1. Overview of Quan Lan Quang Ninh
Quan Lan Quang Ninh impresses with its pristine beauty. (Source: Collected)
Quan Lan Quang Ninh is an ideal destination for those who love the pristine beauty of the northern islands. It impresses not only with its exquisite natural landscape amidst Bai Tu Long Bay, but also preserves unique cultural and historical values, bearing the imprint of an ancient trading port.
1.1. Where is Quan Lan Island located?
Located amidst the poetic Bai Tu Long Bay, Quan Lan Quang Ninh Island is in the Southeast of Van Don district, Quang Ninh province. This island is about 40 km from the district center and about 200 km from the capital Hanoi, convenient for tourists to travel by road, waterway, and air.
With an area of about 11 km², Quan Lan includes two main communes: Quan Lan and Minh Chau, home to nearly 7,000 residents, most of whom are engaged in fishing and aquaculture. The island stretches in the Northeast-Southwest direction, surrounded by small mountains, forming a natural windbreak that helps reduce the impact of strong winds and waves from the sea.
The most attractive point of Quan Lan Quang Ninh is its long stretches of fine white sand beaches, crystal-clear jade-like water, and mild climate year-round. Located in the core area of Bai Tu Long National Park, it also boasts a rich marine ecosystem, with numerous coral reefs, ancient cajeput forests hundreds of years old, and an almost pristine ecological environment.
1.2. Why is Quan Lan Quang Ninh outstanding?
Not only outstanding for its wild natural scenery, Quan Lan Island also possesses unique historical and cultural values. From the Ly-Tran dynasties, this place was once the bustling Van Don trading port center, playing an important role in our country's maritime trade. Today, relics such as Quan Lan communal house, Quan Lan pagoda, and Pham family temple are still preserved, becoming vivid evidence of the heroic history of the Northeast coastal region.
The nature in Quan Lan still retains its rare pristine quality: vast beaches, fine white sand, rustling green casuarina forests, and clear blue waters reflecting the sky. The marine ecosystem here is extremely diverse, especially the Van Don - Quan Lan fishing grounds, famous for specialties such as sea worms (sa sung), geoduck clams (tu hai), sea urchins (cau gai), squid, tiger prawns (tom he), and abalone.
Furthermore, the island's resident community is also a highlight that creates a unique attraction for Quan Lan tourism. The people here are friendly, hospitable, and still preserve many traditional customs associated with the sea, exemplified by the Quan Lan communal house festival – a major cultural event expressing the solidarity and gratitude of fishermen towards their ancestors and the homeland's sea and sky.
2. Guide to traveling to Quan Lan Quang Ninh 2025
Getting to Quan Lan is quite simple. (Source: Collected)
Quan Lan is one of the most beautiful and peaceful islands in Quang Ninh, attracting tourists with its pristine beaches and the characteristic fresh air of the Northern coast. To make your trip more convenient and complete, here is a detailed guide on how to get to Quan Lan island from various areas in 2025.
2.1. Getting from Hanoi and Northern provinces to Quan Lan
From Hanoi to Quan Lan Quang Ninh, tourists can choose sleeper buses or luxury limousine cars that go directly to Cai Rong port (Van Don district). The distance is about 200 km, with an average travel time of 4-5 hours depending on the vehicle and traffic conditions.
Buses usually depart from My Dinh, Gia Lam, or Kim Ma stations, running along the Hanoi – Hai Phong – Ha Long – Van Don expressway, and stop at Cai Rong port – the main departure point for Quan Lan island.
2.2. How to get to Quan Lan from Ho Chi Minh City and Southern Vietnam?
For tourists from Ho Chi Minh City and the Southern region, the fastest option is to fly to Van Don airport (Quang Ninh) – located within Van Don district, which is very convenient for continuing the journey to the island. Alternatively, you can choose to fly to Cat Bi airport (Hai Phong) or Noi Bai (Hanoi) depending on your personal itinerary.
The flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Van Don takes about 2 hours. After landing, tourists can travel by taxi or bus to Cai Rong port, a distance of only about 10-25 km, taking 30-60 minutes depending on the mode of transport. From the port, you will continue by high-speed train or ferry to Quan Lan island.
The total travel time from Ho Chi Minh City to Quan Lan is only about 3-4 hours, which is much faster and more time-saving than traveling by road. It is advisable to book flight tickets early during the peak tourist season (April – September) for better prices, or choose a Quan Lan 2025 all-inclusive tour package for convenient assistance with transportation, ferry tickets, and accommodation.
