Where Should You Travel This Summer: Quan Lan or Co To?
Summer marks the perfect time for travelers to explore the enchanting islands of Northern Vietnam. Among these, Quan Lạn and Cô Tô shine as standout destinations, luring visitors with their pristine natural beauty and invigorating atmosphere. Yet deciding between Quan Lạn and Cô Tô can be a significant dilemma for many.'
In this article, we will explore each destination so you can form a comprehensive understanding before making your decision.
Introducing Quan Lạn and Cô Tô
When referencing the most prominent islands in Vietnam’s northern seas, Quan Lạn and Cô Tô invariably top the list.
Quan Lạn Island – The Wild Jewel of Bái Tử Long Bay
Quan Lạn is a small island under Vân Đồn District, Quảng Ninh Province, nestled within Bái Tử Long Bay. As one of the outermost isles of the Gulf of Tonkin, it covers approximately 11 km². It stretches east to west, from the foothills of Vân Đồn to Núi Gót. The island is surrounded by towering mountains that form a natural windbreak, ensuring serene tranquillity.
Quan Lạn’s beaches, with their fine white sand and crystal-clear waters
Quan Lạn is celebrated for its immaculate charm. The moment you set foot ashore, you’ll notice the fresh air and peaceful ambience—a stark contrast to the bustling city life. Its famous beaches—Quan Lạn Beach, Minh Châu Beach, and Sơn Hào Beach—feature translucent waters where you can see your toes wading in the shallows. The gentle sandy slopes are perfect for swimming and recreational fun.
Unique Island Transport
Transportation on the island relies on electric vehicles or “xe lam.” This not only offers a fun, novel experience but also lets visitors leisurely gaze at lush roadside greenery. Though the roads are narrow, they’re paved with concrete, perfectly suited for these small vehicles.
Quan Lan is renowned for its powdery white sand beaches like Minh Chau Beach — a perfect place to immerse yourself in nature.
Natural & Cultural Attractions
Visitors to Quan Lạn do more than sunbathe. They explore attractions like the stunning Wind’s Pass (Eo Gió), the twin-river sandbanks, and the mystical aloeswood forests. Additionally, the island features historical and cultural relics—ancient temples, shrines, and communal houses—that reflect its rich heritage.
Travel Access & Convenience
Ferry services from Cái Rồng (Vân Đồn) or Tuần Châu (Hạ Long) take around 50 minutes to reach Quan Lạn. Compared with Cô Tô, this route is easier and calmer—making it especially family-friendly, especially for those with children or elderly members. Though the island’s hospitality offerings remain limited, this contributes to its untouched, rustic charm. Quan Lạn is ideal for those seeking serenity, closeness to nature, and private moments.
Cô Tô – The Vibrant Beauty of Northern Island Life
If Quan Lạn is the rough-cut gem, then Cô Tô is its polished, lively counterpart. This archipelago lies off the coast of Vân Đồn, Quảng Ninh Province, approximately 60 km from the mainland. The boat trip takes between 90 minutes and two hours from Cái Rồng. Despite the longer distance, the island’s allure makes the journey worthwhile.
Hong Van Beach in Co To is one of the island’s liveliest destinations, featuring refreshing turquoise waters and a variety of exciting activities.
Dynamic Beaches & Water Activities
Cô Tô is famed for its breathtaking beaches—Vàn Chảy, Hồng Vàn, and Bắc Vàn—nestled beside verdant forests. Unlike Quan Lạn, these beaches are wide, well-equipped, and ideal for activities like water sports, beach parties, and sun lounging. The water clarity matches Quan Lạn, but the waves are more dynamic—perfect for families or groups of adventurous friends seeking a vibrant vacation.
Pristine Cô Tô Con & Scenic Lighthouse
A highlight of Cô Tô is the uninhabited islet Cô Tô Con, just a short boat ride away, which offers pure, untouched scenery. Another must-visit is the Cô Tô Lighthouse, providing sweeping views of the island vistas—an exceptional spot for capturing panoramic photos.
Co To Lighthouse offers breathtaking panoramic views, making it an ideal spot for sightseeing and photography.
