23 Unforgettable Things to Do in Co To Island in 2025-2026: Your Ultimate Explorer’s Guide
Discover Vietnam’s island paradise with our comprehensive guide to 23 must-do activities on Co To Island in 2025-2026. From secluded beaches to cultural immersion, find everything you need for an authentic island adventure.
The Hidden Jewel of Northern Vietnam: Co To Island Unveiled
Nestled in the emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin, approximately 80 kilometers from the mainland, Co To Island stands as one of Vietnam’s most captivating yet underexplored destinations. As travelers increasingly seek authentic experiences beyond the typical tourist routes, this pristine archipelago in Quang Ninh Province has quietly emerged as the perfect complement to the more famous Halong Bay cruises.
With its powdery white beaches, crystal-clear waters, lush forests, and vibrant local culture, Co To offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of Vietnam’s more trafficked destinations. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, nature lover, or cultural enthusiast, our expanded 2025 guide reveals 23 extraordinary experiences that showcase why Co To deserves a prime spot on your Vietnam itinerary.
Beach Paradise: Co To’s Coastal Wonders
1. Unwind at Hong Van Beach – The Crown Jewel
Hong Van Beach stretches an impressive 4.2 kilometers along the eastern coast of Co To Island, boasting some of the gentlest waves and finest white sand in Northern Vietnam. The beach’s shallow gradient creates a safe swimming environment with water that rarely exceeds chest height for 50 meters offshore.
What makes Hong Van truly special is its exceptional water clarity, with visibility reaching up to 15 meters on calm days, allowing you to see your feet even when chest-deep in water. The beach faces east, making it an ideal spot for sunrise enthusiasts, with first light typically appearing around 5:20 AM during summer months.
For the ultimate experience, visit between May and June when the water temperature hovers around a perfect 25-27°C and jellyfish are virtually absent from these waters.
2. Experience Van Chay Beach’s Wild Beauty
Located on the western shore, Van Chay Beach offers a different experience with its 1.7-kilometer stretch of golden sand framed by ancient pine forests. Unlike the calm waters of Hong Van, Van Chay features more dynamic conditions with moderate waves reaching 0.5-1 meter in height during afternoon hours, making it ideal for beginner surfers.
The beach’s most distinctive feature is its dramatic sunset backdrop against limestone karsts in the distance. The golden hour typically begins around 5:30 PM, transforming the entire coastline into a photographer’s dream. Local vendors set up around 4:00 PM, offering fresh coconuts (40,000 VND) and grilled seafood skewers (60,000-80,000 VND), creating a perfect sunset dining experience.
3. Discover the Seclusion of Love Beach (Bãi Tình Yêu)
Love Beach earned its romantic name from its heart-shaped cove, visible when viewed from the nearby hillside. This intimate 800-meter stretch of coastline is nestled between two rocky outcrops that protect it from strong currents, creating a natural swimming pool effect.
The beach features unique black and white speckled sand, the result of volcanic mineral deposits mixed with coral fragments. Visit during weekdays when you might have the entire beach to yourself—a rarity in Vietnam’s coastal destinations. The small size and seclusion make it perfect for couples seeking privacy or photographers capturing untouched coastal scenery.
Natural Wonders and Scenic Viewpoints
4. Witness the Geological Marvel of Cau My Rock Reef
Cau My Rock Reef represents one of Vietnam’s most unique geological formations, with stratified rock layers dating back approximately 400 million years. These sedimentary formations create a natural staircase descending into the sea, with some platforms extending up to 20 meters from the shoreline.
This site reveals six unique rock layers from different geological periods in one spot. Visit at low tide (around 4–6 AM in summer) to see exposed reef pools filled with crabs, starfish, and sea anemones.
Local guides can point out fossils embedded in the rock formations, including ancient marine organisms preserved for millennia. The early morning light creates dramatic shadows across the striations, highlighting the textural differences between rock layers.
5. Trek to Co To Lighthouse for Panoramic Island Views
Standing at an impressive 110 meters above sea level, the Co To Lighthouse offers the most comprehensive 360° view of the entire archipelago. Built in 1962 and renovated in 2017, this historic structure features a spiral staircase with 72 steps leading to an observation deck where, on clear days, visibility extends up to 25 kilometers.
