Co To Island Travel Guide - Exciting Experiences Await Your Discovery

1 Gather Co To Island Travel Tips for an Ideal Summer Vacation

With this Co To Island travel guide, you will set foot on a land often likened to the Hawaii or Maldives of Vietnam – Co To Island. This island boasts pristine beauty and peaceful landscapes, harmoniously blending crystal-clear blue waters with the white sandy shores of its beaches. Not to mention numerous trendy check-in spots that captivate the hearts of countless travelers, especially young adventurers. This is truly the ultimate summer vacation and getaway destination, making it well worth gathering tips before you embark on your journey.

Co To Island is located east of Van Don Island in Quang Ninh Province. Known as an island district covering an area of 47.3 km2, it lies approximately 260 km from central Hanoi (by combined land and sea routes). Much like other tropical islands across Vietnam, Co To attracts visitors with the vast blue expanse of its sky and sea. Moreover, beyond its majestic and untouched natural beauty, the local residents here are exceptionally hospitable and friendly.

See more: Quan Lan Island travel guide at your fingertips – why hesitate to explore?

2 According to Travel Experience, When Is the Best Time to Visit Co To Island?

If you ask seasoned travelers about the ideal time to visit Co To Island, the unanimous answer will be: Summer.

From April to August (solar calendar) is the most perfect window. During this period, Co To Island enters its peak summer tourism season. You can easily feel the bustling, vibrant atmosphere, complete with numerous festive events and activities organized for young people to enjoy and unwind together during the trip. In addition, you can immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters or relish the wonderful feeling of relaxing on the white sand, sunbathing beneath the golden summer sunshine.

However, because it is an island out in the open sea, Co To cannot avoid the impact of weather. Especially around July, occasional storms may occur and disrupt your itinerary. Therefore, checking the weather forecast carefully before your trip will help ensure a smooth and safe journey.

From September to October, Co To Island becomes much quieter, making it a great time to admire the winter seascape or simply enjoy the tranquility and peace of this paradise island during a relaxing retreat. The remaining months (from November to March of the following year) are not suitable for tourism on Co To Island as northern Vietnam enters a prolonged rainy, cold season. Travelers typically avoid visiting the island during this period.

3 How to Travel to Co To Island Most Efficiently?

Co To Island is 260 km from Hanoi and 22 km from Cai Rong Port. Based on travel experience: From Hanoi, you must first reach Cai Rong Port before taking a boat out to the island. This port serves as the bridge between the mainland and the island, and also provides access to neighboring islands such as Quan Lan, Hon Gai, Thanh Lan, etc.

3.1 Traveling from Hanoi to Cai Rong Port

Travel enthusiasts from Southern or Central Vietnam usually fly into Hanoi or Hai Phong, then head to Cai Rong Port. Departing from Hanoi, you have a wide variety of transportation options to choose from: motorbike, coach, self-drive car, limousine van, etc.

- Coach / Bus: The most popular and common choice due to its convenience and comfort. Many reputable coach operators run on various schedules, with ticket prices ranging around 170,000 VNĐ – 220.000 VNĐ. Reliable bus companies include Duc Phuc, Hoang Long, Kumho Viet Thanh, and Phuc Xuyen. The journey takes around 4 hours by coach.

- Limousine Van: These 8–12 seaters are increasingly favored because they offer great comfort for the elderly, young children, or those prone to travel fatigue. However, due to limited seating, it is advisable to book early before tickets sell out. Ticket prices start from around 350.000 VNĐ / one way. You can contact the following limousine operators to book:

o Co To Limousine – Tel: 024 32 03 24 44

o Minh Anh Limousine – Tel: 0977 71 96 66

o Tam Bao Anh Limousine – Tel: 0961 80 28 02

o Dream Transport Limousine – Tel: 0961 70 71 76

- Motorbike: According to self-sufficient travel tips shared by wanderlust lovers: If you are an avid backpacker who loves the thrill of road tripping, do not hesitate to ride a motorbike. This mode of transport offers total freedom and flexibility, though it takes considerably more time as you will likely stop along the way for photo check-ins.

o Motorbike route to Cai Rong Port: Central Hanoi > Kim Ma > Dao Tan > Vo Chi Cong > Vo Nguyen Giap. At Vinh Ngoc, take the expressway toward Noi Bai > Ha Long > Hoang Quoc Viet or National Highway 18. Continue straight onto Ly Thuong Kiet > DT334 to reach Cai Rong Port.

