Ti Top (Titov) Island

Island in Ha Long Bay

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Greg Willis

Ti Top Island, located at the core of Halong Bay and just 8 kilometers southeast of the Bai Chay Tourist Area, may be small with its 3.7 hectares, but it stands out as one of the most visually stunning islands in the bay and is especially popular with visitors. It ranks among the top 20 tourist spots in the Halong Bay region.

The island offers stunning views from a high point in its center and features a serene, crescent-shaped beach known for its soft, white sand and clear blue waters. Its close proximity to Bai Chay Harbor makes it a frequent stop on many cruise itineraries.

Why is it called Ti Top Island?

Originally named Cat Nang, the island was renamed after Russian cosmonaut Gherman Titov, the second man to orbit Earth, following his visit to the bay in 1962 with Vietnamese leader Ho Chi Minh. In 1997, Titov revisited the island, leaving a heartfelt note in the Halong Bay management’s visitors’ book, expressing his gratitude for the chance to return. A statue of Titov was erected there by the People’s Committee of Northern Quang Ninh Province in September 2015.

The island also carries a lesser-known name, “Cemetery Island,” a moniker dating back to 1905 after a French cargo ship wrecked on its shores, resulting in the loss of its entire crew who were buried there.

Today, Ti Top Island is celebrated as a prime destination in Halong Bay, equipped with various amenities catered to both international and domestic tourists.

Ti Top Beach

In addition to breathtaking views of the bay, Ti Top Island features a charming beach, also known as Ti Top Beach.

This beach is a perfect spot for engaging in activities like swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying barbecues. Despite its modest size, the beach captivates visitors year-round with its pristine white sands and clear blue waters.

Adjacent to the beach, a few bars and seafood restaurants offer a chance to grab refreshments and savor delicious local dishes. It’s an ideal place to relax on the white sand and absorb the stunning scenery of Halong Bay.

The Ti Top (Titov) Island appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Ha Long Bay!

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