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When travelers think of Quy Nhon, names like Ky Co and Eo Gio often come to mind first. But beyond these well-known spots lies a treasure that still escapes the radar of many: Seo Island. With its untouched charm, this remote island offers a completely different side of Quy Nhon. Let Asia King Travel take you there as we explore the highlights of Seo Island through this article.
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Seo Island remains an undiscovered paradise for many
Seo is considered one of the two highest islands in the Nghiem Kinh Chieu island group, standing at nearly 90 meters above sea level.
Since Seo Island is nearly uninhabited, it has preserved the wild charm and peaceful atmosphere until now. Unlike the long stretches of golden sand found at many popular beaches in Quy Nhon, Seo Island stands out with thousands of odd-shaped rocks lying naturally on one another. Among those stones, there are smooth, rounded ones that sparkle in various colors.
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Being nearly uninhabited, Seo Island has kept its wild beauty and calm atmosphere
This unique feature is closely tied to the origin of the island’s name. According to local legend, there was once a large cave on Nghiem Kinh Chieu Island that could hold hundreds of people. One night, a massive storm with fierce winds and thunder caused the cave to collapse and sink into the sea.
After the storm passed, only a bed of rocks and scattered fragments remained. Since then, people began calling this place Seo Island, as the rock formations are seen as the lasting "scar” (“seo” in Vietnamese) of that sunken cave.
Today, Seo Island has become a wonderful destination for travelers to unwind with not only rare coastal beauty but also fresh, cool sea air.
Seo Island is located near Ly Chanh Hamlet on the Phuong Mai Peninsula, within East Quy Nhon Ward, Gia Lai Province, Vietnam. From the island, you can admire the charming edge of Cam Mountain since it lies just nearly 3 kilometers away.
Seo Island lies in East Quy Nhon Ward, part of Gia Lai Province
Read more: Quy Nhon Tour 4 Days: Hidden Beaches & Cham Heritage
One noticeable thing you should know, as this island remains relatively isolated within turquoise waters and dramatic coastal cliffs, it can only be reached by boat. With that being said, you can choose from two scenic routes, each offering a different experience of Gia Lai's stunning coastline.
The most common way is to depart from Nhon Ly Beach, where you can hop on a boat with local fishermen. This route takes you through the famous Eo Gio Strait and reaches the island in just about 20 minutes. If you crave a quick, breezy ride and endless sea views, this option is meant for you.
Seo Island stays quite isolated and is accessible only by boat
For those who prefer a more leisurely journey, departing from Quy Nhon Port is the other route. Though it takes over an hour, the boat ride allows you to fully soak in the vastness of the sea. As you move toward Seo Island, its dramatic shoreline will slowly unfold, leaving you some moments in awe.
Regardless of the route you take, it is recommended to bring your camera, because the views along the way are just as memorable as the island itself.
While Seo Island can technically be visited year-round, the dry season, especially from March to July, offers the most rewarding journey. During these months, the skies stay clear, and so does the sea with its collection of blue shades.
Moreover, the gentle breezes make the heat even more bearable for outdoor activities, such as diving among coral reefs and capturing pictures of the raw beauty that defines Seo Island.
On the other hand, from August to February, the region is often swept by heavy rains and rough seas. As a result, boat trips become uncertain, and the turquoise water loses clarity, making it less ideal for the island trip.
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Dry season is an ideal time to visit Seo Island
So if you have Seo Island in mind when it comes to a holiday, aim for the dry months to get access to the full island experience. Another small tip is to arrive at sunrise or stay through sunset. You might encounter golden hour casting long shadows over Seo’s rocky landscape. It’s these cinematic moments that make the trip truly unforgettable.
One of the most captivating experiences at Seo Island is snorkeling through its coral reefs. Just beneath the crystal-clear surface, an underwater world reveals itself. As you glide through, you might spot schools of tropical fish weaving between coral branches as well as curious mackerels watching you from a distance. What’s more, when you take a closer look into a rocky crevice, there is a high chance you come across a shy octopus peeking out.
Snorkeling among the coral reefs is one of the most unforgettable experiences at Seo Island
Even if you're just a beginner, this activity remains remarkably safe and enjoyable. Thanks to the availability of modern diving equipment and well-prepared safety gear, you'll feel confident as soon as you enter the water. On top of that, experienced local guides are always nearby to offer support and ensure everything goes smoothly.
When the sun rises and the sea goes calm, you’ll set out on a traditional wooden boat, driven by fishermen who know Seo Island’s waters like the back of their hand. During your experience, they might give you tricks for baiting a good catch, but that’s not the ending. You’ll then realize how to fish not just with skill, but with patience and instinct.
Once ashore, the next step is to prepare meals from your very own haul. You can choose from grilling fish over open flames, simmering them into fragrant soup, to frying them until crispy and golden. Those delicious dishes are often enjoyed right on the beach, where the salty breeze mixes with the aroma of freshly cooked seafood.
Tourists go fishing on boats at Seo Island
Dragon Head Cave of Seo Island is a hidden gem within a hidden gem. You might find that this cave is surprisingly cool and spacious. What makes it truly special, though, is the way wind and waves have sculpted those stones over time: jagged slabs tilt and stack atop one another in angular patterns, forming what from afar resembles the head of a dragon gazing out toward the sea.
One of the most photogenic spots on Seo Island is Da De Rock Field. It is a stretch of colorful stones that has sparked fascination among visitors and locals alike. Many people believe that the number of stones here keeps growing over time, as if the sea itself continues to "give birth" to them. Hence, the name “Da De” or “birthing rocks” is used to call this attraction.
Da De Rock Field is among the most picture-perfect locations on Seo Island
Seo Island doesn’t greet you with fanfare; it just quietly exists, waiting for those curious enough to come find it. There's no resort, no crowds, no rush, just the sound of waves and the texture of stone beneath your feet. It’s the kind of place that reminds you travel isn’t always about doing more, but about feeling deeper. If that sounds like the kind of Vietnam you want to meet, let Asia King Travel take you there through our trusted tours.
