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Unveiling the Unexpected Charms of the “Pearl Island” Quan Lan

The northern beaches of Vietnam were often overlooked by travelers, who deemed them less alluring than their central counterparts. However, all it takes is a visit to the pristine Quan Lan Island to change their minds. This "pearl island" boasts a natural beauty that captivates and enchants, offering a unique and memorable experience that expands horizons and leaves a lasting impression.

Administrator

18 September, 2024

After much anticipation and a desire for a new experience, Mai Linh decided to embark on a journey of discovery to Quan Lạn. This trip was not just a typical vacation but also an opportunity for Mai Linh to broaden her horizons and explore the vibrant and colorful offerings of this beautiful northern region.

The beach below the windy pass.

“Before setting foot on Quan Lạn Island, the idea of northern beach tourism had never crossed my mind. I used to think that the beaches here couldn’t compare to the freshness and pristine beauty of the central region’s beaches. But my perception completely changed after experiencing Quan Lạn.

Sometimes, reality turns out to be vastly different from our imagination. The stunning scenery of this island made me reconsider everything. It was no longer just a regular vacation but an adventure that broadened my perspective and broke down old mental barriers. And when I arrived at Quan Lạn, I couldn’t help but exclaim, ‘Oh, Quan Lạn, you’re so beautiful!’,” exclaimed the 22-year-old girl from Hanoi.

The female traveler ended up staying an extra day and a half longer than planned. This fact alone speaks volumes about how much she enjoyed her time there.

“Gentle and warm, with a strong sense of humanity, is how I would describe Quan Lạn. This place not only boasts pristine beauty but also offers peace and sincerity from the local people.

As a solo traveler in a strange land, I received incredible enthusiasm and support from the homestay owners and those working in the tourism industry. They not only helped me with ticketing and transportation but also invited me to share their meals, refusing to accept any money. This truly surprised and touched me. Despite having traveled extensively in the north, I had never experienced such warm hospitality,” shared Mai Linh.

Her trip was relaxed, and whenever she reminisces about it, Mai Linh can’t help but feel happy. Everyone, from the sea port to the homestay, from the eateries to the locals, always asked with concern, “Are you traveling alone? Aren’t you afraid of being kidnapped?” Their playful yet affectionate question always came with enthusiastic assistance and even directions to places not found on maps. This support created special memories that linger in the heart of this female traveler, no matter how many destinations she visits.

A stop at Robinson Beach.

Spending an extra day and a half in Quan Lạn was a flexible decision for Mai Linh, who enjoys immersing herself in new environments. However, for those with limited time, a 3-day, 2-night trip is sufficient to fully enjoy the local scenery.

Sharing her insights from the trip, Mai Linh suggested some familiar destinations and fun activities on the island, along with great photo spots.

Robinson Beach was the first must-visit place she recommended. Although it was in the middle of renovations, the eateries were still operating. In Mai Linh’s opinion, this is the most beautiful beach in both Quan Lạn and Minh Châu. Despite the rocky beach, it’s easy to move around, and the shallow threshold makes it safe and offers a unique experience for visitors.

Next is Tiên Dù Beach, a less well-known but ideal check-in spot. While it’s a bit harder to get to than Robinson Beach, it’s perfect for taking breathtaking, expansive photos.

Mai Linh also discovered the Double-Banked Sand River and explored its hidden beauty. Visitors can stop by on their way to Robinson Beach.

For those who love exploration, head to Infinity Hill. Walk to the top of the hill, and after about 600m, you’ll find a stall selling only one type of drink – a refreshing plum juice. There are a few beautiful photo spots here, offering views of the hill and, below, the Quan Lạn beach.

Mai Linh also ventured to White Sand Hill, an unnamed but fascinating spot. Located near Minh Châu port, if you’re traveling from Quan Lạn to Minh Châu, you’ll easily spot it on your left.

If you want to catch the sunrise or sunset, Eo Gió is the place to be, but go early or late to get the best photos. The peak can be dangerous, so it’s best to have someone assist you when taking pictures. Below, there’s a check-in spot on a rocky beach, but watch out for slippery moss and stones.

A distinctive check-in spot when visiting the beach is Eo Biển Minh Châu. This spot evokes the beaches of the central region. After passing the Minh Châu beach sign, you’ll see this coastal road. “This place will undoubtedly spawn some TikTok hits,” Mai Linh remarked.