The lighthouse sits amidst a 15-hectare forest of ancient trees, some over 100 years old. The trail leading to the lighthouse covers approximately 1.2 kilometers through dense vegetation, where you might spot the rare Co To black squirrel (Callosciurus erythraeus). The best visiting time is between 3-5 PM when the afternoon light illuminates the surrounding islands without harsh shadows.
6. Explore Co To’s Primeval Forest Ecosystem
The northern section of Co To Island harbors a remarkable primeval forest spanning 324 hectares that has remained largely untouched for centuries. This biodiverse ecosystem features over 450 plant species, including several endemic varieties found nowhere else in Vietnam.
The forest’s most impressive features include centuries-old “po mu” trees (Fokienia hodginsii) reaching heights of up to 30 meters with trunk diameters exceeding 1.5 meters. The forest floor hosts a complex network of medicinal plants, including rare gingers and wild orchids that local shamans have used for generations.
Guided eco-tours (300,000 VND per person) follow a 2.8-kilometer trail system designed to minimize environmental impact while showcasing the forest’s highlights. The densest sections maintain a temperature approximately 4-6°C cooler than the island’s beaches, offering welcome relief during summer months.
Island Adventures Beyond the Ordinary
7. Discover Hidden Caves Along Co To’s Rugged Coastline
The island’s northeastern coastline features a network of sea caves formed by centuries of wave action against limestone structures. The most accessible, Hang Doi (Bat Cave), stretches 42 meters into the cliff face and houses a colony of over 500 fruit bats.
During low tide, experienced kayakers can explore smaller caves that are only accessible from the water. These hidden grottos feature stunning stalactite formations illuminated by the refracted light through the turquoise water, creating an otherworldly blue glow similar to the more famous caves of Halong Bay.
For a truly unique experience, time your visit with the full moon when moonlight penetrates certain cave openings, creating natural spotlights on the interior rock formations. Local boat operators offer specialized cave tours for approximately 400,000 VND per person.
8. Embark on a Fishing Expedition with Local Fishermen
Join local fishermen at 4:30 AM to experience traditional fishing methods passed down for generations. Techniques vary by season and target squid, mackerel, and grouper. Trips last 4–5 hours and include hands-on instruction. Afterward, help prepare your catch with simple local recipes. Guesthouses offer this for about 600,000 VND per person, including gear and breakfast.
9. Kayak Through Co To’s Secret Lagoons and Coves
Co To’s fragmented coastline creates dozens of hidden lagoons and secluded coves that remain invisible from the main beaches. Kayaking provides the perfect way to explore these secluded spots, with rental operations offering single kayaks (70,000 VND/hour) and tandem kayaks (120,000 VND/hour).
The eastern coast features a series of connected lagoons spanning approximately 3 kilometers, accessible only during high tide through narrow passages between rock formations. These protected waters host vibrant marine ecosystems, including colorful reef fish, crustaceans, and the occasional sea turtle.
For experienced kayakers, the full island circumnavigation covers roughly 28 kilometers and typically takes 6-8 hours, with numerous opportunities to stop at secluded beaches inaccessible by land. Guided tours (starting at 500,000 VND) provide safety equipment and local knowledge about tidal patterns and currents.
Island Hopping Adventures
10. Venture to Co To Con (Little Co To) – The Ultimate Escape
Just 7 kilometers northeast of the main island lies Co To Con, a smaller, virtually undeveloped island that represents one of Vietnam’s last truly pristine coastal environments. With a land area of only 4.5 square kilometers and fewer than 50 permanent residents, this island offers an authentic glimpse into traditional Vietnamese island life.
The island features 5 distinct beaches, each with its own character, from the shell-covered Bai Ong Beach to the perfectly curved white sands of Bai Sau. There’s minimal tourism infrastructure—just a handful of basic homestays (300,000 VND/night) and small local eateries serving freshly caught seafood.
Transportation to Co To Con requires a 30-minute boat journey (150,000 VND round-trip) from the main island’s harbor. Boats typically depart at 8:00 AM and return at 4:00 PM, though schedules vary based on weather conditions. As electricity runs on generators only from 6 PM to 10 PM, bring portable chargers for electronic devices.
11. Explore Thanh Lan Island’s Underwater Paradise
Thanh Lan Island, located 11 kilometers southeast of Co To, offers some of the region’s best snorkeling and diving opportunities. The island’s western coast features coral gardens beginning just 5-10 meters from shore, with coral coverage exceeding 70% in protected areas.
