Hon Son, a hidden gem amidst the Kiên Giang sea, is rapidly becoming one of the most enticing destinations on Vietnam’s tourism map. If you are a travel enthusiast who loves to explore pristine beauty and enjoy free-spirited experiences, planning an independent trip to Hon Son is undoubtedly the ideal choice. This guide from “Travel the World” will be your complete Hon Son travel manual, ensuring an unforgettable journey to this beautiful island.
Best Time to Visit Hon Son
Timing is crucial for a successful independent trip to Hon Son. Hon Son offers distinct beauty depending on the season, but the best time to explore this island is during the dry season, which spans from December to April.
During this period, Hon Son enjoys pleasant weather with radiant sunshine, minimal rainfall, calm seas, and translucent waters. These conditions are perfect for outdoor activities such as swimming, snorkeling, exploring untouched beaches, and trekking through lush forests. Additionally, the dry season is also the peak tourism season, making the island more lively and bustling than ever.
If you prefer a tranquil and private experience, consider visiting during the rainy season (from May to November). Though the weather may be less ideal compared to the dry season, Hon Son transforms into a romantic and serene haven during this time. Moreover, service rates are generally more affordable, helping you save on your independent Hon Son trip. No matter when you go, always check the weather forecast before departure for the best preparation possible.
Ideal time to visit Hon Son during the dry season with sunny weather
How to Travel to Hon Son
To start your independent Hon Son trip, you must first travel to Rach Gia, Kiên Giang. There are several transportation options to reach Rach Gia, including buses and flights.
Getting to Rach Gia:
- Bus: This is the most common and budget-friendly way to travel to Rach Gia. You can find bus routes to Rach Gia from Ho Chi Minh City, Can Tho, Hanoi, Da Nang, and other cities. Travel time from Ho Chi Minh City to Rach Gia is around 6-7 hours.
- Flight: If you want to save travel time, flying is the optimal choice. Rach Gia Airport operates flights from Ho Chi Minh City and Phu Quoc. However, flight tickets are usually more expensive than bus fares.
Getting from Rach Gia to Hon Son:
From Rach Gia, the only way to reach Hon Son is by ferry. Currently, there are two main types of ferries servicing the Rach Gia – Hon Son route: high-speed ferries and regular ferries.
- High-speed ferry: A popular choice for many travelers due to its speed and convenience. Travel time by high-speed ferry from Rach Gia to Hon Son is approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes. Two reputable operators are Superdong and Ngọc Thành, offering ticket prices from 140,000 – 180,000 VND/person/one way.
- Regular ferry: Regular ferries are more affordable but take longer, around 2.5 – 3 hours. They are a good option for travelers looking to save costs and with more time on their hands.
High-speed ferry schedules and contact information:
- Ferry Ngọc Thành:
- Rach Gia – Hon Son: 8:05 AM (arrival at Hon Son at 9:30 AM)
- Hon Son – Rach Gia: 1:30 PM (arrival at Rach Gia at 3:00 PM)
- Contact for booking: 0947 333 572
- Ferry Superdong:
- Rach Gia – Hon Son: 7:20 AM (arrival at Hon Son at 8:45 AM)
- Hon Son – Rach Gia: 11:15 AM (arrival at Rach Gia at 12:45 PM)
- Contact for booking: 077 38 777 42
Upon arriving at Hon Son, you may rent a motorbike to explore the island’s attractions. The rental fee ranges from 120,000 – 150,000 VND/day.
Superdong high-speed ferry traveling from Rach Gia to Hon Son
Accommodation Options on Hon Son
Although Hon Son is not as developed as Phu Quoc or Nam Du in terms of tourism, there are sufficient accommodation choices for your independent Hon Son trip, ranging from budget guesthouses to cozy homestays and luxury resorts.
- Guesthouses and Hotels: Primarily located around Bãi Nhà and Bãi Bàng, guesthouses and hotels on Hon Son offer affordable pricing, suitable for budget travelers. While not overly luxurious, they guarantee cleanliness, comfort, and basic amenities.
- Homestays: For travelers seeking a closer connection to local life, homestays are a fantastic option. Many homestays on Hon Son are designed with nature-inspired themes, boasting stunning sea views and warm, inviting spaces. Homestay hosts are often very helpful, sharing valuable Hon Son travel tips freely.
- Resorts: While limited in number, Hon Son does have a few high-end resorts with full amenities such as swimming pools, restaurants, and spas. Resorts are ideal for travelers looking to enjoy a luxurious and private getaway.
Suggested accommodations in Rach Gia (if staying overnight before departing for Hon Son):
- Hoa Binh Rach Gia Resort: 62-64-66 Cô Bắc, Vĩnh Bảo, Rach Gia City, Kiên Giang
- Saigon Rach Gia Hotel: 844 Nguyễn Trung Trực, An Hoa Ward, Rach Gia City, Kiên Giang
- Phuc Ngoc Hotel Rach Gia: 1328 Nguyễn Trung Trực, An Hoa Ward, Rach Gia City, Kiên Giang
It is advisable to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season or holidays, to secure a spot that suits your preferences.
Discovering Hon Son – Must-visit Attractions
Hon Son boasts unspoiled natural beauty with emerald beaches, lush forests, and many fascinating attractions. During your Hon Son independent travel, don’t miss out on the following highlights:
- Bãi Bàng Beach: Renowned as the most beautiful beach on Hon Son, Bãi Bàng captivates visitors with its fine white sand, turquoise waters, and coconut trees shading the shoreline. Here, you can indulge in swimming, relaxing, water sports, or savoring fresh seafood at seaside restaurants.
