Hon Khoai Island, Ca Mau

Hon Khoai Island, lying off the southern tip of the Mekong Delta, is one of the most well-known landscapes of the southernmost province of Ca Mau, Vietnam. It is about 15 kilometers from the mainland.

Formerly, Hon Khoai was called Giang Huong, Independence Island and Poulo Obi in the French domination. However, the locals get used to calling it Hon Khoai because it looks like the shape of a giant potato.

Hon Khoai is not only a well-known landscape of Ca Mau Province but also a revolutionary site in the south-western region of the south. In 1940, under the leadership of the Communist Party, the locals and soldiers re-took the island from French invaders.

Highlights of Hon Khoai Island

There is an important lighthouse in the Eastern Sea and Thailand Bay situated on the Hon Khoai Island. It was built in 1920 by French colonists to lead ships and now, it is considered as one of the best postcard behaviors for visitors.

The lighthouse has a square shape with 12.5 meter high, structured by cement and archives. It is one of the earliest construction sites on the Vietnamese territorial waters. Despite standing here for nearly 100 years, the architecture is still intact and is in the lighthouse system of Can Gio – Con Dao – Hon Khoai – Phu Quoc. It is used to light for ships on the beach at night. 

In the past, a revered teacher named Pham Ngoc Hien successfully led a revolt against the French colony to gain the resounding victory for Vietnam. This helped them to get their ownership of this lighthouse. From here, when using a telescopes, you can look closely at Hon Doi Moi or the Cape of Ca Mau.

According to some information about Hon Khoai, there are not many people living on this island except for foresters, officers of the navy and the defense forces who are responsible for ensuring a safe area for islanders and helping fishers when they are in danger.

On the Hon Khoai coast, many wild flowers blossom in rock cavities specially placed as part of some artistic arrangement. Lush century-old trees like jack fruit or mango along with the sound of running water and the chirping of birds can somehow complete a heavenly picture. 

In addition, you can also see numerous algae cooked into different delicious dishes, which can’t be seen on other islands.

What to Do in Hon Khoai Island

Hon Khoai Island has 2 main beaches named Small Beach and Big Beach. Each beach has its own unique features that can bring visitors different feelings. 

1. Visit Small Beach

Small beach is on the southeast side of the island. It is shallow with cool water, luxuriant trees, white sand and tender waves. Thus, tourists can walk along the coast by barefoot, witness the sunrise and swim in the crystal clear water. 

2. Head to Big Beach

In the meanwhile, big beach lies on the eastern side of Hon Khoai island. Adventurers tend to challenge their bravery near this beach thanks to the tropical jungle and the spectacular scenery that obtains wide ranges of rare animals and plants in the world. To conquer the peak of the mountains, visitors need to go through a zigzag path round the hillside which is shadowed by high and big trees. 

With sparkling waves, big beach offers a suitable opportunity for people to do some water sport activities such as surfing, scuba diving and fly board flying. Or another way to relax is just lying down on the soft sand watching the stunning scenery in the sunlight. This place is truly like an exorbitant resort for visitors to enjoy!

Tips on Visiting Hon Khoai Island

• Hon Khoai is near international waters so when coming here, you will be asked for permission from the border guard station
• Always pay attention to the monkeys on Hon Khoai island because they may take your food and items at anytime
• There is no need to carry loads of things including fresh water to the island because everything is brought by the local people

What is better than spending one day in such a big magnet like Hon Khoai Island? The untouched nature and the peaceful charm will definitely give you unforgettable experience during your trip in Vietnam!