General introduction to Cu Lao Thoi Son

Cu Lao Thoi Son (also known as Cu Lao Lan) is one of four islands in the famous Tu Linh region of the Southwest region (Long - Lan - Quy - Phung), located on the Tien River and in My Tho city. After Tien Giang merged with Dong Thap to form the new Dong Thap province, Cu Lao Thoi Son was re-planned as a key tourist cluster of the Dong Thap area thanks to the advantages of landscape, ecology and typical garden culture.

Cu Lao Thoi Son

Thoi Son Island

With an area of about 1,200 hectares, Cu Lao Thoi Son stands out by its green ecosystem, sprawling fruit gardens, small canals interwoven with the gentle life of the people typical of the West. Visitors coming here can feel a very "garden-loving" space: fresh air, sparkling canal water, open gardens and traditional houses looming under the shade of trees.

Cu Lao Thoi Son has long been a favorite destination for domestic and foreign tourists, especially thanks to experiential river activities such as:

  • Rowing a dinghy through the green water coconut canals.

  • Ride a horse-drawn carriage to visit the countryside.

  • Enjoy seasonal garden fruits.

  • Listen to Southern amateur music, an intangible cultural heritage recognized by UNESCO.

  • Visit a facility that makes coconut candy and honey, see the traditional handicraft process.

  • Experience garden cuisine: fried giant fish, Western pancakes, lotus root salad,...

Thanks to its location just a few kilometers from the center of My Tho and about 70 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City, Cu Lao Thoi Son is especially suitable for one-day tours or short vacations. After merging the province, the tourist route from Ho Chi Minh City - Dong Thap - Cu Lao Thoi Son - Sa Dec - Cao Lanh is oriented to develop strongly, making it more convenient for tourists to combine many destinations in just one journey.

Not too commercialized, still retaining traditional features, Cu Lao Thoi Son brings a peaceful, colorful space to visitors. can "temporarily escape" from urban life and immerse yourself in the pure beauty of the Mekong River Delta.

Prominent tourist destinations in Cu Lao Thoi Son

Cu Lao Thoi Son possesses a typical ecosystem of the Western river region, combining natural landscapes, fruit gardens, traditional craft villages and eco-tourism areas. Below are places you should not miss when coming to this island.

Nipa coconut canals, typical dinghy rowing routes

Nipa coconut canals are located along small branches in Thoi Son Island, Thoi Son ward, My Tho city (Dong Thap province after merging). Visitors will be able to row their dinghy through rows of shady water palm trees, with fresh air and quietness typical of the West. Activities usually last 15 - 20 minutes, ticket prices range from 20,000 - 40,000 VND/person depending on the tour. This is the most outstanding experience, often combined in the My Tho - Thoi Son day tour.

Nipa coconut canals are spread along small canals in Cu Lao Thoi Son

Nippa canals are spread along small canals in Cu Lao Thoi Son

Thoi Son orchard

Fruit gardens are scattered throughout the island, famous as Ut Hien Fruit Garden (Thoi Hoa hamlet, Cu Lao Lao Thoi Son) or Sau Tia Fruit Garden (Thoi An hamlet). Each garden will have different seasonal fruits such as mangosteen, rambutan, durian, mango, jackfruit, etc. Visitors can visit the garden, eat fruit on the spot and buy it to take home at a reasonable price. Many gardens also have rest stops, serving coconut water, leaf cakes and garden specialties.

Thoi Son coconut candy production facility

One ​​of the familiar stops is the Thanh Dragon coconut candy facility located in Thoi Hoa hamlet, Thoi Son Island. Here, you can see the process of cooking candy, cutting candy and packaging it manually right on the spot. Guests are invited to taste many types of candy such as cocoa coconut candy, milk coconut candy, and pandan leaf coconut candy. This is a popular place to buy souvenirs for tourists before leaving the island.

Beekeeping facilities and enjoying pure honey

Beekeeping facilities are often located along small roads near Thoi Son wharf, notably Ut Trinh Bee Farm (Thoi Binh lowland). Visitors are guided to see the bee box, the honey collection process and try hot lemon honey tea. In addition to pure honey, this place also sells pollen, beeswax and health support products. The cool, pleasant space helps this place become an attractive resting place.

