Trek to the top of Ma Thiên Lãnh mountain for a panoramic view of Hòn Sơn Island.
HCM CITY — Hòn Sơn Island in Kiên Giang is a new destination for a summer retreat, with beautiful white sandy beaches and imposing mountains.
About 65km from the centre of the southern province of Kiên Giang, the serene and unspoiled Hòn Sơn Island is a hidden gem for nature-loving tourists.
Hòn Sơn boasts beautiful sandy beaches like Bãi Nha, Bãi Gieng, Bãi Bac, and the best, Bãi Bằng, lined with endless coconut palms.
If you prefer, trek 450m above sea level to the peak of Ma Thiên Lãnh Mountain, which may take at least half a day both ways, made worthwhile by the panoramic view of the island.
With limited infrastructure, islanders are highly sensitive to the environment, employing eco-friendly paper straws at coffee houses.
The best time to visit Hòn Sơn Island is from May to December when weather conditions allow for calm seas and fresh, and plenty of cheap seafood.
To reach the island, fly to Rạch Giá Airport from Hà Nội or HCM City, then catch a VNĐ140,000 (US$6) hour-and-a-half speedboat ride from Rạch Giá Pier. Alternatively, you could also travel by traditional ferry for VNĐ90,000 ($3.9), which takes around 3.5 hours. — VNS
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