1 A brief overview of Tuan Chau Island
Location: Northwest of Ha Long Bay, Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam.
Admission fee: 280,000 VND per person; free for children under 1 m tall.
When people think of Ha Long, many picture its nearly 2,000 large and small islands, each captivating in its own way. These include Ti Top Island, Cat Ba Island, Co To Island, and Soi Sim Island… Each has its own beauty and charm, attracting travelers from Vietnam and abroad every year. Among them is Tuan Chau Island, a famous tourist destination you shouldn’t miss when visiting this beautiful coastal city.
See also: Conquer Dragon Eye Island – A precious gem amid the blue ocean of Ha Long Bay
Tuan Chau Island is a bustling and captivating island in Ha Long Bay. Photo: @TuanChauIsland
Tuan Chau Island is one of the must-visit destinations that has never gone out of style on Vietnam’s travel map. Covering around 400 ha, the island lies about 2 km from central Ha Long City. It features gently rolling hills and is connected to the mainland by a 2 km concrete causeway.
Tuan Chau has become a world-class destination for tourism, entertainment, and relaxation… Photo: @TuanChauIsland
The first things you’ll notice upon arriving on Tuan Chau Island are its high-rise buildings, resort villas, internationally rated 3-star hotels, and plentiful entertainment options. What’s more, the island’s cuisine, sourced from both the sea and the mainland, promises dishes that will delight every visitor. A trip to Tuan Chau Island is sure to exceed your expectations!
World-class resort services and dining areas serving flavors from countries around the world. Photo: @TuanChauIsland
2 How to get to Tuan Chau Island
Tuan Chau Island was once isolated. Although it was not far from the mainland, getting there was quite difficult. However, after major investment in infrastructure and the construction of a causeway linking the island to the mainland, visitors can now reach it easily.
The causeway, over 2 km long, connects Tuan Chau Island to the mainland. Photo: @TuanChauIsland
If you’re traveling from Hanoi, there are several ways to get to Tuan Chau Island:
- Coach: Many reputable bus companies depart from My Dinh or Giap Bat stations, including Phuc Xuyen, Viet Thanh, and Anh Huy. Fares range from 180,000 VND to 250,000 VND, and the journey takes about 2.5 hours.
- Motorbike or car: If you’d like more flexibility during your trip to Tuan Chau Island, choose a personal vehicle such as a motorbike or car. Be sure to fill up your tank, as the journey covers about 120 km and takes around 2 hours by car. The route is Hanoi - Hai Duong - Bac Ninh - Hai Phong - Tuan Chau. If you’re worried about getting lost, bring along your trusty Google Maps!
3 When is the ideal time to visit Tuan Chau Island?
In general, visitors can explore Tuan Chau Island at any time of year. However, according to seasoned travelers who have visited many times, April to October is the ideal period to visit with family or close friends. The weather is pleasant, with sunshine, cool breezes, and calm seas—perfect for sightseeing and enjoying activities.
Around midsummer, the weather gets hotter and tourist numbers swell, as this is the summer holiday season. Photo: @TuanChauIsland
So, if you decide to visit Tuan Chau Island during this period, be sure to plan carefully. Photo: @TuanChauIsland
4 What makes Tuan Chau Island an exciting destination?
4.1 Swimming at Tuan Chau Island
One reason beach lovers shouldn’t miss Tuan Chau Island is its 2 km stretch of fine, artificial white sand, crystal-clear blue water, and cool coastal climate year-round. The beach is open to the public, giving sea lovers the chance to soak up some “vitamin sea.” What could be better than taking a dip in clear blue water, sinking your feet into soft sand, or simply listening to the waves and the breeze? The peaceful, tranquil setting is sure to leave you feeling relaxed and refreshed.
If only I could dive into the cool sea; I’d gladly get a few shades darker.
4.2 Beach activities on Tuan Chau Island
A trip to Tuan Chau Island wouldn’t be complete without trying the thrilling water sports that have young people hooked. Activities include high-speed jet skiing, parasailing, water skiing, fishing in Ha Long Bay, boating, and hot-air balloon rides—all available at the Tuan Chau entertainment complex.
Plenty of fun activities to enjoy on the water at Tuan Chau Island. Photo: @TuanChauIsland
With its long stretch of sandy beach, the island is a great place to bring your friends together for team-building activities. Photo: @TuanChauIsland
4.3 The musical fountain show on Tuan Chau Island
When visiting Tuan Chau Island, be sure not to miss the musical fountain show. With its dazzling lights and spectacular sound, the performance has left a lasting impression on many visitors.
Showtimes: Daily from 9h15 - 10h, 19h00 - 19h40 (Friday and Saturday); 20h15 - 20h55, 21h15 - 22h15. Each show lasts 40 minutes.
Seen from above, the musical fountain venue on Tuan Chau Island has a distinctive design resembling an ancient Roman amphitheater. Photo: @TuanChauIsland
It is surrounded by a vast grandstand with more than 12,000 seats. Photo: @TuanChauIsland
4.4 Have a blast at Tuan Chau Park
In addition to the musical fountain venue, visitors to Tuan Chau Island can also enjoy a wide range of activities at the outdoor amusement park.
This modern amusement area is suitable for visitors of all ages, including children and adults… Photo: @TuanChauIsland
Tuan Chau Park also features dolphin and seal shows, with some of the most advanced equipment in Southeast Asia. Photo: @TuanChauIsland
The cheers never stop on Tuan Chau Island. Photo: @TuanChauIsland
Children can also meet familiar characters from the Grimm fairy tales and Walt Disney films, or enjoy rides such as the fairytale train and slides… In 2021, admission to the amusement park was 350,000 VND per person per visit; children under 1 m tall entered free of charge.
Thrill-seekers can try the roller coaster, flying saucer, swing ride, and more… Photo: @TuanChauIsland
5 Nearby attractions you should visit
If your stay on Tuan Chau Island lasts several days, don’t let your time go to waste. Make time to check out some of the remarkable places nearby. Here are a few great suggestions.
Bai Chay is 11 km from Tuan Chau Island. Its artificial beach is over 1,000 m long and the largest in Ha Long City.
Fall for the enchanting beauty of Lan Ha Bay, just 10 km from Tuan Chau Island.
Be sure to check in at the spectacular Ha Long Bay, a watercolor painting of the Gulf of Tonkin.
Tuan Chau Island is truly a wonderful place to stay during your next ideal getaway. Its beautiful scenery and wealth of entertainment options will add unforgettable experiences to your Ha Long trip.
