Tucked away 11 kilometers off the coast of Nghi Son, Thanh Hoa province, Hon Me Island remains an untouched paradise waiting to be discovered. With its unspoiled landscapes, crystal-clear waters, limestone peaks, and lush green forests, this 420-hectare island is the largest in a cluster of 18 islets—often dubbed the “Mermaid of the Sea” for its natural charm and tranquility.
At MYCT Viet Nam Travel, a leading travel agency Singapore visitors rely on, we are proud to curate immersive experiences to such lesser-known wonders of Vietnam. Whether you’re an adventurous soul, a family with children, or a couple seeking a private escape, Hon Me offers a multifaceted retreat for all.
A Natural Masterpiece
The scenery on Hon Me Island is a dramatic union of sea and mountains—a place where untouched nature thrives in harmony. As your boat approaches, the island reveals itself with sweeping vistas of white sandy beaches curving gently along a turquoise shoreline, inviting travelers into a realm of peace and wonder. The sand is powdery soft, a warm cushion beneath your feet, while the water remains crystal-clear, shimmering in shades of blue and green that change with the light and tides.
Beyond the shore, towering limestone cliffs rise abruptly from the earth, blanketed in a rich layer of tropical rainforest that has remained largely untouched for centuries. These green giants are not only stunning to behold but also serve as the lungs of the island, producing fresh, clean air and offering refuge to countless species of flora and fauna. Ancient trees with twisted roots, rare orchids clinging to rocky outcrops, and medicinal plants used by locals for generations form a botanical sanctuary for nature enthusiasts.
Birdsong echoes through the canopy as exotic species flutter overhead, while the rustle of small mammals and reptiles moving through the underbrush adds a layer of quiet life to the landscape. The ecosystem here is remarkably diverse—home to rare birds, colorful butterflies, and even endangered primates, making it a true paradise for eco-tourists, biologists, and anyone seeking a deeper connection to the natural world.
More than just a pretty view, Hon Me Island is a living, breathing masterpiece—a place where nature’s raw beauty and resilience are on display in every direction. Whether you’re capturing the scenery through a camera lens or simply standing still to absorb its grandeur, the island offers a moment of awe that lingers long after you’ve left.
Things to Do on Hon Me Island
Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural discovery, Hon Me Island offers a variety of activities that immerse travelers in nature, tradition, and local life. Each experience is a doorway into the island’s untouched beauty and authentic charm.
1. Swim and Relax by the Beach
One of the first and most rewarding things to do when arriving on Hon Me is to let yourself sink into the serenity of its beaches. The shoreline is lined with stretches of pristine white sand that glisten under the tropical sun. The sea here is calm and clear, perfect for both a soothing dip or an extended float under the sky. The shallow waters close to the shore are safe for children, while deeper areas beckon confident swimmers with their refreshing embrace.
The gentle breeze carries the scent of salt and forest, creating a sensory blend of sea and jungle. Whether you choose to lie on the sand with a book, meditate to the natural rhythm of the waves, or simply stroll barefoot along the coast as the tide rolls in, these moments provide a precious escape from the pressures of everyday life. Many visitors describe it as a place where time seems to slow down, offering a rare chance to reconnect with yourself and the world around you.
2. Explore the Primary Forest
Venturing inland reveals one of Hon Me’s greatest treasures—its ancient, untouched rainforest. This dense green world is home to a staggering diversity of life and offers countless discoveries at every turn. Trekking trails wind through the trees, where sunlight filters through the canopy in golden beams, illuminating a path that feels both mysterious and magical.
As you walk, you’ll encounter massive, centuries-old trees with roots curling over moss-covered rocks, medicinal herbs known to locals, and bursts of color from wild orchids and vibrant butterflies. The forest is alive with sound: birds calling from treetops, insects buzzing, and leaves rustling as unseen creatures pass nearby. For the lucky and observant, glimpses of langurs leaping between branches or hornbills gliding above are not uncommon.
Guided tours with local nature experts can enhance the experience, explaining the ecological significance and folklore behind each species, plant, or trail. For photographers and nature lovers, this is a dream destination filled with moments of wonder waiting to be captured.
3. Hike the Limestone Hills
For adventure seekers, Hon Me’s limestone hills offer challenging yet rewarding hikes. The island’s terrain features a series of elevated ridges and cliffs that snake through the rainforest and lead to spectacular viewpoints. The hike itself becomes a meditative journey—each step through the earthy trail brings you closer to the island’s heart.
As you climb higher, the surrounding vegetation gives way to sweeping panoramas. From the summit, you can gaze out over the jade-blue sea stretching to the horizon, dotted with smaller islands and fishing boats. The contrast between the vast ocean and the lush forest below paints a breathtaking natural canvas—perfect for sunrise or sunset views.