Beekeeping facilities are often located along small roads near Thoi Son wharf

Facilities Beekeeping is often located along small roads near Thoi Son wharf

Ancient houses and traditional craft villages

Thoi Son island also preserves many Southern ancient houses, the typical of which is Mr. Ba Duc's ancient house (Thoi Son, My Tho), famous for its precious wooden architecture in the traditional style. Visitors can hear about family history, ancient items and typical Southern architecture. In addition, around the area there are craft villages making puffed rice and handicraft weaving for you to visit. The idyllic space helps visitors better understand the lives of people in the river region.

Experience riding a horse-drawn carriage around Cu Lao

Riding a horse-drawn carriage is an interesting activity when exploring small village roads in Cu Lao Thoi Son. The route is usually about 3 - 4 km long, passing through gardens, houses and small peaceful canals. Each car can carry 3 - 4 guests, priced from 50,000 - 70,000 VND/person depending on the tour. The meeting point is usually located near Thoi Son wharf or at Thoi Son eco-tourism area.

Thoi Son eco-tourism area

Thoi Son eco-tourism area is located in Thoi Hoa hamlet, a place with full services such as restaurants, gardens, rowing boats, folk games and traditional music performances. death. Cool green space, suitable for groups of friends and families who want to relax during the day. Visitors can sign up to experience digging ditches to catch fish, visiting fruit orchards or listening to amateur music at a leaf hut along the river. Entrance ticket prices are usually from 30,000–50,000 VND/person depending on the season.

Places to watch Southern amateur music performances

Tai Tu music is often performed at stops such as Miet Vuon Thoi Son Restaurant (Thoi Thuan hamlet) or in the eco-tourism area Thoi Son. Artists present familiar Vong Co and amateur songs in a rustic riverside space. Visitors can enjoy garden fruits while listening to performances, creating an experience rich in Southern culture. Some places also allow guests to sing and sing with the artists.

My Tho tourist wharf - starting point to Cu Lao Thoi Son

My Tho tourist wharf is located at 08, 30/4 street, ward 1, My Tho city. This is where tourists buy tickets and get off the train to go to Cu Lao Thoi Son, which only takes about 10 - 15 minutes to travel. The wharf has many tour operators, with ticket prices ranging from 120,000 - 250,000 VND/person depending on the route. The wharf area also has many restaurants, cafes and check-in points that are popular with tourists.

Ideal time to visit Thoi Son Island

Thoi Son Island has a tropical monsoon climate typical of the West, so it can be visited all year round. The best time is the dry season from December to April, when the weather is mildly sunny, with little rain, very convenient for outdoor activities such as riding a dinghy, visiting fruit gardens and experiencing craft villages. The sun is not too harsh and the humidity is low, helping visitors have a comfortable and pleasant journey.

The most beautiful time

The best time is the dry season from December to April

  • From May to August is the ideal period for those who love garden fruits. This is the ripening season of rambutan, mangosteen, durian, jackfruit and longan, always bringing many interesting culinary experiences. Although there may be sudden showers, the green landscape of the island makes the trip fresh and pleasant.

  • From September to November is the flood season in the West, rising river water makes traveling by boat more convenient and safer. This is a great time to experience the true "river west". Tourists should bring light raincoats or umbrellas in case of heavy rain in the afternoon.

  • Visitors should not go to Thoi Son on days of heavy rain and storms, which usually fall inSeptember - October when there is a tropical depression or storm from the East Sea. Prolonged heavy rain can easily cause river water to rise, limiting canoeing activities, visiting canals and affecting travel. In addition, peak holidays such as April 30 - May 1, Lunar New Year and September 2 in My Tho and Thoi Son areas are often very crowded, making waiting times long and difficult to fully enjoy the garden space. If forced to go during this period, visitors should book services in advance, monitor the weather situation and prioritize choosing a tour with a guide to ensure safety.

Information on transportation to and means of transportation in Cu Lao Thoi Son

Information on transportation to Cu Lao Thoi Son

Travel by bus

From Ho Chi Minh City, visitors can catch a bus to My Tho - currently in Dong Thap province - then continue to Cu Lao Thoi Son by tourist boat. Some reputable bus companies such as Phuong Trang – Futabus (90,000–100,000 VND/trip), Thao Chau (70,000–85,000 VND/turn) and Tan Lap Thanh (70,000–90,000 VND/turn) run continuously throughout the day. Average travel time is about 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours. When arriving at My Tho (now in Dong Thap), tourists get off at a point near the tourist wharf to conveniently get to the island.

