Tucked away beneath the majestic Ca Pass, Hon Nua Island sits quietly on the border between Phu Yen and Khanh Hoa. With its untouched beauty, crystal-clear waters, and tranquil atmosphere, Hon Nua offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
🧭 Location: Vung Ro Bay, border of Phu Yen and Khanh Hoa
📏 Distance: ~35km south of Tuy Hoa city
⏳ Best time to visit: March to August (dry season)
🏝️ Why Hon Nua Island Is a Hidden Treasure
Hon Nua, also known as the guardian of Vung Ro Bay, is a small uninhabited island marked by rugged cliffs and striking rock formations etched by time and wind. The sea surrounding the island is famously clear — on sunny days, you can see straight to the seabed. The gentle waves and the deep emerald color of the ocean are perfect for those seeking a peaceful seaside retreat.
Image credit: @ntm.nguyen
🐠 What to Do on Hon Nua Island
🏖️ Relax and Swim
Blessed with long stretches of soft white sand and towering coastal rocks, Hon Nua is ideal for:
- Swimming in calm, cool water
- Sunbathing on flat stone surfaces
- Taking scenic beach walks along untouched shoreline
Whether you’re seeking solitude or a nature escape with friends, the island’s atmosphere feels like a hidden slice of paradise.
🤿 Snorkeling and Exploring Marine Life
While Hon Nua’s coral reefs aren’t as colorful as those in Nha Trang, they still offer unique biodiversity worth exploring. Bring snorkeling gear or rent it from your boat operators to discover the island’s hidden underwater beauty.
🌄 The Lighthouse of Hon Nua
At the island’s highest point stands the Hon Nua Lighthouse, painted bright red against the green landscape and blue sea. Built in 2002, this lighthouse guides vessels in and out of Vung Ro Bay and serves as a symbol of safety and navigation for the area.
Though the island lacks formal tourist infrastructure, its raw charm continues to attract travelers who rent private boats or canoes to reach this pristine destination.
🛥️ How to Get to Hon Nua
To visit Hon Nua, follow these steps:
- Travel from Tuy Hoa city to Vung Ro Port (approx. 30–35 km by motorbike or taxi).
- From Vung Ro Port, rent a canoe or boat to the island. The ride takes about 20–30 minutes.
- Enjoy a day trip or bring camping gear if you plan to stay overnight.
Tip from HaNoiTravelBug: Always check weather conditions before your trip, and coordinate with local fishermen or boat services for safe and flexible travel times.
🌿 Nature and Silence – The Beauty of Simplicity
Hon Nua remains free from mass tourism, preserving its quiet and wild identity. Its flora includes coastal trees, vines, and lush green bushes that make the island look like a floating forest. You’ll find:
- Sharp cliffs and stone ridges
- Hidden beaches
- Panoramic ocean views from the lighthouse summit
This is the ideal place for:
- Nature photography
- Unplugged meditation retreats
- Eco-camping and beach bonfires
✅ Visitor Tips for Hon Nua Island
- 🚯 Bring your trash back to the mainland. Help protect the untouched ecosystem.
- ☀️ Pack sunscreen, hats, and water – there’s no shade or services on the island.
- ⚓ Coordinate your boat trip in advance with local guides.
- 🍱 Pack light meals and drinks, as there are no stores or vendors.