Tuan Chau Island (Đảo Tuần Châu), often referred to as a “resort paradise,” has been a popular tourist destination for many years. Its natural beauty resembles a mystical painting, offering visitors an escape into a serene and tranquil landscape.
1. Where is Tuan Chau Island?
Tuan Chau is located in Ha Long City, Quang Ninh province, approximately 2 kilometers from the city center. Covering an area of around 400 hectares, it is easily accessible. It is about an hour’s drive from Hai Phong city and roughly two hours from Mong Cai.
Entry Fees: The entrance fee to Tuan Chau Island is approximately 280,000 VND per person, while children under 1 meter tall enter for free.
Tuan Chau’s peaceful environment, fresh air, and well-developed infrastructure—complete with an amusement park and one of the most modern tourist ports in the region—make it one of the top destinations in Ha Long City.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to explore Tuan Chau Island is from April to October, though the weather is pleasant year-round. During these months, the skies are clear, and the sea is calm, allowing for uninterrupted enjoyment of activities like swimming and water sports.
2. Tuan Chau International Cruise Port
The Tuan Chau International Passenger Port system consists of two main sections: Port 1 and Port 2, along with a range of terminals and service areas. Port 1, operational since 2009, is located on the southern edge of Tuan Chau Island, designed in the style of modern European ports. With a berth length of 2,000 meters, it can accommodate over 200 ships at once. The terminal covers 8,000 square meters, offering 1,000 seats and the capacity to serve around 3,000 passengers simultaneously, making it a significant hub for visitors heading to Ha Long Bay.
The port offers more than just boarding facilities—it provides a range of services for tourists, including ethnic music and dance performances, water puppet shows, children’s play areas, free Wi-Fi, and high-class restrooms. Security is a priority with over 100 surveillance cameras installed to ensure a safe and professional environment, free from theft or pushy sales tactics. The friendly staff and well-managed operations enhance the visitor experience.
Adjacent to Port 1 is Port 2, also known as Tuan Chau International Passenger Port, which is 11 times larger than Port 1. Construction began in 2012 on what was once a deserted tidal area, and by 2015, the port was fully operational. With a berth extending nearly 7 kilometers, the port is able to accommodate up to 2,000 ships at a time. The infrastructure includes office spaces for shipping lines, logistics support for fresh water and fuel, and a beautifully landscaped area filled with coconut trees, lawns, and flower beds.
The Tuan Chau International Port has become a gateway to Ha Long Bay, currently handling over 500 cruise ships and welcoming more than 3 million visitors annually. The port is a symbol of modernity and progress in Southeast Asia, marking a new era of tourism management and development in Vietnam. Its strategic role in connecting Quang Ninh’s tourism services to the world has solidified its place on the international tourist map.
As the pride of Quang Ninh tourism, the Tuan Chau Passenger Port not only serves as a gateway for travelers but also enhances the beauty and prestige of the World Heritage site, Ha Long Bay.
Location of Tuan Chau
- Coordinates: 20.933485°N, 106.987357°E
- Size and Capacity: The port is located at the southeastern tip of Tuan Chau Island, with a vast area that allows it to simultaneously welcome up to 3,000 visitors. The passenger terminal itself covers 8,000 square meters, with seating for 1,000 guests, ensuring ample space even during peak times.
Services
Beyond its role as a cruise port, Tuan Chau offers many high-end tourism services, including:
- Ferrie Ha Long to Cat Ba Island
- Yacht berths for day and overnight cruises
- Seaplane and helicopter tours over Ha Long Bay
- Tuan Chau Amusement Park
- Luxurious resorts
3. Getting to Tuan Chau Island
In the past, Tuan Chau was relatively isolated, but now it is easily accessible thanks to newly constructed roads connecting it to the mainland.
- From Hanoi: Tuan Chau Island is about 120 kilometers from Hanoi, and you can get there in around 2 hours by car or motorbike. Popular routes include Hanoi – Hai Duong – Bac Ninh – Hai Phong – Tuan Chau. Traveling by private vehicle gives you more flexibility and control over your schedule.
- By Bus: Buses from Hanoi’s My Dinh or Giap Bat bus stations often pass through Tuan Chau. The journey takes about 2.5 hours, with ticket prices ranging from 180,000 to 250,000 VND. Some well-known bus operators include Phuc Xuyen, Viet Thanh, and Anh Huy.
For those traveling from farther away, such as Ho Chi Minh City, flying to Cat Bi Airport (Hai Phong) or Van Don Airport (Quang Ninh) is the fastest option. Once you arrive, it’s about a 30-minute taxi ride from Cat Bi Airport to Tuan Chau.
4. Top Attractions in Tuan Chau
4.1. Tuan Chau Beach
Tuan Chau’s 5-kilometer-long beach is open to the public, offering white sand, crystal-clear waters, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for a summer getaway. Relaxing on the natural beach is a great way to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the island.
4.2. Water Sports and Activities
Tuan Chau offers a variety of water-based activities, including kayaking, jet skiing, and water-surfing, perfect for adventure seekers. Additionally, the island’s wide beachfront is ideal for teambuilding activities.
4.3. Tuan Chau Water Music Show
One of the island’s most popular attractions is the Tuan Chau Water Music Show, held in a venue designed to resemble a Roman amphitheater. The 40-minute show combines music, lights, and water effects in a spectacular display, entertaining visitors of all ages. Showtimes:
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- Daily from 8:15 PM – 8:55 PM and 9:15 PM – 10:15 PM
- On Fridays and Saturdays, there’s an additional show from 9:15 AM – 10:00 AM and 7:00 PM – 7:40 PM
4.4. Tuan Chau Amusement Park
Tuan Chau Park is a popular spot for families, offering a wide range of rides and activities for both children and adults. The dolphin and seal shows are particularly exciting for kids, while thrill-seekers can enjoy rides like roller coasters and drop towers.
Entrance Fee: Approximately 350,000 VND per person (children under 1 meter tall enter for free).