2.3. How to take a ferry/high-speed train to Quan Lan island
From the mainland, tourists will travel to the island by high-speed train or ferry. There are currently two main routes departing from Cai Rong port (Van Don) to Quan Lan and Minh Chau, as well as a route from Hon Gai port (Ha Long).
During the peak tourist season, shipping companies operate continuously with 5-7 trips per day. The average travel time is 45-60 minutes depending on weather conditions and the type of vessel. Reference ticket prices in 2025 range from 120,000 – 180,000 VND per trip per person.
To ensure a smooth journey, you should book ferry tickets in advance through the website or your accommodation, especially on weekends and holidays. Please arrive at the port at least 30 minutes before departure time to complete procedures and recheck the schedule. Don't forget to bring your identification documents when boarding the ferry.
A great advantage of taking a high-speed train to Quan Lan is that the journey is quite smooth, with less seasickness thanks to the sea area located within Bai Tu Long bay, which has a sheltered terrain and beautiful scenery, promising a memorable travel experience.
3. Unmissable experiences in Quan Lan Quang Ninh
Quan Lan Quang Ninh offers attractive tourist experiences. (Source: Collected)
Quan Lan Quang Ninh not only attracts tourists with its wild natural scenery but also with rich local experiences deeply imbued with local identity. From exploring the clear blue beaches, visiting ancient historical sites to immersing in traditional festivals, each activity brings visitors unforgettable impressions of this beautiful island.
3.1. Exploring the most beautiful beaches
Arriving at Quan Lan island in Quang Ninh, visitors cannot miss the journey to explore the endless stretches of clear blue beaches with fine white sand.
Quan Lan Beach is likened to a 'shining gem' of the island with its turquoise waters, fine sand, and peaceful atmosphere. As it has not been heavily exploited for tourism, this place offers a tranquil feeling, ideal for swimming, strolling to watch the sunrise, or capturing beautiful photos amidst pristine nature.
Minh Chau Beach stands out with its pure white sandy shore, gentle waves, and shallow terrain, suitable for families with young children. Visitors can participate in outdoor activities such as volleyball, beach soccer, or set up camp overnight to experience the sea night air under a starry sky.
Son Hao Beach impresses with its long coastline and cool green casuarina forests hugging the sandy shore. This is an ideal spot for picnics, outdoor excursions, or engaging in exciting activities like snorkeling, basket boat rowing, and fishing. With its majestic natural scenery, this place is also chosen by many tourists as a unique check-in spot.
3.2. Visiting Van Don trading port relics and ancient structures
Besides its natural beauty, Quan Lan Quang Ninh also stands out with ancient structures of long-standing historical value.
Quan Lan Communal House is a major spiritual center for the island's residents, housing many ancient artifacts and hosting the Quan Lan Communal House traditional festival – the biggest cultural event of the year, recreating the victory against the Mongol invaders during the Tran Dynasty. The architecture of the communal house bears the strong imprint of Vietnamese culture with exquisite carved patterns.
Quan Lan Pagoda is a serene stop for those seeking peace and contemplation. This ancient pagoda is linked to the development of Buddhism on the island, holding many interesting folk legends.
Pham Family Temple honors the family credited with pioneering, building, and developing the ancient Quan Lan trading port. This structure still preserves many valuable royal decrees and has been restored over centuries, reflecting the 'drinking water, remembering the source' spirit of the coastal people.
These relics not only hold spiritual significance but also serve as vivid evidence of the prosperous period of the Van Don trading port – Vietnam's first international gateway.
3.3. Ecological experience at Bai Tu Long National Park
A large part of Quan Lan island is within Bai Tu Long National Park – one of the most important nature reserves in the North. This is an ideal destination for those who love ecological tourism and exploring pristine marine and forest ecosystems.
Visitors can go trekking in the ancient melaleuca forest, breathe in the fresh air, and admire the tall trees hundreds of years old. Additionally, activities such as snorkeling, observing marine life, and learning about the lives of precious seafood like sea cucumbers, sea urchins, and sandworms are also popular.
Some Bai Tu Long – Quan Lan ecological tours are organized in small groups with local guides, helping visitors explore nature and local culture more deeply. This is also a great opportunity to capture unique photos amidst the wild and majestic scenery.
