Hai Bo Dap Island – The “Secret Destination” Of Southern Vietnam
Hai Bo Dap is a small island in the Nam Du archipelago, Kien Giang province. This destination is also called “Ha Long of the South” for its breathtaking and pristine natural scenery that is hidden from people’s eyes. Compared to other destinations around here, Hai Bo Dap island is less known by tourists coming to Kien Giang, which is why it captures the curiosity of many people.
![]() |
The gorgeous sandy beach of Hai Bo Dap island. Photo: Kich Nam Du |
The ideal time to explore the scenery here is from March 13 to next year. At this time, the weather is sunny, less rainy and the sea is calm, so tourists can easily participate in interesting activities here.
To move to Hai Bo Dap island, people can take a bus to Rach Gia from Ho Chi Minh City. Then, they can catch a regular boat or a speedboat to the island, which will take from two to five hours. Tourists should also pay attention to the boat running schedule to be able to catch one on time.
![]() |
Tourists swim and enjoy themselves in the crystal blue water. Photo: Kich Nam Du |
Coming to Hai Bo Dap, tourists will have a chance to immerse themselves in the wilderness and charm of this place, where they can admire the rows of green coconuts, clear blue water, and cool atmosphere that cures their fatigue and ease their anxiety.
Hai Bo Dap Island offers an incredible opportunity for visitors to dive into the underwater world and discover a diverse and beautiful ecosystem. Snorkelers and divers can immerse themselves in the crystal-clear waters and witness the vibrant coral reefs teeming with life. Whether they are a beginner or a seasoned diver, exploring the marine world of Hai Bo Dap Island is a truly awe-inspiring experience.
![]() |
Hai Bo Dap island consists of two parts connected by a series of natural rocks, which makes it look like a dam. Photo: Nguyen Chinh |
One of the favorite activities of the tourists here is camping on the island. They can put up tents, light up the campfire and grill some BBQ meat. In the quiet evening, they will be able to listen to the murmuring waves and feel the miracles of nature surrounding them.
Must-try traditional dishes
On Hai Bo Dap island, tourists can indulge in a variety of delicious seafood dishes. Here are some options:
Grilled green bone fish with banana leaves: Tender, smoky fish grilled inside banana leaves and served with local herbs - this is a must-try dish for its unique combination of flavors and textures.
![]() |
Photo: Luhanhvietnam |
Cobia hotpot: The Cobia fish infuses the broth with its rich flavors, resulting in a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for sharing with friends and family. Nothing beats this after a cool dip in the water.
Steamed egg squid with ginger: The delicate and tender texture of steamed squid, is enhanced by the aromatic notes of ginger. This dish offers a subtle yet delightful blend of flavors, with the ginger adding a slight spiciness to complement the natural sweetness of the squid.
Grilled eel with galangal: The eel's tender meat, combined with the unique flavor profile of galangal, creates a mouthwatering dish that is sure to satisfy tourists’ cravings for seafood.
![]() |
Photo: Nguyen Chinh |
Tips for first-timers at Hai Bo Dap Island
In order to have a perfect experience on this journey, tourists are recommended to prepare themselves carefully with a bathing suit, sunscreen, mosquito repellent spray, warm clothes, and blankets in case they go camping overnight, food and drinks, and other necessary personal belongings. Tourists are advised to clean up after themselves after they leave the island to protect the environment. Do not throw trash down the sea.
With plenty of attractions and activities, Hai Bo Dap Island is a true paradise for all types of travelers. As people explore its hidden treasures and immerse themselves in its charms, they will be left with a sense of serenity that lingers long after their visit.
![]() | Explore The Gorgeous Bu Gia Map National Park In Vietnam Bu Gia Map National Park, located in Binh Phuoc, is a beautiful tourist destination because of its lovely nature, cool weather, and breathtaking scenery. |
![]() | Discover Non Nuoc Mountain Carved With Ancient Poems In Ninh Binh Famous for over 40 poems carved on the cliffs, Non Nuoc Mountain, which is located in Ninh Binh, is known as the poetry museum "engraving ... |
![]() | Search For Vietnam Destinations Increases On International Travel Website The search for Vietnam tourism and Vietnam destinations has increased dramatically after the National Assembly officially approved the extension of the e-visa for international visitors, ... |
Most read
![Thank-you Message of State Funeral Board, Family of General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong](https://vietnamtimes.org.vn/stores/news_dataimages/2024/072024/27/08/a7e434b690062e74ad0f2fe9152017b6.jpg?rt=20240727084830)
Thank-you Message of State Funeral Board, Family of General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong
![Hundreds of People's Organizations Worldwide Sent Condolences over General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong Passing](https://vietnamtimes.org.vn/stores/news_dataimages/2024/072024/26/23/12a4e0edf3f2e56480322a035fd56d32.jpg?rt=20240726232053)
Hundreds of People's Organizations Worldwide Sent Condolences over General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong Passing
Recommended
![Rankify Korea: Nha Trang and Phu Quoc island are Most Loved by South Korean Tourists](https://vietnamtimes.org.vn/stores/news_dataimages/2024/042024/21/08/fdd17b842754cc43189c9361dd1145c8.jpg?rt=20240716113354)
Rankify Korea: Nha Trang and Phu Quoc island are Most Loved by South Korean Tourists
![Travel+Leisure: Phu Quoc Is World’s Second Best Island by Vote](https://vietnamtimes.org.vn/stores/news_dataimages/2023/122023/26/15/0d2e5a87362b1185db6b8536e2ae4dda.jpg?rt=20240716103717)
Travel+Leisure: Phu Quoc Is World’s Second Best Island by Vote
![Bridging Iran and Vietnam Through Tourism](https://vietnamtimes.org.vn/stores/news_dataimages/2024/072024/05/01/dcb460662f889874d9ee9d11628f56f5.jpg?rt=20240705011434)
Bridging Iran and Vietnam Through Tourism
![Program to Introduce Vietnamese Tourism in Russia Takes Place in Moscow](https://vietnamtimes.org.vn/stores/news_dataimages/2024/072024/05/10/2072a16d29a425789baed5881848fe96.jpg?rt=20240705100646)
Program to Introduce Vietnamese Tourism in Russia Takes Place in Moscow
Popular article
![Khuoi Ky Stone Village: A Highlight of Community Tourism in Cao Bang](https://vietnamtimes.org.vn/stores/news_dataimages/2024/072024/05/11/acfec8f11b76a93024fc8a77a05a77f2.jpg?rt=20240705111310)
Khuoi Ky Stone Village: A Highlight of Community Tourism in Cao Bang
![Admire The Alluring Scenic View Of Mu Cang Chai In Rainy Season](https://vietnamtimes.org.vn/stores/news_dataimages/2024/072024/02/01/admire-the-beautiful-scenic-view-of-mu-cang-chai-in-flood-season.jpg?rt=20240702010344)
Admire The Alluring Scenic View Of Mu Cang Chai In Rainy Season
![TripAdvisor: Ninh Binh Voted As Top 10 Most Attractive Tourist Experiences of 2024](https://vietnamtimes.org.vn/stores/news_dataimages/2024/012024/27/01/ninh-binh-activities-to-mark-trang-ans-10th-anniversary-as-world-heritage-site_3.jpg?rt=20240704104217)
TripAdvisor: Ninh Binh Voted As Top 10 Most Attractive Tourist Experiences of 2024
![Experience Mushroom Hunting After Rainy Season In Da Lat](https://vietnamtimes.org.vn/stores/news_dataimages/2024/072024/03/02/experience-mushroom-hunting-after-rainy-season-in-da-lat_3.jpg?rt=20240703023635)