Where is Titop Island

Titop Island is part of Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located about 8 km southeast of Bai Chay on the mainland. It is surrounded by the Cua Luc Bay area, Sung Sot Cave, Bo Hon Island, Dam Nam, and Dam Bac islets. Overall, Titop Island has a prime, scenic location within the bay.

Some interesting facts about Titop Island:

  • The island has had various names over the years, including Hong Thap Tu, Nghia Dia, and Cat Nang.

  • The name “Titop” was given in 1963 by President Ho Chi Minh, who visited the island with cosmonaut Gherman Stepanovich Titov. In honor of this visit, the island was named after Titov.

  • From afar, Titop Island resembles a leaning snail nestled amidst the bay and its surrounding islands.

  • The island is small, covering only 3.7 hectares.

  • Mount Titop rises 110 meters high with 450 stone steps to the summit.

  • Titop Beach, seen from above, curves around the island like a crescent moon.

  • The island attracts thousands of visitors daily and is considered one of the top islands to visit in Halong Bay.

Titop Island in halong bay

Titop Island overview

How to Get there

There are several ways to reach Titop Island:

Option

Cost

Description

Rent a boat from Tuan Chau Port

Port entry fee: $2.40 (60,000 VND)

Boat rental: Around $27 per hour

The boat will take you to various spots in the bay that you want, including Titop. It can accommodate up to 10 people. You can consider it for a private trip.

Purchase a ticket for Route 2 from Tuan Chau Port

Port entry fee: $2.40 (60,000 VND)

Boat ticket: $10 per person

This day ticket includes a boat trip with stops at Sung Sot Cave, Fighting Cocks Island, Titop Island, and activities like kayaking or sampan boat rides. Boats carry around 20–50 passengers and do not include lunch.

Day Cruise

Approximately $54 per person

This package day trip includes all activities on the cruise, visits to attractions, lunch, and afternoon tea.

Overnight Cruise

From $100 per person

You can choose a 2- or 3-day overnight cruise with a stop at Titop Island. Costs vary depending on the type of boat you select.

 

Titop Island in halong bay

Ways to get to Titop Island by boats and cruises

Things to Do

You can spend anywhere from 2 hours to half a day exploring Titop Island. The island is the perfect stopover while island-hopping through Halong Bay. Two-thirds of the island is covered by limestone mountains, while the rest is home to a beach, a pier, and some tourist facilities.

Titop Island in halong bay

Things to explore in Titop Island

Here are activities to enjoy while you are on Titop Island:

  • Take a leisurely stroll around the island for scenic views.

  • See the statue of cosmonaut Gherman Stepanovich Titov.

  • Swim or sunbathe at Titop Beach.

  • Rent a kayak for $6 per hour or a jet ski for about $3–4 per ride.

  • Climb over 450 stone steps to the peak for the best panoramic view of Halong Bay. This is one of the most famous viewpoints in the bay.

Facilities on the island include stalls renting swimwear, selling drinks, and providing freshwater showers. The island also has a management area and a protected zone.

Titop Island in halong bay

Enjoy your time on Titop Island Halong Bay

Travel Tips

  • The best time to see Titop Island is from August to May. 

  • During June and July, Halong Bay may experience occasional rough seas, weather is also very hot. If you prefer sunny weather and enjoy swimming under clear skies, it is best to visit between August and October or from March to May.

  • For fewer crowds, you can consider visiting Titop Island during the weekdays.

  • Beware of the rocky area on the island, where sharp barnacles cling to the stones—avoid getting too close to this spot.

  • Bring Vietnamese Dong (VND) in cash if you plan to use services on the island.

  • You cannot swim directly in Halong Bay, so make the most of your time on the island’s beach if you want to swim.

  • Consider bringing your own swimwear, sunscreen, towels, food, and drinks to use during your time on the island.

Titop Island in halong bay

Keep your distance from the rocky area

Continue your reading journey with our piece on places to visit in Halong.

Above are the detailed insights to help you explore and visit Titop Island. You can continue checking out other interesting and authentic details about Vietnam and Vietnam tours on our website. Feel free to leave a message if you would like to discuss more about your travel plans!