Beyond the bustling Sam Son beach, the peaceful Bai Dong, or the majestic Pu Luong, Thanh Hoa province hides a pristine and mysterious “green pearl” – Hon Me Island. If you are seeking a novel destination close to nature and away from the city’s hustle and bustle, join “Travel Around The World” to explore Hon Me Island in Thanh Hoa – a place promising unique and unforgettable travel experiences.
Hon Me Island: An Emerald Gem in Nghi Son
Located approximately 11km from the mainland, Hon Me Island belongs to Hai Binh ward, Nghi Son town, Thanh Hoa province. It emerges as a stunning natural painting with a total area of 450ha and a cluster of 18 islands of varying sizes. In ancient times, the island was known as Vi Island, but perhaps its mesmerizing beauty led people to affectionately call it Me Island (meaning “captivating” in Vietnamese). Locals also lovingly refer to it as May Island (Cloud Island) because when you set foot on the highest peak, you’ll feel enveloped by year-round clouds, creating a magical and poetic scene.
Scenic view of Hon Me Island, Thanh Hoa
On clear days, looking down from the peak of Nam Dong mountain range, the entire Hon Me Island appears like a herd of 18 galloping horses, arranged in a unique “Vi” shape. Hence, the Hon Me island cluster is also known by the Chinese-Vietnamese name “Thap Bat Ma Son” (Eighteen Horse Mountain). Beyond its magnificent natural beauty, Hon Me Island also plays a vital role as a crucial defense area, where soldiers train and guard the homeland’s sea and sky day and night. Consequently, the island has retained its pristine charm, with very few inhabitants, creating a rare space of peace and tranquility.
Travelers checking in on Hon Me Island, Thanh Hoa
Not only does Hon Me Island hold strategic importance for national defense, but it also harbors immense economic potential thanks to its diverse and rich ecosystem. The primary forests on the island are home to hundreds of precious timber species, valuable medicinal plants, and a diverse flora and fauna. In particular, the waters surrounding the island are a fertile fishing ground with abundant seafood reserves, especially renowned for fish, lobster, and squid. The squid output harvested here is considered among the highest in the Gulf of Tonkin region, making a significant contribution to Thanh Hoa province’s marine economy.
Panoramic view of Hon Me Island's landscape, Thanh Hoa
Beneath the crystal-clear waters surrounding Hon Me Island lie vibrant coral reefs, creating a magical and captivating underwater world. Recognizing Hon Me’s potential for ecotourism development, local authorities have been investing in constructing facilities and wharves, gradually transforming it into an attractive tourist destination, not only for Thanh Hoa but also nationally. Hon Me Island is gradually asserting its position as a precious “pearl,” harmoniously blending pristine natural beauty with unique cultural and historical values.
Seascape of Hon Me Island, Thanh Hoa with clear blue water
Detailed Guide to Reaching Hon Me Island
Despite being separated from the mainland, traveling to Hon Me Island has become more convenient today thanks to investments in wharf construction and the development of transportation services. Visitors can choose from various means of transport to reach this beautiful island:
Traveling by Passenger Bus: This is a popular and cost-effective option, especially suitable for travelers departing from Hanoi and neighboring provinces. At major bus stations like Giap Bat, Nuoc Ngam, My Dinh, you can easily catch a bus to Hai Binh bus station. Bus ticket prices range from VND 150,000 to VND 180,000 per ticket. Some reputable and quality bus operators favored by many passengers include Thang Long, Huy Phuc, Dai Phat, Huong Duong, and others.
Passenger bus as a transportation option to Hon Me Island, Thanh Hoa
Traveling by Limousine Car: If you prioritize comfort and convenience, a limousine car is a worthwhile consideration. Although the ticket price is higher than a passenger bus, ranging from VND 250,000 to VND 350,000 per ticket, limousine services often offer door-to-door pick-up and drop-off upon request, saving you travel time and effort. Some reputable limousine operators serving the Hanoi – Hai Binh route that you can consider are Van Minh, Sao Nghe, Nam Quynh Anh, Thien Ha, Phuong Nguyen, and others.
