Monkey Island

Welcome to the pristine waters of Lan Ha Bay. As our boat cuts through the tranquil, emerald surface, we are approaching a place officially known as Dao Kat Dua, which translates to Pineapple Island. …

Because of the shallow coral reefs and the dramatic tidal shifts in this part of the bay, larger tour boats simply cannot pull directly up to the sand. Therefore, our arrival at Monkey Island requires a remarkably hands-on…

We have now moved slightly up the beach, near the tree line, entering the undisputed territory of the island's most famous inhabitants: the monkeys. Specifically, these are macaques, a highly intelligent, intensely curious, and…

Leaving the open, sun-drenched sand behind, we now step into the shadows at the edge of the jungle to begin our ascent. The transition is incredibly abrupt. …

We are now roughly halfway up the mountain, in the thick of the ascent. This section of the hike is notoriously punishing, and it quickly separates the casual beachgoers from the determined adventurers. …

We have finally reached the summit. Stand upright, wipe the sweat from your brow, and prepare to be utterly astounded. …

As we carefully navigate our way back down the treacherous limestone path, the intense focus required for the descent begins to give way to a profound sense of physical relief. Climbing down is, in many ways, more dangerous than…

As we wade back to the waiting boat and pull ourselves out of the emerald water, take one last look at the pristine shore of Monkey Island. This small, unassuming patch of land in Lan Ha Bay has provided us with a remarkably…