Travel by private car

Tourists traveling by personal car can follow the Ho Chi Minh City - Trung Luong - My Thuan highway, then turn to the center of My Tho in Dong Thap province in the direction of the road. April 30. Total travel time ranges from 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 50 minutes depending on traffic volume. The parking lot at My Tho tourist wharf is spacious, can receive vehicles 24/24, parking costs range from about 10,000–20,000 VND/vehicle depending on vehicle type and parking time. Traveling by personal car helps you flexibly schedule and easily combine to explore other tourist attractions around Dong Thap.

Travel by personal car

Travel by private car

Travel by motorbike

For those who love to explore by motorbike, you can depart from Ho Chi Minh City along Highway 1A towards the West, to My Tho (Dong Thap province), a total distance of about 70–75 km. When you arrive at My Tho pier, park your motorbike for about 5,000–10,000 VND, then buy a train ticket to Cu Lao Thoi Son. This form is suitable for young people and backpackers, because you can easily stop, visit roadside restaurants or visit other destinations in Dong Thap.

Travel by train from My Tho tourist wharf

After arriving in My Tho - Dong Thap, tourists buy train tickets at My Tho tourist wharf to transfer to My Tho. Thoi Son Island. The river journey takes about 10–15 minutes, because the island and My Tho center are quite close to each other. The price of a group train ticket usually ranges from about 20,000–50,000 VND/person, or if you rent a private train, it can range from 300,000–500,000 VND/trip depending on demand. Many package tours include train tickets, dinghies, horse-drawn carriages, garden tours and cultural experiences — very convenient for exploring the island.

Means of transportation in Thoi Son Island

Dinghy rowing

Small dinghy boats are the most typical and popular means of transport when visiting the nipa palm canals in Cu Lao Thoi Son. Each rowing trip lasts about 15–20 minutes; If traveling individually, ticket prices are usually from 20,000 - 40,000 VND/person, or included in package tours. The canoe is rowed by local people, ensuring safety and providing a true Western river experience. This is a great way to admire the scenery of the canal, take pictures and feel the peaceful, pleasant space of the river region.

Horse carriage to visit the village roads

Horse carriage to visit the village roads

Horse carriage to visit village roads

Horse carriages are a traditional vehicle commonly used to take visitors along dirt roads, craft villages, and fruit gardens on the island. Each car carries about 3 - 4 passengers, the price ranges from 50,000 - 70,000 VND/trip, depending on the long or short route. The route is usually 3 - 4 km, passing through gardens, people's houses, and specialty production facilities. This form is very suitable for tourists who want to experience a garden atmosphere, gentle, relaxing and nostalgic.

Bicycle around the island

Many homestays, garden houses, and tourist areas in Thoi Son rent bicycles for about 20,000 - 30,000 VND/hour. With flat terrain, cool air and quiet village roads, cycling is a fun way to explore fruit gardens, craft villages, homestays or simply immerse yourself in the slow pace of life in the West. Bicycles are very suitable for groups of friends or small families who want to travel light, slow, sightseeing and enjoy the open air.

Internal tourist boat

In addition to small dinghies, some tours use large tourist boats to move between main points in the island or connect from the pier in My Tho to Thoi Son. This boat is suitable for large groups or families, spacious and stable. Internal train prices are usually calculated by trip, ranging from about 200,000–400,000 VND/trip depending on distance and number of people. This is a convenient choice if you want to travel to many places or do not want to canoe/bike by yourself.

Accommodation information when arriving at Cu Lao Thoi Son

Luxury accommodation

Central Plaza Hotel My Tho

  • Address: 15B-19 Street 30/4, My Tho Ward, Dong Thap Province. >

  • Hotline: 02733933839

Central Plaza Hotel My Tho

Central Plaza Hotel My Tho

  • Advantages & amenities: Modern 4★ hotel, 106 rooms, outdoor swimming pool, sky-bar, restaurant, conference room, parking, free Wi-Fi. Reference price: Superior Room (2 people): approx 1,190,000 VND/night; Deluxe: ~1,390,000 VND; Executive/Suite river/lake view: 1,650,000 VND – 2,390,000 VND; Most luxurious room (King Suite): about 3,650,000 VND/night.

  • Review & comments: The hotel is rated "excellent" for its location, clean and beautiful rooms, and professional service. Many guests praise the river view, good breakfast, and convenient transportation.

The Island Lodge Thoi Son

  • Address: 390 Thoi Binh hamlet, Thoi Son ward, Dong Thap. 

