The island of Whale Island, also known as Hon Ong, is a hidden gem located in Van Phong Bay, Van Ninh District, Khanh Hoa Province. According to local news sources, the island is seemingly detached from the outside world, surrounded by a protective barrier of floating buoys. This secluded island is a natural paradise, offering a unique and exclusive experience to its visitors.
Whale Island, or Hon Ong, is a pristine island near Nha Trang that remains relatively unknown to many travelers. (Image credit: The Whale Island)
Located approximately 80 kilometers north of Nha Trang, the island is accessible by a two-hour journey from the city to Dam Mon Pier, followed by a short boat or canoe ride to the island. The boat ride takes around 20 minutes, while the canoe ride is a quicker option, taking just 5 minutes.
The island spans an area of 40,000 hectares, most of which is untouched wilderness. Only 2 hectares have been developed to create a unique island resort, aptly named Whale Island Resort. The resort is the brainchild of a French-Vietnamese couple who envisioned this project in the 1990s. After a lengthy preparation process and meeting stringent conservation requirements, the resort finally opened its doors in 1997-1998.
Whale Island is accessible only by boat or canoe, and it features a single exclusive resort. (Image credit: The Whale Island)
Nearly three decades later, Whale Island Resort remains the sole accommodation option on the island. In addition to providing a unique vacation experience for its guests, the resort is committed to conserving and protecting the island’s pristine ecosystem.
Whale Island, or Hon Ong, has been praised by media outlets and travel blogs for its unspoiled natural beauty. It has been featured in CNN’s “9 of the most beautiful places in Southeast Asia” in 2017, Forbes’ “The 10 best places to scuba dive in the world” in 2020, and listed as one of the “Ultimate destinations for peace and quiet” and “Top 5 places to connect with nature in Vietnam.”
Despite its accolades, the island remains relatively unknown to many travelers. Those who venture here are treated to a truly immersive natural experience, surrounded by the lush wilderness and enjoying the refreshing climate.
Image credit: Tú Blog
The island offers a range of activities, mostly centered around its stunning beach. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, boating, and windsurfing. The crystal-clear waters allow for incredible underwater photography, capturing the vibrant marine life that flourishes in this ecosystem.
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, hiking and trekking through the island’s pristine forests are also options. Additionally, guests can participate in environmentally conscious activities organized by the resort, such as beach clean-ups and educational programs on marine ecosystem conservation.
These activities have proven to be a hit with both domestic and international visitors, becoming a unique selling point for the island.
Guests at Whale Island primarily engage in beach activities and contribute to periodic beach clean-ups to preserve the marine environment. (Image credit: LuhanhVietNam, Nha Trang Today)
One of the most remarkable experiences the island offers is the opportunity to witness whale hunting during the months of February and May, which are the breeding seasons for ruốc and jellyfish. During this time, whales often venture close to the shore in search of prey, a sight that is not commonly seen along the Vietnamese coastline.
This unique occurrence is the reason behind the island’s name, Whale Island. As one guest describes it, “When I need to disconnect from the world, this is my top choice. I can fully relax in the crystal-clear waters, watch the fish swim by, and enjoy breathtaking sunsets. It’s like having our very own Maldives in Vietnam.”
Guests can also opt for a trekking experience on the island. (Image credit: Lữ hành Việt Nam)
As mentioned, Whale Island Resort is currently the only accommodation option on the island, so advance booking is recommended. Here are some cost estimates for your reference:
– Accommodation: VND 700,000 – 1,000,000 per person/night
– Meals: VND 350,000 – 700,000 per person (depending on requirements)
– Snorkeling: VND 60,000 – 100,000 per person
– Boat rental: VND 100,000 per boat
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