Developed Hospitality & Diverse Experiences
Relative to Quan Lạn, Cô Tô offers a well-developed tourism infrastructure with more options for hotels, homestays, and restaurants. The island features a variety of recreational opportunities: snorkeling, kayaking, nighttime squid fishing, and camping on the beach. In the evening, one can enjoy beachside BBQs or stroll along the “Lovers’ Road” by the sea—an experience both romantic and unforgettable.
Convenience & Weather Considerations
Since 2013, Cô Tô has enjoyed 24/7 electricity from the national grid and island-wide free Wi-Fi, enhancing visitor comfort. However, the journey to the island can be challenging during poor weather due to the open sea and stronger waves. This should be considered by families with young children or elderly individuals.
Choosing Between Quan Lạn and Cô Tô
Both Quan Lạn and Cô Tô are breathtaking islands in Quảng Ninh, each offering a unique vacation experience. Below is a detailed comparison for clarity:
| Quan Lạn Island | Co To Island | |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Bái Tử Long Bay, ~40 km offshore | East of Vân Đồn, ~60 km offshore |
| Area | ~11 km² | ~46.2 km² |
| Travel Time | ~50 minutes by high-speed boat | 90 minutes to 2 hours by ferry |
| Island Transport | Electric vehicles, tuk tuk, scooters | Electric vehicles, scooters, cars |
| Atmosphere & Services | Untouched beaches, minimal commercial services | Wide beaches, well-developed tourism infrastructure |
| Activities | Beach-going, heritage visits, nature exploration | Snorkeling, kayaking, squid fishing, camping, lighthouse tours |
| Accommodation | Limited yet peaceful | Extensive options—from homestays to luxury hotels |
| Ideal For | Peace-seekers, families, seniors | Young travelers, groups, event-lovers, outdoor enthusiasts |
Your personal interests and travel preferences will determine whether Quan Lạn or Cô Tô is the right fit.
Angsana Quan Lạn: The Island’s First Five-Star Resort
Angsana Quan Lan – the first 5-star resort on Quan Lan Island.
If you're seeking a luxurious and relaxing getaway on Quan Lan Island, Angsana Quan Lan is the perfect choice. As the first and only 5-star resort on the island, it is operated by the renowned Banyan Tree Group, which is also behind acclaimed resorts like Banyan Tree Lang Co and Angsana Lang Co.
A Seaside Sanctuary on Son Hao Beach
Nestled along Son Hao Beach—one of the longest and most beautiful stretches of sand on the island—Angsana Quan Lan boasts 2 kilometers of private shoreline with powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. Surrounded by pristine nature, the resort offers guests a tranquil and rejuvenating escape.
Villas at Angsana Quan Lan are designed with modern elegance, offering maximum comfort.
Angsana Quan Lan features 156 rooms and villas, each thoughtfully designed with contemporary interiors and private balconies—perfect for soaking in sweeping views of the sea or the lush gardens.
Some of the resort’s unmissable amenities include:
- Outdoor and Indoor Pools: The region’s largest infinity pool and a four-season heated indoor pool with stunning views.
- Angsana Spa: Indulge in high-end spa services, including the Japanese-inspired Onsen therapy, designed to relax and rejuvenate your body and mind.
- Water Sports Center: Dive into adventure with scuba diving, kayaking, and a variety of other exciting water sports.
- Seaside Zipline: Experience Vietnam’s first zipline integrated into a resort, delivering thrilling coastal rides.
- Restaurants and Bars: Enjoy a wide range of culinary delights, from local Vietnamese specialties to international cuisine, and unwind at the rooftop bar with panoramic views of the sea and mountains.
Cultural and Recreational Activities
Embrace the great outdoors and adrenaline-pumping excitement with Angsana Quan Lan’s zipline activity—just one of many engaging entertainment options at the resort.
Beyond the luxurious amenities, Angsana Quan Lan offers guests immersive cultural experiences unique to the island. Visit traditional craft villages, participate in local festivals, or spend a morning discovering the island’s diverse ecosystems.
Your Dream Holiday at Angsana Quan Lan
Angsana Quan Lan—the island’s first 5-star resort—offers an elevated and unforgettable vacation experience.
With its seamless blend of untouched natural beauty and modern comfort, Angsana Quan Lan promises an unforgettable holiday experience. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, this coastal retreat is sure to exceed your expectations.
Come and experience the perfect summer getaway at Angsana Quan Lan!