The physical exertion is more than worth it. Many travelers report feeling a deep sense of accomplishment and inner peace at the peak, where the silence of the mountaintop is broken only by ocean winds and distant birdcalls. It’s a moment of connection—with yourself, with the Earth, and with the raw power of nature.
4. Engage in Local Life
Hon Me Island is not just a haven of natural beauty—it’s also home to a resilient and welcoming coastal community. One of the most enriching experiences you can have here is to immerse yourself in the rhythms of local life. These encounters are not staged tourist shows but authentic daily rituals passed down through generations.
Wake up before dawn to join fishermen heading out to sea in traditional wooden boats. Learn how to mend fishing nets, clean the day’s catch, or sort seafood at the morning dockside market. If you stay with a local family, you may help prepare meals using fresh ingredients from the ocean and forest—an experience that turns into a culinary lesson rooted in tradition.
Islanders may invite you to share a cup of green tea and stories about storms, the sea gods, or life as a child growing up in isolation. These personal connections reveal a lifestyle shaped by resilience, gratitude, and a deep bond with nature.
Cultural exchange here is not just about observing—it’s about participating, listening, sharing, and building human connections. You leave not only with souvenirs but with real memories and friendships.
Culinary Highlights
For those who adore seafood, Hon Me Island offers a culinary experience that is both deeply satisfying and refreshingly authentic. Surrounded by rich fishing grounds and blessed with crystal-clear waters, the island’s cuisine revolves around the freshest catches from the sea—delivered straight from boat to table each day.
Freshly caught lobsters, tender squid, anchovies, mackerel, and a variety of clams and shellfish are at the heart of nearly every meal. These are prepared in a wide array of traditional Vietnamese styles: grilled over glowing charcoal for a smoky finish, steamed to preserve natural sweetness, stir-fried with garlic and green onions for bold flavor, or simmered in tangy tamarind-based broths that awaken the palate.
Among the local must-tries is gỏi cá mai (fish salad), a delicate dish made from raw, thinly sliced fish marinated in lime, herbs, and crushed peanuts—offering a unique balance of texture, freshness, and spice. Another island specialty is cháo hàu (oyster porridge), a comforting dish made with rice slowly cooked in seafood broth and topped with plump, savory oysters. Mực nhồi thịt (stuffed squid) is also a highlight, combining minced pork, herbs, and black pepper wrapped inside squid tubes, then grilled or braised in a rich sauce.
What makes Hon Me’s culinary scene especially remarkable is its simplicity. There are no extravagant presentations or high-end restaurants—just honest, wholesome meals crafted with local ingredients, traditional techniques, and a deep understanding of flavor. Meals are often enjoyed outdoors, under palm-thatched shelters with sea breezes wafting through, or in cozy homes where families gather around shared dishes and stories.
For travelers interested in immersive experiences, cooking with locals is a popular option. Join a host family to learn how to clean freshly caught fish, make dipping sauces from scratch, and steam clams with lemongrass over an open fire. It’s not just about eating—it’s about connecting through food, understanding local traditions, and savoring the joy of a meal made with care and pride.
How to Get There
Step 1: Travel to Hai Binh Fishing Port
- By private car: From Hanoi, take the Phap Van – Cau Gie highway toward Ninh Binh, then continue through Tam Diep, Bim Son, Thanh Hoa City, and finally to Tinh Gia town to reach Hai Binh port.
- By sleeper bus: Regular buses from Hanoi to Hai Binh cost around VND 150,000–200,000/person. From the bus stop, a quick taxi ride will take you to the port.
Step 2: Charter a Boat to Hon Me
Unlike more touristy islands, Hon Me does not operate fixed ferry routes. Instead, you’ll need to charter a boat. Rates range from VND 1.2 million to 1.5 million per boat (max. 12 passengers), and the journey takes roughly 3 hours.
Travel Tips
- Weather matters: Avoid the rainy season (December–March) when seas are rough.
- Book in advance: Boat charters should be arranged prior to arrival.
- What to bring: Sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, swimwear, trekking shoes, insect repellent, and personal medicines are essential.
- Connectivity: Prepare for limited mobile signal and electricity.
- Sustainability: Respect the island’s fragile ecosystems—leave no trace and support local services.
Why Visit Hon Me?
Hon Me isn’t just a destination—it’s a journey into Vietnam’s untouched nature. Its isolation preserves a kind of raw beauty increasingly rare in today’s fast-paced world. Here, you can hike, dive, learn, taste, and relax—all in one place.
At MYCT Viet Nam Travel, we believe travel should be transformational. A visit to Hon Me Island is more than just a getaway—it’s a retreat for the soul. Come with us to discover this hidden gem, where every step is a connection to the earth, the sea, and authentic Vietnamese culture.
