1. Overview of Do Son Hai Phong
1.1. Geographical location and natural features
Do Son is a coastal commune of Hai Phong province, located about 25 km southeast of Hong Bang commune center. Thanks to this favorable location, Do Son Hai Phong has become the closest tourist destination to Hanoi, welcoming a large number of visitors each year.
This area is notable for its peninsula terrain extending about 5 km into the sea, with over 20 hills ranging in height from 25 to 130 m. The Dragon Mountain Range (Day Nui Rong) is a highlight of the terrain structure, surrounded by lush green pine forests and long sandy beaches. Due to its proximity to the sea on three sides, Do Son Hai Phong enjoys a cool climate year-round. The two river mouths of Lach Tray and Van Uc flowing into the sea bring a lot of alluvium, forming a sea area with a slightly murky water color, but with wide sandy beaches and rows of casuarina trees acting as windbreaks, creating a characteristic landscape.
1.2. Attractions of Do Son Hai Phong tourist area
The appeal of Do Son Hai Phong stems from the harmonious combination of blue sea, long sandy beaches, pine forests, and a pleasant climate year-round. Once a resort for royalty and French officials, Do Son today still retains its historical beauty mixed with a modern image.
Palace of King Bao Dai in Do Son attracts many tourists. (Source: Collected)
Historical relics such as the Palace of King Bao Dai, a villa on a hill for the last king of the Nguyen dynasty, are considered unmissable spots when visiting this land. Besides that, Nghe Temple and Ba De Temple are famous spiritual sites with a long history, visited by many tourists and locals for worship. Hon Dau impresses with its primeval forest and a century-old lighthouse that still shines, and it is also a small island easily accessible from the mainland.
French colonial architecture mixed with many modern structures, old villas, and new hotels contribute to the historical and artistic value of the entire area. Towards 2025, Do Son is oriented to become an international-class island and coastal tourism center of Hai Phong, with many infrastructure and resort projects gradually being completed.
2. How to get to Do Son
2.1. Traveling from Hai Phong center, Hanoi, and surrounding provinces
From the center of Hong Bang ward, it only takes about 25 km to reach Do Son. You can choose a taxi or a private car, with a travel time of about 30 to 40 minutes. The road is wide and convenient, suitable for families with young children.
Moving from the center of Hong Bang ward to Do Son takes less than 50 minutes. (Source: Collected)
If traveling from Hanoi, a distance of about 120 km, using the Hanoi – Hai Phong Expressway combined with provincial road 353 will help shorten the travel time to about 2 hours. Buses are also a popular choice, departing from Nuoc Ngam, Gia Lam stations with ticket prices ranging from 150,000 to 200,000 VND per trip.
Alternatively, you can choose to travel by train from Long Bien station or Hanoi station to Hai Phong station, then travel by taxi or bus to Do Son Hai Phong. For tourists coming from Quang Ninh, traveling along the coastal expressway and crossing Tan Vu, Lach Huyen bridges will facilitate connection with neighboring provinces.
2.2. Popular times, costs, and means of transport
The cost of traveling to Do Son is quite affordable with various options. Buses from Hanoi cost from 150,000 to 200,000 VND, with travel time around 2 to 2.5 hours depending on traffic conditions. This is an economical and convenient means of transport, suitable for many tourists.
For trains, ticket prices from Hanoi to Hai Phong range from 100,000 to 130,000 VND per trip, taking about 2.5 to 3 hours. Afterwards, you will need to travel by taxi or bus to Do Son. This option is suitable for those who enjoy the scenery of the countryside and are not in a hurry.
If traveling by taxi from Hai Phong to Do Son, the price for a trip ranges from 250,000 to 300,000 VND, suitable for small groups or families who want flexibility in time and convenient travel.
3. Special festivals and events in Do Son Hai Phong
3.1. Do Son Hai Phong Buffalo Fighting Festival
The Do Son Buffalo Fighting Festival is a typical spiritual cultural event in the North, held annually on the 9th day of the 8th lunar month. In 2025, the festival will take place on September 30th, and is expected to continue to attract a large number of domestic and international tourists.
The annual Do Son Buffalo Fighting Festival attracts tourists. (Source: Collected)
The highlight of the festival is the participation of 16 fighting buffaloes carefully selected from fishing villages in the area. Each buffalo is cared for to ensure its health and undergoes meticulous training. The ceremony is associated with many traditional rituals such as water procession, god worship, and flag raising to open the festival, all carrying the unique character of local culture.
The meaning goes beyond praying for luck and prosperity, also creating an attraction for a large number of tourists and the press. From 2025, the scale of the festival organization will be expanded, with increased focus on communication, and the addition of attractive practical experiences for young people and international tourists.
