An Binh Island (Dao Be): The Turquoise Coral Paradise of Ly Son
Complete guide to An Binh Island (Dao Be): crystal-clear emerald beaches, round-trip speedboat transfers, basket boat coral diving, and snorkeling.
Located roughly 3 nautical miles northwest of Big Island, An Binh Island (affectionately known as Đảo Bé or Small Island) spans less than 1 square kilometer. Frequently described as the "Maldives of Vietnam", this volcanic islet boasts powdery white beaches and transparent, turquoise waters allowing clear visibility of coral reefs right from the water's surface.
Getting to Dao Be (Small Island)
Speedboats (cano) run regularly between the main harbor on Big Island (Ben Dinh Port or the tourist pier near Muong Thanh Hotel) and Small Island:
- Crossing Time: Approximately 8 to 10 minutes over sheltered coastal waters.
- Operating Hours: Frequent departures daily between 07:30 and 14:30.
Upon docking at Small Island's pier, the easiest way to explore is via electric buggies (tuktuks) operated by island locals (approx. 30,000đ to 40,000đ per person for a scenic island circuit).
Must-Do Highlights & Activities
1. Swimming at Bai Sau Beach
Bai Sau is the island's primary and most picturesque swimming cove. Framed by crescent-shaped dark basalt headlands that shelter the beach from ocean swells, the water is calm, warm, and remarkably clear. The sand is ultra-fine, formed from crushed coral and seashells pulverized by centuries of tide action.
2. Traditional Basket Boat Coral Snorkeling
The signature experience on Dao Be:
- Local fishermen row traditional round bamboo basket boats (thuyền thúng) out to coral beds located just 80–100 meters off the rocky shoreline.
- Equipped with life vests and snorkel masks, travelers can view sprawling formations of cabbage coral (san hô bắp cải) and vibrant schools of reef fish.
3. The Solitary Phong Ba Tree & Island Murals
- The Ancient Phong Ba Tree: Clinging tenaciously to a cliff edge overlooking the surging ocean, this windswept tree symbolizes the resilient spirit of islanders facing maritime monsoons.
- Village Wall Murals: Colorful sea-turtle and ocean conservation murals painted across village cottages by volunteer artists celebrate marine stewardship.
Dining & Day Trip Logistics
- Dining: Relax under thatched bamboo cabanas and enjoy freshly cracked island coconuts, grilled fish cakes, and freshly harvested seaweed salad.
- Trip Duration: Most visitors spend 3 to 4 leisurely hours on Small Island before taking an afternoon speedboat back to Big Island. Basic homestays and beach camping gear are also available for those wishing to stargaze overnight.