1 The Vang Island – A Rough Gem in the Sea of Quang Ninh
The Vang Island, also known as Dao Vang (Golden Island), is located in Bai Tu Long Bay, within Thang Loi Commune, Van Don District, Quang Ninh Province. The island lies about 30 km east of Ha Long city center and is considered one of the lesser-known yet utterly captivating destinations.
The Vang Island welcomes visitors with untouched landscapes, crystal-clear blue waters, and stretching fine white sand beaches. Beyond being a retreat, the island is regarded as a biological treasure trove harboring many rare plant species of high economic and medicinal value, such as fish poison tree (Barringtonia asiatica), heliotrope tree (Tournefortia argentea), and sandalwood.
A unique feature of The Vang Island is the presence of rare woody mangrove flora, distinctly different from common species like rhizophora or brugueira. The island also features fruit orchards bearing produce year-round, most notably Thai ambarella, bringing diversity and a distinct character to the local landscape.
The Vang Island belongs to Thang Loi archipelago, Van Don district, Quang Ninh, nestled peacefully in Bai Tu Long Bay. Illustration photo: VinWonders
2 Location and How to Get There
There are two main routes to reach The Vang Island:
From Cai Rong Port (Van Don): The distance is relatively far, making the journey longer, and it is suitable for those wishing to combine visits to other attractions across Van Don.
From Vung Duc Port (Cam Pha): This is the most convenient and fastest option. With only around 13 km of sea travel, you can set foot on the island. This shorter route also allows travelers to explore numerous appealing tourist spots in Cam Pha City before heading to the island.
3 Must-Try Activities on The Vang Island
3.1 Experience Pristine Nature
The Vang Island fully preserves its untouched beauty with lush green forests, stretching fine white sand, and crystal-clear waters. The natural scenery here remains almost entirely untouched by human hands, offering a remarkably pristine and serene atmosphere. As soon as you set foot on the island, you can feel the tranquility and purity of Quang Ninh’s sea and sky.
3.2 Exploration and Sports Activities
The clear blue beaches are ideal stops for visitors to unwind and immerse themselves in refreshing waters. In addition, The Vang Island attracts travelers with coral reef snorkeling, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) around the island. Adventure enthusiasts can hike along small trails to discover the rich local natural ecosystem.
Here you can swim in the sea and engage in many exciting sports activities. Illustration photo: Orientalsails
3.3 Cuisine and Services
Visiting The Vang Island, you can savor fresh seafood, from ocean fish and squid to scallops. The dining ambiance offers an intimate yet romantic setting, ideal for hosting a small gathering by the seashore.
Regarding accommodations, the island features resorts and guesthouses providing both modern comforts and harmonious connection with nature. Waking up amidst the blue seascape, you will feel completely rejuvenated in spirit.
3.4 Special Values and Events
Beyond being a travel destination, The Vang Island is frequently chosen as a venue for nature conservation activities and environmental education. These events not only raise awareness about marine protection but also provide visitors with meaningful experiences alongside their exploration trip.
3.5 Rare Plant Species on the Island
The Vang Island is also a "green treasure" home to valuable plant species like Barringtonia asiatica, Tournefortia argentea, and sandalwood. Furthermore, the destination boasts unique mangrove forests with woody species rarely seen elsewhere. Walking across the island, you can spot Thai ambarella trees heavy with fruit all year round, creating a scenery that is both familiar and exotic.
Diverse ecosystem on The Vang Island. Illustration photo: FB Duyen Phuc Pagoda - The Vang Island
3.6 Combining Leisure and Entertainment
After touring the island, you can continue your journey at Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long, a luxurious resort situated on Reu Island. This venue features private beaches, an outdoor pool, green spaces, and international-standard services. It promises to be an ideal stopover, making your trip to The Vang Island even more fulfilling.
You can combine your visit with Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long. Illustration photo: Vinpearl
4 Notable Attractions
4.1 Lo Thuy Well
Lo Thuy Well, also known as the fairy well or dragon’s eye, is perched atop a mountain on The Vang Island. Its fresh, cool water year-round is a precious resource steeped in numerous legends. From this vantage point, visitors can climb up high and cast their eyes over panoramic views of the entire island in an expansive and peaceful atmosphere.
4.2 Duyen Phuc Pagoda
Duyen Phuc Pagoda on The Vang Island was built during the reign of King Ly Anh Tong, when the Van Don trading port began forming in 1149. The ancient pagoda bears profound historical imprints and stands as a sacred spiritual destination. Many visitors come here not only for sightseeing and cultural appreciation, but also to pray for peace and good fortune. In particular, couples struggling with childbearing often visit the pagoda to pray for children with deep faith.
The sacred Duyen Phuc Pagoda situated on the island. Illustration photo: FB Duyen Phuc Pagoda - The Vang Island
4.3 Toa Son Temple
Toa Son Temple is a religious monument closely tied to the prosperous era of Van Don commercial port. Despite passing through centuries and undergoing multiple restorations, the temple on The Vang Island retains its majestic aura and time-honored architecture. This was where merchants often gathered to pray for smooth business, safe maritime voyages, and prosperous trade.
With its pure beauty, azure sea, white sands, and rare serenity, The Vang Island truly deserves its title as the "rough gem" of Quang Ninh. It is an ideal getaway for anyone looking to escape urban bustle and reconnect with the pristine spirit of the ocean. A journey to The Vang Island will undoubtedly leave you with unforgettable memories of a serene and splendid maritime realm.
The journey to the pristine island. Illustration photo: FB Duyen Phuc Pagoda - The Vang Island
Setting foot on The Vang Island, you will feel transported to another world: no more noise, no more smog, only the blue ocean and the wind whispering through the trees. Hopefully, these helpful experiences from MIA.vn will help ensure you have a complete and rewarding journey with your luggage packed.