Co To

Cô Tô Island – A Peaceful Paradise in the North

? Overview

• Location: Quảng Ninh Province, northeastern Vietnam (about 80 km from Ha Long City).

• Part of the Cô Tô Archipelago, including Big Cô Tô (Cô Tô Lớn) and smaller islands like Cô Tô Con.

• Known for clear turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and a peaceful atmosphere untouched by mass tourism.

? Why Visit Cô Tô?

• Some of the cleanest and most beautiful beaches in northern Vietnam.

• A quiet, non-commercialized escape, perfect for relaxation and nature lovers.

• Ideal for beach lovers, couples, families, and off-the-beaten-path travelers.

• Affordable and welcoming with growing eco-tourism infrastructure.

? Top Attractions

1. Van Chay Beach

• One of the most beautiful and quietest beaches.

• Long white sand stretch with crystal-clear water — great for swimming, relaxing, or beach games.

2. Hong Van Beach

• Calm and shallow waters, ideal for families with children.

• Kayaking and beach camping available.

3. Cô Tô Con Island

• Uninhabited island with pristine beaches.

• You can rent a boat to explore or snorkel in the clear waters.

4. Lighthouse of Cô Tô

• Built in the 1800s, offering panoramic views of the sea and forests.

• Climb up for sunrise or sunset views.

5. Love Road (Con Đường Tình Yêu)

• A romantic seaside walkway with pine trees and ocean breeze — perfect for evening strolls.

6. Cô Tô Church

• A small but historic Catholic church with French colonial architecture.

? Best Time to Visit

• April to September: Best beach weather, warm and sunny.

• Avoid late July to early August: Typhoon season.

• October to March: Cooler and windier, fewer tourists — better for quiet stays but less suitable for swimming.

? How to Get to Cô Tô

1. From Hanoi:

   • Take a bus or limousine (~4 hours) to Cái Rồng Port (in Vân Đồn District, Quảng Ninh).

   • Then, take a speedboat to Cô Tô Island (~1–1.5 hours).

   • Boat companies: Ka Long, Phuc Xuyen, and Quang Minh (check schedules in advance).

2. Important Tip:

   • Bring your ID or passport for boat ticket registration (required by local authorities).

   • Boat schedules may be affected by weather.

? Where to Stay

• Hotels and homestays in Cô Tô Town – convenient for dining and transport.

• Eco-resorts and beach bungalows – near Van Chay or Hong Van beaches for a peaceful retreat.

• Some camping and glamping options are also available.

? Local Food to Try

• Seafood hotpot, grilled squid, mantis shrimp, sea snails.

• Cô Tô’s dried squid is a local specialty.

• Enjoy fresh catches of the day at beachside BBQ spots.

? Travel Tips

• Book accommodation and boats in advance, especially during holidays.

• Bring cash – there are limited ATMs on the island.

• Protect the environment – avoid leaving plastic waste behind.

• If prone to seasickness, bring motion sickness medication for the boat ride.