Ly Son Tourism:

Alluring shades of blue on An Binh island

Tiny yet lively amid the vast ocean, An Binh Island—affectionately known as “Dao Be” (Little Island)—is one of the most captivating marine destinations in central Viet Nam. Belonging to Ly Son District in Quang Ngai Province, the island has won the hearts of many travellers, who often liken it to a “blue paradise”. 
A visitor relaxing amid the stunning natural surroundings of An Binh Island.
A visitor relaxing amid the stunning natural surroundings of An Binh Island.

Located about three nautical miles northwest of Ly Son (also known as “Big Island”), An Binh covers a mere 0.69 square kilometres, making it one of the smallest islands in the district. Despite its modest size and a population of only around 500 residents in over 100 households, the island welcomes tens of thousands of tourists each year.

The ideal time to visit is during the dry season, from April to August. From September through the end of the year, the rainy season and rough seas may affect travel plans. From late December to April, the island transforms into a unique landscape blanketed with green moss.

The pier welcoming visitors to the lush, green An Binh Island, also known locally as "Dao Be' or 'Cu Lao Bo Bai'.

The pier welcoming visitors to the lush, green An Binh Island, also known locally as "Dao Be' or 'Cu Lao Bo Bai'.

Travellers can take either a speedboat or a wooden boat from the Big Island. Arriving at An Binh feels like stepping into a secluded paradise of turquoise waters and golden sunshine. Surrounded by sea, the island offers perfect spots to catch both sunrise and sunset.

The island’s striking rock formations were created by volcanic activity millions of years ago. Layers of dark basalt stones stacked atop one another form dramatic cliffs, creating a unique and memorable landscape set against the vivid blue sea.

Bai Ngang, the island’s largest beach, features a gentle slope and crystal-clear water, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water activities.

Bai Ngang, the island’s largest beach, features a gentle slope and crystal-clear water, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water activities.

One of An Binh’s most unforgettable features is the colour of its water—exceptionally clear and emerald blue. Visitors can easily see the seabed and the vibrant coral reefs from above.

Basket boat rides offer not only fun but also a chance to approach shallow coral areas and explore marine life.

Basket boat rides offer not only fun but also a chance to approach shallow coral areas and explore marine life.

Visitors can enjoy a day trip or choose to stay overnight in local homestays, bungalows, or rustic campsites run by island residents. The people of Ly Son mainly earn a living through fishing and garlic cultivation. In fact, Ly Son garlic, known as the island’s “white gold” is famed for its rich flavour and features prominently in local cuisine.

A beachfront area offering camping, dining, and nature-based experiences.

A beachfront area offering camping, dining, and nature-based experiences.

The surrounding waters of An Binh also boast some of the best coral diving spots in Viet Nam. For those with time and good health, professional diving tours are available, reaching depths of around six metres to reveal the wonders of the underwater world.

Various check-in spots and photo setups are dotted across the island for visitors to capture memories.

Various check-in spots and photo setups are dotted across the island for visitors to capture memories.

An Binh not only charms with its natural beauty but also impresses with its cleanliness. The beaches and residential areas are notably free of plastic waste and single-use plastics.

Since 2017, local authorities have piloted a plastic-free initiative, encouraging both residents and tourists to avoid single-use plastic items and opt for eco-friendly alternatives instead.

Pristine beaches free of litter make An Binh all the more serene and valuable.

Pristine beaches free of litter make An Binh all the more serene and valuable.

Though small in size, An Binh offers a diverse landscape—from white sand beaches fringed with palm trees and towering cliffs to lush green garlic fields. Many residents still fish for a living, while others have started offering tourism services. Their hospitality, sincerity, and warmth add even more to the island’s appeal.

Narrow, clean, and level paths circle the island.

Narrow, clean, and level paths circle the island.

A visit to An Binh is a journey into a sea of blue—far removed from the noise and rush of urban life. Its pristine beauty, unique geological features, and rich island culture continue to captivate both domestic and international visitors.

Whether you call it An Binh or Dao Be, both names perfectly suit this peaceful and picturesque island.

Fishing boats depart daily, bringing back fresh bounty from the sea to sustain island life.

Fishing boats depart daily, bringing back fresh bounty from the sea to sustain island life.

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