1. Overview of Hon Dau Hai Phong tourism
1.1. Where is Hon Dau located geographically?
Hon Dau is located in Do Son ward, Hai Phong, a small island in the Bac Bo Gulf with an area of about 12 hectares. Just less than 1 km from Nghien Pier, it takes tourists about 15 minutes by boat to set foot on Hon Dau – an island with many historical imprints amidst the Do Son sea area.
Hon Dau Hai Phong tourism is attractive thanks to its primeval forest complex covering almost the entire island, natural rock beaches, and historical architectural works. This is also considered an ideal resort destination, where tourists can connect more with nature on short trips.
Hon Dau Island is conveniently located for exploring other tourist attractions in Hai Phong. (Source: Collection)
With its convenient location, Hon Dau is easily combined with exploring other spots in the Do Son area and the central Hai Phong area. From Hon Dau, visitors can take in the panoramic view of the Gulf of Tonkin and the distant mountains of Cat Ba Island.
1.2. What makes Hon Dau Hai Phong tourism attractive
The pristine beauty is the first thing that impresses those who choose Hon Dau Hai Phong tourism. On the island, there are ancient forests with old banyan and ficus trees, creating a lush green natural canopy. The rocky beaches with unique shapes sculpted by the sea over thousands of years, combined with the sea-scented air, all paint a harmonious natural picture.
A highlight that cannot be missed is the Hon Dau lighthouse, built from 1892 and completed in 1898 during the French colonial period. After more than 125 years, the over 40m high lighthouse still stands firm, serving to guide ships and becoming an architectural symbol attracting young people who love exploration and taking souvenir photos.
The cultural and spiritual value of Hon Dau is also clearly evident at the Nam Hai Dai Vuong Temple, associated with the legend of a Tran Dynasty general who protected the sea and islands. On the occasion of the New Year and summer, festivals are held, attracting a large number of people and tourists who come to commemorate and explore the unique culture of the Northern coastal region.
In the trend of seeking peace amidst modern life, Hon Dau becomes a choice for those who want to live slowly between the sea and sky, temporarily away from the hustle and bustle to relax and enhance their connection with nature.
2. Guide to traveling to Hon Dau Hai Phong
2.1. From Hanoi and Northern provinces to Hon Dau Hai Phong
For the Hon Dau Hai Phong tourism journey starting from Hanoi, a limousine or bus on the Hanoi – Do Son route is a convenient choice. The travel time is about 2 to 2.5 hours, with ticket prices commonly ranging from 150,000 to 250,000 VND depending on the service. Buses usually depart regularly daily, mainly from My Dinh or Gia Lam bus stations.
If you prefer a gentle experience, visitors can take a train from Hanoi station to Hai Phong station. The journey takes about 2 hours, after which visitors will continue to Do Son by taxi or bus.
Families using private cars will have a more proactive trip thanks to the Hanoi – Hai Phong expressway. At the end of the route, just follow the signs to Do Son, and the Nghieng pier area has parking lots available, convenient for visitors.
2.2. From Ho Chi Minh City and the South to Hon Dau Hai Phong
For visitors in Ho Chi Minh City or southern provinces, traveling to Hon Dau Hai Phong usually begins with a flight to Cat Bi Airport (Hai Phong) or Noi Bai Airport (Hanoi). If landing at Cat Bi Airport, the distance to Do Son is only about 27 km, and a taxi will take visitors there in about 40 minutes.
Moving to Hon Dau island is convenient by many means. (Source: Collected)
To save costs, researching and booking tickets early combined with travel packages including airfare and accommodation will help visitors receive better offers. During holidays or peak tourist seasons, many promotions are continuously applied by airlines for this route.
From Cat Bi airport to the city center is only about 6 km, so visitors can combine visiting characteristic places in Hai Phong before continuing their trip to Hon Dau.
2.3. How to get to Hon Dau island from Do Son in 2025
Ben Nghieng is the only departure point to Hon Dau island, located right in the Do Son tourist area, very easy to find. Every day, there are many boat trips serving guests to the island with a travel time of only about 15 to 20 minutes.
Round-trip ferry tickets usually cost from 90,000/person, the price may vary depending on the time and service, this cost includes the outbound and return journey. Boats run from early morning to late afternoon, visitors should note the last boat time to proactively plan, especially if not planning to camp overnight on the island.
In case of unfavorable weather or large waves, boats may suspend operations to ensure safety. Visitors should proactively check weather forecasts and contact the pier before each trip for Hon Dau Hai Phong tourism to ensure the itinerary is not interrupted.
