While Ha Long Bay hogs the limelight and the crowds, secluded Beo Co Islet on Bai Tu Long Bay has so far escaped the attention of mass tourism.

Beo Co is one of about 600 islets in the island district of Van Don in the northern province of Quang Ninh, around two hours east of Hanoi.

The journey from Cai Rong Port to Beo Co Islet takes 15 to 25 minutes by boat.

Since tourism services have not fully developed there, visitors have to contact locals and hire the boat.

Chu Duc Viet, who took these photos after visiting the islet with a group of friends in May, said there were very few households living on the islet and they mainly bred oysters on floating rafts.

A sandy beach along the cliffs in Beo Co, sheltered from the sea breeze, makes it ideal for camping.

Locals say that visitors who want to camp on the islet need to learn about the location and its characteristics to avoid high tide problems.

When the tide rises, the sandy beach narrows to about seven meters, leaving just enough space for camping at night.

After the tide recedes, the sandy beach returns to its width of 20-30 meters.

Visitors wanting to camp here must come prepared with all necessary camping equipment including tents, stoves and personal effects.

Viet recalled he was bitten by no-see-ums (biting midges) because he had neglected to bring insect repellent along.

Viet surfs on a jet board in Beo Co.

Sunrise seen from the islet.

Those who choose to stay overnight can enjoy delicious seafood like grilled oysters or cu ky (thunder crab) prepared by local residents.

Source: VNE