1. General introduction to Mat Rong Island Ha Long
Discover Dragon Eye Island Ha Long with a beautiful turquoise lake. (Source: Collected)
Dragon Eye Island Ha Long stands out with a turquoise round lake resembling the "dragon's eyes" in the heart of the sea, creating a rare and impressive natural landscape. Possessing a wild, peaceful, and secluded space, the island is an ideal destination for tourists who want to enjoy tranquility, explore nature, and experience exciting outdoor activities.
1.1. Where is Dragon Eye Island Ha Long located, and what's special about it?
Dragon Eye Island Ha Long (also known as Bai Dong Island) is located between Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay, within the territory of Quang Ninh province, but is quite close to Cat Ba district, Hai Phong. This unique location creates a beautiful intermingling of the two most famous seas in the North.
The name "Dragon Eye" originates from the turquoise round lake located in the center of the island. When viewed from above, the lake is surrounded by limestone mountains and primeval forests, creating an image like a giant dragon's eye gazing at the sky – a rare masterpiece of nature. This is also the distinctive symbol that makes this island different among thousands of rocky islands in Ha Long Bay.
With an area of about 30 hectares, Dragon Eye Island still retains its wild and tranquil beauty. This area has hardly been exploited for mass tourism, allowing visitors to enjoy a fresh, peaceful, and secluded space, completely separate from the hustle and bustle of crowded tourist spots.
1.2. Reasons why Dragon Eye Island is sought after
Amidst the rapid development of many tourist destinations, Dragon Eye Island Ha Long still preserves its pristine natural beauty. It is an ideal destination for those seeking peace, escaping the urban pace of life, and enjoying the fresh ocean air.
The island not only attracts nature lovers but is also a favorite destination for young people passionate about exploration, or families looking for privacy. Visiting the island, you can participate in many exciting activities such as swimming, kayaking, camping on the white sand beach, or simply watching the sunrise and sunset over the sea. The combination of wild beauty and gentle relaxation experiences has helped Dragon Eye Island become the "hidden gem" of Ha Long Bay.
2. Attractive Features of Dragon Eye Island Ha Long
Discover Dragon Eye Island Ha Long with its diverse and attractive ecosystem. (Source: Collected)
Dragon Eye Island Ha Long attracts tourists thanks to the harmonious combination of a jade-like blue lake, a long stretch of fine white sand, and a rich primeval forest. This is an ideal destination to enjoy pristine nature, relax by the sea, and explore the unique ecosystem of the North Bay.
2.1. The "dragon eye" lake in the middle of the island
The most outstanding feature of Dragon Eye Island Ha Long is its naturally formed circular lake, created over millions of years. According to researchers, this lake is one of the typical ecological landscapes of the North Bay. The lake water is crystal clear sapphire blue, reflecting the sky and surrounding forest, creating a vivid and captivating natural picture.
The lake is also a favorite check-in spot for tourists, especially when photographed from a drone's perspective; the image of the blue lake nestled amidst mountains and forests always creates a strong impact on social media. Many liken the lake to the "natural jewel" of Dragon Eye Island.
Visitors can also enjoy activities such as swimming, SUP boarding, or kayaking on the cool, crystal-clear water, allowing for a complete connection with nature and providing absolute relaxation.
2.2. Long, fine white sandy beach, crystal clear sea water
Besides the lake, Dragon Eye Island Ha Long boasts a fine white sandy beach about 300–400 meters long, located at the front of the island. The sand is as soft as velvet, and the crystal-clear, calm sea water makes it an ideal bathing spot for all ages, including children.
From the beach, visitors can admire the panoramic view of the surrounding limestone mountains and lush green forests, capturing many beautiful photos. The scenery becomes even more poetic in the morning when sunlight shines down, or at sunset when the sun dips behind the mountains, creating a romantic and peaceful atmosphere.
2.3. Primeval forest and rich ecosystem
Dragon Eye Island Ha Long is also distinguished by its diverse primeval forest, including ancient forests, mangrove forests, and many endemic bird and animal species. The Gia forest area winding around the "Dragon Eye" lake creates a mystical and poetic charm, enhancing the island's appeal.
The combination of blue sea, natural lake, limestone mountains, and primeval forest on a single island is rare in the North Bay. Not only does it hold scientific value for its ecology, but Dragon Eye Island is also an ideal nature experience destination for those who love exploration and seek peace amidst pristine landscapes.
3. Guide to traveling to Dragon Eye Island Ha Long
Journey to visit impressive spots on Mat Rong Island Ha Long. (Source: Collected)
Moving to Mat Rong Island Ha Long needs to be carefully prepared for the trip to go smoothly and safely. Planning transportation from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City to Quang Ninh, along with a boat rental schedule to the island will help tourists save time and fully enjoy the island's pristine beauty.