3. Unmissable experiences when traveling to Hon Dau Hai Phong
3.1. Visiting the primeval forest of Hon Dau island
The primeval forest of Hon Dau is a rare green patch amidst the ocean, where ancient trees hundreds of years old continue to thrive and develop strongly. When participating in Hon Dau Hai Phong tourism, visitors have the opportunity to stroll under the shade of banyan, fig, pine, and many climbing plants, creating a natural, quiet, and cool space.
The diverse ecosystem not only includes precious plant species but is also a harmonious habitat for many species of birds, squirrels, and small lizards in a clean environment. The sound of the wind, birds, and rustling leaves harmonize to create a unique symphony of nature on the island.
Especially in spring, the entire forest is adorned with myriad wild flowers, giving the island a fresh, vibrant appearance. This time is very suitable for capturing brilliant photos and fully enjoying the beauty of the small island.
3.2. Exploring Hon Dau lighthouse
Hon Dau lighthouse was completed in 1898, featuring a characteristic ancient French architectural style, 5 stories high with its peak reaching over 40 m. This structure not only serves to illuminate and guide ships but is also an indispensable part when mentioning Hon Dau Hai Phong tourism.
The 125-year-old Hon Dau Lighthouse features a distinctive French style. (Source: Collection)
From the top of the lighthouse, the entire Bac Bo Gulf unfolds before your eyes. Visitors can easily admire the long stretch of Do Son beach, the hills and mountains on Cat Ba island, as well as the hazy distant scenery of blue seas and green mountains.
Inside the lighthouse, many valuable documents and artifacts are preserved, telling the story of over a century of the structure's formation and operation amidst the sea. Coming here, visitors can not only learn about the history of the northern islands and sea but also capture classic photos imbued with cultural and temporal imprints.
3.3. Nam Hai Dai Vuong Temple and Unique Spiritual Aspects on the Island
Nam Hai Dai Vuong Temple is located facing the sea, possessing the beauty of ancient architecture from the Northern coastal region. This structure is associated with the legend of a deity who built and protected fishermen and boats passing through the Do Son area, originating from the Tran Dynasty.
Annually, from the 8th to the 10th day of the 2nd lunar month, the Nam Hai Dai Vuong Temple festival takes place, attracting a large number of local people and visitors from all directions to attend. The atmosphere on the island becomes more vibrant thanks to traditional cultural activities such as Cheo singing, dragon dances, and unique folk games.
Besides its spiritual significance, the temple is a place that preserves artifacts and cultural traces characteristic of coastal residents. When visiting Hon Dau Hai Phong, visitors will feel the deep faith of the people in the sea, as well as the cultural connection between humans and nature.
3.4. Picnicking and Camping
Many areas on the island are suitable for picnicking and camping, such as rocky beaches along the coast or open fields near the forest. Visitors can gather with friends and family, enjoy fresh seafood, and prepare a small barbecue party amidst the vast expanse of sea and sky.
Camping overnight on the island is an unforgettable experience with the sound of waves mingling with the wind, the moonlight reflecting on the water's surface, creating a relaxing and poetic feeling. The starry night sky and gentle sea breeze bring about especially peaceful moments.
When preparing for this activity, it is advisable to bring a light jacket, a flashlight, and other essential basic items, prioritizing a location near the forest edge for safety. The most beautiful photo spots are concentrated in the primeval forest with ancient trees, natural rocky areas, the base of the lighthouse, or the ancient temple area, each place offering a unique aspect to the exploration journey.
4. Hon Dau Hai Phong Cuisine and Tourism Services in 2025
4.1. What to Eat When Visiting Hon Dau Hai Phong?
The coastal cuisine leaves a mark on every trip to visiting Hon Dau Hai Phong, with a rich variety of seafood caught by fishermen around the island. Do Son sea crabs are famous for their firm, sweet meat and can be prepared in many attractive ways such as grilling, steaming, or stir-frying with tamarind. Live abalone here also has a very unique flavor, prepared into many exotic dishes.
Fresh seafood caught by fishermen for tourists. (Source: Collection)
Additionally, natural lobsters living in the Hai Phong coastal area are usually large, with firm flesh, used for charcoal grilling or steaming with ginger, preserving their natural sweetness. Especially, sun-dried squid is a dish that is easy to bring back as a gift for loved ones, with the characteristic flavor of the sea sun and wind.
The area around Nghieng Pier has many affordable seafood restaurants, suitable for enjoying fresh seafood dishes at reasonable costs. When ordering, tourists should ask for prices clearly and prioritize choosing places frequented by locals to be more assured of the quality and freshness of the food.
