Dec - 23 - 2025
Thanh An Island in Can Gio offers a peaceful escape from the bustling energy of Ho Chi Minh City, yet it remains one of Saigon’s best-kept secrets. Tucked away in the coastal former Can Gio District, this small island commune is a world away from the city's traffic and high-rises. It's a place where life moves at a slower pace, dictated by the tides and the daily routines of a traditional fishing village. For those seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience, Thanh An Island is a true hidden gem. It provides a rare glimpse into the rustic coastal life that exists just beyond the urban sprawl. In this comprehensive guide from GTrip, we’ll walk you through everything you need to plan the perfect day trip or overnight stay on Thanh An Island.
Overview of Thanh An Island in Ho Chi Minh City
Before you pack your bags and head for the coast, it’s helpful to get acquainted with this unique destination. Understanding where it is, when to go, and what makes it special will help you make the most of your visit. This section provides the foundational knowledge you need to start planning your perfect island getaway from Saigon.
Where is Thanh An Island?
Location: Can Gio Ward (formerly Thanh An Commune, Can Gio District), Ho Chi Minh City
Thanh An Island is geographically part of Can Gio Ward, a coastal suburban district of Ho Chi Minh City. Located approximately 70 kilometres southeast of the bustling city centre, it holds the unique distinction of being the metropolis's only island commune. Nestled in the Vam Sat estuary, where the river meets the sea, the island is surrounded by the lush mangrove forests of the Can Gio Biosphere Reserve. This strategic location gives it a distinct character, combining riverine charm with a coastal atmosphere.
A quiet island commune within the Can Gio Biosphere Reserve, Thanh An offers a peaceful coastal escape just 70 km from Ho Chi Minh City
Best time to visit Thanh An Island in Ho Chi Minh City
Ideal period: Dry season (December - May)
Timing is everything when planning a trip to a coastal destination, and Thanh An Island is no exception. The best time to visit is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to May. During these months, you can expect clear blue skies, brilliant sunshine, and calm seas, creating perfect conditions for the boat journey, photography, and outdoor exploration. The weather is pleasant and not overly humid, allowing you to comfortably wander the island’s paths. Conversely, the rainy season from June to November can bring sudden downpours and rougher seas. While still visitable, travel can be less predictable, and ferry services may be disrupted during storms. For the most reliable and picturesque experience, aim for the sunny dry season.
What makes Thanh An Island unique?
What sets Thanh An Island apart from other destinations is its profound sense of authenticity and tranquility. This is a living, breathing fishing community where local life remains largely untouched by mass tourism. The island’s charm lies in its simplicity, rustic houses lining narrow paths, the gentle hum of daily life, and the genuine warmth of its residents. It offers a rare opportunity to disconnect from the digital noise and reconnect with a more fundamental way of life.
The landscape is a long stone embankment against the waves, vast salt fields shimmering in the sun, and the endless horizon of the East Sea. This, combined with access to incredibly fresh and affordable seafood straight from the source, makes Thanh An a truly special retreat.
Thanh An Island stands out for its authentic fishing-village life, tranquil atmosphere, scenic coastal landscapes, and incredibly fresh, affordable seafood
How to get to Thanh An Island?
Getting to Thanh An Island is an adventure in itself, involving a scenic journey by road and sea that takes you from the heart of Ho Chi Minh City to its quietest corner. The trip is a two-step process, which is easily manageable for a day trip.
- From Saigon to the ferry terminal in Can Gio: The most common way is by motorbike for a true road trip feel, taking roughly 1.5-2 hours. Alternatively, you can take Bus No. 75 from 23/9 Park to the Can Thanh Bus Station. The route involves crossing the Nha Be River via the Binh Khanh Ferry, which is a quick and efficient part of the journey.
- Ferry/boat from Can Gio to Thanh An Island: Once in Can Gio, head to the Thanh Thoi ferry terminal. This is the official departure point for boats heading to Thanh An Island. It’s a well-organized pier where you can purchase your tickets.
- Ferry/boat schedule & reference ticket prices: Ferries run several times a day, typically starting around 6:30 AM with subsequent trips at 9:00 AM, 10:30 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM, and 5:00 PM. The return trips from Thanh An also have a similar schedule. The journey takes about 45 minutes, and the reference ticket price is very affordable, usually around 20,000 VND per person one way. Always check the schedule upon arrival, as it can vary.
