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"As a passionate traveler who has explored every corner of the country and visited famous islands both in Vietnam and abroad, my recent trip to Hon Son with my family brought me a feeling of relaxation and warmth more than any other," shared Mr. Nguyen Ngoc Minh from Soc Trang after his family trip last April.
Minh's family took a commemorative photo during the trip.
The island possesses the tranquil charm of the beloved Mekong Delta.
Nestled between Hon Tre and Nam Du islands, about 65 km from the coast, Hon Son Island, also known as Hon Son Rai or Lai Son, belongs to Lai Son commune, Kien Hai district, Kien Giang province. This island is a lush green oasis in the ocean, covering an area of over 11.5 km² and with a population of just over 2,000 people. Hon Son possesses ideal conditions for exploring nature and enjoying a simple life for a few days without being caught up in the whirlwind of mass tourism.
On Hon Son Island, there's only one main road connecting the beaches and attractions. Renting a motorbike for around 150,000 VND per day allows you to freely explore the most beautiful spots on the island. "I highly recommend riding around the island early in the morning or at sunset, enjoying the soft light and the gentle sea breeze. That feeling is worth capturing with both your heart and your camera," Minh enthusiastically shared.
The coastal road on the island.
But what resonated most deeply with him after the trip was the "essence of the Mekong Delta" that permeated everything from the scenery to the people. "I've been to many beautiful islands like Nam Du, Binh Ba, or even islands in Thailand, but Hon Son reminded me of an 'offshore Ben Tre,' unspoiled and uncommercialized," he said. Among the simple, down-to-earth locals, you'll easily encounter fishermen returning from shore, warmly inviting you to enjoy a fresh seafood meal, or a shop owner busy brewing a cup of filter coffee early in the morning. "Those scenes are so peaceful that recalling them truly moves me," Minh shared.
The tranquil scenery on Hon Son Island
Hon Son Island hasn't been heavily commercialized yet, so services from car rentals and hotel bookings to guided tours are all run by local people. Perhaps that's why, not the beaches or the delicious food, but the simplicity, honesty, and hospitality of the locals are the biggest reasons people want to return to this place again and again, Minh observed.
The gifts of nature bestowed upon Hon Son Island.
Following the island's only winding road, Minh's family visited the beaches and main attractions, "hunting" for every unspoiled, pristine corner of the island. From the crystal-clear water lapping against the white sand, under the swaying coconut trees – the perfect "chill island vibe" at Bang Beach – to the summit of Ma Thien Lanh, 450 meters above sea level, where the gaze follows the waves from the distant sea, bathed in the bright sunshine and immersed in the cool breath of the ocean. From the less-talked-about coastal road behind the island, offering the clearest sense of natural wilderness and tranquility, to exploring the raw beauty beneath the sea with activities like SUP paddling and snorkeling to admire the coral reefs, letting the cool seawater wash away the summer heat and drifting along the vibrant currents of the ocean.
The beauty of Hon Son Island as seen from above.
The rustic charm of Hon Son Island is most evident at Xep Beach, where a short walk takes you to a secluded space with large rocks, crystal-clear water, and a distinctly tropical landscape. "My wife and I sat there for quite a while just listening to the waves and watching our child play with the seashells scattered on the shore, but it was a truly peaceful moment that made me appreciate my little family even more," Minh shared.
Minh's family enjoyed some relaxing moments at Xep Beach.
Like other islands, seafood is the "national specialty" of Hon Son. Shrimp, crab, squid, sea urchins... can be grilled, steamed, stir-fried, and enjoyed while still hot after being caught.
Thien Tue Market is the ideal place to "hunt" for fresh seafood at affordable prices, only about two-thirds the price of other tourist islands. Minh included simple seafood dishes with minimal seasoning to fully appreciate their freshness, deliciousness, crispness, and sweetness, such as grilled sea urchin with scallions and butter, steamed squid with ginger, and grilled grouper with salt and chili.
A "must-try" experience - enjoying seafood at seaside restaurants.
The total cost for Minh's family, including speedboat, shuttle service, beachfront homestay, and seafood meals, ranged from 4 to 5 million VND. According to Minh, this is a reasonable price for a few days' vacation on the island, offering a range of experiences from relaxing to exploring.
The trip helped his family slow down, appreciate life, and laugh more.
After the trip, the biggest thing that Hon Son Island brought to Minh's family wasn't just beautiful photos or delicious food, but the feeling of slowing down to appreciate nature, to see his children smile more, and to reflect on his own life. "You don't need a lot of money, you don't need a packed schedule, just a little time, a spirit ready to let go of pressure, and an open heart, and you'll find peace isn't far away. Simply a morning on the island, when the whole family wakes up early, sits on the porch looking at the sea, and enjoys a simple breakfast, and feels so lighthearted," he said.
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