Long Chau Island, featuring the oldest lighthouse in Vietnam, remains a hidden gem of untouched, majestic beauty, with no permanent inhabitants.
A panoramic view of Long Chau Island - Photos: Nguyen Trong Cung
Situated about 50 kilometers off the coast of Haiphong City, Long Chau Island is the largest among an archipelago of around 30 islands, spanning over 1.2 square kilometers and formed mostly of limestone and rocky reefs.
The island, also known as Mat Rong or Re Den Island, plays a strategic role in guarding the entrance to Halong Bay and Haiphong City. For decades, Long Chau Lighthouse has been guiding ships through the Gulf of Tonkin. Built by the French in 1894, the lighthouse - often referred to as the “Jewel Eye of Long Chau” - stands at 109.5 meters above sea level, with a range of 27 nautical miles. On clear days, ships as far as 50 kilometers away can see its light.
The Long Chau Lighthouse, standing at a height of 109.5 meters above sea level
Visitors standing atop the lighthouse can have breathtaking views of the surrounding seascape, with towering limestone islands rising from the blue. Due to the limestone foundation, vegetation on the island is limited, with scattered patches of wild grasses, medicinal herbs, and ground cover adding to its untouched charm.
The ideal time to visit the island is from May to July, when the weather is stable, and the sea is calm. Alternatively, visiting between December and March offers a chance to explore while avoiding the intense summer sun.
With no residents, only officers, soldiers, and lighthouse workers stationed there, Long Chau remains largely undeveloped for tourism but is an enchanting destination for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. Visitors must obtain permission from the Long Chau border guards to explore the island.
By Nguyen Trong Cung - Dang Huy
