Cu Lao Cau, Binh Thuan is a small, pristine and picturesque island, located about 9 km from the mainland in Tuy Phong district, Binh Thuan. The island stands out with its white sand beaches, clear blue water, and colorful coral reefs, attracting many tourists who love nature and exploration.
1. Introduction to Cù Lao Câu Bình Thuận
Cù Lao Câu Bình Thuận (also known as Hòn Cau) is a small, untouched island located about 9 km off the mainland in Tuy Phong District, Bình Thuận Province. With its majestic natural beauty, clear blue waters, and stunning coral reefs, Cù Lao Câu has become an ideal destination for nature lovers and those seeking peace away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Blessed by nature, this island has preserved its wild charm, with minimal human impact. As a result, Cù Lao Câu Bình Thuận is a must-visit destination when traveling to central Vietnam.
2. Location and How to Get to Cù Lao Câu
2.1. Location of Cù Lao Câu
Cù Lao Câu is located in Phước Thể Commune, Tuy Phong District, Bình Thuận Province. This small island is about 110 km north of Phan Thiết. Although the island is only around 1.5 km in size, it holds many intriguing discoveries for tourists.
2.2. How to Get to Cù Lao Câu
To reach Cù Lao Câu Bình Thuận, visitors can choose one of the following options:
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From Phan Rí Cửa: This is the closest departure point. From Phan Rí Cửa Port, visitors can rent a boat to the island, which takes about 45 minutes.
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From Liên Hương Port: This port is about 10 km from the island, and the boat ride takes around 35 to 40 minutes.
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From Vĩnh Tân: This route is suitable for those who want to combine visiting the wind power plant in Tuy Phong. The boat trip from here to the island takes about 50 minutes.
3. Discover the Untouched Beauty of Cù Lao Câu Bình Thuận
3.1. Natural Beauty
Cù Lao Câu impresses visitors with its pristine and peaceful natural landscape. The white sandy beaches, strange-shaped rocky outcrops, and crystal-clear turquoise waters are its standout features.
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Clear blue waters: The water here is remarkably transparent, allowing you to see the seabed and colorful coral reefs from the shore.
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Majestic rock formations: The rocks on Cù Lao Câu come in various colors and unique shapes, arranged naturally like artworks crafted by nature.
3.2. The Underwater World
In addition to its surface beauty, Cù Lao Câu Bình Thuận boasts a rich marine ecosystem. Visitors can engage in scuba diving to admire the colorful coral reefs and rare marine creatures.
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Coral reef diving: The coral reef ecosystem at Cù Lao Câu is incredibly diverse, with hundreds of coral species and marine life. This is an unmissable activity when visiting the island.
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Rich marine life: The waters of Cù Lao Câu are home to various species of fish, shrimp, crabs, squid, and sea turtles. Every year, sea turtles come ashore to lay their eggs.
4. Exciting Activities at Cù Lao Câu Bình Thuận
4.1. Swimming and Paddleboarding
With its clean beaches and clear water, Cù Lao Câu is the perfect spot for visitors to relax in the refreshing sea. Additionally, you can join paddleboarding activities to explore the coast and the surrounding rock formations.
4.2. Camping and Sunrise Watching
As the island hasn’t been heavily developed for tourism, it’s an excellent location for camping trips. You can bring tents and food to enjoy a night in the wild, listening to the sound of the waves and gazing at the starry sky.
In the early morning, don’t miss the chance to watch the breathtaking sunrise from the rocky shores. The moment the sun gradually rises from the horizon is a peaceful and awe-inspiring experience.
4.3. Visit Hang Yến
Hang Yến is home to thousands of swiftlets, a unique feature of Cù Lao Câu Bình Thuận. You can visit the cave, observe the life of these birds, and learn about the economic value that bird’s nest farming brings to the local community.
5. Travel Tips for Cù Lao Câu Bình Thuận
5.1. Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to explore Cù Lao Câu is from April to August when the weather is favorable, the sea is calm, and the water is clear. Avoid visiting during the rainy and stormy season (September to December) as sea conditions may not be safe for tourism activities.
5.2. Prepare Supplies
Currently, there are no accommodation or restaurant services on the island, so you need to prepare sufficient food, drinks, and personal items. If you plan to camp, bring tents and necessary equipment.
6. Conclusion
Cù Lao Câu Bình Thuận is one of the most pristine and beautiful destinations in central Vietnam. With its blue sea, white sand, and colorful coral reefs, this is the perfect choice for those who love the simplicity of nature and want to explore a place that has remained largely untouched by human activity. If you have a chance to visit Bình Thuận, don’t miss the opportunity to discover this beautiful island.