Whale Island Resort – A Hidden Eco Retreat in Vietnam’s Van Phong Bay

Nestled in the crystal-clear waters of Van Phong Bay – recognized by UN Tourism as one of the most stunning coastal regions in the world – lies Whale Island Resort (Hòn Ông), a serene eco-resort in Khanh Hoa Province. Just 100 kilometers north of Nha Trang, this peaceful island escape invites travelers to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature – and with themselves.

An Off-Grid Island Paradise

Whale Island Resort feels like another world entirely. There are no paved roads, no motorbikes, and no city noise. Instead, you’ll find thatched-roof bungalows tucked beneath shady trees, sandy footpaths along the shoreline, and panoramic views of the sea in every direction.

This off-the-grid island retreat in Vietnam is designed for those who seek simplicity, serenity, and a deeper connection to their surroundings.

Built with Nature in Mind

Over 28 years ago, a French-Vietnamese couple founded Whale Island Resort with a clear vision: to live lightly on the land and protect the island’s natural charm.

From the very beginning, the resort rejected large-scale development. There are no concrete buildings or intrusive infrastructure. Instead, the resort runs on solar power, eliminates single-use plastics, and encourages guests to conserve water, reduce waste, and adopt a more sustainable lifestyle.

This deep commitment to eco-tourism in Vietnam has made Whale Island a model for sustainable travel in Southeast Asia.

Travel That Gives Back

Whale Island Resort doesn’t just aim to preserve the environment—it actively helps restore it. In July, the resort partnered with Rainbow Divers Vietnam and the PADI AWARE Foundation to launch a coral reef restoration project.

Eco-friendly reef blocks have been placed on the seabed to promote coral growth and revive marine biodiversity in Van Phong Bay, a region increasingly affected by climate change and pollution.

Guests are invited to get involved: snorkel through the reef, learn about coral conservation, and contribute to protecting the ocean.

Slow Travel That Deepens Your Bond with Nature

At Whale Island, time slows down. Mornings might begin with a short hike to a hilltop viewpoint, followed by a kayak trip through calm turquoise waters or a swim above vibrant coral reefs.

Other guests choose to take part in beach cleanups, lend a hand to local conservation projects, or simply relax under a palm tree with a good book.

Each experience is an invitation to be present – to reconnect with the natural world and let go of life’s daily distractions.

A Taste of the Sea – Fresh, Local, and Simple

The resort’s kitchen stays true to its philosophy: local, seasonal, and sustainable. Meals are crafted using fresh seafood from nearby fishermen, herbs from the garden, and vegetables grown on the island or sourced locally.

Wake up to a beachside breakfast with ocean views. Enjoy light, healthy lunches, and end the day with a candlelit dinner under the stars, with the sound of the sea as your soundtrack.

This is coastal Vietnamese cuisine at its finest – honest, nourishing, and rooted in the land.

A Philosophy of Living, Not Just Lodging

In a time when coastal development often means concrete resorts and over-tourism, Whale Island offers a different kind of experience: one that preserves, not replaces.

Here, guests become caretakers of the island, invited to live gently, observe closely, and rediscover joy in life’s simplest things.

As one of the founders beautifully put it:

“We never planned to build a luxury resort. We just wanted a place where people could find happiness in the little things.”

And that’s exactly what Whale Island Resort delivers – not just a vacation, but a return to what truly matters: clean air, wild nature, mindful living, and a slower, more meaningful rhythm of life.