Ti Top Island: The Complete Guide
Ti Top island is located about 14 kilometers to the east of Bai Chay tourist harbor. It has a beach that is shaped like a crescent moon and known for its tranquillity and beautiful still blue waters. The sands of the beach have been dyed white by the ocean’s surf creating a perfect picture of paradise.
- The island has a total area of 3,7 hectares (0,037 km²).
- The island was named by the most respectful hero of Vietnam, President Ho Chi Minh, after the Russian cosmonaut Gherman Titov on the occasion of his first visit to Halong Bay in 1962.
- With a summit height at 110 meters (360 ft), the mountain on Ti Top island is taking about 450 steps to reach its peak.
- Ti Top island is regarded as one of the most attractive sites for both international and domestic tourists to Halong Bay.
- Many cruises which stop at the island for 1-2 hours include Bhaya Cruises, Indochina Sails and Paradise Cruises.
Location
Titop Island is recognized as one of the most picturesque islands in the Halong Bay area, situated approximately 8 km from Tuan Chau Harbor and 15 km from Bai Chay. The crescent-shaped island overlooks Bo Hon Island, which features the famous Sung Sot Cave.
Best time to visit Titop Island
Titop Island can be enjoyed throughout the year due to the availability of day and overnight cruises in Halong Bay. If you're comfortable with local crowds during the summer months, consider cruising to the island in April, May, or June. July and August are generally less preferable due to the storm season.
The peak season for international travelers is from September to March, featuring cool temperatures and clear skies. During this period, the bay is less crowded, allowing for a serene atmosphere. The downside is limited opportunities for swimming and other underwater activities.
The name
The island is named after Gherman Stepanovich Titov, the Russian cosmonaut who, along with President Ho Chi Minh, visited the island in 1962. Since then, Titop Island has evolved into a popular tourist attraction, offering various services tailored to visitors.
Activities
Titop Island is famous not only for its stunning scenery but also as a center for various activities such as swimming, sunbathing, kayaking, mountain climbing, and several water sports.
Swimming and sunbathing on Crescent Beach
The beach is characterized by its pristine white sand and tranquil waters, making it ideal for activities like swimming, sunbathing, and engaging in water sports. Full-service amenities and equipment for recreational activities are available to enhance your enjoyment.
Drinking and relaxing on the beach
An on-site bar offers various swim gear rentals, and you can also take a break for drinks. Deckchairs are available, but you will be expected to purchase food and/or drinks. If you prefer to bring your own refreshments, a small fee may apply. The beach provides a refreshing retreat during the hot summer months, and after sunset, you can enjoy moonlit strolls along the beach.
Mountain climbing
Ascending the peak of Titop Island is a must for adventurous visitors. The climb, which takes approximately 30 minutes, rewards you with sweeping views of Halong Bay and invigorating fresh air.
Teambuilding activities
If visiting with colleagues for a corporate trip, consider organizing team-building exercises like beach volleyball and soccer on the sandy shores.
How to get to Titop Island
As Titop Island is a key tourist spot in Halong Bay, there are various ways to reach it, including day cruises, overnight cruises, and seaplane tours.
Take a day cruise tour
Note that there is no option for a tour exclusively to Titop Island as it is incorporated into sightseeing Route 2, which also covers Sung Sot Cave, Luon Cave, Fighting Cock Islet, among others. This route is the most popular choice for Halong Bay visitors.
The day cruise typically departs from Tuan Chau Harbor. Tickets can be purchased directly at ticket counters or through travel agencies. The entire tour lasts about 6 to 8 hours, depending on the selected cruise, and a shared day cruise on Route 2 generally costs around 800,000 VND ($33 USD) per person.
Taking an overnight cruise
If you're a first-time visitor to Halong Bay, consider an overnight cruise to enjoy both onboard and onshore activities. Numerous cruise lines operate itineraries to Titop Island, ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious options. Notable cruises with excursions to Titop Island include the Paradise Elegance Cruise, Paradise Grand Luxury Cruise, Bhaya Cruise, and Au Co Cruise. Rates for a one-night stay typically range from $120 - $200 per room, depending on the cruise and season.
Taking a seaplane tour
A seaplane tour offers a unique perspective for many tourists wishing to visit Titop Island and the surrounding bay. At an altitude of 300 meters, you can enjoy spectacular views of Halong Bay and capture stunning photos. The cost for a seaplane trip ranges from 1,600,000 VND to 2,200,000 VND ($68 to $92 USD) per person.
Local tips
Titop Island is an essential stop for anyone visiting Halong Bay. To ensure a great experience, keep these tips in mind:
- Select your departure dates wisely, as prices for visits and services can vary between peak and off-peak tourist seasons.
- It is generally best to visit Titop Island in summer when you can enjoy the warm waters and sunny skies.
- Book your cruise in advance to avoid full bookings and price hikes, particularly during the high season.
- Check weather forecasts and try to avoid traveling during storm season.
- Pack essential items such as sun hats, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, swimsuits, insect repellent, and appropriate clothing.
More photos
View from the mountain summit (120-meter height)
Serene waters allow visitors to enjoy one of the finest beaches in Halong Bay, which gets crowded during summer. (Photo credit: baoquangninh.com.vn)