  • Hotline: (+84) 273 651 9000

  • Advantages & amenities: Resort-style riverside lodge, with outdoor swimming pool, spa, bicycles for rent, bar, restaurant, quiet space, suitable for tourists who want to relax and immerse themselves in nature. 

  • Reference price & experience: Room reference price is usually listed around 5,980,000 - 6,856,000 VND/night (depending on type and time of booking). 

  • Reviews & comments: Guests rate High price for green space, quiet, friendly service, good room quality. The lodge is suitable for families or groups who want to experience "garden - river" travel. 

Place to stay resort

Cuu Long Hotel

  • Address: 81–83 Street 30/4, My Tho ward, Dong Thap province.

  • Hotline: (0273) 62 66666

  • Advantages & amenities: The hotel is located right in the center, near the pier and market — convenient for traveling, shopping, and eating. There are many types of rooms from standard to suite, suitable for many needs: business, short stay, or visiting Cu Lao Thoi Son. 

  • Reference price: Standard room (2 guests) from ~770,000 VND/night, Superior room ~935,000 VND, Deluxe ~1,100,000 VND, Deluxe Family/ Suite about 2,200,000–2,400,000 VND depending on class

  • Reviews & comments: Suitable for guests who want to stay cheaply, near the center, and need flexibility in moving. Simple interior - basic amenities, convenient if you book it as a "resting station" before/after going to Cu Lao Thoi Son.

Seng Vang Hotel

  • Address: 37/7B Le Thi Hong Gam, Thoi Son ward, Dong Thap 

  • Phone number: 02736255777

Golden Lotus Hotel (Golden Lotus Hotel)
Golden Lotus Hotel

  • Reference room price: from 350,000 - 600,000 VND/night depending on standard room, double room or family room.

  • Amenities & reviews: Sen Vang Hotel belongs to the budget segment, rooms are clean, have air conditioning, hot water, TV and Free Wi-Fi. Location near the city center, about 5 minutes from My Tho tourist wharf, suitable for guests going to Cu Lao Thoi Son during the day. Many tourists rate Sen Vang as "good price - basic amenities - friendly staff", suitable for those on business or budget travel.

Experiential place to stay

Island Homestay Tien Giang (Island Homestay Thoi Son)

  • Address: Thoi Hoa hamlet, Thoi Son ward, Dong Thap province.

  • Phone number: 090 777 41 59

  • Reference room price: 580,000 - 700,000 VND/night (single room - double room - bungalow).

  • Amenities & review: Homestay is located right on Thoi Son Island, green space, many fruit trees, outdoor seating area and path through the garden. The room is simply designed but clean, has air conditioning and a private bathroom. Tourists rate the homestay as "cozy - close - friendly service", especially suitable for guests who want to experience garden life and stay on the island instead of going to the center of My Tho.

Island Homestay Tien Giang (Island Homestay Thoi Son)

Island Homestay Tien Giang (Island Homestay Thoi Son)

Thach Thao Homestay

  • Address: Hamlet 3, Hiep Duc commune, Dong Thap.

  • Phone number: 098 733 76 39

  • Reference room price: 450,000 - 500,000 VND/night, based on room type and tourist season.

  • Amenities & review: Thach Thao Homestay brings style Traditional garden house, with lots of green space, fish pond, hammock and outdoor common area. The rooms are simple but clean and suitable for guests who like to explore local culture. The host is considered very friendly, often helping to guide tourists to canoe spots, fruit gardens and experience amateur music.

Culinary experiences when coming to Thoi Son Island

Famous restaurants

Mekong Taste Restaurant & Bungalow

  • Address: Thoi Thanh Hamlet, Thoi Son Commune, Dong Thap Province 

  • Reference price: Dishes from 80,000 – 180,000 VND; Set meals range from 150,000 - 300,000 VND/person.

Mekong Taste Restaurant & Bungalow

Mekong Taste Restaurant & Bungalow

  • Outstanding dishes: Fried giant fish, fish sauce hotpot, lotus root salad with shrimp and meat, grilled shrimp, free-range garden chicken, Western pancakes.

  • Services & experience: Restaurant located on the outskirts river, cool space, resort bungalows. Professional service, suitable for groups of friends - families - groups. The strong point is the "high-class" garden space, clean and many beautiful check-in points.

Ken Muoi Garden Restaurant

  • Address: Trung An Ward, My Tho, Tien Giang, Vietnam

  • Phone number: 0907232559

  • Reference price: 60,000 – 150,000 VND/item; Hot pot and seafood from 150,000 - 250,000 VND.