Lastly, Quan Lạn is home to several ancient houses built in the early 1900s. The owners are usually very laid-back, so if you want to take pictures, just ask politely for permission.

Evening at Tiên Beach.

“One of my favorite spots is Robinson Beach. It boasts a fantastic beach with crystal-clear waters and a natural rock formation that looks perfectly arranged.

But what truly captivated me was witnessing the sunset on a gloomy day. The evening light shining on the white sand completely immersed me in that enchanting moment. Most importantly, I forgot about my phone and focused entirely on the experience. This made me realize that to truly savor a moment, using all your senses and being present makes the experience more profound and exhilarating,” she added.

According to Mai Linh, the island offers a diverse food scene, including dishes like seafood vermicelli, fried rice with seafood, lunch, fried tofu with shrimp paste, hot pot, etc. After trying several eateries, she found that Thiết Huệ restaurant offered the best combination of taste, nutrition, and reasonable prices. One standout dish that everyone should try is the fried rice with seafood – it’s unforgettable.

“The seafood in Quan Lạn is always fresh and reasonably priced compared to other tourist spots. Witnessing the entire process of seafood preparation, from fresh ingredients to the final dish on the table, makes the dining experience here unique and impressive,” shared Mai Linh.

In the mornings, many stalls sell vermicelli and congee, making the Quan Lạn market tour and breakfast experience more exciting. In addition to the main dishes, you can also try light snacks, various desserts, juices, etc.

A visit to White Sand Hill.

Mai Linh described Quan Lạn as a “pearl island” with wild beauty characteristic of the northern region. For her, this trip provided the most relaxing experience so far this year. If anyone seeks a place to unwind, relieve stress, and forget their worries, there’s no better place than Quan Lạn, especially during its most beautiful season.

Mai Linh shared more about her love for travel, saying she’s a free-spirited person who enjoys exploration and new experiences. For her, traveling to new places is not just about enjoying nature’s beauty but also about delving deeper into the culture and people of those destinations.

“Specifically, solo travel brings the most wonderful feeling because I can stop wherever I want, focusing my time and mind on enjoying nature’s beauty without depending on anyone else. This hobby also helps me embrace a freer will, explore hidden potentials within myself that I never knew existed, and understand myself better…,” shared Mai Linh.

Capturing memorable moments at Robinson Beach.

Robinson Beach.

Checking in at Tiên Beach.

Enjoying a relaxing time in Quan Lạn.

A visit to Infinity Hill.

Exploring the Double-Banked Sand River.

A stop by the Double-Banked Sand River.

Frequently asked questions

Pearl Island, also known as Quan Lan, is a charming island located in the Bai Tu Long Bay area of Vietnam. With pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a peaceful atmosphere, it offers a relaxing getaway for travelers seeking a break from busy city life. Some key attractions include the ancient Quan Lan Communal House, the stunning beaches of Son Hau and Minh Chau, and the picturesque fishing villages dotted along the coast.

Pearl Island stands out for its unspoiled natural beauty and authentic local culture. While other popular destinations in Vietnam may be more developed and tourist-oriented, Pearl Island offers a glimpse into traditional Vietnamese island life. It provides a unique blend of stunning scenery, rich history, and the warm hospitality of the local fishing communities.

Visitors to Pearl Island can enjoy a range of activities. Swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking are popular choices, allowing travelers to explore the island’s pristine waters and discover its diverse marine life. Exploring the local fishing villages, interacting with the friendly locals, and indulging in fresh seafood are also highly recommended. For those interested in history, a visit to the Quan Lan Communal House offers a glimpse into the island’s cultural and spiritual heritage.

Pearl Island offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. There are simple guesthouses and homestays located in the fishing villages, providing a more immersive local experience. For those seeking more comfort and privacy, there are also resorts and bungalows available, offering modern amenities and stunning views of the bay.

Getting to Pearl Island typically involves a combination of land and sea transport. Visitors can take a bus or private transfer to Cai Rong Port and then catch a ferry or speedboat to the island. Once on the island, the best way to get around is by motorbike or xe om (motorcycle taxi). Exploring on foot is also an option, especially in the fishing villages and along the beaches.