“This is the most rustic, untouched island my family has ever visited. Beautiful scenery, friendly people, fresh and affordable seafood,” shared Nguyen Ngoc Minh, a traveler from Ho Chi Minh City, about what he calls the "hidden gem" of Kien Giang.

Located 65km from Rach Gia City, Hon Son Island belongs to Lai Son Commune, Kien Hai District. Nestled between Nam Du and Hon Tre islands, this 11-square-kilometer island is embraced by six pristine beaches and has rightfully earned its reputation as a raw treasure of Kien Giang.

The island captivates tourists with its untouched nature, fresh air, warm hospitality, and vibrant seafood offerings. Most of the small local population make a living from fishing and gardening.

“Rustic charm untouched by mass tourism”

“My family has visited many famous islands like Ly Son, Cu Lao Cham, Con Dao, Nam Du, and Phu Quoc, but Hon Son is by far the most rustic and least commercialized,” Minh, 30, shared. “It’s the kind of place where you can truly slow down and disconnect from city life.”

They traveled to Hon Son in mid-April, a period of calm seas and sunshine ideal for exploring. They stayed in a local homestay with a balcony overlooking the ocean, waking each morning to the gentle sound of waves.

Highlights of the trip included swimming at Bai Bang, watching the sunrise from Ma Thien Lanh peak, wandering through fishing villages, and feasting on fresh seafood right by the sea.

“Nature’s canvas and coastal trails”

The island features a single scenic road that links all main attractions and beaches. Renting a motorbike (about $6/day) lets visitors explore all corners of the island - from Bai Nha and Bai Bang to Bai Xep and Bai Thien Tue.

"Riding around the island at sunrise or sunset gives you unforgettable views," Minh recalled.

Bai Bang beach dazzles with soft white sand and emerald waters under the sun, free of crowded restaurants and resorts. Instead, visitors find pure beaches, lush greenery, and tranquil vibes.

Ma Thien Lanh peak, over 450 meters high, is blanketed in gardens and forest, offering panoramic views and hiking opportunities.

One of the most memorable experiences for Minh’s family was snorkeling near Thien Tue Hamlet. “It was our child’s first time seeing colorful coral and fish swimming below. We were all in life jackets, immersed in the cool water, disconnected from the internet and screens  -  just laughter and nature. That’s what we truly seek in every family trip,” Minh said.

“Fresh seafood and heartwarming locals”

Seafood on Hon Son is incredibly fresh and affordable. Visitors can buy fish, squid, shrimp, crabs, and sea urchins at Thien Tue Market at about two-thirds the price of other tourist islands.

“Our favorites were grilled sea urchin with scallion oil, steamed squid with ginger, and chili-salt grilled grouper. You can cook at your homestay or have it prepared at beachside stalls,” Minh added.

All services  -  from bike rentals to lodging and tours  -  are locally operated. While not yet professional, the locals are known for their sincerity and warmth.

“The people of Hon Son embody the spirit of the Mekong Delta: kind, honest, always greeting you with a warm smile. They, more than the beaches or food, are why I’ll keep coming back,” Minh said.

Budget-friendly escape

For a family of two adults and one child, the total cost for the trip was about $200, including ferry tickets, accommodation, meals, and island transport  -  considerably cheaper than other islands.

Hon Son’s main port is at Bai Nha. The island offers various seaside homestays and guesthouses ranging from $10-$20 per night depending on amenities. High-speed ferries from Rach Gia to the island take about 1.5 hours, with ticket prices ranging from $6 (standard) to $10-$12 (VIP).

“For those afraid of seasickness, most boats are now high-speed and smooth. We ate light before boarding, chose middle seats, took motion sickness pills, and tried to stay relaxed,” Minh shared.

The ideal time to visit Hon Son is between January and June.

Linh Trang