Things to do on Thanh An Island
Despite its small size, Thanh An Island offers a surprising number of simple, meaningful activities that revolve around nature, culture, and cuisine. It’s a place to slow down and appreciate the little things.
Admire nature, take photos, and watch the sunset in Thanh An Island
Thanh An is a photographer's dream, but not in the conventional sense. Its beauty is raw and unadorned. The most iconic feature is the long stone sea wall that snakes its way around the island, built to protect the village from the tides. This path is the perfect place for a stroll, offering uninterrupted views of the sea and the distant mangrove forests. During low tide, the rocky shore reveals itself, dotted with small pools and resting fishing boats.
The island’s salt fields, though seasonal, offer another unique photographic opportunity, with their stark white landscapes reflecting the sky. As the day ends, find a spot on the western embankment, watch the sky erupt in hues of orange and purple, and see the local fishing boats silhouetted against the horizon. It’s a simple yet profoundly beautiful moment that captures the essence of the island.
Thanh An offers raw, unpolished beauty, stone sea walls, rocky shores, seasonal salt fields, and stunning sunsets that create a photographer’s dreamscape
Try kayaking and squid fishing
For a more hands-on connection with the sea, engaging in water activities is a must. During the day, you can often rent kayaks to paddle around the calm waters surrounding the island. This offers a different perspective of the coastline and the stilt houses that line parts of the shore. It’s a peaceful way to explore at your own pace and feel the gentle rhythm of the waves.
The real adventure begins after dark. Squid fishing is a quintessential Thanh An experience. You can arrange to join local fishermen on their small boats as they head out for the night. Equipped with bright lights to attract the squid and simple fishing gear, you’ll get to try your hand at catching them. The thrill of pulling a fresh squid from the water, followed by the reward of cooking and eating it right on the boat, is an unforgettable cultural immersion.
Explore scenic landscapes and beaches
While Thanh An Island doesn't boast the classic soft, sandy beaches you might find in Mui Ne or Nha Trang, its coastline has a unique and rugged charm. The primary "beach" is the rocky shore exposed during low tide, perfect for exploring and observing small marine life. The main attraction for walkers and explorers is the network of concrete paths and the long sea dike that encircles the island.
Walking the full circuit takes about an hour and provides a complete tour of the island’s perimeter. You’ll pass by fishing boats, stilt houses, small patches of mangrove, and open sea. Several viewpoints along the way offer fantastic panoramic vistas, especially from the main pier, where you can watch the comings and goings of the ferries and fishing vessels. It's an exploration that celebrates the raw, untouched beauty of a working coastal landscape.
Thanh An’s rugged coast and seaside dike offer a scenic circuit with fishing boats, stilt houses, and panoramic ocean views
Experience local fishing culture and daily life
The heart and soul of Thanh An Island is its people and their deep-rooted connection to the sea. The best way to experience this is to simply wander through the village. The main path that runs through the island is a vibrant corridor of daily life. In the early morning, the area around the pier buzzes with activity as fishermen return with their overnight catch, and a small, informal market springs up where the freshest seafood is sorted and sold.
Observe the locals mending their nets, tending to their boats, or simply enjoying a coffee at a street-side stall. The residents of Thanh An are known for their friendliness and hospitality. A simple smile and a "xin chao" (hello) will often be met with a warm response. This is a place where you can witness a traditional way of life that has remained unchanged for generations, offering a truly authentic cultural experience.
Visit sacred sites and historical landmarks
While small, Thanh An Island is rich in spiritual and community heritage, centered around its local places of worship. The most significant of these is the Thanh An Temple (Dinh Thanh An). This communal house is the spiritual heart of the island, dedicated to the village's guardian deities and historical figures who contributed to its founding. It’s a place where villagers gather for major festivals and ceremonies, and its traditional architecture stands as a proud symbol of their history.
Visitors can also find a local pagoda, which serves the Buddhist community on the island. These sites are not grand tourist attractions but quiet, respectful places that offer insight into the deep-seated beliefs and traditions of the local people. When visiting, remember to dress modestly and be respectful of the serene atmosphere. Observing these landmarks provides a deeper understanding of the island's cultural fabric.
Thanh An Island’s spiritual life centers on Thanh An Temple and a small local pagoda, offering a quiet look into the community’s traditions and beliefs
Join unique festivals and community events
If you time your visit right, you could witness one of the island's vibrant traditional festivals. The most important event in many Vietnamese coastal communities, including Thanh An, is the Nghinh Ong Festival (Whale Worshiping Festival). This festival is held annually to honor "Ong", the whale deity, who is believed to protect fishermen at sea. The celebration involves colorful processions, offerings, traditional music, and boat races, bringing the entire community together in a display of reverence and cultural pride.