3.2 Traveling from Cai Rong Port to Co To Island

Tips for departing from Cai Rong Port: There are about 3 types of boats that take you to the island: wooden boats, speedboats, and supplementary vessels. Speedboats and wooden boats are the most popular choices. You can buy tickets directly at the port or collect them at the counter if booked online. Details of the boat types are as follows:

- Speedboat: Takes around 1 hour 15 minutes. Reference fare: 250,000 VNĐ / person / way

- Wooden boat: Takes around 2 hours to 2 hours 30 minutes. Reference fare: 95,000 VNĐ / person / way. Alternatively, taking a speedboat/canoe takes just over 1 hour.

Some reputable boat operators to consider:

- Kalong: Outbound departures at 6:00, 7:00, 10:00, 12:15; return departures at 10:00, 12:00, 13:30, 15:00. Reference round-trip ticket: 500,000 VNĐ. Tel: 0342 16 81 68

- Havaco: Outbound departures at 6:00, 8:30, 9:00, 11:00, 12:00, 14:30, 15:00; return departures at 7:30, 10:00, 10:30, 13:00, 13:30, 16:00, 16:30. Reference round-trip ticket: 500,000 VNĐ. Tel: 0338 56 67 89

- Minh Quang: Outbound departures at 6:30, 8:30, 11:30, 14:30; return departures at 8:30, 11:30, 14:30, 16:00. Reference round-trip ticket: 500,000 VNĐ. Tel: 0363 66 57 68

3.3 Getting Around on Co To Island

A few more practical travel tips are always useful! Once you arrive on Co To Island, you will have plenty of transportation options to explore. Active youths can rent bicycles, or choose the convenience of motorbikes or electric carts:

- Motorbike: With just a motorbike, you can be completely proactive and freely cruise through every corner and scenic road on the island. Rental rates start from 150,000 VNĐ / day (fuel self-supplied), and you can rent directly from your hotel, guesthouse, or homestay.

- Bicycle: Adds romance for couples who enjoy leisurely sightseeing and relaxing. There are numerous bicycle rental spots along the island's roads with rates ranging from 30,000 VNĐ – 50,000 VNĐ / day.

- Electric cart: Capable of carrying large groups (from 6 to 17 seats), making it the top choice for larger tour groups. Electric carts also win points for their open-air design, allowing you to comfortably enjoy the scenery while taking in the fresh sea breeze of Co To. Reference package price from 1,200,000 VNĐ / cart / full package. You can arrange rentals through most island hotels or contact operators directly: Phuc Xuyen (020 33 88 99 99), An Tam (0965 15 47 80), Bon Vuong (0335 85 85 70).

- Small boats and tenders: Ideal for visiting neighboring islets, usually provided by local island households: Hoang Tuan Boat (0985 89 08 46), Van Gioi Boat (0979 20 02 43), or regular scheduled boat runs at 6:30 – 12:00 – 15:30.

4 Co To Island Travel Guide for Travel Lovers

4.1 Explore the Island's Most Beautiful Location – Van Chay Beach

Spending time at Van Chay Beach is an absolute highlight of visiting Co To Island. Praised as the island's most stunning beach, it is also the most vibrant, often chosen by groups for summer teambuilding games and group activities. Featuring smooth, sweeping stretches of fine sand and powerful white-crested waves, Van Chay Beach is also an ideal spot for thrilling water sports.

4.2 Hong Van Beach

Located 7 km from Co To town and away from residential clusters, Hong Van Beach is never overly crowded. However, seasoned travelers will tell you that this spot stands out for its romantic, serene atmosphere and lengthy shoreline. No one visiting Co To Island should miss Hong Van Beach. Strolling gently along the white sandy shore while gazing at the tranquil sea, who could bear to leave? Even better, you will find charming seaside wooden bungalows with sophisticated, creative designs, where upon waking, you can simply open your door and step right into the crystal-clear ocean.

4.3 Love Beach (Bai Tam Tinh Yeu)

Photography enthusiasts always include top photo spots in their Co To travel tips, and Love Beach is never omitted. Situated close to the town center right by the pier, it is very easy to find. While the sand may not be the whitest and the water not the bluest, young visitors love that Love Beach is surrounded by numerous food stalls, cafés, and eateries—making it incredibly convenient for your journey!

