Bordered by the Gulf of Thailand, the Gulf of Tonkin, and the South China Sea, Vietnam boasts no shortage of coastal destinations. Beyond the mainland shores, thousands of islands offer the perfect escape for an enchanted getaway. Here we invite you to discover the 5 most beautiful islands of Vietnam

1. Con Son Island and the Con Dao Archipelago

Located off the southern coast of Vietnam, the Con Dao Archipelago (also known as the Poulo-Condore islands) comprises 16 islands, of which only Con Son Island is inhabited.

Known for its tragic past, the island hosts several prisons that were used during French colonization and by Americans during the Vietnam War to imprison and torture prisoners and political opponents. Today, the Con Dao Archipelago is regarded by Vietnamese as a symbol of the struggle for independence. You can learn more about the archipelago's poignant history by visiting the Con Dao Museum, the various prisons, and cemeteries.

Once an island of suffering, Con Son Island is today a peaceful haven with diverse natural treasures. A national park stretches across the island, spanning pristine primary forests and vibrant coral reefs that are home to countless wild species. This offers the perfect opportunity to encounter them during a trek or snorkeling and diving excursion.

It's worth noting that Bay Canh Island is known as an important nesting site for green sea turtles. These creatures come to lay eggs between May and September. To witness this natural spectacle, visitor numbers are limited, so advance planning is essential.

As you can see, beyond lounging on paradisiacal beaches, there's much to discover on the Con Dao Archipelago. What truly sets the archipelago apart is that it remains exceptionally well-preserved from tourism, allowing you to find deserted beaches.

2. Phu Quoc Island

Located in the southwestern part of Vietnam, in the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc Island is considered by many to be the most beautiful island in Vietnam. It is also the country's largest island. Nicknamed "the Pearl Island" or "the Emerald Island," the island boasts numerous paradisiacal beaches such as Bai Truong, Bai Sao, Bai Dai, and Ganh Dau. Its crystalline waters delight snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts alike.

If you love nature and hiking, don't miss Phu Quoc National Park and its rich biodiversity. Beyond its natural beauty, the island is also renowned for its terroir, featuring famous pearl oysters, pepper plantations, and fish sauce factories producing the renowned nuoc nam. A perfect opportunity to indulge in some local culinary specialties!

Note: Thanks to its popularity, Phu Quoc Island is among Vietnam's most visited islands. While you can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, it's not a place where you'll find yourself alone in the world.

3. Cat Ba Island

Located in Halong Bay in northern Vietnam, Cat Ba Island is the largest island in the archipelago. For many visitors, it serves as a departure point for cruises exploring Halong Bay. But don't rush off to discover the limestone karsts rising from the sea – the island itself is well worth a visit.

While its town center has nothing exceptional, Cat Ba Island is brimming with natural treasures. The island spans 354 km², of which 280 km² belong to Cat Ba National Park, designated as a UNESCO biosphere reserve. The park is home to rare protected species such as the tiger gecko and the golden langur that you may encounter on a trek. If you love primates, you can also venture to Monkey Island, a small islet located one kilometer offshore.

As you traverse the island, you'll also discover several caves, including one known as the "Hospital Cave." For some history, this cave served as a hospital for victims of bombing during the war between Vietnam and the United States.

It's also an ideal destination for outdoor activities such as rock climbing, kayaking, or biking. Finally, don't miss the floating villages to meet fishermen and local populations living on the water...

4. Ly Son Island

A change of scenery with the volcanic island of Ly Son. Located off the coast of Quang Ngai Province in central Vietnam, Ly Son Island is among the most beautiful islands in Vietnam. It is home to 5 mountains (ancient calderas), petrified lava fields, volcanic caves, and impressive rock formations – remnants of past eruptions – that offer stunning opportunities to commune with nature.

Beyond its volcanic landscape, Ly Son Island is renowned for its peaceful beaches with crystalline waters. You'll also find several temples and pagodas, historical remnants such as the old Dinh An Tower that serves as the island's symbol, not to mention vast garlic fields that earned it the nickname "the Garlic Island."

Unlike the previous islands (except Con Dao Island), Ly Son Island remains relatively undiscovered by tourists. This makes it the ideal choice for a tranquil stay, far removed from mass tourism.

5. Cham Islands

We conclude our selection with the sublime Cham Islands, located in the surroundings of Hoi An in central Vietnam. The Cham Islands are part of an archipelago made up of 8 islets, with Hon Lao being the largest, most populated, and most visited.

Also known as Cu Lao Cham, the Cham Islands Archipelago is designated as a UNESCO biosphere reserve for the richness and diversity of its submarine species. It's indeed one of the best diving destinations in the region. Whether you're keen on snorkeling or scuba diving, you'll love discovering the marine life of the Cham Islands.

If you enjoy sunbathing or swimming in the open sea, you'll have plenty of options. The Cham Islands feature several deserted beaches with translucent waters. As for the interior, you can visit temples and historical sites and explore fruit and rice plantations fed by streams on Cu Lao Cham.

Florine Dergelet