4.2. Accommodation at Hon Dau Resort and outstanding lodging options
Hon Dau Resort is the only high-class standard resort on the island, designed harmoniously with nature, including forest-view and sea-view rooms. The liberal, nature-friendly decor style, combined with modern amenities, will meet diverse relaxation needs.
The resort's swimming pool uses natural seawater filtration technology, providing guests with a novel swimming experience amidst lush green landscapes. The resort's restaurant is notable for its fresh seafood dishes, beachside party organization services, and diverse menu, suitable for many preferences.
Room prices here range from 1,000,000 to 2,500,000 VND depending on the room type and season. Besides, tourists traveling to Hon Dau Hai Phong can completely choose small hotels or homestays around the Do Son area to save costs while still ensuring basic amenities.
4.3. Additional entertainment and recreational services around the island
The island has an artificial beach built with a complete safety system, suitable for young children and adults who enjoy swimming. Additionally, the water park with various water games is an ideal spot for young families when traveling to Hon Dau Hai Phong.
Kayaking around the island allows tourists to explore small bays, rock caves, and admire Hon Dau from a completely different perspective. Each kayaking trip brings different emotions thanks to the constantly changing natural scenery.
Sea fishing services come with experienced guides, allowing tourists to enjoy the thrill of fishing in the open sea. Couples can rent tandem bicycles to cycle around the island or capture memorable moments through professional wedding photography packages.
5. Suggested itinerary for traveling to Hon Dau Hai Phong
5.1. One-day itinerary for visiting Hon Dau Hai Phong
A one-day trip to Hon Dau Hai Phong should start early to have more time to explore the island. In the morning, it is advisable to depart for Nghieng Pier before 8 AM to catch a boat to the island, avoiding waiting times.
Upon arrival, exploring the primeval forest and climbing the lighthouse should be done in the early morning when the air is cool. At these two points, visitors can immerse themselves in nature and gain outstanding experiences of the island.
Lunch can be organized on the island with freshly prepared seafood, or return to Nghieng Pier if you want a more diverse menu. The end of the day should be dedicated to visiting Nam Hai Dai Vuong Temple, taking photos at beautiful spots, and then proactively ending the trip with the last boat before 5 PM.
5.2. 2-day, 1-night itinerary for Hon Dau Hai Phong with relaxation
Day one can begin with an in-depth exploration of the primeval forest, learning more about the specific flora and fauna on the island. Lunch by the sea with local specialties is a meaningful moment amidst peaceful, close-to-nature surroundings.
In the afternoon, don't miss the sunset moment from the rocky shore, where the twilight red blends with the sea, creating a quiet yet special scene. In the evening, the choice between camping outdoors or staying at Hon Dau Resort depends on personal needs, each option offering its own experience.
Day two is suitable for visiting Nam Hai Dai Vuong Temple and learning about spiritual cultural traditions. By noon, tourists should try the games at the artificial beach, Do Son water park, and enjoy entertainment services before leaving the island.
In the afternoon, the journey continues with the Sun World Cat Ba cable car experience, a three-rope cable car line connecting Cat Hai to Cat Ba, traveling for about 15 minutes. From high above, the panoramic view of Lan Ha Bay and the Cat Ba archipelago appears spectacular, like a magnificent natural painting amidst clouds, sky, and water. After returning to the mainland, visitors can stroll around the central area, enjoy coffee or afternoon seafood, concluding the trip in a relaxed and emotional atmosphere.
6. Practical experience and notes when traveling to Hon Dau Hai Phong
From April to October is the most suitable time for traveling to Hon Dau Hai Phong because the weather is stable, the sky is clear, and the sea is calm, which is conducive to outdoor activities. The period from May to August is when the sea is beautiful, the water is warm, extending the peak tourist season for groups of friends and families.
Traveling to Hon Dau from April to October, the weather is stable and favorable for outdoor activities. (Source: Collected)
Luggage should prioritize lightweight clothing, good sun protection, combined with a light jacket for the evening if it gets cold. Don't forget a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen to protect your health. A power bank and camera will help capture every moment when the phone signal is unstable.
Besides, each tourist needs to be aware of environmental protection, not littering, limiting plastic use, and complying with campfire regulations to preserve the island's ecosystem. If moving through the forest, pay attention not to affect the local flora and fauna.
Traveling to Hon Dau Hai Phong converges the charm of wild nature, special island sea historical and cultural values, combined with a pleasant resort experience. This is the ideal place for those who wish to find tranquility, connect with nature, and enjoy memorable experiences with loved ones and friends.
