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Ngoc Vung Island is located in Van Don District, Quang Ninh Province, about 25 kilometers northeast of Ha Long City, and has an area of around 12 square kilometers. With its location between Hon Net Island and Phoenix Island, this island provides a gorgeous perspective from above, resulting in an amazing and scenic landscape.
The tranquil beauty of Ngoc Vung Island, Quang Ninh (Source: Traveloka)
According to legend, this location formerly housed many rare and beautiful pearls that lighted the night sky. Fishing boats returning at night could frequently observe the pearl oysters' bright light, which created a luminous halo around the island. This fascinating phenomenon inspired the name "Ngoc Vung," which means "Shimmering Pearl".
Visitors can marvel at the natural beauties of white sandy beaches and crystal-clear blue waters on the island, which has a single road running from the port to the center. It's no wonder that Ngoc Island has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Quang Ninh Province.
From April through September, the island is open for visitors throughout the summer. Ngoc Vung Island is at its most pleasant during this time of year, with plenty of sunshine and little rain, so you can go camping, swimming, sailing, and exploring.
The beach of Ngoc Vung Island at sunset (Source: Vnexpress)
However, if you want to travel around this period, you should stay up to current on the weather. Avoid traveling during stormy seas, tropical depressions, or storms, as these can upset your plans.
The only way to get to Ngoc Vung Island from the main ports is to use a speedboat or a traditional wooden boat. There are currently three main ports in Quang Ninh that provide access to Ngoc Vung Island: Ao Tien Port in Van Don, Hon Gai Port in Ha Long City, and Vung Duc Port in Cam Pha City.
Once you come to the port, you can choose between wooden boats, speedboats, or canoes to get to Ngoc Vung Island. The transportation cost typically ranges from 70,000 VND to 200,000 VND, depending on your choice of vessel.
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Ngoc Vung Ancient Citadel
Located in Binh Ngoc Village, Ngoc Vung Commune, Van Don District, the Ngoc Vung Ancient Citadel is a historic structure that dates back to the Mac Dynasty. During the Nguyen Dynasty, the citadel was renamed Tinh Hai Garrison.
The Ngoc Vung Citadel is a historical relic you shouldn't miss (Source: Kenh14)
The citadel endured the test of time, taking damage from both natural disasters and human interference; its original layout is now in ruins. Notwithstanding this, it is still a must-see for any history buff visiting the island.
Explore Fortress Hill
Fortress Hill on Ngoc Vung Island was originally created as a strategic viewpoint to protect the Ngoc Vung Ancient Citadel. The site included a watchtower designed to detect and prevent enemy ships from approaching the citadel. To deter invaders, the stronghold was notably strengthened with artillery, guns, and defensive platforms.
Take a walk to explore the island and capture stunning photos (Source: Kenh14)
Hon Phao Dai is now a popular check-in destination, with people eager to explore and snap unique photographs. Standing atop the stronghold, you can still see relics of the artillery emplacements that overlook the sea. It's also a fantastic vantage point for viewing Ngoc Vung's seaside beauty, which is stunning and spectacular.
Swimming at Truong Chinh Beach
Truong Chinh Beach, located on the southern part of Ngoc Island, is over 200 meters wide and approximately 3 kilometers long. It is one of the few beaches on Ngoc Vung Island that has retained its natural, unspoiled beauty.
The serene coastline is perfect for camping (Source: Easy Go)
In 1962, Comrade Truong Chinh came to this location to speak with the island's soldiers and civilians. To honor this important occasion, the residents named the island's most beautiful beach after him.
In addition, Truong Chinh Beach, with its beautiful white sand, crystal-clear waves, and gentle slopes, provides the ideal environment for guests to enjoy swimming and other water activities to their hearts' content.
Fishing and net-pulling with local fishermen
One of the most delightful activities for many tourists is to spend a day fishing on Ngoc Vung Island. Visitors can join locals on the beach to fish, draw nets, and harvest shellfish. The island's huge, white clams are ideal for grilling or preparing a tasty hot pot.
Ngoc Vung Island is home to many fishermen who live and work there (Source: VOV)
Nothing beats the satisfaction of reaping the benefits of your effort after a day of working with the island's fisherman, engaging with the local culture, and tasting the fresh catch.
Enjoy fresh seafood
Ngoc Vung Island is home to many fishermen who live and work there. Immerse yourself in the culture and lifestyle of the locals by trying clam digging or fishing along the shoreline. Experience firsthand the challenges and resilience of life by the sea. Catch your own fresh seafood, enjoy it right by the ocean, and bring some back as gifts for your loved ones and friends!
Some must-try seafood includes blue crabs, squid, clams, grouper hotpot, and more (Source: Vov)
The dishes prepared with fresh seafood here are highly recommended, according to travelers. The majority of the seafood is gathered first thing in the morning, guaranteeing its freshness, and expert chefs will skillfully cook it, providing you with amazing gastronomic experiences.
To ensure a smooth experience on the island, keep the following tips in mind:
In addition to its pristine and tranquil natural scenery, Ngoc Vung Island offers you the chance to explore the fishing activities of the local fishing village. Catching fish and enjoying it fresh by the sea is an experience you shouldn't miss when visiting this place.
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