 200,000 VND. Standout options include Huynh Hua, Nam Du, Sau Co, Kim Yen, and more.
For a more immersive experience, consider renting a beach space and tent for an overnight stay. The ideal overnight spot is Hon Dau, renowned for its extensive coconut groves and spacious sandy beach, perfect for camping and recreational activities. The rental fee for the beach area is approximately 30,000 VND per person, while tent rental costs 40,000 VND per person.
Day 1:
On Friday evening, it's recommended to take a coach from Saigon to reach Rach Gia. Early Saturday morning upon arriving in Rach Gia, head straight to the Rach Gia ferry terminal before 7 AM to secure tickets and board the ferry around 10 AM for Nam Du. After reaching the island, have lunch and take a break. Rent a motorbike to explore the island, making a stop at Cay Men Beach.
Cay Men Beach is hailed as the most beautiful beach in the Nam Du archipelago. Lush coconut trees provide shade, some dating back 70 to 80 years. Here, you can snorkel for squid or admire the vibrant coral. The beach is secluded, allowing you to play and swim freely. The crystal-clear and refreshing seawater adds to the charm. Additionally, you can also gather shells along the rocky stretch of the beach.
Next, head to the harbor, where you can purchase seafood at affordable prices and enjoy a seaside dinner featuring scallops, cuttlefish eggs, shrimp, crabs, and the highlight, grilled bluebone with rice paper rolls. The rich and savory flavors of the sea will make for a delightful evening meal.
Day 2:
On the second day, embark on a journey to explore the nearby islands by renting a small boat. If you encounter difficulties in boat rental, feel free to ask your guesthouse or the locals for assistance.
It's advisable to start at 8 AM to explore all the islands, including Hon Dau, Bai Truoc (coral viewing), Hon Mau, Hai Bo Dap, Fishing Village, and more.
Similar to Hon Lon, the emerald beach of Hon Dau is lined with coconut trees. Relatively larger than other islands, Hon Dau is 90% covered in pristine forest. The coastal area features numerous coral reefs, not as beautiful as deeper waters, but the crystal-clear and clean seawater compensates. Some coconut trees lean gracefully towards the sea, providing a perfect spot to nap amidst the refreshing breeze.
Hon Mau, spanning about 200 hectares with over 120 households, is a close-knit community settled across the island's lowest part. Most inhabitants, engaged in fishing, warmly welcome visitors as the island is small, and everyone notices newcomers.
On the other hand, Hai Bo Dap is a preferred camping spot for tourists. It's an ideal location for snorkeling, catching sea urchins, fishing, and swimming.
Before boarding the boat, make sure to buy some light snacks and drinks. Explore the surrounding islands until evening, then return to the hotel for bathing, dining, and a leisurely seaside stroll at night.
Day 3:
On the final day, elevate your experience by conquering the Nam Du lighthouse. Positioned atop Hon Lon, it holds the title of Vietnam's tallest lighthouse, standing over 300 meters above sea level. While not overly grand, the lighthouse offers a magnificent view from the radar deck, allowing you to marvel at the breathtaking panorama of the entire Nam Du archipelago.
Upon descent, consider visiting Ong Tinh slope to admire the panoramic view of Bai Ngu from above. Bai Ngu, situated to the west of Hon Lon, has historical significance as it is believed that King Gia Long once halted here. During the dry season, Bai Ngu retains freshwater while other areas face severe drought. A well, named King's Well by locals, still holds water and is said to have been dug when the king visited.
Around 10 AM, return, pack your belongings, check out, and head to the 12:15 PM ferry to Rach Gia, concluding a fascinating exploration of Nam Du.
San San
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Source: Travel Guide Mytour
MytourMarch 6, 2017
