Cai Chien Island, a hidden emerald in the heart of Quang Ninh

Cai Chien is a small island in the former Hai Ha District of Quang Ninh Province, about 330km from central Hanoi and around 150km from central Ha Long. Its varied landscape features a mix of sea and hills stretching across an area of more than 2,500ha. 

Perhaps the biggest draw of tourism on Cai Chien Island is its clear blue water, soft white sand and peaceful atmosphere, accompanied by the gentle sound of waves and the rustling of casuarina trees. Though tucked away in Quang Ninh, the island's rare, understated beauty continues to attract many visitors.

To reach Cai Chien Island, first go to Ghenh Vo Port and catch a ferry to the island. Ferries run three times a day, at 6h00, 10h00 and 16h30. A one-way ticket to Cai Chien Island costs around 20.000đ per person, or 50.000đ per person if you bring a motorbike. 

If traveling from Hanoi, you can first take a bus to Mong Cai for around 200.000đ–230.000đ one way, then take a vehicle from Mong Cai to Cat Vo Wharf. If traveling from Ho Chi Minh City, buy a flight ticket to Quang Ninh for between 650.000đ and 1.100.000đ, then hire a vehicle to Ghenh Vo to catch the boat. 

This gorgeous beach features a long stretch of white sand lined with casuarina trees. One of the island's most popular swimming spots, it draws visitors throughout the year. Above the beach, a coastal road stretching for more than 1km runs alongside a cool, green casuarina forest, making it a refreshing place to escape the summer heat. 

This beach is about 3km from Cai Chien 2 Beach. It is considered relatively untouched and remains little known, so there are few amenities. To visit, you'll need to hire your own vehicle. 

Cai Chien Beach is the island's main swimming beach and a popular choice among visitors. Its greatest advantage is its range of amenities, including guesthouses, homestays, eateries and beach services. 

This is the largest freshwater reservoir on Cai Chien Island, covering about 18ha. Here, you can admire the blue sky reflected in crystal-clear water. The pristine mountains and forests, along with the tranquil scenery of land and water, create a wonderfully relaxing atmosphere. 

This island is about 3km from Cai Chien Island by sea and is another island in Cai Chien Commune. Its greatest appeal is its long stretches of fine white sand. It remains largely untouched, with virtually no recreational tourism services. To visit, hire a boat from a local resident on Cai Chien Island to take you there. 

From Thoi Xanh Island, you can see several other lovely islands, such as Co To, Nui Sau in Van Don, and Vinh Thuc Island near Mong Cai. In addition to its scenic value, the island also plays an important role in safeguarding the country's security. 

These container homes once operated as a resort but have since closed. They now stand empty and have not been removed, making a colorful backdrop for your photos. 

On Cai Chien Island in Quang Ninh, you can join local residents on a squid-fishing trip or even hire a private boat to fish for squid offshore, followed by a barbecue. In the evening, people often gather around a campfire to grill meat, sing and dance. 

Cai Chien Island does not have a wide variety of food readily available, so you should order meals in advance with your guesthouse or homestay. The island is also known for local specialties such as Cai Chien bearded chicken, oyster porridge and stir-fried razor clams with bamboo shoots. 

Accommodation on Cai Chien Island is still fairly rustic and not highly developed. Based on the experiences of many visitors, consider camping by the sea, renting a homestay or staying with a local family for the night. Homestays are probably the most popular option, with rates ranging from 80.000đ to 100.000đ per person per day. 

Le Xuan Nguyen Homestay – Contact: 0977 399 499

Chu Van Sanh Homestay – Contact: 0379 380 605

Tran Van To Homestay – Contact: 0984 019 624

Phi Vung Homestay – Contact: 0988 387 268

Since reaching Cai Chien Island requires traveling by boat, weather is a crucial factor in planning your trip. According to travel insights from MIA.vn, the period from April to July is the most convenient time to explore, with warm, sunny weather and little risk of storms, making it easy to enjoy activities and sightseeing. If you plan to visit between July and November, check the weather forecast carefully to avoid storms. 

Bring swimwear, a swim ring, sunscreen and other essentials for a beach trip to Cai Chien Island. 

Bring necessary personal identification and cash. 

Pack insect repellent and cold medicine. 

Bring light snacks to enjoy after swimming. 

Day 1: 

Morning: Take a boat to Cai Chien Island and hire an electric vehicle to your guesthouse. 

Lunch: Enjoy delicious local dishes at a restaurant. 

Afternoon: Swim at Dau Rong Beach, then relax on the sand. 

Evening: Have dinner at one of the seaside eateries. 

Day 2: 

Morning: Visit Van Ca Beach and the clear, refreshing waters of Cua Dai Beach, perfect for hot summer days. Don't miss the unique container homes in a variety of colors. 

Lunch: Eat at your homestay and rest. 

Afternoon: Swim at Cai Chien Beach and Cai Chien 2, or take a tour to explore Thoi Xanh Island (2–3 hours). 

Evening: Go night squid fishing and enjoy a barbecue with local residents. 

Day 3: 

Morning: Stroll along the beach, go for a swim or hire a vehicle to explore the rows of myrtle trees and casuarinas along the coast. 

Lunch: Check out and head to the port to buy a ticket back to the mainland. 

When you explore Cai Chien Island, you'll enjoy unspoiled scenery, gently sloping sandy beaches and casuarina forests lining the shore. Around the Dau Rong area, floating rafts bobbing on the sea create a unique beauty found nowhere else.