Hon Dau Island

Hon Dau Island is a small forested coastal island located about 500 meters off Do Son Beach in Van Huong Ward, Do Son District, Hai Phong. Notable for its historic French-built lighthouse from 1896 and the Temple of Nam Hai Than Vuong, the island features dense primeval forest, rocky shores and panoramic views over the Gulf of Tonkin. Accessible only by boat, it is a scenic, cultural and navigational landmark of the Do Son tourism area.

Visitors reach Hon Dau Island by hired boat from the pier near Hon Dau Resort in Do Son, a short 10-15 minute ride. The island is small and forested with walking paths leading to the historic Hon Dau Lighthouse and the Temple of Nam Hai Than Vuong. Visitors can explore the lighthouse exterior, temple courtyard, forest trails and rocky coastline with views of Do Son Beach and the Gulf of Tonkin. The setting is quiet and natural with no overnight stay or large commercial development.

Hon Dau Lighthouse was constructed in 1896 during the French colonial period to guide vessels entering Hai Phong port. Damaged during wartime, it was rebuilt in 1955 and remains an active aid to navigation. It is considered one of the oldest lighthouses in northern Vietnam.

The island hosts the Temple of Nam Hai Than Vuong, a sea deity worshipped by Do Son fishermen and coastal communities for protection at sea. The temple is a focal point for local maritime folk beliefs and traditional offerings before fishing voyages.