Relaxing limousine ride to Hon Me Island, Thanh Hoa
Traveling by Private Car: For travelers who love proactiveness and freedom, a private car is an ideal means of transport to explore Hon Me Island and the surrounding area. From the center of Hanoi, you can easily travel along the Cau Gie – Ninh Binh expressway, then continue through Tam Diep and straight to Thanh Hoa city. From here, simply follow the signs towards Tinh Gia – Hai Hoa beach, and you will reach the seaport area to get to Hon Me Island.
Traveling by Motorbike: Motorbike backpacking to Hon Me Island is also an exciting experience, especially for young people who are passionate about exploring and want to enjoy the scenic route. From the city center, you can follow National Highway 1A, through Thuong Tin, Dong Van, Ha Nam city, then turn towards Ninh Binh. Continue your journey towards Thanh Hoa – Tinh Gia, and finally turn towards Hai Hoa beach, Hai Binh fishing port, Lach Bang estuary, and you will have arrived at the starting point to reach Hon Me Island.
Traveling from the mainland to the island: At Hai Binh fishing port or Lach Bang estuary, you can hire boats or ships to travel to Hon Me Island. The travel time by boat or ship to the island takes about 30-45 minutes, depending on the type of vessel and weather conditions. On the way, you will admire the beauty of the vast ocean and watch Hon Me Island gradually appear before your eyes.
Taking a boat to Hon Me Island, Thanh Hoa
Hon Me Island Travel Experiences: Discovering Pristine Nature and Unique Culture
Although tourism on Hon Me Island has only recently been known and developed, it promises to bring visitors unique and captivating travel experiences. Coming to Hon Me, you will not only immerse yourself in pristine nature but also have the opportunity to explore the special cultural and historical values of this island.
One of the most meaningful activities when visiting Hon Me Island is to visit the Memorial to Heroic Martyrs on the island. Here, you can offer incense to commemorate 51 brave soldiers who sacrificed themselves to protect the sacred sea and island sovereignty of the Fatherland. Not far from the Memorial is a temple dedicated to 16 martyrs of Military Region 4, who perished in a plane crash on the island, expressing the deep gratitude and appreciation of the people for those who sacrificed for the country.
Paying respects at the Martyrs' Memorial on Hon Me Island, Thanh Hoa
The towering Hon Me Lighthouse, standing proudly on the island, is also a must-visit destination. This ancient lighthouse, built during the French colonial period, is 18.5m high and serves the task of illuminating and guiding ships at night. Standing on the lighthouse, you can cast your eyes to encompass the entire panorama of Hon Me Island and the surrounding sea, feeling the majesty and immensity of nature. Besides, visitors also have the opportunity to interact, chat, and learn about the daily lives of the soldiers who are guarding the sea and sky day and night on Hon Me Island, gaining more understanding and appreciation for their silent contributions.
Checking in at the ancient lighthouse on Hon Me Island, Thanh Hoa
In addition to cultural and historical sightseeing activities, visitors to Hon Me Island can also enjoy wonderful moments of relaxation and entertainment. Snorkeling to see corals is an unmissable experience when coming to Hon Me. With crystal-clear seawater and a diverse coral reef ecosystem, you will admire the magical beauty of the underwater world. Kayaking is also a fun activity, helping you explore the hidden corners of Hon Me Island, weaving through cliffs and enjoying the fresh sea air. If you are a fishing enthusiast, try your hand at sea fishing and prepare fresh seafood dishes from your own spoils.
Fun activities on Hon Me Island, Thanh Hoa
As night falls, a beach bonfire under the vast expanse of sky and sea is a romantic and memorable experience. Gather with friends and family around a warm fire, enjoy dinner with fresh seafood specialties caught directly on the island, sing, chat, and gaze at the starry sky. Waking up early on Hon Me Island, you will welcome the brilliant sunrise over the sea, breathe in the fresh air, and feel the pristine and mysterious beauty of this island. In addition, visitors can also visit the aquaculture farming area on the island and participate in swimming and other recreational activities. All these experiences will make your trip to Hon Me Island a memorable and unforgettable journey.
