What is Cai Chien Island?
When travelers think of beach getaways in northern Vietnam, places like Ha Long, Co To, or Quan Lan often come to mind. But if you’re seeking a quiet, untouched island with clean beaches, peaceful camping spots, and zero crowds, Cai Chien Island in Quang Ninh Province is the best-kept secret to visit in 2025.
Located about 60 km from Mong Cai City, Cai Chien still preserves its pristine charm: green forests, crystal-clear water, friendly locals, and very little commercial tourism. In fact, search trends for “Cai Chien travel guide,” “Cai Chien experiences,” and “Dau Rong Beach” are quickly rising, making it a new favorite among Vietnamese travelers.

How to Get to Cai Chien Island
From Hanoi:
- Take a sleeper bus to Hai Ha (Quang Ninh)
- Then continue by taxi or motorbike to the Hai Ha – Cai Chien ferry port
From Hai Ha to Cai Chien:
- Board the public ferry (operates 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM)
- Ride time: ~30 minutes
- Ticket price: 20,000–30,000 VND/way
👉 Tip: You can bring a motorbike on the ferry to explore the island freely

Best Time to Visit
- April to September: Ideal weather for swimming, camping, and sunrise hunting
- Avoid the winter months (Oct–Feb): Cooler, not suitable for beach activities
Top Experiences on Cai Chien Island
🏖️ Swim & Camp at Dau Rong Beach
The most beautiful beach on the island, with soft white sand and turquoise water. You can camp overnight right by the shore, BBQ under the stars, or just chill out.
🚲 Ride Around the Island
Cai Chien has a concrete road winding through forests and along the coast—perfect for exploring by bike or electric cart. Along the way, you’ll see fishing villages, rocky beaches, and untouched nature.
🌅 Watch the Sunrise at Cai Chien Beach
A peaceful stretch with rows of whispering pine trees. Bring your coffee and enjoy the first rays of sun over the sea.
🎣 Go Fishing, Collect Oysters, or Visit Thoi Xanh Islet
A nearby islet with crystal-clear water. You can rent a small boat or join local fishermen for a day of “slow living.”

What to Eat on the Island
- Fresh seafood: Crabs, shrimp, clams, and mussels—either caught directly or prepared by your homestay
- Cai Chien native chicken: Free-range and tasty, a local delicacy
- Home-cooked rice meals: Served in many homestays, simple but hearty and comforting
Where to Stay on Cai Chien
🏠 Recommended Homestays
- Cai Chien Riverside Homestay: Near the ferry, easy to access
- Cai Chien Eco Homestay: Green space, also offers tents for camping
- Minh Chau Homestay: Beachfront, serves meals
💰 Prices: ~200,000–350,000 VND/night. Camping gear can also be rented

Suggested 2-Day Itinerary
Day 1
- Morning: Travel to Hai Ha → take ferry → arrive and check in
- Noon: Lunch at a local homestay
- Afternoon: Relax at Dau Rong Beach, swim, and camp overnight
- Evening: BBQ dinner by the beach
Day 2
- Morning: Catch the sunrise at Cai Chien Beach → breakfast
- Late morning: Visit Thoi Xanh Islet or bike around the island
- Noon: Lunch → check out → ferry back to mainland
Travel Tips for Cai Chien
- No ATMs on the island – bring cash
Mobile signal can be weak in some areas - Bring insect repellent, snacks, and drinking water
- Respect the environment – the island is still very clean and natural

If you’re looking for a quiet, affordable, off-the-radar island, Cai Chien is a perfect choice for summer 2025. No crowds, no loud parties—just nature, peace, and authentic coastal village life. Go before it gets popular, and you’ll experience a rare slice of Vietnam that feels like your own private paradise.
Huong Anh Tourist – Professional Tour Operator
149A Pho Hue – Hai Ba Trung – Hanoi
654 Bac Kan – Hoang Van Thu – Thai Nguyen
Website: https://huonganhtourist.vn/
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Hotline: 0888 51 55 66