3.4. Participate in traditional festivals, learn about local culture
When visiting Quan Lan, visitors should not miss the chance to immerse themselves in the Quan Lan Communal House festival – the island's largest cultural event, held annually in the 6th lunar month. The festival gathers local people and tourists to participate in activities such as palanquin processions, worship ceremonies, boat races, and island cheo singing, demonstrating solidarity and gratitude to the sea.
Additionally, locals still maintain fishing blessings, sea thanksgiving ceremonies, and customs associated with seafaring. Visitors can join in folk singing, tug-of-war, boat rowing, or other traditional games characteristic of the coastal region. This is a wonderful opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Quan Lan fishermen's culture, integrate into local life, and fully appreciate the island's simple beauty.
4. Cuisine of Quan Lan Island, Quang Ninh
Enjoy delicious cuisine at Quan Lan Quang Ninh. (Source: Collection)
The cuisine of Quan Lan Quang Ninh island is a wonderful blend of the sea's flavors and the rustic simplicity of Northern Vietnamese cuisine. Not only famous for its fresh seafood, this place also offers visitors unique culinary experiences in a peaceful coastal setting rich with local identity.
4.1. Fresh Seafood and Local Specialties
Quan Lan Quang Ninh island is famous as a seafood paradise with abundant and delicious seafood year-round. From familiar dishes like clams, abalone, sea urchin, razor clams to sandworms, crabs, grouper, lobster — all are caught by fishermen daily, preserving their natural sweet taste from the sea.
Visitors can visit Quan Lan Market or Minh Chau Market – two famous places specializing in fresh seafood, where you can choose ingredients yourself and bring them to nearby restaurants for preparation as you like. Many eateries also offer a 'cook-on-the-spot' service, allowing diners to enjoy dishes as soon as they are freshly cooked.
Some must-try Quan Lan specialties include: grilled sandworms, steamed abalone with ginger, steamed clams with lemongrass, raw sea urchin with mustard dip. If traveling in a large group, you should order in advance to ensure the ingredients are always fresh. A small tip for visitors is to go to the market early in the morning and choose seafood according to the fishing season, which is both delicious and cost-effective.
4.2. Quang Ninh Cuisine on the Island
Quan Lan's cuisine is not only attractive for its seafood but also for its peaceful and romantic seaside dining atmosphere. Most restaurants here have spacious, sea-facing, airy spaces, with professional and friendly service. The average price ranges from 200,000 – 500,000 VND/dish, depending on the type of seafood and travel time. Reputable restaurants always clearly list prices, giving visitors peace of mind when dining.
For a perfect culinary experience, visitors should inquire about prices before ordering and book tables early during peak season. If staying for an extended period, you can choose an all-inclusive dining package with your hotel or homestay – it's convenient, cost-effective, and ensures meals are always fresh throughout your culinary exploration of Quan Lan Quang Ninh island.
5. Tourism Services and Accommodation in Quan Lan Quang Ninh 2025
Quan Lan Quang Ninh has many modern amenities. (Source: Collected)
Quan Lan Quang Ninh in 2025 is gradually asserting its position as a leading resort destination with an increasingly complete tourism service system. From accommodation, cuisine to transportation, all elements are invested systematically, bringing visitors a convenient, comfortable experience close to the island's nature.
5.1. Hotel, homestay, resort system meets needs
Quan Lan Quang Ninh is an attractive destination with a rich accommodation system, meeting all tourist needs. From beachfront hotels, affordable homestays to high-class resorts, it offers many choices suitable for each vacation style.
For couples or families, beachfront resorts or villas are ideal choices to enjoy privacy and romance. Most of these resorts have swimming pools, spa areas, private restaurants, and designs harmonizing with the island's landscape.
Conversely, young people who love to explore often choose homestays or affordable guesthouses, with reasonable prices but still ensuring clean rooms, full basic amenities, and proximity to famous check-in spots.
Experience booking accommodation for Quan Lan tourism in 2025 is to book 1-2 months in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons or holidays, to choose a satisfactory place to stay at a reasonable price. When booking, you should ask clearly about accompanying services such as shuttle service at the port, meals, or island exploration tours to proactively arrange your travel itinerary.
5.2. Internal transportation services on the island: electric cars, motorbike rental, bicycles
Tourism services in Quan Lan Quang Ninh are very developed, making travel on the island easy and convenient.
Tourist electric cars are a popular choice for families or large groups, especially suitable for the elderly and young children.
If you want to explore freely, tourists can rent motorbikes in Quan Lan for about 150,000 – 200,000 VND/day. This is a favorite mode of transport for young people because it is easy to travel to beautiful beaches, historical sites, or local seafood markets.