Sunset view on Hon Me Island, Thanh Hoa
Travelers taking photos on Hon Me Island, Thanh Hoa
Ideal Accommodation When Traveling to Hon Me Island and Surrounding Areas
Currently, tourism on Hon Me Island is mainly day-trip tourism, so there are not many developed accommodation services on the island. Visitors often choose to book rooms in Thanh Hoa city center or Nghi Son area, near Hon Me Island, for convenient travel and sightseeing. Below are some highly-rated accommodation suggestions in the Nghi Son area:
- Ngoc Linh Villas: Located on the road to Hai Hoa beach, Hai Hao, Nghi Son, Thanh Hoa, Ngoc Linh Villas is an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy luxurious and comfortable resort space. Room rates here range from VND 770,000 to VND 1,670,000.
- Quynh Anh Guesthouse: With an address in Hai Hoa, Nghi Son, Thanh Hoa, Quynh Anh Guesthouse is a suitable option for budget-conscious travelers. Room rates here are quite affordable, starting from only VND 320,000 per night.
- Hai Nam View Hotel: Hai Nam View Hotel is located in Hai Hoa, Nghi Son, Thanh Hoa, offering guests beautiful sea views. Room rates here start from VND 670,000 per night.
- Dai Duong Hotel: Located in Hai Hoa beach tourist area, Nghi Son, Thanh Hoa, Dai Duong Hotel is a convenient choice for those who want to be close to the sea and easily access recreational activities. Room rates start from VND 600,000 per night.
- Anh Phat 2 Hotel: Anh Phat 2 Hotel is located in Nghi Son, Bac Hai, Nghi Son, Thanh Hoa, providing clean and comfortable rooms. Room rates start from VND 800,000 per night.
Accommodation options near Hon Me Island, Thanh Hoa
| SUGGESTED THANH HOA TOUR PROMOTIONS >> Hanoi – Hai Tien 3D2N – Group tour from VND 1,988,000/Pax >> Hanoi – Mai Chau – Pu Luong 3D2N from VND 2,195,000/Pax |
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Hon Me Island Travel Guide: Things to Know
To ensure your trip to Hon Me Island is complete and smooth, visitors should note a few things:
- Limited tourist services: Tourism on Hon Me Island is still in the development phase, so tourist facilities and services on the island are quite limited. Visitors should prepare all necessary personal items.
- Necessary documents to get to the island: As Hon Me Island has an important position in national defense, to get to the island, visitors need to obtain an invitation or introduction letter from functional agencies or island management units. You should contact in advance to learn more about this procedure.
- Charter a boat package: Currently, there is no service selling individual boat tickets to Hon Me Island; visitors need to charter a boat package with prices ranging from VND 1,200,000 to VND 1,500,000 per boat. When chartering a boat, you should ask clearly about the included services, especially snorkeling services, to be able to fully experience the exciting activities on the island.
- Combine visiting nearby islands: If you have time, you can combine visiting Hon Me Island with other beautiful islands in the area such as Bung Island, Hon Chay Island, Hon Diem Island, Hon Ruot Island, etc., to fully explore the beauty of the Hon Me archipelago.
Important notes for traveling to Hon Me Island, Thanh Hoa
Conclusion: Hon Me Island – A Novel and Promising Destination
Hon Me Island is changing and developing day by day, gradually revealing the hidden beauty of a pristine and alluring “rough pearl.” With its unique natural, cultural, and historical values, tourism on Hon Me Island in Thanh Hoa promises to become an attractive and appealing destination for tourists in the future. If you are looking for a novel travel experience, close to nature, and want to explore mysterious things, come to Hon Me Island to feel the fresh air, pristine beauty, and foster your love for the homeland’s sea and islands.
Ha Le (compiled) – luhanhvietnam.com.vn
Photo: Internet