The underwater visibility typically ranges from 10-15 meters, with the best conditions occurring between March and May. The reef ecosystem hosts over 120 fish species, including colorful parrotfish, angelfish, and occasional reef sharks in deeper sections.
Local dive operators offer full equipment rental (mask, snorkel, fins) for 200,000 VND per day, while guided snorkeling tours with transportation from the main island cost approximately 500,000 VND per person. For certified divers, single-tank dives start at 900,000 VND, with notable dive sites featuring drop-offs reaching depths of 18-25 meters.
12. Visit the Fishing Villages of Dao Tran
Located on a separate islet approximately 4 kilometers west of the main harbor, the Dao Tran fishing communities represent some of the oldest settlements in the Co To archipelago, with records dating back over 300 years.
These floating villages consist of approximately 45 households living in colorful stilt houses arranged in a horseshoe pattern around a protected bay. The community maintains traditional boat-building techniques, constructing wooden vessels without using metal nails—a method passed down through generations.
Visitors can arrange day trips through local tour operators (350,000 VND) that include transportation, village walks, and lunch with a local family. Many homes also operate small workshops producing artisanal fish sauce using a fermentation process that takes up to 18 months, creating a depth of flavor rarely found in commercial products.
Cultural Immersion and Local Life
13. Visit the President Ho Chi Minh Memorial Site
This 2.5-hectare memorial marks Ho Chi Minh’s 1961 visit to Co To, featuring a bronze statue, native plants, and a museum with photos, personal items, and his notes on sustainable fishing. Events on May 19 and September 2 include performances and exhibitions. Open daily 7:30 AM–5:00 PM, free entry.
14. Experience Co To Night Market’s Culinary Delights
Every evening from 6:00 PM until approximately 10:30 PM, Co To’s central harbor area transforms into a vibrant night market stretching 400 meters along the waterfront. The market features over 50 food stalls operated primarily by local fishing families selling their daily catch prepared according to traditional island recipes.
Must-try specialties include:
- Cua đá (stone crab): Steamed and served with a dipping sauce of lime, salt, and black pepper (150,000-200,000 VND depending on size)
- Mực một nắng (half-dried squid): Squid dried for precisely 4 hours then grilled over charcoal (120,000 VND per portion)
- Sa sung (peanut worms): A local delicacy harvested from sandy beaches and typically stir-fried with garlic (180,000 VND per plate)
- Rượu sim (rose myrtle wine): Homemade wine produced from wild berries growing in Co To’s forests (40,000 VND per glass)
Beyond food, approximately 20 vendors sell handcrafted souvenirs including jewelry made from local shells and coral fragments (80,000-250,000 VND) and hand-woven baskets crafted from native grasses (100,000-300,000 VND).
15. Learn Traditional Net Weaving in Co To Village
In the island’s oldest settlement, located on the northwestern shore, several families maintain the traditional craft of fishing net production. These artisans create nets specifically designed for local fishing conditions, with different patterns optimized for various marine species.
Participatory workshops (200,000 VND per person) offer hands-on experience in basic net weaving techniques, including the distinctive “double-knot” method that creates particularly durable nets. These sessions typically last 2-3 hours and include tea and local rice cakes served in the craftsperson’s home.
The most skilled artisans can weave up to 20 square meters of net daily, incorporating knowledge passed down through generations about optimal mesh sizes for different seasons and target species. Completed nets last approximately 3-5 years of active use before requiring replacement.
Adventure and Active Pursuits
16. Cycle the Island’s Scenic Coastal Road
Co To’s recently improved coastal road system covers approximately 28 kilometers in a loop around the main island, offering breathtaking views and access to remote beaches. The road is predominantly flat with occasional gentle hills, making it suitable for cyclists of all fitness levels.
Bicycle rentals are widely available in the main town, with standard bikes costing around 80,000 VND per day and mountain bikes priced at 150,000 VND. Electric bikes, increasingly popular for exploring the entire island without fatigue, rent for approximately 200,000 VND daily.
