Pirate Islands: A hidden treasure of Southern Vietnam

1. Facts about the Pirate Islands in Vietnam

Before setting foot on the Pirate Islands, it is important that you learn some basic information about this tourist destination.

1.1. Location

The Pirate Islands are part of Tien Hai Commune, Ha Tien City, Kien Giang Province. These islands are 30 kilometers away from shore, and 40 kilometers away from Phu Quoc. Sharing borders with Cambodia, the archipelago spans a total area of over 251 hectares with a total of 18 different islands: Large Hon Tre (Hon Doc), Small Hon Tre, Tre Vinh, Large Doi Moi, Small Doi Moi, Hon Giang, Hon Duoc, Hon U, Banh Tet, Banh It, Hon Ruoi, Banh Lai, Kien Vang, Banh Quy, Banh To, Hon Phu Tu, Da Noi 1, and Da Noi 2.

Among these, Hon Doc is the biggest and most populated one in the Pirate Islands with more than 3,000 locals. On the Pirate Islands, the people make a living mainly from fishing and aquaculture.

1.2. Origin of the name

The name Pirate Islands, or Ha Tien Archipelago, originates from tales that dated all the way back to the late 17th century and early 18th century. During this period, pirates were running rampant in these waters, staking out and attacking ships and boats around the area of Ha Tien-Rach Gia all the way to the Gulf of Thailand, which was a major shipping route.

And just like any other pirate story, there are legends about hidden treasures. Back in the 1980s, foreigners had allegedly invaded the islands in search of a 300-year-old treasure map. However, this is just a story passed down from one generation to another, but it does add a layer of mystery to the Pirate Islands as a destination worth exploring.

2. Unmissable attractions on the map of Hai Tac Archipelago

Looking into the Hai Tac Archipelago map uncovers many incredible attractions. During your time at the Pirate Islands, three unmissable attractions that you should swing by are the sovereignty marker, Bai Bac Beach, and Son Hoa Pagoda.

2.1. Bai Bac Beach

Few things can be as healing and relaxing on the pristine white sand while the turquoise water laps at the shore of Bai Bac Beach, a gem of Pirate Islands. The appeal of this beach changes based on the time of day. In the morning, it is a great spot for bathing, sunbathing, or picnicking. When dusk falls, the beach becomes an ideal place for romantic walks to watch the sunset. There are some food and beverage stalls as well as chairs and hammocks for you to spend your time unwinding at the beach.

2.2. The sovereignty marker

Most Vietnamese tourist destinations are rich in history and the Pirate Islands, home to one of the biggest monuments in the region, is no exception. Considered the pride of the locals, the sovereignty marker was built in 1958, detailing the coordinates and names of every island in the area. The marker is situated on Hon Doc Island. Its purpose is to signify Vietnamese territory at a spot where borders are shared with the Cambodian sea. Not only does this monument serve as a marker, it is also a symbolic reminder of Vietnamese history and the country’s mission to preserve maritime sovereignty.

2.3. Son Hoa Pagoda

To understand the local culture of the Pirate Islands, visitors should swing by Son Hoa Pagoda (Son Hoa Tu). Built by one of the first residents of the area, this pagoda is on Hon Doc Island. It is said that the one responsible for the construction of Son Hoa Pagoda is the daughter of a former pirate, who the locals would lovingly refer to her as Ms. Muoi.

Having witnessed many hardships of her own and fellow residents on the island, she decided that the people should have a place of worship. She set out to find the highest point on Hon Doc Island and with her own two hands, built a small pagoda. She chose the name Son Hoa Tu, which means a peaceful place on the mountains. Throughout the years, the pagoda has become a place where the locals pray for peace, happiness, and well-being.

3. Top things to do at the Pirate Islands

Now that you have known the best attractions to see, what activities are waiting for you at the Pirate Islands?

3.1. Go fishing with the locals

When you are surrounded by the sea, the biggest source of food is none other than seafood. Since the locals have been doing this for ages, they can be the experts guiding you through the steps to catch some fish during your time here.

Fishing is a crowd pleaser at the Pirate Islands due to its simplicity. With only a simple roll of wire and squid as chum, tourists can easily catch fresh fish and other seafood, which can then be prepared right on the boat.

