Book your Vietnam tour package to explore the island, which is 3,000 to 5,000 years old. Tuan Chau Island is a calm yet vibrant destination nestled at the edge of Halong Bay, ideal for travellers seeking both relaxation and adventure. With WanderOn, you can experience natural beauty, water activities, and island vibes on this ancient one!
With scenic beaches, luxury resorts, and family-friendly attractions, it’s one of the best choices for a beach vacation in Vietnam. You’ll find clear waters, modern marinas, cultural shows, and even dolphin performances here. Plus, if you want to experience Halong Bay’s iconic cruises, then you are in luck, as this place is a gateway to it. If you’re wondering about the best time to visit Tuan Chau, how to get there, or where to stay and eat, this blog has everything you need to plan a seamless trip.
How to Reach Tuan Chau Island
If how to reach Tuan Chau Island is a common question that pops into your head. Then here is the answer for you, so that you can reach here conveniently:
The most common way how to reach Tuan Chau Island is by road from Hanoi, around 150 km away. Buses, limousines, or private transfers take 3.5 to 4 hours via the expressway. It's a comfortable ride with stops for refreshments and scenic views along the way.
- By Car or Limousine Van: The most comfortable way to reach Tuan Chau Island from Hanoi is by private car or luxury limousine van. The journey takes about 2.5 to 3 hours via the Hanoi–Hai Phong Expressway. Many Vietnam tour packages include this transfer for a seamless beach vacation Vietnam experience.
- By Public Bus: You can catch buses to Halong City from My Dinh, Gia Lam, or Nuoc Ngam bus stations in Hanoi. Buses take 3.5 to 4.5 hours and cost around 150,000–250,000 VND. Once in Halong, take a taxi or local bus to Tuan Chau Island.
- By Motorbike: Adventurous travellers often ride motorbikes to enjoy the scenic countryside. The 150 km route from Hanoi to Tuan Chau Island takes about 4 hours. Ensure your bike is in good condition and pack essentials for a safe and enjoyable trip.
- By Tour Shuttle Services: Several Halong Bay cruise operators and tour companies offer shuttle services from Hanoi directly to Tuan Chau Island. These are included in many organised tour packages and typically use air-conditioned vans with hotel pickups.
If you're already in Halong City and want to know how to reach Tuan Chau Island, then it is just 10 km away. You can take a taxi, a motorbike, or a hotel shuttle. The connecting road runs along the coastline, offering stunning views of Halong Bay as you cross over to Tuan Chau via a causeway bridge. Here are the details:
- By Taxi or Grab: The easiest way to reach Tuan Chau Island from Halong City is by taxi or Grab. It’s just a 20-minute drive (about 10 km) and costs around 100,000–150,000 VND. This is ideal for those heading to a Tuan Chau Island resort or cruise terminal.
- By Local Bus or Shuttle: Some local shuttle buses and minivans operate between Bai Chay bus station and Tuan Chau. Though slower than taxis, they’re budget-friendly and suitable for solo travellers or backpackers heading to Tuan Chau beach or nearby accommodations.
- By Bicycle or Motorbike: For those already exploring Halong City, renting a bicycle or motorbike to ride to Tuan Chau is a great option. The route is scenic and flat, making for a pleasant 30-minute ride. It’s perfect for eco-conscious travellers enjoying a leisurely beach vacation in Vietnam.
Book Your Best of North Vietnam with Halong Bay Cruise
For island-hoppers, check the ferry schedule from Tuan Chau Island to Cat Ba. The ferry operates multiple times a day and is a scenic way to explore Cat Ba’s jungles, beaches, and limestone cliffs. Arrive early, as it can get busy during high season.
- During high season, you can board a ferry from Gia Luan (Cat Ba) between 9 am to 4 pm. Whereas, you can return between 7:30 am to 3 pm.
- During the low season, the ferry starts from 9 am to 4 pm which you can board from Gia Luan (Cat Ba) and return between 8 am to 3 pm to the island.
Note: The ferry journey takes approximately 45–60 minutes, providing beautiful scenery views of Ha Long Bay's natural beauty.
Tuan Chau Island is a major cruise departure point. Many day trips to Halong Bay departing from Tuan Chau Island start here, making it a key base for exploring UNESCO-listed Halong Bay. Booking your cruise in advance ensures you get the best spots. Here are the details:
- Day Cruises: The day trips to Halong Bay departing from Tuan Chau Island last between 6-8 hours. You can enjoy delicious meals and many fun activities included in your cruise. The cruise starts from 11:30 am from Tuan Chau Harbour and returns by 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
- Overnight Cruises: You can take overnight cruises, which last around 2 days and 1 night. These cruises offer activities such as squid fishing, Tai Chi sessions at sunrise and more. This will take you to explore hidden caves, floating villages and more. Board these cruises around 12:00 PM at Tuan Chau Harbour and return between 10:30 AM and 12:00 PM on the final day.
