Why Nam Du Islands is Your Next Wellness & Escape Destination

With 21 small islands, the Nam Du Islands are often described as a “hidden gem” of Vietnam. It is less crowded than Phu Quoc Island and more pristine than many mainland beach destinations. Here’s what makes it so special:

1. Untouched Natural Beauty

Situated about 80km from Rach Gia town on the mainland, the Nam Du archipelago is famous for its white sandy beaches, azure waters, and coastal landscapes that feel like a postcard brought to life. From the secluded shores of Cay Men Beach to the rugged rock formations of Hon Hai Bo Dap, you’ll encounter natural beauty around every bend.

2. Rich Marine Life & Coral Reefs

The seas around the Nam Du Islands are home to thriving coral reefs and abundant marine species, making snorkeling and diving must-do activities. Whether you go on a guided tour or explore from shore, you’ll find vibrant underwater worlds waiting beneath the surface.

3. Authentic Island Culture

Life on the Nam Du Islands moves at a friendly, relaxed pace. Stay in a local homestay, enjoy freshly caught seafood, learn about traditional whale worship culture, or join community activities like night squid fishing. The warmth of island life adds depth to your beach holiday.

4. Incredible Sunrises and Sunsets

Sunrise and sunset here are unforgettable. Many travelers say that watching the sky dramatically shift colors over the water at places like the Hon Lon pier or the coastal road is one of the highlights of their trip.

Getting There & Best Time to Visit

How to reach Nam Du Islands

Planning your journey to the Nam Du Islands is pretty straightforward, though the islands’ remote location is part of what keeps them peaceful and undeveloped.

1. Travel to Rach Gia (by bus or private transport from Ho Chi Minh City or the Mekong Delta).

2. From Rach Gia, board a ferry or speed boat to Nam Du. These boat services usually arrive first at Hon Son (a nearby island) before continuing to Hon Lon, the main hub of the archipelago. Note: schedules can be limited, especially in off‑peak or stormy seasons. 

3. Some itineraries route via Lai Son before arriving at Nam Du. 

Best time to visit Nam Du Islands

• Dry season (December to March / April) offers calm seas, clear skies, and safer boat travel. 

• Rainy / monsoon months (May to October) bring rough seas, cancellation risks, and limited visibility for snorkeling. 

You should plan at least 2-3 full days to truly wander the main island and venture out to the surrounding islets.

Where to Stay In Nam Du Islands

Accommodations on the Nam Du Islands are simple but comfortable, with options ranging from:

• Beachside bungalows
• Homestays with families
• Guesthouses near the harbor
• Camping spots on secluded beaches

Things To Do in Nam Du Islands: Beaches, Wellness & Local Experiences

1. Island‑Hopping & Secret Coves

One of Nam Du Island's greatest charms lies in the sheer number of islets scattered across the horizon. Take a speed boat or local vessel to explore nearby gems like Hon Ngang, Hon Mau, Hon Dau, and Hon Bo Dap. Many have secluded bays where you might be the only visitor. 

2. Pristine Beaches to Unwind

• Cay Men Beach on the main island is often regarded as a peaceful haven: soft sand, gentle surf, and palm shade. 

• Bãi Ngu, Bãi Đá Soi, and smaller hidden coves on islets offer quiet escapes for reading, sunbathing, and serenity. 

• Bring snorkeling gear — coral reefs are accessible even close to shore in many spots. 

3. Wellness & Mindful Escape

• Mornings: Practice yoga or meditation by the shoreline with the sound of gentle waves as your soundtrack. With minimal light pollution and wide ocean horizons, the Nam Du islands are ideal for watching magnificent sunrises and sunsets, especially at the pier on Hon Lon or overlooking the water from cliffside roads.

• Afternoon: Lounge in a hammock beneath coconut trees, letting your gaze wander over shimmering islets.

• Evening: Take sunset walks on soft sand, or paddle in calm shallows as the sky blushes.

• Digital detox: Embrace the minimal electricity (solar/generator), let go of screens, and reconnect with your inner rhythm.

4. Local Life & Cultural Immersion

• Join early-morning fishing expeditions or sea cage tours to observe aquaculture life.

• Visit villages in the Ngu Beach area, walk along alleys shaded by coconut palms, and absorb the warm simplicity of island living. 

• Savor freshly caught seafood such as grilled scallops, squid, fish, and local specialties. 

• Try your hand at a local favorite - night squid fishing! Locals love inviting visitors to join them on night excursions, where you can fish and grill your catch right on board. But make sure to bring some seasickness medicine if you are seasick!

5. Scenic Drives & Viewpoints

Rent a motorbike (or arrange island transport) and circle the main island. Climb to high viewpoints for panoramic scenes of emerald waters and scattered islets. 
Stop at the lighthouse area on Hon Lon for sweeping views at dusk.

6. Trekking & Hidden Beach Trails

For hikers and explorers, trails leading to beaches like Bai Nhum offer adventure and solitude, especially great for early morning hikes when the weather is cool, and the island is waking up.

Local Food & Culture on Nam Du Islands

Food on the Nam Du Islands reflects its coastal setting - fresh, simple, and flavorful. Seafood here is super fresh, often caught the same day it’s served. Popular local eats include grilled squid, blue bonefish (Xuong Xanh), scallops with herbs, and coconut-infused dishes straight from the island’s palm groves.

Don’t be surprised if you’re invited to join a family dinner or share stories with fishermen after just a short chit-chat - friendliness and community are big parts of island life here.

What to Pack for Nam Du

• Reef-safe sunscreen

• Snorkeling gear (optional, often available on tours)

• Mosquito repellent

• Swimwear & lightweight clothing

• Travel pillow, reusable water bottle

• Some cash (many local places don’t accept cards)

Tips for First-Time Visitors

• Electricity is mainly generated by generators or solar power, so power can be limited. Charge smartly.

• Internet can be weak – a great chance to digitally detox.

• Respect nature and local culture – take only memories, leave only footprints.

Accommodation & Practical Tips

• Choose sea-facing lodges or homestays powered by solar/generator to maintain the island’s rustic charm.

• Book in advance because the accommodations on the Nam Du Islands are limited.

• Carry reef-safe sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and a light rain jacket (for sudden tropical showers).

• Be respectful: avoid littering, minimize plastic use, and follow local norms.

• Since rescue services are limited, swim cautiously and don’t wander too far from shore.

• Cash may be necessary because some small vendors don’t accept cards.

Final Thoughts

The Nam Du Islands are a breathtaking tropical escape with gorgeous beaches, warm island culture, thrilling water adventures, and the kind of sunsets that stay with you forever. Whether you’re backpacking through Southeast Asia or planning a luxurious beach vacation, these beautiful islands are a destination rich with surprise and serenity.

Planning a trip to the Nam Du Islands can be a little tricky with ferries, weather, island-hopping routes, local homestays, and last-minute schedule changes that can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time visiting Vietnam. That’s exactly why AVT Travel is here.

Whether you want to combine Nam Du Islands with Phu Quoc, or build a custom itinerary packed with local activities, food, and island adventures, we’ll make sure everything is smooth from start to finish! You can check out our Vietnam Tours for our detailed itinerary!