Introduction

Cai Chien Island is a small island in Hai Ha District, Quang Ninh Province. It is 330 km from Hanoi, 150 km from Ha Long City, and more than 8 km from the shore.

Visitors come to the island to enjoy its clear seas, soft sand beaches, and quiet atmosphere, where the only sounds are the waves and the rustling of the casuarina trees. Covering nearly 2,600 hectares, Cai Chien features rolling hills, lush primary forests, and is home to various bird and animal species. There are rocky rocks around the island that provide homes for many shellfish and other sea creatures.

Best time to come

From April to June, Cai Chien Island experiences its dry season, which also coincides with summer. From July to October, the weather turns cooler, and rainfall becomes more frequent. If you plan to explore the island and enjoy swimming, visiting during the dry season will allow you to fully appreciate the island’s stunning seascapes.

You should visit Cai Chien Island during the dry season for the best experience (Source: Trip)

You should visit Cai Chien Island during the dry season for the best experience (Source: Trip)

How to get there

To reach Cai Chien Island from Ghenh Vo Wharf, you must travel by ferry or speedboat.

Ferry: The most popular and cost-effective alternative, with several trips daily. The departure for Ghenh Vo to Cai Chien is 6:00 AM, 10:30 AM, and 4:00 PM, with the return from Cai Chien at 8:00 AM, 12:30 PM, and 6:00 PM.

Speedboat: A faster but more expensive alternative. Each boat carries about 18–20 passengers. If you're traveling in a group, you can contact operators at Ghenh Vo Port to book a boat.

Travel by ferry from Ghenh Vo Wharf to Cai Chien Island (Source: News)

Travel by ferry from Ghenh Vo Wharf to Cai Chien Island (Source: News)

Read more: Ha Long Bay Trip Full-day: Jewel of Northern part

Things to do in Cai Chien Island 

Dau Rong Beach

With white sand, rich casuarina trees, and glistening clean waters all year long, Dau Rong Beach appeals to many for its calm beauty. Here you may go paddleboarding or swimming, ride bikes around the island, have picnics and seafood BBQs outside, and camp in the Casuarina forest. Attracting many of tourists, it is also among the most well-liked beaches in Quang Ninh.

White sandy beach and crystal-clear water at Dau Rong Beach (Source: Vinpearl)

White sandy beach and crystal-clear water at Dau Rong Beach (Source: Vinpearl)

Khe Dau Lake

Khe Dau Lake, covering an area of approximately 18 hectares, is the largest freshwater reservoir on Cai Chien Island, Quang Ninh. The lake has a peaceful and refreshing atmosphere, and the clear blue skies make it look even more beautiful. Visiting Khe Dau Lake, you can immerse yourself in the fresh air, unwind, and escape from worry and tiredness.

Khe Dau Lake boasts a pristine and picturesque beauty (Source: Phuotvivu)

Khe Dau Lake boasts a pristine and picturesque beauty (Source: Phuotvivu)

The Love Path

In the heart of a verdant casuarina forest lies a quaint little path called the Love Path. This trail radiates tranquility and romance as it winds its way through majestic trees and stunning natural scenery. Whether it's sunrise or sunset, couples can take a stroll or ride bikes gently while listening to the sea wind rustle the trees.

The Love Path on Cai Chien Island (Source: VTC News)

The Love Path on Cai Chien Island (Source: VTC News)

Check-in with the colorful container houses

The colorful container houses are one of the best things about Cai Chien Island. They're a great place to check in and take pictures. This area used to be a resort, but now it's a busy place for tourists to enjoy. The colorful containers stand out against the island's beautiful plants, making for interesting and eye-catching photo possibilities.

The colorful container houses on Cai Chien Island (Source: Tourpro)

The colorful container houses on Cai Chien Island (Source: Tourpro)

Cai Chien Camping Outdoor

Cai Chien Camping Outdoor is a recently created experience on the island. Tents, BBQ feasts, and spectacular beach views are available, just like at other camping grounds.

This is the perfect spot to view the sunrise since, as soon as you leave your tent, you can see the ocean waves nearby. This wonderful location lets visitors enjoy grilled fish under the open sky while really immersing themselves in nature.

Camping outdoors and watching the sunrise on the beach in Cai Chien Island (Source: Dulich) 

Camping outdoors and watching the sunrise on the beach in Cai Chien Island (Source: Dulich) 

Accommodation and Suggested Itinerary for Cai Chien Island

Itinerary

Day 1: Starting early in the morning, travel to Ghenh Vo Port and get a ferry ticket to Cai Chien Island. Arriving, check your lodging before touring Dau Rong Beach and Cai Chien Beach. Swimming, playing, and exploring the island's natural beauties occupy the day. After dinner, unwind and savor a night before planning a beach barbecue or bonfire.

Day 2: Wake up early to catch the sunrise, take a morning stroll, and have breakfast by the beach. In the afternoon, take the ferry back to Ghenh Vo Port, then hire a taxi to the city center. 

Enjoy outdoor seafood dining at a homestay on Cai Chien Island (Source: Happyhome)

Enjoy outdoor seafood dining at a homestay on Cai Chien Island (Source: Happyhome)

Accommodation

For an authentic experience, many visitors prefer to camp on the beach, hire a guesthouse, or stay with local families. Homestays are the most popular option, with costs ranging between 80,000 and 100,000 VND per person each night. Some recommended homestays are: Happyhome Cai Chien, Homestay Chu Van Sanh, Homestay Tran Van To, and Homestay Phi Vung.

Conclusion 

With the stunning natural beauty with long sandy beaches, lush casuarina forests, and crystal-clear waters. Cai Chien Island offers a pristine and poetic landscape, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking to explore nature, experience local culture, and immerse themselves in the island’s way of life.

Read more: Halong Bay Trip full-day: Scenic Drive, Kayaking & Cave Exploration