Ngoc Vung Island Travel Guide

Introduction to Ngoc Vung Island

Situated within the Van Hai island chain in Van Don District, Ngoc Vung is an island covering an area of ​​12 square kilometers. It is home to the ancient Cong Yen port—part of the historic Van Don trading port system—as well as the ruins of ancient citadels dating back to the Mac and Nguyen dynasties. Ngoc Vung lies between the islands of Hon Net and Phuong Hoang. Viewed from above, the island resembles a velvet shawl, dotted with bright white spots that appear to float gently upon the water.

In the past, Ngoc Vung Island was home to countless rare pearl oysters; at night, the pearls would cast a glow across the surrounding waters. Legend has it that vessels approaching from afar could see the radiant aura of these oysters illuminating the area around the island—hence the name "Ngoc Vung" (Glowing Pearl).

This pristine island features a single concrete road that runs from the Ngoc Vung pier to the island's center and extends along the length of the beach. The beach itself is stunning, boasting clear blue waters, fine white sand, and a flat, unspoiled shoreline stretching nearly 3 kilometers; it curves gracefully like a crescent moon, backed by a forest of casuarina trees.

When is the best time to visit Ngoc Vung?

Like other islands in Quang Ninh, Ngoc Vung is best visited during the summer—specifically between April and September. The warm temperatures are ideal for swimming, and the brilliant blue of the sea and sky provides a perfect backdrop for photography. However, visitors should be careful to avoid periods of rough seas or times when storms and tropical depressions are likely to occur.

Guide to Visiting Ngoc Vung Island

As it is an offshore island, the only way to reach Ngoc Vung is by boat. There are three ports in Quang Ninh where you can purchase tickets to Ngoc Vung: Vung Duc Port (Cam Pha City), Cai Rong Port (Van Don), and Hon Gai Port (Ha Long City). Therefore, you must first travel to one of these ports to board a boat to the island.

In practice, most travelers depart from Cam Pha because the journey time is shortest from there; however, if you wish to combine a trip to Quan Lan with your visit to Ngoc Vung, you should take the boat from Hon Gai, as the route stops at Ngoc Vung before continuing to Quan Lan.

Private Vehicles

• Motorbikes

Since the distance is quite long, using public transport is generally a better option. However, if you prefer to ride, you can travel via Bac Ninh, Chi Linh, and Uong Bi City to Ha Long, then follow National Highway 18 to Cam Pha.

• Cars

Thanks to the expressways connecting Hanoi and Quang Ninh, traveling between these locations has become quite convenient. If driving a private car, simply take the Hanoi – Hai Phong – Ha Long – Van Don expressway and exit at the Cam Pha interchange. From there, follow National Highway 18 to Vung Duc Port, where you can park your vehicle before heading to Ngoc Vung.

Public Transport

• Air Travel

For travelers flying from other regions to Quang Ninh, upon landing at Van Don Airport, you can take a bus to Ha Long City center and then a taxi to Hon Gai Port to purchase ferry tickets to Ngoc Vung Island.

• Road Travel

Buses passing through Cam Pha depart frequently from My Dinh Bus Station; you can catch a bus there and then take a taxi or motorbike taxi to Vung Duc Port. It is advisable to take a morning bus so you can reach the island within the same day.

Getting Around Ngoc Vung Island

• Tuk-tuks

Like other tourist islands in Quang Ninh—such as Co To, Quan Lan, and Minh Chau—tuk-tuks were once a popular mode of transport on Ngoc Vung Island. However, due to safety concerns, their operation has been discontinued in favor of electric vehicles for transporting tourists.

• Electric Vehicles

These serve as an alternative to tuk-tuks; renting one is highly convenient for large groups due to their high passenger capacity.

• Bicycles/Motorbikes

Since the island is quite small, you can rent a bicycle (or a motorbike, if you prefer not to pedal) to explore the area. However, as the island is small, the supply of rental vehicles is limited; you may need to ask locals to make arrangements.

Accommodation on Ngoc Vung Island

• Hotels/Resorts

Visitors to Ngoc Vung Island can book rooms at attractive hotels featuring private bungalow-style villas located right by the sea.

• Homestay

For a more budget-friendly option that also offers a chance to experience local island life, you can book a guesthouse or a homestay with a local family. As it is an island commune, accommodation costs are naturally slightly higher than on the mainland.