Chua Islet Eco-Tourism Guide: Sustainable Adventures in Dak Lak Province

A Pristine Island Retreat in Phu Yen

Chua Islet, a hidden gem off the coast of Phu Yen, Dak Lak Province, captivates with its wild beauty, white sandy beaches, and mysterious rocky shores, located 7 km from O Loan Lagoon, 55 km southeast of Tuy Hoa, and 495 km northeast of Ho Chi Minh City. Following Vietnam’s 2025 administrative merger, this secluded islet, named after a legendary ancient temple foundation (“Chùa” in Vietnamese), draws over 8,000 adventurous visitors annually. With free beach access and activities costing $2–$10 (50,000–250,000 VND), Chua Islet is a haven for eco-tourists and sea enthusiasts seeking Vietnam’s untouched coastal allure.

Surrounded by the South China Sea, Chua Islet blends Phu Yen’s marine heritage with sustainable practices like biodegradable dining and eco-friendly camping. Its tropical climate (dry season: January–August, 22–30°C or 71.6–86°F; rainy season: September–December, 20–28°C or 68–82.4°F) ensures year-round exploration. Legend Travel Group’s eco-tours immerse you in this island paradise, supporting local communities and Dak Lak’s green initiatives. Book via links in this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!

Administrative Update

Vietnam’s 2025 restructuring merged Phu Yen into Dak Lak Province, with Phu Yen and Tuy Hoa now wards. Chua Islet, accessible via Phu Yen, is easily navigated using ward-based maps, with Tuy Hoa as a key hub 55 km away.

With over 17 years as Southeast Asia’s leading sustainable tourism operator, Legend Travel Group crafts eco-friendly tours to Chua Islet, blending adventure with cultural immersion. Our low-impact transport (electric boats, bicycles) and English-speaking guides share insights on marine ecosystems, local fishing traditions, and green practices. Supporting Phu Yen’s communities, our tours align with Vietnam’s sustainability goals. Enjoy transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support. Sign up for a Legend Travel Group account to track our guides and book eco-tours via links on this page!

Located off Phu Yen’s coast, Chua Islet is a small, unspoiled island with lush greenery, thorny grasses, and a rocky beach rumored to be the foundation of an ancient temple. Emerging as a tourism site in the 2010s, it boasts vibrant coral reefs, 150+ marine species, and seabirds like egrets, all preserved through sustainable practices like solar-powered facilities and local-guided tours. Activities such as snorkeling, fishing, and cultural festivals like the local fishing ceremony make Chua Islet a perfect blend of nature and tradition, offering a serene escape from mainland bustle.

These sustainable activities, costing $2–$10, blend nature and culture:

1. Snorkel Vibrant Coral Reefs

Snorkel colorful reefs, best at 8:00 AM, with gear rentals at $4–$7 (100,000–175,000 VND). Spot tropical fish and corals.

• Cost: $4–$7; beach access free.

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Use reef-safe sunscreen; avoid touching corals.

• Tip: Rent gear at the dock; included in Legend Travel Group’s Chua Islet Coastal Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

2. Camp on Chua Islet Beach

Set up an eco-friendly camp on white sands, best at 6:00 PM, with tent rentals at $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND). Enjoy starry nights.

• Cost: $5–$10; beach access free.

• Hours: Daily, 24 hours (guided camping recommended).

• Eco-Friendly Note: Use biodegradable gear; clean up waste.

• Tip: Book via Legend Travel Group for guided camping; included in Chua Islet Overnight Eco-Tour ($100–$150).

3. Join the Fishing Ceremony

Participate in Phu Yen’s traditional fishing ceremony, best during seasonal festivals (January/February), with donations at $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Cost: $1–$3; beach access free.

• Hours: Seasonal, typically 5:00 PM–8:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Support biodegradable festival materials; respect rituals.

• Tip: Check festival dates; included in Legend Travel Group’s Phu Yen Cultural Eco-Tour ($100–$150).