  • Outstanding dishes: Grilled snakehead fish, sour fish hotpot, grilled chicken with salt and chili, steamed giant king prawns, fresh seafood daily.

  • Services & experiences: Large space, many trees, airy garden, suitable for parties, lunch - dinner after visiting Thoi Son Island. Fast service staff, fast food, reasonable prices.

Halal Mekong Restaurant (Halal standard restaurant)

  • Address: Thoi Son Ward, Dong Thap.

  • Reference price: 80,000 - 170,000 VND/item; Halal set from 150,000 - 250,000 VND/person.

  • Notable dishes: Halal chicken rice, Malaysian chicken curry, stir-fried beef, chapati, herbal chicken soup, food that does not use animal fat and oil prohibited according to Halal regulations.

  • Service & experience: The restaurant meets Halal standards for Muslim customers - rare in the Western region. Clean, airy space, friendly service. Suitable for international guests or groups with dietary requirements.

Local Cuisine

Diem Thuy Rice Restaurant

  • Address: Hamlet 4, Phuoc Thanh commune, City. My Tho, Dong Thap.

  • Phone number: 093 906 62 91

  • Reference price: 35,000 - 55,000 VND/portion of rice; Salty dishes cost an additional 20,000 - 50,000 VND.

  • Notable dishes: Pork rib rice, Duong Chau fried rice, sour fish soup, braised meat with pepper, stir-fried vegetables of the day.

  • Service & spread Experience: Suitable for travelers who want to eat quickly, lightly and economically. The restaurant is crowded with local customers, the food is hot, served quickly, and cheap. The space is simple but clean.

Loc Pho 2 Restaurant

  • Address: 151A Ly Thuong Kiet, Dao Thanh Ward, Dong Thap

  • Reference price: 80,000 - 180,000 VND/item; Specialties range from 150,000 - 300,000 VND.

  • Outstanding dishes: Sesbania flexible fish hotpot, braised howler fish, steamed giant king prawns, shaking beef, spicy and sour Thai hotpot.

  • Services & experience: Large, spacious restaurant, suitable for groups, families and parties. There are air-conditioned rooms, large parking lots, fast and professional service staff.

Experience Cuisine

My Tho Restaurant

  • Address: 300 My Thanh hamlet, 313 DH89, My Phong ward, Dong Thap

  • Reference price: 70,000 - 160,000 VND/dish; Hot pot from 180,000 - 300,000 VND.

  • Outstanding dishes: My Tho noodles, braised fish, brown rice with chicken fried with fat, goby hotpot with Giang leaves, steamed clams with lemongrass.

  • Service & experience: Fast service, dishes with Western flavors. The restaurant is crowded at noon, suitable for tourists who want to enjoy authentic local dishes.

My Tho Fishing Village Restaurant

My Tho Fishing Village Restaurant

My Tho Fishing Village Restaurant

  • Address: 298 Pham Thanh, Dao Thanh Ward, Dong Thap

  • Reference price: 100,000 - 250,000 VND/dish; Fresh seafood by the kilo.

  • Outstanding dishes: Grilled tiger prawns, tamarind-roasted crab, steamed Hong Kong grouper, stir-fried cockle with garlic, seafood hotpot.

  • Services & experience: Large space in style seafood way - riverside. Fresh seafood, guests can choose directly at the tank. Suitable for family parties, tour groups and reunion dinners.

Festivals and culture you can experience when coming to Thoi Son Island

Thoi Son Communal House Festival

Festivals Thoi Son communal house is a typical cultural event of local people, held every year to commemorate ancestors and pray for a good harvest year. The festival usually takes place on the full moon or first day of the lunar calendar, attracting a large number of people and tourists to participate. During the festival, there are formal worship rituals, lion dances and many folk activities. This is an opportunity for visitors to learn about the typical spiritual life of Western residents.

Thoi Son Communal House Festival

Thoi Son communal house festival

Southern Don ca tai tu performance

Amateur folk music is a unique spiritual culture of the South and recognized by UNESCO as an intangible heritage. At Cu Lao Thoi Son, amateur music performances often take place at eco-tourism sites and garden houses such as Miet Vuon Thoi Son Restaurant or Thoi Son Tourist Area. Visitors can listen to amateur songs and lyrical Vong Co songs in a cool garden space, and can sometimes sing and sing with artisans. This is an experience that brings a feeling of closeness and local character.

