Located in Bai Tu Long Bay, Quan Lan Island (Van Don District, Quang Ninh) is a pristine paradise known as the “emerald gem of the bay.” With its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and stunning photo spots, it draws nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Situated within a bay, the route to the island rarely encounters large waves, ensuring a smooth and swift journey with minimal risk of seasickness.

Like Co To Island, Quan Lan is at its most beautiful in the summer, especially from April to the end of June, when the skies are blue, temperatures are mild, and there is little rain. Autumn is also picturesque but tends to be cooler and wetter. Visitors traveling between July and September should check weather forecasts to avoid storms and tropical depressions.

From April to June, the island remains less crowded, allowing travelers to fully experience its peaceful charm. Linh Xinh, a visitor from Son La, recently visited Quan Lan with three friends and was captivated by its serene beauty.

She noted that although less developed for tourism compared to Cat Ba or Co To, Quan Lan’s allure lies in its untouched and tranquil environment. “After Typhoon Yagi in 2024, some parts of the island were severely damaged and are still under restoration,” Linh said.

Minh Chau Port has become a sought-after photography spot for tourists. The island features many beaches, including Minh Chau, Robinson, Rua, Tien, and Quan Lan.

Minh Chau Beach is known for its fine, white sand and is usually the most crowded. Robinson Beach, located between Son Hao and Minh Chau, offers a more secluded experience, with accommodations nestled among lush pine forests.

“Minh Chau and Quan Lan beaches are gently sloped with white sand and turquoise waters. Both have services like SUP rentals (about $8), banana boat rides (around $20), and canoe tours (roughly $12),” Linh shared. “I prefer Minh Chau because it’s very clean and almost completely free of trash.”

Another highlight is Eo Gio, located near Cau Temple and Cua Dong, about 6 km from Quan Lan Pier. From the mountaintop, visitors can take in sweeping views of the island and its foaming sea waves.

Vo Cuc Hill in Thai Hoa village is another famous check-in spot. From its peak, travelers are treated to panoramic vistas of the island and the poetic Bai Tu Long Bay.

Connecting the two island communes of Minh Chau and Quan Lan is a scenic, romantic road often called a natural “air conditioner” that cools the island’s summer heat. However, Linh observed that the casuarina trees along this route were heavily damaged by Typhoon Yagi, and the once-beautiful white sand riverbanks have lost some of their former charm.

“With a 2-day, 1-night itinerary, visitors can explore most of the island’s highlights. Our group stayed for two nights to leisurely enjoy the area’s gentle beauty,” Linh said. “Nighttime activities like squid fishing and catching ghost crabs are particularly fun.”

The group’s total expenses for transportation, accommodation, food, and entertainment amounted to about $100 per person.

Quan Lan boasts an abundance of fresh seafood, including some intriguingly named specialties like “sa sung,” “ca ghim,” and “cu ky.”

Sa sung, also known as peanut worms, sea worms, or marine ginseng, is found in the coastal regions of Quang Ninh. Considered a royal delicacy and a luxurious treat, dried sa sung costs about $120-$160 per kilogram.

Fresh sa sung, cleaned and gutted, ranges from $20-$32 per kilogram depending on the season. This delicacy is also prized in traditional medicine for its cooling and nourishing properties.

Despite its nutritional value, sa sung can trigger allergic reactions in some people, including itching, nausea, difficulty breathing, and facial swelling. In severe cases, travelers should seek medical attention immediately. Experts recommend trying new seafood in small amounts to test for sensitivity.

Linh Trang