Whale Island: A Wild Paradise for 21st-Century Robinsons

Situated in Van Phong Bay, Whale Island spans an area of 40,000 hectares. It's a world of its own, a human-scale haven featuring a collection of charming bungalows nestled within the lush jungle. Here, travelers can embark on a truly relaxing journey in perfect harmony with nature.

Whale Island is also a place of reverence for the Whale, considered the guardian spirit of the sea for the people of central Vietnam. According to legend, whales would come to the aid of fishermen when their boats encountered accidents at sea.

Why Choose Whale Island? A 3-Star Resort Focused on Sustainable Tourism

The 31 bungalows embrace an unexpectedly simple aesthetic: a bed with a mosquito net, a fan, a shower, accompanied by the gentle sounds of waves and insects. There's no swimming pool, but pristine white sand beaches with crystal-clear waters are just a stone's throw away. Plastic tools are nowhere to be seen. Instead of television screens, guests are treated to a view of the sea, where the sun glistens and fishermen cast their nets.

All the bungalows are constructed using local wood, bamboo, or natural materials, with a reduced reliance on solar electricity. You'll notice a buoy barrier used to prevent fishing and protect the marine reserve. Although it's a long process, the initial results are promising: various fish species coexist, and the clear waters boast a rich diversity of corals.

The Island's History

Whale Island Resort, known as Hon Ong in Vietnamese, was discovered in the early 1990s by a Frenchman. Later, a Franco-Vietnamese couple decided to make it their home and establish a retreat far removed from the rest of the world. The resort comprises a total of 31 bungalows, a bar, a restaurant, a diving center, a billiards room, internet access, and several small beaches, all surrounded by an abundance of trees, including coconut palms, mango trees, mangrove trees, and pandanus.

For Whom?

Thanks to its remote location, this place is a paradise for those seeking an escape from modern life, skyscrapers, and a desire for authenticity, simplicity, and tranquility. It might not be the best choice for those who prioritize comfort.

Activities to Enjoy

The days here are filled with a variety of engaging activities: swimming on pristine beaches, free diving or snorkeling in a vast natural aquarium, canoeing, kayaking, or catamaran excursions, leisurely walks to explore the lush wildlife and flora, and evenings spent in the company of newfound friends.

The resort also offers boat trips to the coral reefs of the archipelago, the fishing village, or the Whale Temple, as well as relaxing massages to alleviate any fatigue.

Depending on your adventurous spirit, you can embark on a 15-minute to 2-hour forest walk for the chance to spot wading birds, muntjacs, parrots, or fishing eagles...

Getting There: From Tuy Hoa, Nha Trang, Ho Chi Minh, or Hanoi airports, this resort is accessible via a 1-3 hour bus journey, depending on the departure city, followed by a 20-minute speedboat ride.