Garden culture and river life

When coming to Cu Lao Thoi Son, visitors can clearly feel the typical garden cultural life through traditional houses, fruit gardens and small canals. The people here are famous for their gentleness, hospitality and attachment to gardening, beekeeping and handicrafts. Activities such as rowing a canoe, riding a horse-drawn carriage or drinking honey tea are all part of their daily life. This experience helps visitors gain a deeper understanding of the cultural identity of the Mekong Delta.

Traditional craft villages on Cu Lao

Thoi Son Island has many craft villages that have existed for decades, most notably coconut candy making, weaving and puff pastry making. Visitors can see firsthand the production process, from raw material processing to finished products. Some establishments also let customers experience a few simple steps themselves to understand more about the traditional craft. This is an activity that is both interesting and has high educational value for visitors of all ages.

Garden worshiping rituals of local people

The people of Cu Lao Thoi Son still maintain many typical garden worshiping rituals such as offering land, worshiping grandparents during the Tet holiday season and worshiping village communal houses according to the lunar cycle. These rituals often take place in families or on a small scale in the neighborhood, expressing people's gratitude to their ancestors and nature. Although not as big as a festival, this is a cultural element that helps visitors better feel the community spirit of the Southern people. With its gentleness and simplicity, the garden culture has created a unique feature that helps Thoi Son become a destination rich in experience value.

Shopping and souvenirs when coming to Thoi Son Island

Some specialties and souvenirs can be bought when coming to Thoi Son Island

  • Thoi Son coconut candy: Coconut candy is the most famous specialty of the island, handmade from fresh coconut, malt and sugar. There are many flavors such as pandan leaves, cocoa, durian, and peanuts. Reference price from 40,000–70,000 VND/package of 250g. This is a popular gift, easy to carry far and suitable for everyone.

Thoi Son coconut candy

Thoi Son coconut candy

  • Pure honey & pollen: Honey products are exploited from traditional beekeeping facilities on the island. Visitors can buy pure honey, pollen, and beeswax for use or as gifts. Honey price ranges from 120,000–200,000 VND/bottle depending on capacity; Pollen costs about 100,000–150,000 VND/box. This is a healthy product, chosen by many tourists.

  • Orchard fruits (seasonal): Outstanding fruits include rambutan, mangosteen, longan, durian and sand mango. Visitors can buy at the garden to get good prices and fresh fruit. Fruit prices change according to the season, for example rambutan 20,000–35,000 VND/kg, mangosteen 60,000–90,000 VND/kg, longan 40,000–70,000 VND/kg. This is a typical gift that represents the Western flavor.

  • Handmade puff pastry - rice paper: Establishments in Cu Lao Thoi Son still maintain the profession of making sticky rice puffs and crispy rice paper by hand. The product is naturally sun-dried, fragrant and crispy when grilled. The price of puff pastry ranges from 25,000–40,000 VND/bag, rice paper from 20,000–35,000 VND/bag. Suitable as gifts or used in family meals.

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Establishments in Cu Lao Thoi Son still maintain the profession of making sticky rice puffs and crispy rice paper

  • Products Hand-woven: Some households make products from water hyacinth, bamboo, bamboo such as baskets, hats, storage trays... with simple, rustic designs. Prices for small products range from 20,000–50,000 VND, for large products 80,000–150,000 VND. These items clearly represent the local traditional craft village culture.

Shopping address and souvenirs when visiting Cu Lao Thoi Son

  • Thanh Dragon coconut candy facility – Thoi Hoa hamlet, Thoi Son island: This is the point sells the most famous coconut candy on the island, both produced locally and retailed to tourists. Visitors can watch the candy making process and buy many types of candy at good prices.

  • Ut Trinh beekeeping facility - Thoi Binh hamlet, Thoi Son: Specializes in selling pure honey, pollen, beeswax, honey tea. Visitors can try products for free before buying, very assured about the quality.

  • Ut Hien, Sau Tia - Thoi Son fruit gardens: Suitable for buying seasonal fresh fruit at cheaper prices than buying in the market. Some gardens also help with packaging to take away.

  • Thoi Son Market - center of Thoi Son island: Small market but diverse products such as fruits, puffs, rice paper, handicrafts, coconut water, local specialties. Reasonable prices, easy to bargain, very suitable for buying instant products.