On top of that, from 5 to 10 PM, fishing for squid in Phu Quoc can be an interesting activity for visitors. This experience allows visitors to enjoy the nighttime scenery of the ocean while fishing squid with a simple makeshift rod. These tours also include guides and dining experiences aboard the boat.

3.2. Catch sea urchins

Sea urchins are a delicacy in the region and you can have a taste of it at the Pirate Islands. With that said, diving for these peculiar characters is not for everyone as it is quite physically demanding. It is recommended that visitors go in groups of 5 to 10 and prepare all necessary tools like diving gear, containers, and grabbers to avoid being pricked by the sea urchins. The best time to catch sea urchins is from April to July, which coincides with their reproductive cycle.

You need not to worry, as the locals of the Pirate Islands are providing their service to help visitors enjoy this activity to the fullest. Once you have successfully caught the sea urchins, they will then be prepared for you to eat.

3.3. Feast on fresh seafood

After a grueling battle with the sea, it is time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. You can either enjoy your own catch or book the dishes in advance. Either way, the diverse selection of seafood at the Pirate Island is sure to impress. Seawater fish like grouper and sturgeon are usually available. If not, there are always classics like prawns, shrimps, mussels, crabs, etc. The local chefs have perfected these dishes, so you can taste the freshness in every bite.

>>> Read more: Islands of Vietnam: Fill your bucket list with the top 12+ marvelous places

4. Frequently asked questions about Hai Tac Archipelago

Here is some other key information about the Pirate Islands that you should know for a comfortable trip.

4.1. How to get there?

To reach the Pirate Islands, you will first need to get to Ha Tien Port in Ha Tien City. The journey often begins from Ho Chi Minh City. The distance from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Tien is about 350 kilometers, which can be covered in about 7 - 8 hours. In terms of transport, you can either take a coach or rent a car to drive yourself. Coach fares are typically from 170,000 to 200,000 VND. You can easily catch a coach at Mien Tay Bus Station in Ho Chi Minh City.

At Ha Tien Port, you can buy tickets for a boat ride to the Pirate Islands. The schedule and pricing are as follows:

*Note that these details are for reference purposes only and may be subject to change over time.

4.2. How to get around?

You can rent a motorbike to get around the island freely. If not, you can always use the motorbike taxi service of the local drivers.

4.3. When is the best time to visit the islands?

Since the Pirate Islands are in Southern Vietnam, there are two distinctive seasons here: dry and rainy. The dry season is from November to April, while the rainy season is from May to October. The best time to visit is during the dry season when the sea is calm, allowing visitors to experience all the activities without any hindrance. To really uncover everything that the islands have to offer, 2 days and 1 night should be enough.

4.4. Where to stay on the islands?

There is no high-end accommodation on the Pirate Islands just yet, as there are mostly motels opened by the locals. Currently, there are 8 eateries, 4 seafood stalls, and 12 motels. Alternatively, you can pack your own tent to camp overnight at the beaches.

4.5. What to pack?

The Pirate Islands have electricity, so there is no need to worry about whether or not to pack electronic devices. The Internet is also available, so your phones can work normally. However, visitors should also pack batteries and power banks just in case. Aside from that, spare clothes and toiletries should be enough for a comfortable trip.

The Pirate Islands are growing as a tourist destination, welcoming more and more visitors thanks to its natural beauty. On top of that, its cultural traits have reeled in a lot of visitors. So, if you are looking for a good place to unwind in Vietnam, these islands can be a great option.

Thanks to the Pirate Islands’ proximity to Phu Quoc, it is incredibly easy to combine these two destinations into your itinerary to make an amazing vacation. Due to the lack of luxurious accommodation on the Pirate Islands, you can always spend the night at Vinpearl Phu Quoc, where quality amenities like spas, golf courses, and more are available. While you are in Phu Quoc, you can continue your fun-filled journey at VinWonders Phu Quoc and Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc for a taste of high-quality entertainment experiences.

>>> Book rooms in Vinpearl Phu Quoc and tickets of VinWonders Phu Quoc for a flawless trip!