Thanh Lan is the largest island in the Co To archipelago, covering approximately 27 square kilometres and located about 4 kilometres by sea from Co To Island. Travellers can reach the island either via Co To or by taking a high-speed boat directly from the mainland (Van Don Port or Ao Tien Port).
Seen from a distance, Thanh Lan appears fresh and verdant amid the ocean, where forests, mountains, and the sea blend harmoniously. Life on the island still retains the peaceful, rustic charm of an old fishing village, even as tourism begins to take root.
The island is home to numerous beautiful beaches featuring soft white sand, gentle slopes, and crystal-clear waters. Among them, Ba Chau Beach is the most famous. Shaped like an arc and nestled between dramatic rocky cliffs, it is a popular spot for watching the sunset and is frequently recommended on travel forums and social media.
Thanh Lan boasts not only a vibrant marine ecosystem but also nearly 2,000 hectares of pristine forest. These coastal woodlands form a distinctive landscape, ideal for eco-tourism activities such as forest trekking, camping, and picnicking.
Small trails weaving beneath the forest canopy invite visitors to immerse themselves in nature and explore hills that offer panoramic views of the beaches and surrounding islets.
At present, accommodation on Thanh Lan remains limited. The island has around ten small guesthouses and homestays, either newly built or converted from local residences.
Dining options are also modest. Most food and beverage services are offered by the same businesses providing accommodation.
A sightseeing and photo-check-in route has been established, guiding visitors to cultural and historical landmarks such as the National Flag Pole, Van La Bridge, Village 2 Shrine, and Thanh Lan Parish Church. These sites offer opportunities for visitors to better understand the island’s history and traditions.
Fishing and jellyfish processing remain the primary sources of income for local residents. Traditional fishing village cuisine is another highlight, with fresh seafood dishes made from local specialties such as sea urchins, sea cucumbers, stone crabs, peanut worms, squid, fish, and jellyfish. These are often prepared simply—steamed or grilled—to preserve their natural flavour. The island also hosts an annual Sea Opening Festival.
According to the Thanh Lan Tourism Development Plan for 2025, the island aims to attract 20,000 visitors and generate more than 7 billion VND (approximately 268,000 USD) in revenue.
Since April 2023, Quang Ninh Province has allowed marine diving activities in Thanh Lan waters at Vung Tron, Hon Chim, and Hon Ong Tich. Current offerings include snorkelling, scuba diving, and sea walking.
According to Le Ngoc Han, Party Secretary of Co To District, a pilot project has been approved and launched to organise underwater recreational activities and island tours in the district from April 2025 to the end of 2026.
As part of this initiative, Thanh Lan Island has been designated a key tourism area, integrated into an interconnected network of destinations to reduce pressure on more popular sites and diversify local tourism products.
Co To District plans to operate eight island tour routes, linking Co To Con Island, the islets of Ca Chep, Su Tu, Bay Sao, Dong Nam; Thanh Lan Island; and Tran Island.
