How to get to Co To Island is a common question for travelers who want a weekend getaway in this picturesque yet lesser-known destination in northern Vietnam. Located in Quang Ninh Province, Co To Island boasts serene beaches, azure-colored water, and solitude from the crowds. Let’s explore the essential steps you’ll need to take to arrive at Co To Island comfortably and safely.
How to get to Co To Island from Halong Bay
Reaching Co To Island from Halong Bay involves a combined land and sea journey, starting with a transfer to Van Don District – specifically Cai Rong Port or Ao Tien Port, both located about 80–90 km east of Halong City (approximately a 2-hour drive by car or shuttle bus).
From there, you’ll have two primary options to reach Co To Island by boat:
1. Speedboat
Speedboats are the most popular option due to their speed and frequent departure schedule. They typically depart from Ao Tien Port, which is newer and better equipped with modern infrastructure than Cai Rong. Ideal for those with limited time or who prefer shorter sea journeys.
- Travel time: ~1.5 hours (90 minutes)
- Ticket price: 200,000–250,000 VND
- Departure time: Multiple daily trips from 6:00 AM to 5:30 PM
- Comfort: Air-conditioned cabins, cushioned seating, and life jackets are provided.
- Best for: Travelers who want a fast and convenient option.
- Sea-sickness note: Higher chance of motion sickness due to high speeds and sea swell. Motion-sickness medication is recommended for sensitive passengers.
2. Wooden Slow Boat (Timber Junk)
Wooden boats are preferred by those who want to enjoy the sea breeze, take photos, and experience a more local and traditional journey. However, they are less comfortable during rainy or extremely hot days, as they may lack shade or enclosed spaces.
- Travel time: 2.5 to 4 hours
- Ticket price: 95,000–110,000 VND
- Departure time: Usually at 6:30 AM and 1:00 PM
- Comfort: Open-air decks with wooden benches or floor mats. Less modern, but more immersive and scenic.
- Best for: Travelers seeking a budget-friendly, slow-paced, and local experience.
- Sea-sickness note: Due to slower speed and steady motion, it is less likely to cause seasickness.
Directions from Hanoi to Co To Island
Traveling from Hanoi to Co To Island involves a combination of ground and sea transfers, making the answer for how to get to Co To Island easier than ever:
1. Hanoi to Van Don or Cai Rong Port
- Shared limousine/minivan: Companies like Van Don Xanh and Coto Ha Thanh offer seats for around 200,000–260,000 VND ($8–$12) from departures of 5 AM to 8 PM every 30–60 minutes; 3.5–4 hours’ travel time.
- Direct bus and boat combination: A few companies offer a package pick-up in Hanoi with a bus and a speedboat to Co To, around 9 hours in total for ~29 USD.
- Private car/minivan: Door-to-door in a fast time for approximately $130-170 USD, 3.5 hours .
- Minivan to Cai Rong: Bookings on sites such as BookAway cost ~US$12–13 with around 3h40m of travel time.
2. Van Don/Cai Rong Port to Co To Island
- Speedboat: From Ao Tien or Cai Rong, travel time is 1–1.5 hours, with tickets costing 200–250 K VND ($8–12 USD).
- Wooden boat: Slow and scenic, takes 2.5–4 hours, fares around 95–150 K VND .
3. Arrival at Co To Port & Transfers
- Upon docking, you’ll find tuk-tuks, motorbike taxis, or electric carts – hotel pick-up can be pre-arranged .
- Fares are typically 1 USD/km or fixed minimums of 2 USD per trip
Must-visit check-in spots in Co To
Co To Island is packed with photogenic and engaging locations that make your trip unforgettable. Here are the top must-see attractions:
1. Co To Lighthouse
Standing majestically on top of a green tropical hill, approximately 5 kilometers away from Co To town, is the aged Co To Lighthouse, an imposing edifice dating back to the late 1800s. The journey up to its summit is no less enchanting, as visitors are able to hike along winding pathways covered by old trees, offering panoramic vistas of the island below. This viewpoint is particularly renowned for its breathtaking sunrise and sunset sights, and it is paradise for photographers. Apart from its beauty, the age-old, enduring structure of the lighthouse itself lends an element of historical drama and immortal beauty to the entire experience. Its towering height offers expansive views that encapsulate the island’s serene beauty.