Bãi Bàng Beach on Hon Son with pristine natural beauty
- Bãi Bấc (Freshwater Spring Beach): Bãi Bấc is celebrated for its untouched, tranquil beauty and crystal-clear waters. Unique to this spot is a freshwater spring situated right beside the ocean, creating a fascinating natural phenomenon. It’s an excellent venue for camping, BBQs, beach swimming, and serene relaxation.
- Ma Thien Lanh Peak: Standing 450m above sea level, Ma Thien Lanh Peak is an ideal trekking trail for adventurers and nature lovers. From the summit, you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Hon Son and nearby islands. The trail is steep, so come prepared with good physical condition and proper hiking shoes.
- Bãi Chưởng Waterfall: Particularly stunning in the rainy season, Bãi Chưởng Waterfall cascades down from above, forming a majestic and poetic landscape. Visitors can bathe in the waterfall, explore the surrounding forest, and bask in the fresh, cool air.
- Spiritual Sites: Hon Son also features cultural landmarks such as Dinh Thần Lại Sơn, Miếu Bà Cố Chủ, Chùa Hải Sơn, and Thánh Thất Cao Đài. These sites offer insights into the island’s rich history, culture, and beliefs.
Dinh Thần Lại Sơn, a renowned spiritual destination on Hon Son
Hon Son Cuisine – Delicious Dishes to Try
Food plays an essential role in your independent Hon Son trip. On the island, you can revel in a variety of fresh seafood and local specialties.
- Fresh Seafood: Hon Son is a paradise for seafood enthusiasts. You’ll find prawns, crabs, squid, fish, clams, and snails at seafood markets, seaside restaurants, or seafood farms. The seafood is prepared in diverse styles, including grilled, steamed, stir-fried, hotpot, and salad.
- Herring Salad: Hon Son’s herring salad is famous for its unique combination of flavors and fresh ingredients. Thinly sliced fresh herring is mixed with herbs, onions, roasted peanuts, and sweet-sour fish sauce, often paired with rice paper.
- Grilled Sea Urchin with Scallion Oil: Sea urchin (cầu gai) is a rare delicacy on Hon Son. Grilled with scallion oil, it offers a rich, creamy taste and is highly nutritious.
- Seafood Hotpot: Ideal for cozy gatherings, seafood hotpot on Hon Son features spicy-sour flavors, fresh seafood, and green vegetables, perfect for enjoying in the cool coastal evenings.
Be sure to try other Hon Son specialties such as crab noodle soup, squid cake, and clam rice to fully experience the island’s culinary charm.
Suggested Itinerary for 2 Days 1 Night on Hon Son
For a fulfilling independent Hon Son trip, “Travel the World” suggests the following 2-day itinerary:
Day 1:
- Morning: Arrive at Rach Gia, take a high-speed ferry to Hon Son, check in and rest.
- Afternoon: Rent a motorbike, explore Bãi Bàng Beach, swim, and relax.
- Evening: Savor fresh seafood at Bãi Bàng or Bãi Nhà.
Day 2:
- Morning: Trek to Ma Thien Lanh Peak and enjoy views of Hon Son.
- Lunch: Rest and eat near Bãi Nhà.
- Afternoon: Visit Bãi Bấc, swim, and see the freshwater spring.
- Evening: Dinner and depart for Rach Gia via ferry.
This itinerary is flexible, so adjust it according to your preferences and available time.
Estimated Costs for an Independent Trip to Hon Son
The cost of your Hon Son independent trip varies based on transport, accommodation, meals, and recreational choices. Overall, Hon Son is an affordable destination suitable for all types of travelers.
Estimated costs for a 2-day 1-night trip:
- Transport:
- Bus/flight to Rach Gia: 200,000 – 500,000 VND/person
- High-speed ferry round trip: 300,000 – 360,000 VND/person
- Motorbike rental: 120,000 – 150,000 VND/day
- Accommodation:
- Budget guesthouse: 200,000 – 300,000 VND/room/night
- Homestay: 300,000 – 500,000 VND/room/night
- Hotel/Resort: 500,000 VND+/room/night
- Food: 300,000 – 500,000 VND/person/day
- Miscellaneous expenses: Entrance fees, personal costs…
Total estimated cost: 1,500,000 – 3,000,000 VND/person for 2 days 1 night.
Important Tips for Your Hon Son Trip
To ensure a smooth and safe Hon Son independent travel, keep these tips in mind:
- Book ferry tickets and accommodation early: Especially during peak season to secure your spot.
- Carry ID documents: Necessary for ferry boarding and hotel check-in.
- Protect yourself from the sun: Use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to shield yourself from the tropical sun.
- Dress appropriately: Bring comfortable clothes, swimwear, and suitable footwear for activities.
- Pack personal medications: For motion sickness, sunburn, or minor ailments.
- Respect the environment: Hon Son’s rustic beauty deserves care—avoid littering and opt for eco-friendly products.
- Monitor weather forecasts: Prepare accordingly for optimal travel conditions.
Conclusion
This complete guide for independent travel to Hon Son equips you with essential insights for an enriching journey. A haven of untamed natural beauty and exclusive experiences, Hon Son promises to be a dream destination for explorers and adventurous spirits. Start planning your venture today and unveil the hidden jewel of Kiên Giang’s sea!