Co To Travel Guide
Co To, an island district serving as a frontline outpost in the nation's Northeast, boasts breathtaking natural scenery that evokes a sense of wonder. From majestic, pristine sedimentary rock formations and beautiful white-sand beaches to walking paths bordering primeval forests, fresh and flavorful seafood, and warm, hospitable locals, Co To offers everything—whether you seek a romantic atmosphere or vibrant recreational activities.
History of Co To Island
Co To, historically known as Chang Son (Chang Mountain), has long served as a shelter for fishing boats from the Northeast region; however, it did not become a permanent settlement due to constant harassment by Chinese pirate bands. In the early Nguyen Dynasty, some Chinese fishermen captured groups of these pirates and requested permission to settle on the island.
In 1832, while serving as the Governor-General of Hai An (comprising Hai Duong and An Quang), Nguyen Cong Tru petitioned the imperial court to establish villages and appoint officials to administer them. He named the first village here "Huong Hoa." Shortly thereafter, the Nguyen Dynasty began collecting taxes and established the Huong Hoa outpost to guard against pirates. The population gradually grew, consisting entirely of migrants from various ethnic minority groups hailing from the coastal regions of Guangdong, Fujian, and Hainan Island.
In late autumn (September and October), the weather in Northern Vietnam cools down; a visit during this time is best suited for sightseeing rather than swimming.
When is the best time to visit Co To?
- If you wish to swim, the ideal time to visit Co To is between March and May; the weather warms up during this period, the sea is relatively calm, and conditions are suitable for swimming.
- Visiting between June and August involves some uncertainty, as rough seas may prevent boats from traveling to or from the island. If you travel during this time, it is important to keep a close watch on weather forecasts.
- On October 16, 2013, Co To was officially connected to the national power grid following the completion of a project to bring electricity to the island.
Accommodation in Co To
As a highly popular summer destination in Northern Vietnam, Co To offers a wide range of accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, and homestays. Even when these establishments are fully booked, many local families are willing to open up part of their own homes to host travelers. You can rest assured regarding accommodation availability here, though booking early will certainly give you more choices.
Hotels
Hotels (and a few mini-resorts) on Co To Island tend to be relatively expensive due to limited supply, though the service quality is generally superior to that of guesthouses or homestays. Unless a hotel stay is essential or you prefer the amenities, you might consider opting for a guesthouse or homestay to save on costs.
Hotels and resorts located near the beach often command high rates and are difficult to book; furthermore, their seaside locations mean there are often plenty of mosquitoes, so keep this in mind when choosing. If you still prefer staying in these areas, it is advisable to bring mosquito repellent spray or an essential oil diffuser to use in your room each evening.
Guesthouses
Guesthouses are the most common type of accommodation on Co To Island. They generally provide all essential amenities, including private rooms and en-suite bathrooms. Room rates are typically just slightly lower than those of hotels.
Homestay
As tourism to Co To Island grows, local residents are increasingly interested in homestay services due to the low investment costs involved. These accommodations easily attract groups of young travelers, as they offer affordable rates and can host large numbers of people. If you are traveling in a large group, a homestay is a great option to save money while ensuring everyone can stay together in the same place.