4. Fish with Locals

Join local fishers to catch shrimp or fish, best at 9:00 AM, with guided sessions at $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND). Savor fresh catches.

• Cost: $3–$5; beach access free.

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Practice catch-and-release; support local fishers.

• Tip: Wear sturdy shoes; included in Legend Travel Group’s Chua Islet Cultural Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

5. Kayak Around the Islet

Paddle along the islet’s rocky shores, best at 10:00 AM, with kayak rentals at $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND). Explore hidden coves.

• Cost: $3–$5; beach access free.

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Use hand-powered kayaks; avoid disturbing wildlife.

• Tip: Book kayaks at O Loan Lagoon; carry a waterproof bag.

Visit from January to August for dry, warm weather (22–30°C or 71.6–86°F), ideal for snorkeling and camping. The rainy season (September–December) brings lush greenery but rough seas, requiring caution. Weekdays (Monday–Thursday) see 20–50 visitors daily, compared to 100–250 on weekends, especially during Lunar New Year (January/February) for festivals. Early mornings (6:00–9:00 AM) offer calm waters and soft light, while afternoons (2:00–5:00 PM) suit relaxed kayaking.

Chua Islet, off Phu Yen’s coast in Dak Lak Province, is 55 km from Tuy Hoa (1–1.5 hours by road, plus a 25-min boat ride) and 495 km from Ho Chi Minh City (7.5–8.5 hours):

• By Private Car + Boat: Drive 1–1.5 hours from Tuy Hoa to O Loan Lagoon via National Highway 1A, costing $15–$20 (375,000–500,000 VND) round-trip for 4 people, then take a local boat (25 min, $5–$8 or 125,000–200,000 VND per person). Book via Legend Travel Group.

• By Electric Taxi (Xanh SM) + Boat: Eco-friendly VinFast taxis, 1–1.5 hours from Tuy Hoa to O Loan Lagoon, $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND) one-way, then boat ($5–$8). Use Xanh SM app.

• By Motorcycle + Boat: Ride via National Highway 1A from Tuy Hoa, 1–1.5 hours, $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND) fuel; rental $7–$12/day (175,000–300,000 VND), then boat ($5–$8). Helmets mandatory (fines up to $40 or 1,000,000 VND).

• By Public Bus + Xe Om + Boat: Bus from Tuy Hoa to O Loan Lagoon (45 min, $1–$1.50 or 25,000–37,500 VND), then xe om to the dock (10 min, $1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND), and boat ($5–$8). Total: $12–$19 (300,000–475,000 VND) round-trip.

• By Flight + Taxi + Boat: Fly to Tuy Hoa Airport (VTS) from Ho Chi Minh City (1 hour, $30–$60 or 750,000–1,500,000 VND), then Xanh SM taxi to O Loan Lagoon (1.5 hours, $12–$18 or 300,000–450,000 VND), and boat ($5–$8).

• Navigation Tip: Save “Chua Islet, Phu Yen, Dak Lak Province” in offline maps (Maps.me); follow signs to O Loan Lagoon. Boat dock parking: $0.80–$1.20 (20,000–30,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Note: Xanh SM taxis or group boats reduce emissions; bicycles to the dock minimize impact.

• Safety: Secure valuables; confirm boat/taxi fares; wear life jackets on boats.

Pack these essentials for a sustainable trip:

• Clothing: Light layers, sturdy shoes for rocky shores; waterproof jacket ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND) for rainy season; swimwear for beaches.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses.

• Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5), mosquito repellent ($0.50 or 12,500 VND), hand sanitizer ($0.50).

• Tech Gear: Smartphone with Grab/Xanh SM apps, offline maps, portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($5–$10).

• Outdoor Gear: Small backpack, snorkel mask, eco-friendly camping gear, camera for island views.

• Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for snacks ($1–$2); biodegradable wipes.

• Extras: Snacks for camping; cash for vendors.
  Tip: Carry small VND notes for rentals ($3–$10) or snacks ($0.50–$2).