  • Thoi Son eco-tourism area - Thoi Hoa hamlet
    In the tourist area, there are many stalls selling specialties and souvenirs, suitable for tourists on package tours. Products are clearly priced, convenient for tourists who don't have much time.

Amusement areas and other tourist attractions near Cu Lao Thoi Son

Vinh Trang Pagoda

Vinh Pagoda Trang is located about 3 km from My Tho pier and is currently located in Dong Thap province after the merger. This is a large and famous temple in the region, possessing a combination of Asian and European architecture, very unique and different. The temple grounds are spacious, with a giant Maitreya Buddha statue, a reclining Buddha statue and many ancient buildings. Tourists often visit Vinh Trang Pagoda before or after their trip to explore Cu Lao Thoi Son.

Vinh Trang Pagoda

Dong Tam Snake Farm

Dong Tam Snake Farm is a famous eco-tourism - educational destination, located about 10 km from Thoi Son Island. This place is the largest snake breeding and research center in the West, with hundreds of venomous and non-venomous snake species. Visitors can learn about the venom extraction process, snake bite prevention and visit many other wild animals. This is a suitable destination for those who like new experiences and biological knowledge.

Con Phung (Con Lan - Ben Tre)

Con Phung is located about 20 minutes by train from Cu Lao Thoi Son, in Ben Tre province and is one of the four famous Tu Linh islands. This place stands out with activities such as crocodile fishing, visiting Dao Dua relics, experiencing coconut candy making and drinking honey tea. The green, peaceful space is very suitable for families and groups of friends. Tourists often combine the My Tho - Thoi Son - Con Phung tour on the same day.

Cai Be Floating Market

Cai Be floating market is about 45 minutes - 1 hour drive from Thoi Son towards Dong Thap province. This is one of the oldest floating markets in the West, where agricultural products, fruits and goods are sold right on boats. Visitors can visit early in the morning to feel the bustling rhythm of river life. Cai Be floating market also has many experiential activities such as boat rides, enjoying fruits and visiting craft villages.

Tan Thanh Beach Tourist Area

Tan Thanh Beach is located in Go Cong Dong commune, about 40 km from Thoi Son Island. This is a typical beach with black sand and long clam farming huts, bringing a rustic beauty that is different from traditional beaches. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, especially clams, oysters, shrimp, and crabs caught during the day. This is a suitable weekend relaxation spot for those who want to combine river and sea tourism.

Tan Thanh Beach Tourist Area

Tan Thanh beach tourist area

My Tho tourist wharf

My Tho tourist wharf is the main departure point to Cu Lao Thoi Son, is also a check-in point loved by tourists. This area has many cafes, restaurants, and spacious riverside space, very suitable for watching the sunset on the Tien River. Visitors can walk, take photos or buy train tickets to connect with nearby tourist attractions. This is the ideal place to start every journey to explore the West.

Suggested tour to Cu Lao Thoi Son

Experiential tour

Tour “Slapping ditches to catch fish – Con Phung – Cu Lao Thoi Son” (1 day)

  • Tour name: Slapping ditches to catch fish + Exploring Cu Lao Thoi Son & Con Phung

  • Tour price: about 499,000 VND/adult, 399,000 VND/child under 12 years old

  • Organizer: Vietsense Travel

  • Detailed schedule:

    • Depart from Ho Chi Minh City, go to My Tho → board the train to Cu Lao Thoi Son.

    • Go down to the island: visit the bee farm, hear about beekeeping & honey, try honey tea.

    • Participate in the activity "slapping ditches to catch fish"  equipped with tools, clothes, bathing and experiencing rustic garden life.

    • Have lunch with Western dishes (fish, shrimp, vegetables, rice, dessert)

    • Can combine with visiting Con Phung (if tour includes), then return to My Tho, ending the tour.

Suggested tour to Cu Lao Thoi Son

>Suggested tour to Cu Lao Thoi Son

Tour “Explore Con Thoi Son & Con Phung (half day – 4–6 hours)”

  • Tour name: Con Thoi Son - Con Phung Island Tour (half day)

  • Tour price: 120,000 VND - 270,000 VND depending on the number of guests/group

  • Organizer: Mekong Nuoc Cui

  • Detailed schedule:

    • Departing from My Tho tourist wharf, the group takes the train to Cu Lao Thoi Son.

    • Experience a dinghy weaving through nipa palm canals, a typical Western activity.

    • Visit a folk craft facility, fruit garden, coconut candy factory, enjoy seasonal fruit or fruit + honey.

