Both a mountainous and coastal province, a large part of Quang Ninh is covered with trees and hills. Its unspoiled natural beauty and cultural, historical values made it a popular buffet of sightseeing for tourists and locals alike. But perhaps what makes the province much more appealing is the unique terrain of its Island zone. Though its area may not be as vast as its large greeneries, the charm of the many beaches that stretch for several kilometers is enough to adore this part of Quang Ninh. Nature lovers will be attracted by the charming white-sand beaches with clear blue water cradled by Minh Chau Island.

It takes a 200km drive from ${bigcity_Hanoi:"Hanoi"} to get to Cai Phong Pier and a 40-minute speed-boat ride to get to this paradise, but a sight from the distance alone would be easy to understand why people would come. The mix of fresh air and tranquil entirety is easy for one to fall in love with the place. Literally, Minh Chau means Oriental Pearl. And how rightful it is named after, as the island sits beside the clear pristine waters. Adorned with sparkling white sands, viewing the whole of Minh Chau is looking at an exact resemblance of its namesake stone, endlessly polished white by the eons of waves.

The island is filled with a pleasant silence. But a more serene part of it never fails to mystify visitors, not just with its charm, but with its romantic past. That magic could be felt if you head down to the island’s Chuong Nep Beach. Chuong Nep and Tram Forest sits beside each other entangled in by nature. But in history, a romance that took place on that very part of the island has made them inseparable. The romantic legend surrounds between a brave man, Chuong, and a beautiful girl named Tram. On this very beach, the two vowed an endless love for each other. Unfortunately, Chuong died in a battle.

Unable to accept the loss, Tram spent the rest of her days on the seaside, crying, and calling out to Chuong. The God of Sea as moved by her love and with his powers, he carried Chuong’s body back to the island. The villagers were then able to give him a proper burial. Tram continued to grieve for her love, and later died from misery. She was buried next to Chuong’s tomb. Like the God of Sea, the God of Forest witnessed the strong bond between the couple. He sowed seeds on the sandy site, which quickly grew into a lush forest. Local people named the forest “Tram” and the beach “Chuong Nep”.

Until now, the long stretch of primitive Tram forest has come to symbolize the beautiful island and have always been of great importance to the many creatures that thrive in it, as well as to the islanders that depend on it. The 14-hectare forest has not only protected them from harsh storms but also feeds the entire island. From Tram forest, you can walk further to a little trail leading to Nhang Ria Beach.

Here, another beauty will unfold. Apart from offering an excellent spot to swim and sunbathe, this beach is a wonderful camping site. But if you have the zest for snorkeling and exploring the coral reefs, the Dau Cao Beach could be a more likely destination. Another interesting must-visit is the Nang Tien (fairy) well. Legends speak of how its clear waters can make one’s hair smooth and grow quickly if washed with its clear waters. Some 500m from the island’s port, the Con Trui Beach is a great place to come by as well. Considered a natural reserve, a visit to this place will amaze you of the vast number of sea turtles that come and spawn.

The period between May and July is said to be the best time to come and see these interesting turtles as they spawn. If you want to enjoy fresh and exotic seafood, the island’s oldest fishing village, Cai Lang has everything that will satisfy your appetite. Friendly villagers will come and greet you. Here, it’s not just the sands that are warm. The welcome of the residents will easily make you feel at home. They would often invite visitors to come and dine in their homes. As their specialty for visitors, some fried sá sùng (jellyfish) is often served. Vietnam has hundreds of beaches throughout. Most, if not all, are breathtakingly beautiful. Yet, commercialization has taken the beauty of these places more to its modern side. In Minh Chau island, where everything is pure and unspoiled, you will get to experience what nature really has to offer. With its romantic past and many spectacles, this sure is the best place to come for a memorable visit.