Costs for Visiting Chua Islet

Entry and Activity Fees

• Beach Access: Free.

• Snorkeling: $4–$7 (100,000–175,000 VND).

• Camping (Tent Rental): $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Fishing Ceremony Donations: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Fishing with Locals: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND).

• Kayaking: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND).

• Local Snacks (e.g., Grilled Shrimp): $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Drinks (Water, Coffee): $0.30–$1 (7,000–25,000 VND).

• Souvenirs (e.g., Seashell Crafts): $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).

• Guided Eco-Tour: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

Transportation (Round-Trip, from Tuy Hoa)

• Private Car + Boat: $25–$36 (625,000–900,000 VND).

• Xanh SM Electric Taxi + Boat: $25–$38 (625,000–950,000 VND).

• Motorcycle + Boat: $12–$19 (300,000–475,000 VND, including fuel and rental).

• Public Bus + Xe Om + Boat: $12–$19 (300,000–475,000 VND).

• Parking: $0.80–$1.20 (20,000–30,000 VND).

• SIM Card: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost (Per Person, from Tuy Hoa)

• Budget: $15–$25 (bus + xe om + boat, snacks).

• Mid-range: $30–$50 (taxi + boat, activities, camping).

• Luxury: $70–$110 (private car + boat, premium tour, camping).
  Tip: Budget for activities ($2–$10) and transport ($12–$38); carry cash for vendors (no cards accepted).

• Timing: Visit at 6:00–9:00 AM for calm seas; January–August for dry conditions. Weekdays for fewer crowds (20–50 vs. 100–250 on weekends). Lunar New Year for vibrant festivals.

• Booking: Reserve Legend Travel Group’s tours 24–48 hours ahead for guided visits or camping. Book boats/snorkeling at O Loan Lagoon docks.

• Sustainability: Stay on paths to protect ecosystems; bring reusable bottles. Support local vendors for snacks ($0.50–$2) or crafts ($2–$5).

• Navigation: Save “Chua Islet, Phu Yen, Dak Lak Province” in offline maps; ask locals at O Loan Lagoon for boat docks. Avoid night boating due to safety risks.

• Safety: Wear sturdy shoes; secure valuables. Confirm fares for boats/taxis; check weather for safe boating.

• Weather: Dry season for safe snorkeling; rainy season needs rain gear ($3–$7) and waterproof bags ($3–$7). Check AccuWeather.

• Cultural Respect: Dress modestly during festivals (cover shoulders/knees); greet with “xin chào.” Respect marine life; avoid loud noises.

• Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50); carry mosquito repellent and sanitizer.

Our eco-friendly tours showcase Chua Islet’s wild allure:

• Chua Islet Coastal Eco-Tour ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Electric scooter and boat from Tuy Hoa for snorkeling, fishing, and kayaking, with seafood lunch ($2–$5). Includes guide, transport.

• Chua Islet Overnight Eco-Tour ($100–$150/person, 2 days): Islet camping, fishing ceremony, and Tuy Hoa market visit. Includes meals, eco-transfers.

• Phu Yen Coastal Explorer ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Chua Islet, O Loan Lagoon, Bai Xep Beach, and homestays. Includes meals, guides. Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Sign up for an account to track tours and book now via links!

Chua Islet, a hidden gem in Phu Yen, Dak Lak Province, enchants with its pristine beaches, mysterious rocky shores, and vibrant coral reefs, accessible for free. Drawing 8,000+ visitors yearly, this wild island blends Phu Yen’s marine heritage with sustainable camping and eco-friendly adventures. Legend Travel Group’s Chua Islet Tours guide you through this coastal paradise, ensuring a sustainable Chua Islet Travel experience that preserves its natural charm. From snorkeling to cultural festivals, Chua Islet promises an unforgettable escape. Sign up for a Legend Travel Group account, browse our featured tours, and book your eco-adventure today!
Ready to explore Chua Islet? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an island eco-journey in Dak Lak Province!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Source: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group.