Additionally, renting bicycles is also an interesting experience for those who love green tourism, wanting to leisurely cycle along the coastal roads to fully appreciate the peaceful beauty of the island.
When using rental services, tourists should prioritize reputable, environmentally friendly providers, carefully check the vehicle's condition, fuel level, and any potential extra costs before receiving it. Thorough preparation will help you have a safer, more economical, and complete exploration trip to Quan Lan Quang Ninh in 2025.
6. Suggested itinerary for Quan Lan Quang Ninh 3 Days 2 Nights trip
Experience exciting games at Quan Lan Quang Ninh. (Source: Collected)
If you are planning a 3D2N trip to Quan Lan Quang Ninh, here is an ideal itinerary suggestion to help you fully enjoy the natural beauty, culture, and cuisine here.
Day 1: Travel – Explore cultural relics of Quan Lan Island
In the morning, visitors depart from Hanoi to Cai Rong port (Van Don), then travel by high-speed train to Quan Lan island. Upon arrival, check in, rest, and prepare for the exploration journey.
At noon, enjoy your first meal with characteristic fresh seafood dishes such as grilled sea cucumber, steamed geoduck with ginger, steamed crab with beer…
In the afternoon, visitors should spend time visiting ancient structures such as Quan Lan communal house, Quan Lan pagoda, and Pham family temple – places that preserve many historical and spiritual values of the islanders.
In the evening, enjoy dinner at seaside restaurants, watch the sunset, listen to the sound of waves, and interact with local people to feel the hospitality and the simple life on the remote island.
Day 2: Explore nature – Experience attractive ecology
In the morning, wake up early to swim and check-in at famous beaches such as Quan Lan beach, Minh Chau beach, or Son Hao beach – places with clear blue water and fine white sand like a silk ribbon.
After lunch, visitors can visit Bai Tu Long National Park, explore the ancient cajeput forest, admire the diverse ecosystem, and the blend of forest and sea space. This is an ideal experience for those who love nature and want to seek peace.
In the evening, stroll along the beach, watch the sunset and enjoy seafood at night, or organize an outdoor BBQ party with friends – an extremely interesting experience during the Quan Lan 3-day 2-night trip.
Day 3: Shopping for specialties – End of the journey
On the last morning on the island, you should visit Quan Lan market or Minh Chau market to buy dried specialties such as sea cucumber, squid, dried shrimp, sun-dried sea urchin, or handmade souvenirs made from shells to bring home as gifts.
After checking out and returning to the mainland, if time permits, stop by Sun World Ha Long – the leading modern entertainment complex in the North. Here, you can experience the Sun Wheel, the Queen Cable Car, and thrilling games, concluding the fulfilling 3D2N trip to Quan Lan Quang Ninh.
7. Useful tips when traveling to Quan Lan Quang Ninh
Maintain hygiene when traveling to Quan Lan Quang Ninh. (Source: Collected)
To have a truly complete trip to Quan Lan Quang Ninh, preparing suitable luggage and attire is extremely important.
Bring swimwear, bright-colored beachwear that easily creates visual effects when taking photos with the blue sea and white sand. Don't forget a scarf, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to protect your skin from the harsh sea sun. A pair of flip-flops or sandals with non-slip soles will help you move easily on the sand or in wet areas.
Additionally, you should prepare sunscreen with a high SPF, insect repellent, motion sickness medication, and a waterproof camera to capture memorable moments while snorkeling or playing in the sea. The ideal times for photography are early morning or late afternoon, when the natural light is soft, making the frames more vibrant and deep.
A memorable Quan Lan travel experience is to always behave civilly and respect traditional customs. When visiting communal houses, pagodas, or community areas, dress modestly, speak softly, and maintain a respectful attitude towards the local people.
Say no to plastic waste, bring reusable bags for your belongings, and absolutely do not take coral, shells, or marine life as souvenirs. If you have the chance, you can participate in beach clean-up activities organized by the locals – this is a great way to contribute to protecting the Quan Lan marine ecosystem and spreading the spirit of green tourism.
With its pristine beauty, clear blue beaches, and peaceful atmosphere, Quan Lan Quang Ninh is an ideal destination for those seeking to reconnect with nature. Visitors can enjoy a complete vacation amidst the poetic island scenery, explore the local culture, and savor fresh seafood. If you are looking for a vacation that combines relaxation with ecological exploration, don't miss the captivating Quan Lan Quang Ninh.