4.4 Vung Tien Beach

Vung Tien Beach remains pristine and relatively secluded. Heading right from Hong Van Beach toward the end of the coast, you will arrive at Vung Tien. The water here is so clear that you can see the rock formations below. The rocky reef resting on the sand stretches along the coast, creating a stunning and fascinating landscape.

4.5 Cau My Rock Plateau

Here is another essential recommendation for your trip: make sure to explore the Cau My Rock Plateau (also known as Mong Rong Rock Beach) located in the south of Greater Co To Island. This geological wonder is the result of natural tectonic activity, where tens of thousands of years of ocean wave erosion have created layered sedimentary strata and fossils in extraordinary shapes. Standing here, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the vast island, admiring raw, magnificent nature that looks like a painting. Furthermore, sunrise and sunset here will never disappoint you.

4.6 Co To Lighthouse

Young travelers who have visited Co To Island will certainly remember the Co To Lighthouse. Standing 118 m above sea level atop a central mountain ridge, it was built in the late 19th century and features 72 spiral steps. From the lighthouse, you can witness magnificent 360-degree panoramic views: endless blue seas right before your eyes, distant islands, and the mainland farther along the horizon.

4.7 Little Co To Island (Dao Co To Con)

An indispensable part of any Co To trip is visiting Little Co To Island. Unlike the developed and bustling Greater Co To Island, this place is completely uninhabited, with only occasional fishing boats anchored offshore. Thanks to this, the island has fully preserved its original, untouched beauty. Little Co To has truly become a paradise for anyone seeking a peaceful, secluded getaway.

4.8 Truc Lam Co To Pagoda

Truc Lam Co To Pagoda is considered a spiritual project of great significance and importance. The pagoda was built adjacent to the historical relic of Ky Con Company Temple on Television Hill. Covering an area of 5 hectares, the pagoda comprises 9 areas: the three-entrance gate (Tam Quan), bell tower, chime tower, main sanctuary (Tam Bao), ancestral house, monastic quarters, guest house, Mother Goddess shrine, and landscaped gardens.

4.9 Thanh Lan Island

Thanh Lan Island is located 4 km by sea from the center of Co To Island District, covering an area of 27 km2. To reach this pristine, intriguing, and fresh destination, you take a 40-minute boat ride from Co To. The island is renowned for its clear blue beaches like Vung Ba Chau, Hai Quan, C6, and more. In addition, its primeval forest ecosystem is home to diverse plant species.

4.1 0 Au Cang (Storm Shelter Harbor)

Au Cang is situated about 2 km south of Co To town center. It serves as a storm shelter for fishing boats as well as the ferry wharf to Thanh Lan Island. Au Cang has recently emerged as a scenic check-in point. Sitting on the breakwater wall while admiring the sweeping views of nature and the daily life of local fishermen is an unforgettable experience.

4.1 1 Walking Street and Ho Chi Minh Historical Relic Site

The walking street is located in the heart of Co To town. Spanning 205 m, it is an area where visitors can take leisurely evening strolls while sampling delicious island street food.

Close to the walking street is the Ho Chi Minh Historical Relic Site. This site preserves memories of President Ho Chi Minh and is the only place in Vietnam where Uncle Ho agreed to have a monument erected during his lifetime.

5 Activities When Traveling to Co To Island

Parasailing: An exhilarating adventure sport combining a speedboat and a parachute. Towed by the boat, visitors are lifted into the sky with the parachute. Safely suspended at a regulated altitude, you can take in the breathtaking aerial view of the surrounding sea.

Kayaking: You can paddle a kayak with friends or family out onto the water to take in the serene scenery around Co To Island.

Banana Boat Riding: Visitors wear life vests and sit on a banana-shaped inflatable raft, which is then pulled by a speedboat at speeds of 70–80 km/h. This is a thrilling water sport for adrenaline seekers.

6 Co To Island Travel Guide – Culinary Exploration

How could anyone miss seafood when looking for Co To Island travel tips? Mother Nature has blessed Co To with expansive shores and an abundant marine ecosystem, so seafood caught directly by local fishermen is remarkably fresh and reasonably priced. However, seafood prices do vary by season, and out-of-season catches naturally cost a bit more. Here are MIA.vn's top seafood recommendations when visiting Co To Island:

- Ha Long Sea Cucumber: A signature seafood specialty of Quang Ninh Province, and Co To is no exception. Dishes made from sea cucumber—such as soup simmered with crab meat, chicken head, shiitake mushrooms, and ginger, or stir-fried sea cucumber with sliced mushrooms served alongside crispy scorched rice and savory broth—are always beloved by gourmets.