3.2. Marine cultural, sports festivals and events
In Do Son, Hai Phong, there are frequent marine cultural festivals and many water sports competitions such as swimming, rowing, and beach volleyball. Music and art activities organized right on the beach contribute to making the peak tourist season more vibrant.
These events are the result of effective coordination between tourism associations, businesses, local authorities, and the community. Thanks to this solidarity, tourists can experience the characteristic activities of the coastal region while also being captivated by its modern charm. Beach music festivals, seafood cooking contests, and fishing village craft exhibitions are held periodically throughout the year.
4. Outstanding attractions and experiences in Do Son (Hai Phong)
4.1. Do Son Beach
Do Son, Hai Phong has three main beach areas, each with its own characteristics. Area I is close to the center, surrounded by many mid-range restaurants and hotels, creating a lively atmosphere, suitable for those who prefer convenience and crowds.
Do Son Beach is beautiful under the poetic sunset. (Source: Collected)
Zone II is attractive with its wide sandy beach, the seawater has the characteristic hue of a river estuary, where high-class resorts and hotels are concentrated. The quiet space is suitable for groups of tourists who want to relax. Zone III is located near the casuarina forest, far from the central area, with a wild style, suitable for picnic, outdoor activities, or nature photography.
In 2025, Do Son's tourism infrastructure will be synchronously upgraded with a system of restrooms, changing rooms, shower areas, professional rescue services, along with coastal restaurants and nước stalls. Recreational activities such as jet skiing, parasailing, or small boats are all focused on safety and service quality. Thanks to the orientation of developing green tourism, the marine environment here is increasingly clean, beautiful, and friendly.
Regarding accommodation, Do Son currently has many options suitable for all needs: from high-class resorts such as Hon Dau Resort, FLC Do Son which is currently being expanded and upgraded, to friendly homestays like Hai Au, Do Son Sea, or the long-standing Cong Doan hotel. All are highly rated by tourists for their service quality and attitude.
4.2. Exploring Nature and History
Bao Dai King's Palace is a French-style villa located on Vung hill, nổi bật with its East-West combined architecture and panoramic views of the bay. You can experience the living space of the last king of the Nguyen dynasty right here. Nghe Temple and Ba De Temple are sacred, spiritual destinations, where pilgrims come to pray for peace.
Do Son pine forest is an ideal green space for trekking, picnicking, or check-ins. Besides, the coastal walking paths, squares, and new sea amusement parks have been developed, contributing to more relaxation options for tourists. Villas, hotels with European style and seaside cafes are all popular check-in spots.
4.3. Combined Experience with Sun World Cat Ba and Lan Ha Bay
Sun World Cat Ba cable car, located only about 35 km from Do Son, is an ideal place to extend your trip. The nearly 4 km long sea-crossing cable car allows tourists to admire the panoramic view of Lan Ha Bay from above. The quick travel time of less than 15 minutes offers convenience and a wonderful experience for tourists.
When arriving at Lan Ha Bay, you will participate in kayaking, visit ancient fishing villages, swim in a pristine setting. You also have the opportunity to explore fascinating limestone caves and admire the rich bay ecosystem. Combining Do Son Hai Phong with Sun World Cat Ba will bring a diverse trip from relaxation, exploration to adventurous experiences.
5. Suggested Itinerary for Do Son Travel
5.1. 3-Day 2-Night Do Son - Cat Ba Travel Itinerary
With 3 days, tourists have the opportunity to fully experience Do Son and extend to Cat Ba. The first day explores the beach, visits the king's palace, and enjoys the resort relaxation. The fresh air and poetic sea scenery provide an ideal start.
On the second day, travel to Cat Ba archipelago, try the Sun World Cat Ba cable car, and admire the beautiful scenery of the entire bay. As night falls, tourists can enter the festival atmosphere at the entertainment center: visit the VUI-Fest culinary festival and the vibrant night market right within the Sun World complex, enjoy fresh seafood and street food along with many unique souvenirs.
The third day is for exploring Lan Ha Bay, experiencing kayaking, stopping at fishing villages, swimming, and enjoying a specialty lunch before returning to Hai Phong or Hanoi.
Combine resort vacation in Do Son and explore Sun World Cat Ba cable car. (Source: Collected)
5.2. Optimal itinerary suggestions by season
Summer is the most suitable time for swimming, water sports, and relaxing night beach walks; the fresh sea air helps regenerate energy after work.
Around the 8th to 9th lunar months is the season for buffalo fighting festivals and cultural activities, an opportunity for tourists to experience the most characteristic festival atmosphere in Do Son Hai Phong.
In autumn and winter, the weather is cool and less rainy, suitable for walking in pine forests or visiting historical sites, convenient for exploration and capturing memorable moments.