The festival dates are based on the lunar calendar, so it's essential to check in advance if you wish to attend. Participating in or even just observing such an event offers an unparalleled insight into the spiritual life and communal bonds of the island's residents. It’s an experience that transforms a simple visit into a deep cultural immersion.
Enjoy seafood specialities
A trip to Thanh An Island in Can Gio is incomplete without indulging in its legendary seafood. The promise of fresh, delicious, and incredibly affordable ocean-to-table cuisine is a primary reason many travelers make the journey. You'll find rustic eateries and food stalls scattered across the island, often right by the water, where you can pick your live seafood from a tank and have it cooked to order.
Don't miss the grilled oysters topped with scallion oil and peanuts, a smoky, savory delight. Steamed clams with lemongrass are fragrant and juicy, perfectly capturing the taste of the sea. Other must-tries include grilled scallops, steamed shrimp, salt and chili crab, and whatever fresh fish was caught that day. The simplicity of the preparation lets the natural sweetness of the seafood shine through, creating a culinary experience that is both rustic and sublime.
Thanh An Island is a seafood haven, serving fresh, affordable dishes like grilled oysters, steamed clams, shrimp, crab, and daily-caught fish
Local snacks and street food
Beyond the seafood feasts, Thanh An offers an array of simple yet delicious local snacks that are perfect for enjoying as you explore. Keep an eye out for ladies selling banh khot (Vietnamese mini pancake), a popular Southern Vietnamese speciality. These are small, savory mini-pancakes made from rice flour, coconut milk, and turmeric, topped with a single shrimp and served with fresh herbs and a sweet and sour dipping sauce.
You'll also find vendors selling banh trang nuong, often called "Vietnamese pizza", a grilled rice paper topped with egg, minced pork, and scallions. To quench your thirst, nothing beats a cup of fresh sugarcane juice squeezed right in front of you. These humble street foods provide a delicious and authentic taste of the local culinary scene and are a perfect, light bite between meals.
Accommodation on Thanh An Island
When it comes to staying overnight, it's important to set your expectations correctly. Thanh An is not a place for luxury resorts or five-star hotels. Accommodation here is simple, rustic, and designed to offer an authentic glimpse into local life.
- Eco Homestay Can Gio: 500,000 - 700,000 VND ($19 - 27) per night
- Mangrove Homestay: 400,000 - 600,000 VND ($15 - 23) per night
- Phuc Homestay Can Gio: 400,000 - 600,000 VND ($15 - 23) per night
- Tan Tan Homestay Can Gio: 300,000 - 500,000 VND ($11 - 19) per night
Note: Options are limited, so it's crucial to book in advance, especially on weekends.
Thanh An offers simple, rustic stays, mostly homestays and small guesthouses, giving visitors an authentic glimpse into local life
Travel tips & useful information when traveling to Thanh An Island in Ho Chi Minh City
A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your trip to Thanh An Island is smooth and enjoyable. Here are some essential tips from the travel experts at GTrip.
- Things to prepare before your trip: Cash is king on the island, as ATMs are virtually non-existent. Pack essentials like high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to protect against the sun. Insect repellent is a good idea for the evenings. Bring a fully charged power bank, as you’ll be taking lots of photos and electricity can sometimes be intermittent.
- Important notes for visitors (safety, weather, environment): Always check the weather forecast before you depart, as storms can affect ferry schedules. Be mindful of the last ferry back to the mainland to avoid getting stranded. Respect the local culture by dressing modestly and asking for permission before taking close-up photos of people. Finally, help keep the island beautiful by not littering and carrying your trash back with you.
Smart preparation ensures a smooth, safe, and enjoyable trip to Thanh An Island, from packing essentials to staying aware of weather, ferry times, and local customs
Read more:
Thanh An Island in Can Gio is more than just a destination, it's an experience. It’s a chance to step back in time and witness a side of Saigon that few travelers ever see. For those tired of the city's relentless pace and seeking a moment of genuine peace, this small island offers the perfect antidote. It’s an ideal day trip or a relaxing overnight escape that promises to recharge your soul. As you plan your next Vietnamese adventure, don't overlook this enchanting coastal hideaway. Let GTrip - Vietnam Travel Agency help you discover the authentic charm of Vietnam's hidden gems like Thanh An.