3.1. Traveling from Hanoi/Ho Chi Minh City to Quang Ninh (Bai Chay)
To get to Mat Rong Island Ha Long , most tourists depart from Hanoi. You can choose buses from reputable companies like Kumho, Viet Thanh, Phuc Xuyen departing from My Dinh or Gia Lam bus stations, with travel time of about 3–4 hours and ticket prices ranging from 150,000–250,000 VND/person.
If traveling by private car, you can follow the Hanoi – Hai Phong – Ha Long expressway, shortening the travel time to about 2.5–3 hours, which is very convenient for families with young children or groups of friends who want to be proactive with their schedule.
For tourists from Ho Chi Minh City, the most reasonable option is to fly to Van Don Airport (Quang Ninh) or Cat Bi Airport (Hai Phong), then continue traveling by bus.
3.2. Traveling by boat to Mat Rong Island Ha Long
From Quang Ninh, there are two main piers to the island: Bai Chay and Jumbo Dai Duong (Cot 5 Street, Ha Long).
If traveling by regular boat from Bai Chay, it takes about 2–2.5 hours to reach the island.
If traveling by speedboat from Jumbo Dai Duong pier, it only takes about 30–45 minutes to reach the island.
The shared boat ticket price in 2025 ranges from 250,000–350,000 VND/person. For large groups or those who want privacy, you can rent a private boat from 2,500,000–5,000,000 VND/trip. Many speedboats also combine visits to some notable spots in Ha Long Bay before reaching the island.
3.3. Notes on boat rental and departure schedule
When visiting Mat Rong Island Ha Long , planning boat rental and departure schedule is crucial to ensure a smooth trip. Departing in the morning and booking the boat 1–2 days in advance will help tourists save time, conveniently explore the island, and fully experience the natural landscape.
For a convenient trip to Mat Rong Island Ha Long , it is advisable to book the boat 1–2 days in advance through travel agencies, boat owners, or online. Departing in the morning is the ideal time to avoid large waves and have plenty of time to explore the island.
Groups of 10–20 people renting a private boat will save more costs. Please inform the boat owner in advance of your itinerary so they can arrange pick-up times. Services on the island are limited, so it is recommended to pack light, bring enough drinking water, backup food, and necessary personal items for a complete trip.
4. Unmissable Experiences at Mat Rong Island Ha Long
Experience and check-in wonderful moments on Dragon Eye Island, Ha Long. (Source: Collected)
Dragon Eye Island, Ha Long offers visitors unique and close-to-nature experiences, from overnight camping, outdoor BBQ parties to water and sea sports activities. At the same time, visiting is also an opportunity to explore pristine wild forests and capture impressive check-in moments, while maintaining safety and protecting the environment.
4.1. Overnight Camping and BBQ Parties on the Island
Spending the night on Dragon Eye Island, Ha Long offers a different experience compared to regular holidays. Visitors should prepare tents, sleeping bags, flashlights, and necessary cooking utensils. The ideal area for setting up camp is along the main sandy beach, close to the forest but away from the water's edge to ensure safety when the tide rises.
An outdoor BBQ party under the stars creates a special, close-to-nature atmosphere. When organizing a campfire, it should only be lit in a safe area on the sand and strictly adhere to fire prevention principles. The sound of the waves, gentle breeze, and night air will bring unforgettable experiences to all visitors.
4.2. Kayaking, SUP, Swimming, and Diving to See the "Dragon Eye" Lake
Dragon Eye Island, Ha Long offers many water sports activities suitable for all visitors. You can book in advance or bring kayaks and SUPs from the mainland to explore the "Dragon Eye" lake and the surrounding sea.
When kayaking, visitors will have the opportunity to admire the rocky mountains, white sandy beaches, and green forests from a completely new perspective. Those who love diving can experience exploring coral reefs and marine life near the shore. Always follow safety instructions, operate within permitted areas, and check the weather conditions before entering the water to ensure a safe trip.
4.3. Check-in Photos and Exploring the Pristine Forest
Dragon Eye Island, Ha Long is an ideal destination for photography enthusiasts and nature explorers. A prominent photo spot is the island's summit, offering a panoramic view of the emerald "Dragon Eye" lake, especially impressive when captured by drone. The white sandy shores, rocky mountains, and forests create a vibrant, contrasting natural landscape.
Hiking and capturing images of the island's pristine forest also offer many unique moments. Tall ancient trees, winding paths through the forest, and birdsong create a mystical atmosphere, providing an opportunity to preserve rare moments of wild nature.
4.4. Safety Warnings and Environmental Protection Notes
When visiting Dragon Eye Island, Ha Long, environmental protection is always a top priority. Visitors must collect all waste, including organic food waste, and bring it back to the mainland for disposal. Absolutely do not litter on the island, as there is no centralized waste treatment system here.
Regarding fire safety, do not light large fires near the forest and always extinguish fires completely after use. Avoid using flammable materials near vegetation. To protect the clean water source and the ecosystem of the "Dragon Eye" lake, do not bathe or process food directly in the lake.