    • Can combine visiting Con Phung, checking-in, visiting the craft village, then returning to My Tho wharf, suitable for short-term or weekend visitors.

Eco-tour

Tour “Cu Lao Thoi Son – Con Phung – Pagoda + Western Region” (1 day)

  • Tour name: Tien Giang – Cu Lao Thoi Son – Con Phung – Western Tourism 1 day

  • Tour price: from 670,000 VND/person (departing from Ho Chi Minh City)

  • Organizer: Viet Tourism

  • Detailed schedule:

    • 06:45–07:00: Pick up guests at the meeting point in Ho Chi Minh City, depart for My Tho.

    • After that: Visit Vinh Trang Pagoda, a historical pagoda, unique architecture, a rest stop along the way program.

    • Board the boat to Thoi Son Island: row a dinghy, visit fruit gardens, bee farms, listen to amateur music, enjoy fruits + honey. 

    • Move to Con Phung: visit relics, craft villages, experience culture, buy specialties; have Western food for lunch.

    • Afternoon: Boat returns to My Tho, ending the tour suitable for tourists who want a day of diverse experiences: nature, culture, spirituality, gardens.

Tour “Cu Lao Thoi Son – Con Phung – Pagoda + Western Region

Organizing unit: Travel company registered on travel.com.vn

  • Preliminary itinerary:

    • Depart from Ho Chi Minh City, take the highway to the US Tho → visit Cu Lao Thoi Son (canoeing, visiting gardens, craft villages, enjoying fruits, honey...) 

    • Then move on to Ben Tre → visit Ben Tre's typical spots (coconut gardens, coconut candy furnaces, craft villages...)

    • Finally, arriving in Can Tho, the tour combines the experience of the vast West, diverse river nature + culture + ecology. >

    • Family tour

    Tour “My Tho – Ben Tre – 1 full day (Cu Lao Thoi Son + Ben Tre)”

    • Tour name: My Tho – Ben Tre 1 full day (including Cu Lao Thoi Son)

    • Tour price: about 590,000 - 690,000 VND/adult if going on weekdays or weekends.

    • Organization: Saigon Star Travel (according to information tour).

    • Detailed schedule:

      • 07:00 – 07:30: Pick up from Ho Chi Minh City, move to My Tho. 

      • After that: visit Vinh Trang Pagoda to visit the architecture and learn about history.

      • Board the boat to Tien River → go to Cu Lao Thoi Son (rowing a dinghy, visit the garden, honey facility, experience the garden, listen to amateur music, have lunch with Western specialties).

      • If combined tour: continue to Ben Tre, visit coconut candy factory, nipa coconut factory, or local garden spots / craft villages. 

      • Afternoon: return to Ho Chi Minh City, end the day tour, suitable for those who want a short trip, experience the river + garden. 

    Tour “My Tho – Ben Tre – 1 Day Package (Cu Lao Thoi Son + Ben Tre)”

    Tour “My Tho – Ben Tre – 1 Day Package (Cu Lao Thoi Son + Ben Tre)”

    Tour “One Day as a Farmer – Cu Lao Thoi Son”

    • Tour name: My Tho – Thoi Son – One-Day Farming Experience style="text-align:justify">Tour price: not public, contact hotline (84.28) 9999 7979 for advice

    • Organizer: StarTravel

    • Projected schedule ant:

      • Tourists are taken to Cu Lao Thoi Son, participating in experiencing farmer life: gardening, fruit picking, learning about crafts or garden activities. 

      • Combined with rowing a dinghy, visiting the garden, listening amateur music, enjoying honey, seasonal fruits bring a close, natural and rustic experience in the West.

      • The tour is suitable for families and groups of friends who want to find a "countryside" feeling, away from the city, immersing themselves in river nature. 

    Support information and related agencies in Dong Thap

    • Dong Thap Provincial Police

    Location address: 27 Ly Thuong Kiet, Ward 1, Cao Lanh, Dong Thap 

    Phone: 02773852185

    • Dong Thap Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism

    Address: 399, Hung Vuong, Dao Thanh ward, Dong Thap province

    Phone: 02733 872223

    • Dong Province General Hospital Tower

    Address: 39 Nguyen Van Tre, My Tan, Cao Lanh, Dong Thap

    Emergency phone: 115

    • Dong Thap tourism hotline

    Phone: 02773851869 (receive feedback and support tourists 24/7)