Embark on an enchanting journey to Hon Ba Vung Tau. Explore the unique beauty of this secluded island, where rugged cliffs meet the endless sea and ancient temples stand amidst lush greenery. Join us as we uncover the secrets of Hon Ba’s picturesque landscapes, rich history, and unforgettable experiences. Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime with Vietnampeace.com as your guide.

1. Brief Introduction to Hon Ba Vung Tau

Hon Ba Vung Tau is the only small island on the coast of Vung Tau. It is located near Nghinh Phong Cape in Bai Sau of Vung Tau City and attracts many tourists yearly. Hon Ba is about 200 meters from the foot of Small Mountain, covering an area of ​​5,450 square meters. What’s unique about Hon Ba Island is that during low tide days, the water splits on both sides of the island, revealing a stone path connecting the beach to the island.

There’s no residential population on the island, only a temple called Hon Ba Temple. According to history, the Hon Ba Temple was built in 1781 and dedicated to Lady Thuy Long – a goddess who blesses fishermen at sea.

In 1939, a French officer named Archinard ordered three cannonballs fired at the temple, damaging part of its corner. Later, this French officer died here, so locals believe the Hon Ba Temple is very sacred. Since then, this island has also been known as Ba Vien Dan Island or Archinard Island. In 1971, someone stepped up to contribute and renovate the temple, expanding its premises with a gateway leading tourists to Hon Ba Temple. In addition to worshiping Lady Thuy Long, the temple also worships some deities of the coastal residents of Ba Ria-Vung Tau. Moreover, Hon Ba Temple is also a historical war relic with a 6-meter-long, 3-meter-wide underground bunker, formerly a secret meeting place for revolutionaries.

2. How to Get to Hon Ba Vung Tau

Finding your way to Hon Ba Vung Tau won’t be too difficult. Standing from Nghinh Phong Cape or Tao Phung Mountain, looking straight at the sea, you can easily see Hon Ba Island amidst the waters. From the center of Vung Tau, follow the coastal road to the foot of Thuy Van Hill and park your vehicle there. From the parking lot, walk along the sandy shore for about 10 minutes to reach the departure point to the island.

There are two ways to visit Hon Ba:

• Option 1: You can take a boat to the island any day. The ship won’t go straight but will follow a curved path to avoid underwater rocks.
• Option 2: Walk 15-20 minutes from the sandy shore to the island, although this path only appears for a few hours on certain days of the month. You’ll need to pass through rugged rocky terrain and be extra careful to avoid slipping or getting scratched by oyster shells clinging to the rocks. If you want to experience the exciting feeling, plan your time to be able to walk amidst the sea!

3. Best Time to Visit Hon Ba Vung Tau

Traditionally, each year, Hon Ba Temple holds ceremonies in January, April, July, and October (lunar calendar). Hon Ba Temple is much more crowded and lively these days, as people come here to worship and pray for a peaceful and happy new year. If you want to attend the festival at Hon Ba Temple, choose these days to visit.

Timing is crucial for those who want to experience walking on the “mysterious path amidst the sea” to Hon Ba Island. It’s called the mysterious path under the sea because when the tide recedes, the sea level drops, revealing a stone path, whereas normally, the sea submerges the path. This path only appears for a few days and about 2-3 hours a month. Usually, on the 14th and 15th lunar days of each month, the path emerges, splitting the way from the beach to the island around 17:00, allowing you to easily walk to the island.

4. Discovering the Unique Beauty of Hon Ba Vung Tau

4.1 The Picturesque Landscape of Hon Ba Island “Solitary” amidst the Sea

Hon Ba Vung Tau combines the perfect beauty of rocks, sea, and temple architecture and is covered by a lush vegetation carpet, making it an ideal sightseeing spot. Hon Ba features the verdant green of grass and trees, nestled amidst the vast, clear sea. At the foot of the island are waves crashing with white foam, creating a scene brimming with life amidst the vast ocean. Hon Ba is most beautiful at dawn and dusk when the sunlight reflects on the sea, creating a shimmering and mystical beauty.

On low tide days, the stone path connecting to Hon Ba Island becomes even more special. Walking along the path amidst the sea, you’ll feel like you’re parting the waters, strolling amidst the vast ocean. This will surely be an unforgettable experience for those who have walked on this unique path.

4.2 Hon Ba Temple Architecture

From afar, Hon Ba Temple on the small island amidst the sea looks beautiful and mysterious. Hon Ba Temple’s architecture consists of a gate and a central hall. The gate is supported by two pillars holding the entire tiled roof, with a decorative pattern of “Pair of dragons facing the sun” (stylized dragons facing the sun) on the ridge of the roof, with elegance. The three-tiered steps are concrete, extending from the gate to the main hall. Inside Hon Ba Temple, deities of the sea are worshipped to protect and bless the residents living in coastal or river areas.

4.3 The House of Doctor Yersin

In 1915, Dr. Yersin discovered that Hon Ba Island had a cool climate suitable for growing Canhkina trees, which were used as raw materials for malaria medicine. Since then, Dr. Yersin has built a small house on the island to take care of the trees conveniently. It’s a wooden house nestled next to Hon Ba Temple, now deteriorated but reconstructed by the local authorities for tourists visiting Vung Tau to have the opportunity to visit. Follow the sea direction signs along the road to visit Dr. Yersin’s house.

5. Tips for Visiting Hon Ba Vung Tau

To make your visit perfect, pay attention to the following points:

• The most impressive way to explore Hon Ba is by moving from the sea path. Therefore, if you want to explore, consider the tide schedule.
• Bring necessary items and pack them neatly to walk a distance easily.
• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes with good grip and safety to avoid slipping or scratching when walking on the stone path.
• Bring the necessary cash if you go to the island by boat.

Also, bring a camera or phone to capture the beautiful moments here.

Hon Ba Vung Tau is famous for its “mysterious path on the sea,” which is unique in the South. Not only that, but Hon Ba Island, with its wild and straightforward beauty, along with its picturesque nature, has become one of the most spiritual and scenic tourist destinations when traveling to Vung Tau City. If you can visit Vung Tau, schedule time to visit Hon Ba for exciting experiences and moments of relaxation in your soul!