6. Do Son Hai Phong Cuisine
6.1. Delicious dishes in Do Son
Do Son Hai Phong cuisine is diverse with many unique seafood dishes. Salt-baked mantis shrimp is famous for its natural sweetness, and fresh seafood skillfully prepared creates a unique flavor. Grilled tiger prawns, braised mackerel, and charcoal-grilled squid are all appealing to diners.
Fresh seafood cuisine in Do Son wins the hearts of tourists. (Source: Collected)
Do Son jellyfish salad is rich in sweet and sour flavor, combined with Hai Phong crab rice paper cake, creating meals full of sea flavor. Ingredients are sourced directly from local fishermen, ensuring freshness and natural sweetness. If purchased at coastal seafood markets, tourists can enjoy more affordable prices compared to restaurants.
6.2. Suggestions for famous eateries and restaurants
Huong Bien Restaurant is famous for its fresh seafood, seaside location, and professional service. The sound of waves crashing on the shore creates a peaceful atmosphere for diners. The menu here is diverse, prepared in various styles to suit individual tastes.
Nam Phuong Restaurant is noted for its attractive mantis shrimp and king prawn dishes, with ample space for large groups. Cau Vong Market seafood stall attracts customers with its reasonable prices and on-site preparation, ensuring freshness and rich flavor.
6.3. Tips for dining at local seafood markets
To buy fresh seafood in Do Son Hai Phong, it is advisable to visit the markets early in the morning when fishermen have just returned from their night trips. This is when the seafood quality is best and prices are most reasonable.
It is recommended to inquire about prices at a few stalls, negotiate gently, and prioritize vendors with many customers to ensure a continuous supply of fresh fish and shrimp. Additionally, you can ask for direct preparation at the market and enjoy local coastal dishes in a rustic atmosphere.
7. Hotels and homestays in Do Son
7.1. Notable resorts and hotels
Hon Dau Resort is one of the leading resorts, featuring a unique saltwater swimming pool, a beachfront setting with various dining options. Attentive service and a peaceful environment allow tourists to enjoy a complete vacation. Its location is convenient for exploring Do Son's prominent attractions.
Do Son is developing high-end accommodation services, offering many quality options for tourists. (Source: Collected)
Do Son Labor Union Hotel is suitable for families due to its reasonable prices, friendly service, and prime location near Beach Area II. If traveling in large groups, this is a budget-friendly option that still ensures comfort.
FLC Do Son is expected to officially expand with more high-end amenities, large rooms for families, and conference groups in 2025. The emergence of FLC is anticipated to bring a new look to the tourism of Do Son Hai Phong .
7.2. Homestays near the beach and local experiences.
Hai Au Homestay makes an impression with clean rooms, just a few steps from the beach, and modern decoration. The host enthusiastically introduces and assists guests in exploring local attractions. The cozy atmosphere and reasonable prices create a friendly, home-like feeling.
Do Son Sea Homestay is suitable for groups of young friends with its youthful design, shared kitchen, and proximity to entertainment areas. This place is ideal for tourists to share experiences, chat, and create beautiful memories.
7.3. Tips for booking rooms economically
During the tourist season, visitors are advised to book rooms about 2-3 weeks in advance to easily choose suitable room types and receive attractive offers. Booking early not only helps optimize costs but also provides a more comfortable experience during your vacation.
Sun Group currently offers many packages combining amusement tickets and accommodation at preferential prices, helping tourists fully enjoy their vacation. Besides, homestays are also ideal choices for groups of friends or large families, being both economical and offering a close, cozy feeling.
8. Tips and notes for traveling to Do Son
Your beach trip packing list should include swimwear, a light jacket, sunscreen, personal medication, swimming goggles, and a power bank. The weather by the sea can change quickly, so thorough preparation will lead to a more complete experience.
Prepare thoroughly for your trip to Do Son. (Source: Collected)
When traveling to Do Son Hai Phong, you should follow environmental protection rules, collect trash in the right places, prioritize using eco-friendly services, and avoid making loud noises, contributing to preserving the clean blue sea landscape. At the same time, respecting local customs and culture is a necessary action for every civilized tourist.
Do Son possesses strengths such as a clean and beautiful blue sea, diverse cultural festivals, and complete tourism services, meeting the experiential needs of tourists of all ages. Its proximity to Hanoi, reasonable cost, and combination of cultural exploration, beach bathing, and culinary enjoyment create an irresistible attraction for this destination.
Do Son Hai Phong offers safe and vibrant experiences throughout the four seasons with increasingly complete tour routes and services, catering well to families, groups of friends, and organizations. Plan ahead, prepare well, and share your trip with friends and relatives to enjoy a meaningful holiday in Do Son in 2025!