2. Cau My Rock Reef
Cau My Rock Reef presents the unique and magical seashore scenery, characterized by the dramatic geological profiles. Sea and wind power have eroded and reshaped these rock profiles for centuries with tenacity to produce a piled-up, visually aesthetic landscape of layers. This natural wonder is then an unparalleled paradise for nature lovers and photographers, especially at sunrise or sunset. Tourists usually visit to take seriously dramatic and memorable photo shoots backed by these rugged, ocean-sculpted formations. The play of light and dark over the rocks is a dynamic and ever-changing spectacle.
3. Hong Van Beach
Rated as one of Co To’s most serene and picturesque shorelines, Hong Van Beach is a paradise of tranquility. It boasts peaceful, inviting turquoise waters that gently lap against pristine, soft sands, creating an ideal setting for relaxation. Such a calm environment is perfect for relaxed activities such as soaking up the sun or enjoying a great beach picnic with friends and family. For a more natural experience, the stunning beach also offers a wonderful opportunity for overnight camping, where visitors can sleep with the sound of waves and wake up to a stunning sunrise over the ocean. Its pristine beauty is a favorite escape from the world.
4. Van Chay Beach
Van Chay Beach holds a special reputation, primarily famous for its exquisite long stretch of beautiful white sand that extends for miles along the coastline. It stands out due to its special multicolored waves, which offer a dynamic, multicolored oceanic show. This enormous and inviting beach is now a favorite hotspot for every beach lover who seeks both relaxation and activity. Its generous space is perfect to enjoy a refreshing swim in crystal waters, a stroll along the beach, or simply sit to see a lovely sunset paint the sky with a palette of colors. The thrilling yet spacious setting ensures a great experience for all its visitors.
5. Love Road
Charming within the heart of Co To Island, Love Road is a lovely walking street known for being famously shaded by tall casuarina trees. The charming road covers itself in a canopy of green, offering a stunningly shaded and tranquil ambiance, perfect for a hand-in-hand romantic walk or leisurely bike excursion. Affectionately dubbed “Love Road” by its many appreciative visitors, it’s undeniable charm and picturesque beauty have made it more than just a road. It has become an instant social media hit, drawing fans who wish to experience its own unique vibe and enjoy its own romantic beauty. The gentle rustle of leaves and serene atmosphere make it a memorable destination for couples and solo visitors as well.
6. Co To Con Island & Nearby Islands
Just a brief 25-30 minute boat ride from the main island lies Co To Con, a deserted and truly unspoiled gem of an island. This pristine islet is famous for having pristine beaches and abundant, multi-colored coral reefs, which thrive in its crystal clear waters. It is an ideal haven for adventure activities such as snorkeling, wherein visitors can explore the rich underwater world, or have a memorable evening of beach camping under a starry canopy. For others who also yearn for more solitude and exploration, the region has attractive day trips to other nearby islands such as Thanh Lan, Ca Chep, and Bat Huong, which offer even greater solitude and unique natural attractions. These secluded retreats prove to be perfect for experiencing the wild side of Co To.
7. Bac Van Port
Bac Van Port is the lively hub of Co To Island’s daily life at sea, offering a real glimpse into the island’s culture and economy. Every day, the port comes alive with the arrival and departure of numerous fishing boats, indicating the island’s love for the sea. The day was spent watching fishermen coming ashore with their daily catches, seeing the lively coordination and vibrant atmosphere of a beachside port in Co To. It was an ideal experience to interact with the locals and thoroughly feel like one was living the island rhythms. The views were a testament to the hard-working spirit and traditional charm of Co To.
8. Co To Church
As a serene and lovely relic of French colonialism, Co To Church is not just a place of worship; it is a deeply introspective glimpse of the richness of the cultural and historic heritage of the island. Its stunning, meticulously restored architecture evokes images of a distinctive colonial presence, and it shines beautifully against the island’s landscapes. The church’s serene surroundings provide a peaceful and contemplative ambiance, making it an ideal location for quiet reflection or photography. Its historical importance and beauty are major factors in appreciating the rich heritage that has contributed to Co To’s history over the centuries. The landmark is a powerful reminder of the past influences in the middle of the island’s contemporary bustling life.
How to get around Co To Island after arrival
Once you’ve arrived, Co To offers several local transport options to help you explore its treasures efficiently:
Motorbike Rental
The most adaptable choice, motorbikes cost around 200,000 VND/day (~$6–10 USD). They provide access to off-the-beaten-track scenic areas like Hong Van, Van Chay, lighthouse trails, and rocky reefs at your own relaxed pace. Just don’t forget, local roads can be rough, so helmets are necessary, and experience is highly suggested.