The northeastern section of the coastal road between Hong Van Beach and Cau My Rocks offers particularly spectacular vistas, with uninterrupted ocean views for nearly 7 kilometers. Several natural rest stops feature covered pavilions where cyclists can pause to enjoy the scenery. The full island circuit typically takes 3-4 hours at a leisurely pace, allowing for photo stops and swimming breaks.
17. Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding at Dawn
The calm morning waters around Co To provide ideal conditions for stand-up paddleboarding, particularly along the eastern coastline between 5:30 AM and 8:00 AM when the sea resembles a mirror. Several operators near Hong Van Beach offer board rentals (150,000 VND per hour) and basic instruction for beginners.
More experienced paddleboarders can explore the small uninhabited islets approximately 1-2 kilometers offshore, where the water clarity often exceeds 12 meters, creating the sensation of floating above the seafloor. The sheltered bay near the harbor features warmer waters averaging 2-3°C higher than open coastal areas, making it comfortable even during cooler months.
18. Camp Under the Stars on Secluded Beaches
For the ultimate island experience, several operators now offer overnight beach camping packages on remote stretches of coastline. The most popular camping beaches include the northern section of Hong Van and the secluded eastern coves near Bai Nhat.
Standard packages (400,000 VND per person) typically include tent rental, sleeping mats, bonfire setup, and basic bathroom facilities. Premium options (700,000 VND per person) add comfortable air mattresses, BBQ dinner with fresh seafood, and breakfast delivery.
The minimal light pollution on Co To’s eastern shores creates exceptional stargazing opportunities, with the Milky Way clearly visible on moonless nights. The island’s position at 20.5°N latitude makes both the North Star and Southern Cross visible during different seasons, a relatively rare phenomenon in global stargazing locations.
Culinary Experiences and Local Specialties
19. Participate in a Traditional Seafood Hotpot Experience
Co To’s signature culinary experience centers around the “lẩu hải sản” (seafood hotpot), prepared using techniques specific to the island. Unlike mainland versions, Co To hotpots use a broth base made from seawater diluted to exactly 1.5% salinity and infused with local herbs including island-grown lemongrass and wild pepper leaves.
The most authentic experience comes from beachside restaurants where dining tables are set directly on the sand. The standard hotpot typically includes at least 7-9 different seafood varieties, all caught within 24 hours. Standout ingredients include:
- Ghẹ xanh (blue swimming crab): Sweeter and more tender than mainland varieties
- Bào ngư (abalone): Harvested from rocky shorelines around Co To Con
- Hàu sữa (milk oysters): Small, creamy oysters from the island’s western bays
- Nghêu Co To (Co To clams): Distinguished by their orange-tinged shells and intense flavor
A complete hotpot experience for two people typically costs 450,000-650,000 VND depending on seasonal seafood availability and restaurant location.
20. Sample Traditional Island Liquors
Co To islanders produce several distinctive spirits using traditional fermentation and distillation methods passed down through generations. The most famous is “rượu hải sâm” (sea cucumber alcohol), created by infusing rice liquor with dried sea cucumber for medicinal properties and a uniquely savory flavor profile.
Several family-run distilleries welcome visitors for tasting sessions (typically 50,000-100,000 VND), explaining their production processes that involve multiple distillations in copper stills. The island’s signature spirit, “rượu sim” (rose myrtle wine), undergoes fermentation for exactly 60 days before being ready for consumption.
For the adventurous, the potent “rượu cá ngựa” (seahorse liquor) combines rice spirits with locally harvested seahorses and is traditionally believed to enhance vitality. Most distilleries offer bottles for purchase (150,000-400,000 VND depending on variety and quality) that make unique souvenirs.
21. Learn to Cook Island Specialties
Several guesthouses and restaurants now offer cooking classes focusing on Co To’s distinctive culinary traditions. These typically 3-hour sessions (300,000-450,000 VND per person) begin with a guided visit to the local market to select fresh ingredients, followed by hands-on preparation of 3-4 traditional dishes.
Popular recipes taught include:
- Gỏi sứa (jellyfish salad): A refreshing appetizer combining tender jellyfish with local herbs and a distinctive chili-lime dressing
- Cá song hấp (steamed grouper): Fish caught around the island’s rocky outcroppings. Prepared with a traditional sauce featuring fermented soybeans and island-grown ginger
- Cháo hàu (oyster porridge): A comforting rice porridge infused with fresh oysters and aromatic herbs
Most classes conclude with participants enjoying their creations alongside complementary local rice wine. Several operators provide recipe cards translated into English so you can recreate the dishes at home.
