Discover the Allure of Tuan Chau Island: Vietnam’s Premier Coastal Escape

Tuan Chau Island has become one of Vietnam’s most sought-after travel destinations for those in search of sunshine, pristine beaches, and world-class leisure. Famous for its expansive man-made beach, modern recreational facilities, and luxurious accommodations, the island strikes a perfect balance between natural splendor and high-end tourism. Read on to explore what makes Tuan Chau Island in Ha Long Bay a must-visit spot for any Vietnam itinerary.

Go Unveil the Charm of Tuan Chau Island

Spanning 400 hectares, with 220 hectares dedicated to tourism, Tuan Chau Island boasts a fascinating history. Archaeological evidence reveals that humans inhabited this area as early as 3,000 to 5,000 years ago. Historically, it was a military outpost during Vietnam’s feudal era, with its name stemming from “Linh Tuan” (patrolman) and “Tri Chau” (district governor). In 1958, President Ho Chi Minh selected the island as a personal retreat—his former residence now stands as a preserved memorial, enriching the island with cultural depth and historical relevance.

Go Experience Modern Tuan Chau: A Hub of Relaxation and Recreation

Today, Tuan Chau Island has transformed into a lively entertainment and tourism hub. Its iconic 2-kilometer artificial beach is Vietnam’s largest, featuring smooth white sands and gentle waves ideal for swimming and water sports. The island also serves as the primary port for Ha Long Bay cruises and ferry services to Cat Ba Island, making it the ideal departure point for broader adventures.

Whether you’re an adrenaline seeker or someone craving tranquil beachfront moments, Tuan Chau offers it all—with state-of-the-art resorts, amusement parks, and unique cultural shows at your fingertips.

What is the location of Tuan Chau Island? How to Go There

Tuan Chau Island is located in the northwest part of Ha Long Bay, roughly 8 km southwest of Ha Long City and around 155 km from Hanoi. A 2-kilometer paved road connects it directly to the mainland, ensuring seamless access by land and sea.

How to Go to Tuan Chau Island:

Go by Bus or Car from Hanoi: It takes about 3 to 4 hours to travel from Hanoi to Tuan Chau. Buses depart from My Dinh and Luong Yen terminals, with fares around 200,000 VND (~~$8). Upon reaching Ha Long City, taxis or motorbike taxis can take you to the island for an additional 150,000 VND (~~$6). Private cars or minivans are also available for greater comfort.
Go by Ferry: From Ha Long City, ferries to Cat Ba Island depart from Tuan Chau Port. The 45-50 minute journey costs between 60,000 and 90,000 VND ($2.5–$4), with 5–7 daily departures.
Go by Seaplane: Hai Au Aviation offers scenic seaplane flights from Hanoi to Tuan Chau, providing breathtaking aerial views of Ha Long Bay. The flight takes about one hour and starts from $330.
Go by Cruise: Many Ha Long Bay tours begin at Tuan Chau Marina—the largest in Southeast Asia—making it a key embarkation point for luxury cruise lines such as Paradise Cruises and Pelican Cruises.

When is the Best Time to Go to Tuan Chau Island?

Tuan Chau Island is a year-round destination, each season offering distinct charm:

Spring (March–April): Ideal for outdoor excursions and sightseeing, with mild temperatures and blossoming landscapes.
Summer (May–August): Warm and sunny—perfect for beach activities, though June and July may see occasional storms.
Fall (September–October): Cool weather and fewer tourists make for a serene travel experience.
Winter (November–February): Chilly and humid, perfect for quiet retreats and cultural exploration.

For optimal conditions, plan your trip between April and October, when the weather is warm, skies are clear, and the sea is calm. Avoid peak periods like Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year), Reunification Day (April 30), and summer school holidays to sidestep inflated prices and crowded attractions.

Top Things to Go Do on Tuan Chau Island

Go Relax at Tuan Chau Beach
Enjoy two expansive artificial beaches with soft white sand and clear waters. These are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or trying water sports like windsurfing, canoeing, and jet-skiing.
Go Watch the Tuan Chau Water Music Show
Held daily at 7 PM, this spectacular show combines colorful fountains, music, and lights at the Tuan Chau International Entertainment Center. Tickets cost about $14, with free entry for children under 1 meter tall.
Go Visit the Dolphin & Seal Show
Located in the Tuan Chau Theater, this performance features trained marine animals executing incredible tricks. Entry is typically included in the entertainment complex’s ticket price (approximately 350,000 VND).
Go Unwind at Tuan Chau Park
The park offers a mix of amusement rides, cultural shows, and scenic gardens—perfect for family outings.

Nearby Attractions to Go Explore

Ha Long Bay: Just a cruise away, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers limestone cliffs, emerald waters, and famous caves like Sung Sot and Thien Cung. Entry fee: ~290,000 VND ($12).
Quang Ninh Museum: Located 10 km away, this museum showcases regional history, biodiversity, and cultural artifacts. Entry: 40,000 VND (~$1.60).
Lan Ha Bay: A tranquil alternative to Ha Long Bay, known for kayaking and peaceful beach retreats.
Reu Island: Home to the luxurious Vinpearl Resort & Spa, Reu Island is a great add-on for those seeking exclusivity and relaxation.

What to Go Eat on Tuan Chau Island

Cha Muc (Squid Cake): A Ha Long specialty made from fresh squid, pork, and shrimp—fried until golden and served with sticky rice.
Sa Sung (Sipunculus Nudus): This rare marine worm is a prized delicacy, usually dried and used to add rich umami flavor to soups.
Horseshoe Crab: Carefully prepared to remove toxins, it can be grilled or stir-fried with spices.
Mangrove Mud Clams (So Long): Often steamed with lemongrass and chili or added to hearty soups.

Go Plan Your Trip with Indo-Pacific Travel

If you’re ready to experience Tuan Chau and Ha Long Bay, consider booking with Indo-Pacific Travel, a trusted name with over 8 years of experience and thousands of five-star TripAdvisor reviews. Their curated tours span Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, ensuring a memorable journey tailored to your interests.

Conclusion

Tuan Chau Island offers an exceptional mix of scenic beauty, cultural depth, and modern entertainment. Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure, this island paradise delivers unforgettable moments. Go book your trip today and let Tuan Chau be the shining jewel in your Vietnam travel story.