Motorbike Taxi & Tuk-Tuk
Don’t feel like taking the ride? Electric tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis are also available at ports and main hubs. Costs are around 1 USD/km or fixed trip prices (~2 USD), ideal for short journeys or small groups.
On-Foot & Cycling
For light moves, walking or bicycle rentals are a pleasant way to get around central spots like Love Road, the town of Co To, and nearby beaches. Travel distances between beaches and attractions are significant, so these options are ideal for light exploration.
Electric Carts or Guided Tours
Some hotels provide electric golf-cart rentals or escorted group tours, which can be a convenient solution for island-wide or scenic touring. This can prove especially beneficial for elderly or family groups.
Advice for a Smooth Journey to Co To Island
To ensure a worry-free trip to Co To Island, here’s a selection of helpful tips tailored for travelers:
1. Book Early & Pack Smart
Book ferry and accommodation in advance, especially during peak season (April–September), since they get booked quickly. Pack light and prepare for the sun – choose light and easy-to-transport luggage, and pack essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and sunglasses.
2. Be Prepared for Limited Connectivity
Download maps and booking confirmations offline beforehand – Co To’s signal is not always stable. Bring a power bank, as charging facilities are limited, especially in the case of island-wide power outages.
3. Plan with Flexibility
Check the weather in advance, especially between June and October, when storms cause disruption to ferries. Leave extra space between travel segments – ferries are sometimes late or cancel, and boats will wait for passengers to come aboard.
4. Engage Local Services in an Open Way
Negotiate or request quotes in advance, whether for taxis, rentals, or boats, as tourist areas have a range of prices. Negotiate respectfully but firmly. In the event of disputes, the local tourist office will intervene.
5. Remain Safe & Prepared
Local authorities or emergency phone numbers should be kept readily available in the event of issues. Beach and cliff warning signs and personnel guidance should be followed to avoid accidents.
6. Honour the Environment & Culture
Single-use plastics, including nylon bags, are not allowed at Co To – bring your reusable items to be within regulations and encourage eco-tourism. Leave the island clean: don’t litter, handle wildlife carefully, and don’t damage plants or coral reefs.
7. Expect Minimal Island Amenities
Shops, restaurants, and drinks can be few and far between in remote areas – bring water, snacks, and any special food you need. Swimming gear like masks or towels may be expensive or unavailable, so plan ahead.
8. Choose the Best Time of Year
The best time to travel is March–May or September–October – good weather, fewer tourists, ideal for sightseeing and swimming. Summer (June–August) is bustling with life on the streets and carnival festivals, but with increased risk of storms.
Summary Table
| Section | Key Information |
| From Halong Bay | – Depart from Cai Rong or Ao Tien Port (Van Don).
– Speedboat: 90 mins, 200,000–250,000 VND. – Wooden boat: 2.5–4 hrs, 95,000–110,000 VND.- Ao Tien Port is most used.- Arrive early; services may be canceled in typhoon season. |
| From Hanoi | Phase 1 – To Van Don Port: – Shared minivan: 3.5–4 hrs, 200,000–260,000 VND. – Bus + boat combo: ~9 hrs total, ~29 USD. – Private car: 3.5 hrs, $130–170 USD.Phase 2 – Ferry to Island: – Speedboat: 1–1.5 hrs, 200–250K VND. – Wooden boat: 2.5–4 hrs, 95–150K VND.Phase 3 – Local transfer: – Motorbike taxi/electric cart: ~1 USD/km or 2 USD/trip. |
| Top Check-in Spots | 1. Co To Lighthouse
2. Cau My Rock Reef 3. Hong Van Beach 4. Van Chay Beach 5. Love Road 6. Co To Con & nearby islets 7. Bac Van Port 8. Co To Church |
| Getting Around the Island | – Motorbike rental: 200,000 VND/day
– Tuk-tuk/Motorbike taxi: ~1 USD/km – Walking/Cycling: Best for the town center – Electric carts & tours: Offered by some hotels, great for groups/elderly |
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How to get to Co To Island is simpler than it seems when you plan your journey in stages. Whether starting from Hanoi or Halong Bay, a combination of road and sea travel will get you there affordably and efficiently. With beautiful beaches, scenic viewpoints, and a welcoming local vibe waiting for you, Co To Island is well worth the effort.
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