Ha Mai Island is one of the most remote islands off the coast of Quang Ninh province. It remains a relatively pristine and hidden gem, captivating travelers who yearn for natural exploration and a tranquil escape.
See more: Discover Van Don Tourism
General Introduction to Ha Mai Island
Located in Ngoc Vung commune, Van Don district, Quang Ninh province, Ha Mai Island stands as one of the furthest outposts in the Gulf of Tonkin. Situated approximately 60km from Ha Long City and 38km from the mainland, the island spans about 1.5km² and is shaped remarkably like a whale swimming through the sea.
Ha Mai Island boasts a long history, documented as far back as the reign of Le Thanh Tong, a monarch of the Early Le Dynasty. According to legend, the name “Ha Mai” was inspired by the abundance of apricot blossoms that bloom here in the spring. These blossoms symbolize purity and renewal, serving as one of the iconic flowers of Vietnam. Local residents also refer to the island as “Hon Me” because, when viewed from a distance, its silhouette resembles a woman in repose.
With its raw and untouched beauty, Ha Mai Island features a rich and diverse ecosystem. Visitors can immerse themselves in stunning natural landscapes, such as the Ha Mai Wind Pass, where constant breezes create hauntingly beautiful sounds. The island’s lush forests are home to numerous species of birds and wildlife. The towering cliffs rising from the sea are a magnet for those passionate about hiking and photography. With crystal-clear waters and fine white sand, the beaches offer an idyllic setting for swimming and sunset watching. The island also offers an array of engaging activities, including gathering seashells, kayaking, snorkeling, visiting the lighthouse station, or hosting a beach bonfire.
Ha Mai Island is an enticing destination for those seeking peace and seclusion. Here, you will have the chance to experience a life deeply connected to nature while breathing in the fresh, cool ocean air. Ha Mai Island is, quite simply, a precious jewel of both Quang Ninh and Vietnam.
Notable Attractions on Ha Mai Island
Upon arriving at Ha Mai Island, visitors will be awestruck by its magnificent and unspoiled natural landscapes, including:
- Ha Mai Wind Pass: A narrow mountain gorge located in the northwest of the island, spanning about 500m in length and 10m in width. This pass was carved over millions of years by the relentless erosion of wind and waves. Featuring towering, rugged cliffs that curve like the body of a whale, the Wind Pass is an ideal backdrop for photographers who appreciate the wild and majestic beauty of nature.
- The Lighthouse Station: Originally a military structure built on the highest peak of the island, it offers sweeping panoramic views of the sea. The station serves as a vital guide for vessels navigating the Gulf of Tonkin, particularly during dense winter fog. It also serves as a premier lookout point where visitors can admire the entirety of Ha Mai Island and the surrounding Gulf of Tonkin.
- Ha Mai Beach: The island’s primary beach, situated in the southeast and stretching about 1km. With its fine white sand, turquoise water, and gentle waves, the beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, recreational sports, or building sandcastles. It is also the ultimate spot to witness a breathtaking sunrise or sunset over the horizon.
Exciting Travel Activities on Ha Mai Island
Beyond exploring the island’s standout landmarks, guests can immerse themselves in a variety of captivating activities, including:
- Kayaking: An unmissable experience when visiting Ha Mai Island. Kayaking offers the perfect opportunity to uncover secluded and mysterious coastal areas, from hidden caves and vibrant coral reefs to private, pristine beaches. It is also an excellent way to stay active while strengthening bonds with your fellow travelers.
- Shellfish foraging: A delightful and rewarding pastime on Ha Mai Island. Guests can hand-harvest fresh shellfish along the shoreline or in the shallows. Afterward, you may choose to prepare your catch into a delicious meal or keep the shells as a unique island souvenir.
- Beach bonfires: An essential part of the Ha Mai Island experience. As evening falls, guests gather to build a bonfire on the beach—a perfect setting for dining, singing, sharing stories, and swapping travel tales. The fire not only provides warmth against the cool sea breeze but also fosters intimate, memorable moments among group members.
Specialties and signature cuisine of Ha Mai Island
A trip to Ha Mai Island is not only a feast for the eyes but also for the palate, featuring fresh, flavorful seafood. Some of the island’s most celebrated dishes include:
- Braised Round Scad with Sugarcane: A signature Ha Mai dish, this preparation features fresh round scad simmered with sugarcane, ginger, garlic, chili, and aromatic spices. The dish balances the subtle sweetness of the sugarcane with the aromatic warmth of ginger and garlic, a gentle heat from the chili, and the rich flavor of the fish. It is perfectly paired with hot steamed rice.
- Fish Cake Noodle Soup (Bánh canh chả cá): A beloved staple among Ha Mai locals, this dish is crafted from rice noodles, a savory fish-based broth, and fried fish cakes. The noodles offer a perfect chewiness, while the broth is infused with the delicate sweetness of fresh fish, complemented by the fragrant, crisp fish cakes. Served with fresh herbs, vinegar, and chili, it is a nutritious and truly delicious meal.
- Gai Leaf Cakes (Bánh ít lá gai): A traditional island delicacy made from glutinous rice flour, mung bean paste, and blackthorn (gai) leaves. The gai leaves, known for their cooling and detoxifying properties, give the cake its distinctive deep green hue. These small, round dumplings are steamed to perfection, offering a subtle sweetness from the bean filling and an earthy, fragrant aroma from the leaves. Enjoyed with rock sugar or shredded coconut, they provide a unique and delightful culinary treat.
- Coconut Milk Tea: A unique island refreshment crafted from green tea, fresh milk, and pure coconut water. This drink blends the refreshing essence of green tea with the creamy richness of milk and the fragrant sweetness of coconut. Served over ice, it is the ultimate thirst-quencher for hot summer days.
