Hon Dau Island – a precious gem nestled in the heart of the sea off Do Son, Hai Phong – has long enchanted travelers with its pristine beauty, sacred atmosphere, and unique historical significance. This is more than just a small islet amidst the rolling waves; it is a seamless harmony of majestic nature, enduring culture, and profound spirituality.
Where is Hon Dau Island?
Hon Dau Island is situated within the Do Son tourist area, in Van Huong Ward, Do Son District, Hai Phong City, approximately 20 km southeast of the city center. Located at 20°66′N 106°8′E, this quaint islet rests peacefully in the Gulf of Tonkin, roughly 1.5 km from the mainland. To reach Hon Dau Island, simply depart from the Nam Do Son pier by boat. The voyage is brief, requiring only 10 minutes to traverse the waves before you set foot on this picturesque island. Spanning less than 1 km², the island possesses a signature wild charm that captivates visitors with its accessibility and intimacy. As one of Hai Phong’s pioneering tourist destinations, the island is remarkably covered by 90% primeval forest, creating a romantic and verdant landscape.
The history of Hon Dau Island dates back to ancient geological shifts, when, through continental shelf activity, a segment of the Do Son peninsula’s mountain range detached and drifted into the sea, forming the pristine islet we see today. Beyond its natural wonders, Hon Dau Island holds deep Feng Shui significance. In ancient beliefs, the island was likened to a precious pearl within the formation known as the “Nine Dragons Worshiping the Pearl,” where the Do Son peninsula symbolizes a dragon bowing toward the gem. This auspicious location not only crafts a stunning natural landscape but also carries a unique spiritual resonance, making the Feng Shui of Hon Dau an intriguing subject for history and culture enthusiasts. Locals often refer to it as the “Lighthouse Island,” named for the iconic lighthouse constructed by the French in the late 19th century—a proud symbol of Hai Phong.
How to reach Hon Dau Island
To travel to Hon Dau Island, you must take a boat from the Hon Dau pier. Please follow these steps:
- First, proceed to the Hon Dau Resort in Zone 3, Do Son. This is a luxurious, contemporary resort situated on a small peninsula with breathtaking views of the sea and Hon Dau Island. You may reach it by motorbike, car, or bus from Hai Phong city center; the distance is approximately 20km and takes roughly 40 minutes.
- Next, enter the resort premises and head to the Nghieng Pier. This is where you will embark for Hon Dau Island. An entrance fee of 30,000 VND per vehicle and an island sightseeing ticket of 20,000 VND per person apply.
- Finally, board the vessel to Hon Dau Island. Depending on your group size and schedule, you may choose between a shared boat or a private charter. For public holidays or weekends, you can share a boat with other travelers for 70,000 VND per person. On weekdays, you may charter a private boat for approximately 880,000 VND round trip. The transit time is roughly 10 minutes each way.
Price List for Independent Travelers
|
No.
|
TICKET TYPE
|
UNIT PRICE (VND)
|
Notes
|
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Electric sightseeing car (Upper Stone Path) | 80,000 | |
| 2 | Electric sightseeing car (Upper Stone Path) | 50,000 | Under 1.3m tall |
| 3 | Electric car one-way (Bay side) | 30,000 | |
| 4 | 4-24 hour pass | 40,000 | Complimentary for resort guests |
| 5 | Wedding event entry | 10,000 | Complimentary for resort guests |
| 6 | Group entry (6-25 guests) | 60,000 | Complimentary for resort guests |
| 7 | Upper Stone Path (Core Geological Area) | 40,000 | Complimentary for resort guests |
| 8 | Upper Stone Path (General Access) | 20,000 | Complimentary for resort guests |
| 9 | “Death-defying” Performance Ticket | 30,000 | Complimentary for resort guests |
| 10 | Performance/Show Ticket | 80,000 | Complimentary for resort guests |
| 11 | 3D Tunnel + Ghost Cave Entry | 40,000 | |
| 12 | Dinosaur Park | 40,000 | |
| 13 | Caribbean Pirate Ride | 30,000 | |
| 14 | Apollo Thrill Ride | 30,000 | |
| 15 | MaxAir Thrill Ride | 30,000 | |
| 16 | Roller Coaster | 30,000 | |
| 17 | Zipline Thrill Ride | 50,000 | |
| 18 | Boat Transfer Package to Dau Island | 90,000 |
Please note: Prices are subject to change according to seasonal policy.