- Ha Long Peanut Worms (Sa Sung): Their appearance might be slightly intimidating at first, with a cylindrical, elongated body resembling an earthworm. Belonging to marine worm species, peanut worms burrow deep in rock crevices and sandy seabed trenches, making them very difficult to harvest. Highly nutritious, they are extremely prized and expensive, reaching up to several million VND per kilogram.

- Razor Clams (Oc Mong Tay): A soft-bodied mollusk with an elongated shape resembling a fingernail, thriving in the waters of Co To. With rich, sweet, and succulent meat, razor clams can be prepared in various delicious ways: porridge, steamed with lemongrass, grilled, stir-fried with noodles... but stir-fried with morning glory (water spinach) remains the absolute favorite.

- Grilled Mantis Shrimp (Be Be Ha Long): In Southern Vietnam, mantis shrimp are commonly called "tom tit" or "ngua bien". Previously overlooked, mantis shrimp have now surged in popularity and command high prices. Their meat is firm, chewy, and naturally sweet. They can be steamed, tamarind-glazed, salt-roasted, or stir-fried, but charcoal-grilled mantis shrimp is easily the most mouthwatering preparation.

- Co To One-Sun Dried Squid (Muc Mot Nang): Prepared locally using a distinctive method. Co To squid have thick, straight bodies. Once grilled, every tender strip of squid reveals a sweet, chewy texture without the bitter aftertaste found in other regions.

Do not miss other must-try specialties such as salt-grilled sea bream, Co To jellyfish, pen shells (bang mai), blue swimming crabs, stone crabs (cu ky), abalone, banana prawns, and sea urchins. You can visit one of the reputable addresses below or buy seafood to prepare yourself:

- Co Nghia Eatery: Nam Hai, Zone III, Co To Town. Reference prices from 30,000 VNĐ

- Hai Au Restaurant: Nam Hai, Zone III, Co To Town. Reference prices from 150,000 VNĐ

- Uy Thanh Restaurant: Le Quy Don Street, Zone III, Co To Town. Reference prices from 200,000 VNĐ

Highly Rated Restaurants on Co To Island:

- Sao Bien Restaurant, near the pier.

- Hai Au Restaurant: Zone 3, Co To Town - Tel: 0918 848 890

- Uy Thanh Restaurant: 33 Le Quy Don Street, Zone 3, Co To Town.

- Ngoc Quynh Restaurant (Van Chay Beach): Tel: 0914201580

7 Travel Costs for Co To Island

On average, visitors can expect the following estimated costs for a Co To trip:

Transportation costs:

- Hanoi - Tuan Chau Limousine: 200,000–250,000 VNĐ / person / way.

- Tuan Chau Express High-Speed Boat: 380,000 VNĐ / person / way.

- Electric cart / motorbike on the island: 250,000 VNĐ / person.

- Boat to Little Co To: 500,000–700,000 VNĐ / boat.

Hotel / Accommodation costs:

- 3-star hotel: around 350,000 VNĐ / night.

- 2-star hotel: around 250,000 VNĐ / night.

- Bungalow: around 500,000 VNĐ / night.

Sightseeing tickets: Most attractions are free of charge.

Food and beverage: Around 150,000 VNĐ / person / meal.

8 Important Notes and Tips for Co To Island

Do not forget these essential tips, especially for first-time visitors:

- Always check the weather forecast for both departure and return days to avoid getting stranded on the island. Weather conditions around Co To can change rapidly, and boats cannot operate if rough seas occur.

- Pack thoroughly: swimwear, casual outfits, camera or smartphone for photography... You should also bring essential medications, insect repellent, and power banks since power outages occasionally happen on the island.

- If you are prone to motion sickness, have a light meal beforehand and use anti-nausea remedies such as pills or motion sickness patches.

- Dried seafood bought as gifts may vary in price across shops and markets. To avoid overpaying, check and compare prices at several stalls before purchasing.

Hopefully, these Co To Island travel tips shared by MIA.vn will be helpful for your upcoming exploration of Ha Long and Co To. Do not forget to share your stunning check-in photos with MIA.vn!