In the vast sea and sky of Quy Nhon, Cu Lao Xanh appears like a charming emerald with its clear water and peaceful fishing villages resembling a painting. This place is considered one of the destinations that still retains its pristine beauty, separated from the noisy urban areas, inspiring anyone who sets foot here. In today's article, let's explore more details about this tourist spot with NVK Travel.
Cu Lao Xanh Island, also known as Van Phi Island, is located 24km east of Quy Nhon city center, belonging to Nhon Chau commune, Binh Dinh province. This island has an area of about 5km2, standing out in the vast sea with the lush green of trees and the crystal-clear sea water, creating a beautiful and pristine natural landscape. The name Cu Lao Xanh also comes from the vibrant green of the vegetation covering the island, especially during the rainy season, making the island even more alluring.
Beautiful images of Cu Lao Xanh Island
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Not only possessing natural beauty, this is also home to over 2,000 residents, mostly gentle and hospitable fishermen. Life on the island retains its rustic and simple charm, not overly commercialized, providing visitors with a sense of peace and closeness. This beautiful island is not only an ideal destination for those who love exploring nature, but it is also an opportunity to learn about the culture and lifestyle of the fishing village people.
To have a complete trip to this island, choosing the right time is very important. Cu Lao Xanh is most beautiful during the dry season, which usually lasts from March to September. The weather at this time is dry, warm, and has little rain or storms, making it very convenient for sightseeing, exploring, and water activities.
The island is bathed in gentle sunlight
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Especially, from May to August is the ideal time when the sea is calm, and the water is clear, creating perfect conditions for snorkeling to see coral, swimming, taking photos, etc. This is also when the peacock flower on the island blooms, adding color to the picturesque scenery.
To reach this island, visitors need to travel to Quy Nhon first. You will have two main options to get to the island as follows:
The wooden boat is the traditional and most economical means of transport, often used by local people daily. The wooden boat departs from Ham Tu port at around 8 AM and returns from Cu Lao Xanh to Quy Nhon at 2 PM.
Ticket prices range from 30,000 to 50,000 VND/person/way. However, this means of transport is often very crowded and only operates when there are enough passengers, so you need to arrange your time accordingly.
If you want to save time and experience a thrill, visitors can choose the speedboat. The speedboat departs from Ham Tu port or Quy Nhon tourist port, with a travel time of 30 to 45 minutes.
Ticket prices range from 200,000 - 250,000 VND/person/way. This means of transport is often suitable for larger groups or those who want a more flexible travel schedule.
Cu Lao Xanh Island boasts numerous beautiful landscapes and attractive destinations, promising to offer visitors unforgettable experiences:
The lighthouse on the island
Cu Lao Xanh lighthouse is the symbol of the island, built during the French colonial period, featuring ancient and unique architecture. Standing at the top of the lighthouse, you can gaze far and wide to admire the lush green island, the vast sea, and the peaceful fishing village.
This is an ideal spot to catch the sunrise or sunset, creating lifelong check-in photos. The path to the lighthouse is quite steep, but the stunning scenery makes visitors forget their fatigue.
The beautiful Small Beach on the island
True to its name, Small Beach is a lovely little beach with fine sand, clear blue water, and green coconut groves. This is a peaceful place with few visitors, perfect for those seeking a private space to relax, read, and swim. You can rent tents to camp overnight, stargaze, and enjoy the fresh atmosphere of the sea at night.
Gala Beach with its clear blue water
Gala Beach is famous for its pebbles of various shapes and colors, polished by the waves over time. The scenery here is incredibly impressive and unique, providing a wonderful backdrop for you to create artistic photos. Additionally, the water at Gala Beach is also very clear, suitable for swimming and exploring the marine creatures hidden under the rocks.
Hon Hoan Bang
Hon Hoan Bang is the easternmost point of the island, where visitors can catch the first rays of sunrise over the sea. The scenery here is majestic with steep cliffs, the sound of waves crashing, and the sea breeze blowing. This is a wonderful destination for you to admire the view, breathe in the fresh air, and feel the vastness of the ocean.
Image of the Thanh Nien Flagpole
The Thanh Nien Flagpole, located on the highest hill of the island, is a symbol of Vietnam's maritime sovereignty. Here, you can admire the entire island from above, marvel at the majestic beauty of the sea and sky, and feel the sacredness of the country.
In addition to visiting famous landmarks, Cu Lao Xanh Island also offers many interesting experiences for visitors:
Seeing coral under the sea
With its crystal-clear water and diverse marine ecosystem, this is one of the best snorkeling spots in Central Vietnam. You can rent diving equipment to explore the colorful coral world and tropical fish. The coral reefs here are still quite pristine, providing visitors with a realistic and vivid experience.
Rowing a basket boat around the island
The experience of rowing a basket boat is a unique way for tourists to explore the beaches and small caves around the island. You will be guided by local people on how to use the paddle or simply sit back and relax while they take you on an adventure. This is an activity rich in the culture of Vietnam's coastal regions, giving you a fresh perspective on the island.
Night squid fishing activities
As night falls, tourists can join exciting night squid fishing tours. You will go out to sea with fishermen, learn how to catch squid, and enjoy the fresh squid you just caught. This is not only a recreational activity but also an opportunity for tourists to understand more about the lives and fishing profession of the island's residents.
Simple fishing villages
Wandering around the fishing villages on the island, you will feel the slow, simple pace of life of the local people. Engage in conversations with fishermen, visit old houses, or enjoy the local specialties prepared by them. The unique coastal culture and the hospitality of the locals will leave a deep impression on tourists.
Delicious culinary experiences
Cu Lao Xanh Island is famous for its fresh seafood such as shrimp, squid, snails, fish, etc. You can buy seafood directly from fishermen in the early morning or enjoy it at local restaurants and eateries on the island. Each dish is simply prepared but ensures the natural, fresh, sweet flavors of the sea.
Another rustic but incredibly appealing dish is seafood pancake. The crispy pancake shell, filled with fresh shrimp and squid, served with fresh vegetables and sweet and sour dipping sauce will satisfy any diner.
Currently, there are not many high-end hotels and resorts on Cu Lao Xanh Island, so tourists mainly choose homestays or local guesthouses to experience authentic living. Room prices usually range from 150,000 - 300,000 VND/night depending on the type of room and amenities.
The cost for a self-guided trip to the island for 2 days and 1 night typically ranges from 1,000,000 - 2,000,000 VND/person, including transportation, meals, accommodation, and entertainment activities. If you choose a tour, the cost may be more reasonable, and tourists do not need to worry about arranging the itinerary.
Here are some important notes to help your trip to Cu Lao Xanh go smoothly:
With its clear blue beaches, beautiful coral reefs, and the simple life of the fishing village people, Cu Lao Xanh will surely provide tourists with unforgettable memories. If you are planning for a trip to Quy Nhon, please contact NVK Travel for us to advise you on the most suitable package tours.
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