Best Time of Year to Visit Tuan Chau Island
Here is the breakdown as per the season to find out the best time of year to visit Tuan Chau Island:
- Spring (March–May): This is the best time to visit Tuan Chau as during this season, temperatures range from 22°C to 28°C, the weather is dry and sunny, ideal for sightseeing, swimming, and cruising. Clear skies and calm seas make spring the perfect season for a beach vacation in Vietnam.
- Summer (June–August): Temperatures peak around 30°C to 34°C with high humidity. While it’s hot, this is also when the island is most lively, which makes it one of the best time to visit Tuan Chau. Expect vibrant crowds, beach events, and bustling resorts. If you're staying at a Tuan Chau Island resort, make sure to book in advance due to peak demand.
- Autumn (September–November): Autumn offers comfortable weather (25°C to 30°C), fewer tourists, and clear skies, making it the best time of year to visit Tuan Chau Island for peaceful experiences. It’s great for water sports, exploring the beach, and taking day cruises around Halong Bay.
- Winter (December–February): During this season, the temperatures drop to 15°C–22°C with occasional fog, especially in the early morning. Though chilly for sunbathing, it’s perfect for romantic walks, seafood feasts, and quiet getaways. Many Tuan Chau Island resorts offer discounted rates during this season.
Things to Do at Tuan Chau Island
1. Relax at Tuan Chau Beach
Tuan Chau beach is clean, long, and scenic, ideal for swimming, beach volleyball, or lounging with a coconut in hand. The golden sand and gentle waves make it safe for kids, too. It’s one of the most accessible and enjoyable beaches for a beach vacation in Vietnam.
2. Explore the Amusement and Water Park
The island's amusement park has games, rides, and a dolphin show, while the adjacent water park is a family favourite. Water park ticket prices are affordable and vary slightly by season, usually ranging between 100,000–150,000 VND per person. It’s a great place to cool off in summer.
3. Try Water Sports and Kayaking
Adventurers can rent kayaks, paddleboards, or jet skis to explore the coastline. The calm waters around the island make it perfect for beginners and families. These are popular things to do at Tuan Chau Island and are often included in day tours or resort packages.
4. Watch Dolphin and Seal Shows
Catch the animal performances at the Dolphin Club, a hit with families. Dolphins, seals, and sea lions perform tricks in a well-maintained facility. It adds a unique twist to island activities, especially for those with young kids.
5. Enjoy a Halong Bay Cruise
Being a main cruise port, Tuan Chau is your gateway to Halong Bay. Book one of the day trips to Halong Bay departing from Tuan Chau Island to explore floating villages, caves, and limestone towers. Morning and afternoon cruises are both available, with hotel pickups included.
6. Go Island-Hopping to Cat Ba
One of the best things to do at Tuan Chau Island is to explore nearby islands. The ferry schedule from Tuan Chau Island to Cat Ba makes it easy to hop over and explore Cat Ba’s jungle trails, Lan Ha Bay, and beaches. It’s a great way to extend your adventure.
Where to Eat at Tuan Chau Island?
Wondering where to eat at Tuan Chau? You can choose a spot with sunset views over the water for the ultimate dining experience. From several seafood restaurants in Tuan Chau Island with bay views to local Vietnamese cuisine, you can find it all here.
- Song Anh BBQ
- Su Chảnh Coffee
- Ẩm Thực Tuần Châu 24H
- Nhà Hàng Hải Sản Đại Dương Vàng 9999 (Hải sản Ngon)
Where to Stay at Tuan Chau?
For those wondering where to stay at Tuan Chau, it’s best to book in advance, especially during holidays and peak seasons. No matter your choice, staying here allows easy access to day trips to Halong Bay departing from Tuan Chau Island and watersport fun. For a luxurious experience, choose a Tuan Chau Island resort like Vinpearl or La Paz.
These offer private beaches, pools, and premium service, ideal for couples and families. Mid-range hotels are available along the beachfront and close to the marina. They provide great views of Tuan Chau beach and quick access to island attractions. If you are looking for, budget-friendly option, then find hostels and guesthouses near the main gate or in Halong City, just a short drive away.