Relaxation and Wellness
22. Experience Traditional Island Massages
Co To has developed its own distinctive massage tradition incorporating elements from Vietnamese, Chinese, and indigenous island techniques. Several wellness centers now offer these specialized treatments focusing on pressure points believed to release tension accumulated from sea voyages.
The signature “Ngư Dân” (Fisherman’s Massage) targets the specific muscle groups stressed during traditional fishing work, using a combination of deep pressure and stretching techniques. The treatment incorporates locally produced aromatic oils infused with medicinal plants from the island’s forests.
Sessions typically last 60-90 minutes and cost between 300,000-500,000 VND depending on duration and location.
23. Practice Sunrise Yoga on Pristine Beaches
Co To’s eastern shores are perfect for sunrise yoga, with daily sessions starting at 5:30 AM on Hong Van Beach. Group classes (100,000 VND) suit all levels, while private sessions (250,000 VND) offer personalized instruction. Some teachers blend yoga with Vovinam for a unique practice. The island’s clean, oxygen-rich air boosts breathing, and sessions end with meditation as the sun rises.
Essential Travel Information for Co To Island in 2025
How to Get to Co To Island
From Hanoi:
- Take a comfortable limousine bus from Hanoi to Cai Rong Port in Van Don (approximately 3.5 hours, 250,000 VND)
- From Cai Rong Port, high-speed boats depart regularly to Co To Island (75 minutes, 230,000 VND one-way)
From Halong Bay:
After your unforgettable Halong Bay cruise experience, you can easily extend your journey to Co To:
- Return to shore and take a shuttle to Cai Rong Port (1 hour, 150,000 VND)
- Catch the high-speed boat to Co To Island as described above
Best Time to Visit Co To Island
The ideal time to visit Co To is from April to October, with May and June offering the perfect balance of warm temperatures (averaging 26-28°C) and minimal rainfall. The waters are clearest during this period, with underwater visibility often exceeding 10 meters.
The island’s tourism high season runs from June through August, coinciding with domestic summer holidays. For a more tranquil experience, consider visiting in April-May. September-October when you’ll find beaches considerably less crowded while still enjoying favorable weather.
Accommodation Options
Co To’s accommodation has significantly improved for 2025, offering options for every budget:
- Luxury: Co To Elite Hotel and Co To Paradise Resort offer air-conditioned rooms with sea views. Starting at 1,200,000 VND per night
- Mid-range: Green Co To Hotel and Hong Van Beachside Bungalows provide comfortable rooms from 600,000-900,000 VND
- Budget: Family-run guesthouses throughout the main town offer clean, basic rooms from 350,000 VND
Local Transportation
Getting around Co To Island is straightforward in 2025:
- Electric scooters remain the most popular option, with rentals costing 150,000-200,000 VND per day
- Bicycles provide an eco-friendly alternative at 80,000-150,000 VND daily
- Electric taxis now operate on the main island, with most trips between major attractions costing 70,000-150,000 VND
Combining Co To with Other Northern Vietnam Experiences
For travelers seeking to maximize their northern Vietnam adventure, Co To Island pairs perfectly with other iconic destinations. Consider this ideal itinerary combination:
- Begin with a luxurious 3-day cruise through Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay, exploring limestone karsts and hidden lagoons
- Continue to Co To Island for 2-3 days of pristine beaches and authentic island culture
- Return to Hanoi via Van Don, perhaps stopping at Yen Tu Mountain for spiritual exploration
Final Thoughts: Why Co To Island Deserves Your Visit in 2025
As Vietnam’s tourism continues to evolve, Co To Island represents the perfect balance between accessibility and preservation. Unlike more developed coastal destinations, Co To maintains its authentic charm while offering sufficient infrastructure for comfortable travel. Visiting in 2025 offers the perfect balance of comfort and untouched charm.
Whether you’re extending a Halong Bay luxury cruise or seeking a standalone island adventure, Co To rewards travelers with experiences that remain refreshingly authentic in an increasingly homogenized travel landscape.
Ready to experience the pristine beauty of northern Vietnam’s island paradise? Start planning your journey to Co To Island today. And discover why it’s becoming the essential complement to any northern Vietnam adventure.
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