Thanh Lan Island, a bright and promising gem of Co To

1 Strategic position of the largest island commune in the Co To archipelago

Geographically, Thanh Lan Island is the largest island situated in the northeast of the Co To archipelago, Quang Ninh Province. The island commune spans a total area of about 18.2 km2. The commune center is neatly nestled right at the midpoint of the territory's charming bow-shaped curve.

This location is only about four kilometers by sea from the center of Co To island district. Thanks to its unique geographical position, the island plays an especially vital role in the nation's maritime defense and security strategy.

2 Useful travel tips for Thanh Lan Island

2.1 Travel routes

Traveling to Thanh Lan Island is now extremely convenient thanks to a well-invested transportation infrastructure system. Visitors no longer have to feel bewildered or be forced to transit through Greater Co To Island as in previous years. High-speed boats running directly from the mainland to the island are now operating smoothly.

If departing from Hanoi, you can choose high-quality passenger buses running the Giap Bat to Van Don route, with ticket prices around 200,000 VND per way. For those driving a private car, the fastest route is along the Hanoi - Hai Phong Expressway. After crossing Bach Dang Bridge, continue onto the Hai Phong - Ha Long Expressway.

2.2 Direct high-speed boat information

Here is the updated schedule and ticket price information for boat routes:

• Route from Cai Rong Port (Van Don): High-speed boat ticket is about 260,000 VND per passenger each way. The boat departs from the mainland to the island at 11:30, and the return trip from the island to the mainland departs at 14:00 daily.
• Inter-island route from Co To Island: The ticket price is very economical, only about 30,000 VND per passenger each way. Departures from Co To are at 6:30, 12:00, and 15:30. The return trips from the island depart at 7:30, 11:00, and 16:00 daily.

2.3 Ideal season to enjoy a beach vacation

The best time to plan a visit to Thanh Lan Island, in my experience, is from April to August each year. This is when the island enters summer, offering the most ideal weather conditions for a voyage out to sea.

Throughout these months, the area is bathed in warm golden sunshine. The lofty clear blue sky reflects on the calm, emerald sea. Gentle waves and favorable weather are perfect for water sports, refreshing swims, and extended family vacations.

3 Pristine masterworks and breathtaking check-in spots

3.1 Rustic fishing village culture and exquisite local specialties

The lives of residents on Thanh Lan Island are closely tied to the unique customs and traditions of the sea. I was particularly impressed by the community gathered here. Together, they have built a rich fishing village culture, laying a solid foundation for the locality to vigorously develop community-based tourism.

A spiritual attraction that I highly recommend you visit is the Catholic church, a structure whose construction began in 2015.

3.2 Exploring the depths of the tropical rainforest ecosystem and coral reefs

Nature has endowed Thanh Lan Island with a rare tropical forest ecosystem that remains almost pristine. The heart of the island is a natural forest spanning approximately 2,000 ha that has been very well preserved.

Trekking under the shade of primary choi and wild pandan forests, I admired stunning stretches of lush green grasslands. This pristine landscape is ideal for camping, picnics, and wilderness exploration. Beneath the clear blue water, Thanh Lan Island's marine world reveals a paradise of tropical biodiversity.

3.3 Popular attractions

When setting foot here, I think you must definitely take time to experience these magnificent places:

• Ba Chau Beach: A coastline possessing absolute tranquility and wild beauty, with gentle waves whispering an earnest invitation to travelers from afar.
• Hai Quan Beach: Located in Hamlet 3 of the island commune. It is hailed as one of the most charming coastlines in the region, featuring crystal-clear waters like a gemstone soaking up warm golden sunlight.
• Cap Chau Peak: Located at an elevation of 2000m above sea level. Upon conquering this mountain, you will enjoy a panoramic view of the majestic and poetic natural scenery across the northeastern seas of the motherland.
• Nearby connecting destinations: From here, you can easily combine your journey to explore many other famous spots across the Co To archipelago, such as Small Co To Island, Van Chay Beach, Hong Van Beach, or the magnificent Cau My rock reef.

4 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

4.1 How much does it cost to rent self-guided transportation on Thanh Lan Island?

To travel around the island independently, you can rent a motorbike for 200,000 VND per day. If traveling in a large group, you should rent an electric buggy with door-to-door service for 800,000 VND per destination, with a capacity of about 10 people per vehicle.

4.2 What are the service rates for coral reef diving tours on Thanh Lan Island?

Diving to admire coral reefs and marine life is a trademarked tourism experience on the island. The current service price for this tour ranges from 2 million to 6 million VND.

4.3 Which beach is the largest and most beautiful on Thanh Lan Island, and what are its highlights?

The largest beach is Ba Chau Beach in Hamlet 1, located about 4 km from the Commune People's Committee. This beach features a 1.5 km stretch of fine sand suitable for camping, while on the right side of the beach lies a natural rock formation with intriguing shapes perfect for souvenir photos.

4.4 What characteristics of the beaches on Thanh Lan Island make them suitable for swimming?

The island's beaches feature long, relatively flat sandy shores with an elevation of two to six meters, composed of medium-grain sand. The coastal rocks here are very smooth, free of moss, and retain the original colors of sedimentary rock, creating a clean, picturesque, and safe landscape.

An expedition to an outpost island commune like Thanh Lan Island requires you to pack luggage in a thoughtful and sturdy manner. From trekking through primary choi forests to camping by rugged eroded rock fields, a durable suitcase will be an indispensable assistant safeguarding your belongings.

For a carefree journey, I always trust and choose premium rolling suitcases from the MIA.vn retail chain.