Explore three hidden gems along Vietnam's central coast known for turquoise seas, white sand beaches, and untouched charm.
Ly Son Island, Quang Ngai
Hang Pagoda is a sacred destination in Ly Son. Photo: Linh TrangThe Small Island is known as the “Maldives of Vietnam.” Photo: Linh Trang
With crystal-clear waters, unspoiled landscapes, and captivating scenery, these three islands in central Vietnam offer ideal getaways for summer 2025.
Ly Son consists of three islands: Cu Lao Re (the Big Island), An Binh (the Small Island), and Mu Cu Islet, located about 30km off the mainland - around 45 minutes by high-speed ferry. The best time to visit is from April to August, when the skies are sunny, rain is minimal, and the sea is calm.
On the Big Island, visitors should head to the flagpole on Thoi Loi peak, which stands 20 meters tall and faces the Hoang Sa archipelago. This is also a perfect viewpoint to take in the stunning island seascape.
Other must-see spots include the majestic Cave Cliff (Hang Cau), flanked by towering cliffs on one side and turquoise sea with soft white sands on the other; the Tò Vò Gate, Hang Pagoda, Duc Pagoda, and the local seafood market.
Just a 15- to 20-minute canoe ride away, visitors can explore the Small Island, known as a turquoise paradise and often dubbed “Vietnam’s Maldives.”
Life here is simple and peaceful, with seaside homes soaking up sun and sea breezes. Locals live off fishing and farming. Visitors can swim or try paddleboarding, kayaking, and traditional basket boats.
Phu Quy Island, Lam Dong (formerly Binh Thuan)
Phu Quy boasts wild and rugged beauty. Photo: Pham Trong Nghia
The island offers numerous scenic photo spots. Photo: Pham Trong Nghia
Also called Cu Lao Thu or Cu Lao Khoai Xu, Phu Quy Island lies 120km southeast of Phan Thiet. The best time to visit is from December to June, when the seas are calm and the weather is clear.
Nicknamed the “Mini Maldives of Vietnam,” the island can be reached in 2.5 to 3.5 hours depending on the ferry type.
The island offers many picturesque spots such as Trieu Duong Bay, a serene beach with clear waters and soft sand; Bai Nho, a crescent-shaped beach; and Ganh Hang, a dramatic seaside cliff. Don’t miss the panoramic views from Cao Cat peak.
Nearby islets like Hon Den, Hon Trung, Hon Giua, Hon Do, and Hon Tranh are just a 10-minute canoe ride away.
Diep Son Island, Khanh Hoa
A unique white sand path stretches across the ocean. Photo: Cao Ky Nhan
Located in Van Phong Bay, Diep Son Island lies over 60km from Nha Trang city center and is just 15 minutes by canoe from Van Gia port.
In recent years, Diep Son has gained popularity thanks to its raw beauty: clear turquoise water, soft white sands, and untouched surroundings, earning it comparisons to a “Vietnamese version of the Maldives.”
From above, the Diep Son island cluster resembles a reclining Buddha, which is why locals call it “Buddha Island.”
The highlight here is the rare and breathtaking “Diep Son Water Path,” a white sand trail that emerges and vanishes with the tides, linking Bip Islet, Qua Islet, and O Islet.
On sunny days, with the sea crystal clear, visitors can even spot schools of fish and coral beneath the surface.
Tourism development on Diep Son remains limited. Current tour operators focus on protecting the island’s landscape and preserving its pristine charm.
Vietnamnet.vn
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