VI
Soi Sim's inclusion on this list is not simply a recognition of its aesthetic appeal. The international expert panel applied rigorous criteria regarding indigenous beach culture, the authentic connection with nature, and the value of ecosystem conservation. This honor sends a powerful message: Soi Sim is not just a resort destination, but a heritage entity that deserves to be honored and protected with the utmost care.
Silence in the heart of a wonder
Located in the heart of the Ha Long Bay World Natural Heritage Site, Soi Sim stands as a secluded emerald green strip, separate from the bustling tourist routes. Covering an area of approximately 8.7 hectares and situated 12 km from Tuan Chau International Cruise Port (equivalent to a 90-minute boat ride on Route 2), the island boasts a unique geological structure with two-thirds of its area covered by weathered and laterite soil, creating ideal conditions for a thriving primary forest ecosystem.
The defining "brand identity" of Soi Sim lies in its hills covered with ancient myrtle bushes. The name "Soi Sim" holds a fascinating cultural significance stemming from the lives of fishermen: Legend has it that in the past, during nights spent waiting to cast their nets, fishermen would carry lamps to the island to search for ripe myrtle berries, hence the poetic name. From May to August each year, the myrtle blossoms paint the heritage site purple, blooming across the hillsides and down to the pathways, creating a unique and romantic landscape in the heart of the bay.
The island is also considered a valuable "gene bank" with more than 78 plant species and 32 animal species. Among them, endemic plant species such as the mountain cypress, cottonwood, and yellow-flowered lady's slipper have contributed to making Soi Sim a priority destination for ecotourism and biodiversity research.
"Soi Sim is a stunning, tranquil emerald gem in the heart of Ha Long Bay. With its warm golden sands and emerald green waters, it's the ideal destination to completely escape the hustle and bustle, perfect for swimming, hiking, and admiring the thousand-island skyline," the Corona Beach 100 Council stated.
Strategic lull
Despite receiving widespread international praise, the operational reality of Soi Sim currently presents a "brand paradox." Since 2020, the beach has temporarily ceased operations to finalize legal frameworks and upgrade infrastructure. This is considered a necessary but challenging "lull" for the managers and investors (Soi Sim One-Member Limited Liability Company).
This delay stems from the completion of complex legal procedures specific to the heritage area, including: forest environmental tax, announcement of berths, allocation of sea areas, and land procedures. Field reports indicate that the previously existing tourism infrastructure (such as the pedestrian bridge around the island) has shown signs of deterioration and disrepair after years of disuse. This suspension is to prevent further degradation and to implement the Wildlife Conservation Area project to preserve rare biological values.
Hopefully, the Quang Ninh provincial authorities will quickly resolve the legal obstacles, bringing this "gem" back to serving tourists in a sustainable way.
During the period when Soi Sim is "off-peak," tourists participating in Route 2 can choose from the following alternative stops:
* Thien Cung Cave and Dau Go Cave: A magnificent system of cave formations.
* Dinh Huong Island and Ga Choi Island: Cultural symbols of Ha Long Bay.
* Surprise Cave: The largest and most beautiful cave in the core area.
* Ti Top Island: A beach and sightseeing spot located approximately 700 meters from Soi Sim.