5. Cuisine to Try When Visiting Dragon Eye Island, Ha Long
The cuisine at Dragon Eye Island, Ha Long is an unmissable experience, featuring fresh and delicious seafood specialties of Quang Ninh such as squid cake, horseshoe crab, or fatty clams. Visitors should also prepare food in advance for outdoor BBQ cooking, enjoying delicious flavors while experiencing the wild and peaceful atmosphere of the island.
5.1. Quang Ninh Coastal Specialties
A trip to Dragon Eye Island, Ha Long will be more complete when you experience the culinary specialties of the Quang Ninh coast. Some must-try dishes include the delicious Ha Long squid cake, fresh horseshoe crab, fatty clams, and attractive steamed sticky rice cakes. Additionally, Quang Ninh white sticky rice with its distinct chewy texture is also a favorite choice for many visitors.
To buy specialties, you can visit Bai Chay Market or Cam Pha Market, which offer a wide variety of fresh and delicious items. Specialty shops near Bai Chay pier also ensure food safety and quality. It is advisable to prioritize purchasing from reputable addresses to ensure good and hygienic products.
5.2. Suggestions for Bringing and Preparing Food on the Island
As Dragon Eye Island, Ha Long does not have ready-made dining services, visitors should prepare food in advance. Seafood such as shrimp, fish, and squid are ideal for outdoor BBQ grilling. Additionally, you can bring pre-marinated meats, fresh vegetables, bread, fruits, and bottled soft drinks for convenient meals on the island.
Use coolers and insulated bags to preserve food throughout your stay. After meals, sort organic and regular waste and bring it back to the mainland for disposal, avoiding leaving trash on the island, thereby contributing to the protection of the natural environment and preserving the pristine beauty of Dragon Eye Island.
6. 3N2Đ Itinerary for Experiencing Dragon Eye Island, Ha Long
Travel experience at Sun World Ha Long. (Source: Collected)
A 3-day, 2-night journey at Mat Rong Island Ha Long offers a complete experience combining pristine nature, blue sea, and primeval forest. Visitors will explore the "Mat Rong" lake, kayak, camp by the sea, and enjoy local specialties, creating a memorable holiday in Ha Long Bay.
Day 1: Starting the journey from Hanoi early in the morning, visitors travel to Quang Ninh by noon. After lunch and preparing necessary items, board a boat to Mat Rong Island Ha Long in the afternoon. On the island, set up camp, swim, and explore the clear blue "Mat Rong" lake. In the evening, organize a beachside BBQ party under the stars, enjoying the wonderful island atmosphere.
Day 2: Wake up early to watch the sunrise over the sea, then experience kayaking and SUP around the island, discovering the natural beauty from a new perspective. Rest at noon, and spend the afternoon exploring the primeval forest, taking photos at beautiful check-in spots, and enjoying the island's wild space. In the evening, you can continue camping or organize group games to enhance the experience.
Day 3: Leave Mat Rong Island Ha Long early in the morning to return to the mainland. On the way, visit Sun World Ha Long to experience the cable car, amusement park, or shop for Quang Ninh specialties at the souvenir store. In the late afternoon, depart for Hanoi, concluding the 3-day, 2-night journey full of experiences and memories.
7. Useful tips for visiting Mat Rong Island Ha Long
The majestic and beautiful scenery on Ha Long Dragon Eye Island captivates tourists. (Source: Collected)
To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Ha Long Dragon Eye Island, tourists should thoroughly prepare their gear, from tents and food to items for photography and environmental protection. Adhering to safety principles, preserving the landscape, and choosing the ideal time for visiting will make the island exploration experience complete and memorable.
For a complete and safe trip to Ha Long Dragon Eye Island, tourists should prepare necessary gear such as: tents, sleeping bags, food and drinks, along with sunscreen, insect repellent, and swimwear. Additionally, bringing a camera, drone, and trash bags will help you capture beautiful moments while proactively protecting the environment.
To take impressive check-in photos, tourists can use a drone from the island's summit to capture panoramic views of the emerald Dragon Eye Lake amidst the mountains and forests. The ideal time is sunset, when the golden light bathes the water and trees, creating a poetic scene. The angle from the sandy beach looking towards the lake also yields many beautiful images, suitable for both photography enthusiasts and those who love to take photos.
Throughout the trip, tourists must be mindful of environmental protection. Do not litter, prioritize reducing hard-to-degrade plastic items, limit campfires, and adhere to safety when lighting fires. Especially, to protect the water source in the "Dragon Eye" lake, absolutely do not use lake water for personal hygiene or washing utensils, contributing to preserving the island's pristine beauty for future visitors.
With its pristine beauty, majestic landscape, and peaceful atmosphere, Ha Long Dragon Eye Island is an ideal destination for tourists who love exploration and relaxation. Here, you can participate in activities such as swimming, taking photos, or enjoying the beautiful natural scenery. Add Ha Long Dragon Eye Island to your 2025 travel itinerary to fully experience its unique beauty and unforgettable moments in the heart of Ha Long Bay.
