Named after cosmonaut Gherman Titov in 1962, Ti Top Island has evolved into an essential stop on most Ha Long Bay itineraries. Whether you seek beach relaxation, a scenic summit climb, or a deeper cultural connection, Ti Top offers a memorable experience in a compact setting.
Despite its small size, this island is a combination of outstanding natural beauty and rich historical significance. Join Viet Sails Boutique Cruise to explore one of the most famous islands in Ha Long Bay.
Ti Top Island is located in the heart of Ha Long Bay, about 8 km southeast of Bai Chay port. At only 3.7 hectares, the island offers stunning scenery in a limited space. Its central location in the bay makes it easily accessible, while its small size maintains an intimate feel that larger destinations often lack.
Ti Top Island’s history reflects the multifaceted past of Ha Long Bay. On early French maps, the island appeared as Cat Nang (Ba Cat Island). Later, a tragic shipwreck in 1905 led locals to call it Red Cross Island.
The island’s pivotal moment occurred on January 22, 1962, when President Ho Chi Minh welcomed Soviet cosmonaut Gherman Titov during his visit to Vietnam. Titov, the second person to orbit the Earth, shared a symbolic moment with the Vietnamese leader on this island. To commemorate this event, President Ho Chi Minh renamed the island Ti Top Island, a gesture that transformed the site into a symbol of international friendship.
In 2015, a monument honoring Titov was unveiled on the island, featuring a bronze bust and inscriptions in three languages. Furthermore, following Titov’s death in 2001, the Ha Long Bay Management Board held a memorial service there, highlighting the island’s historical significance.
Ti Top Beach is widely regarded as one of Ha Long Bay’s most attractive natural beaches. Unlike many rocky islands, Ti Top features a genuine stretch of white sand extending over 100 meters. Viewed from above, the shoreline curves gracefully like a crescent moon.
The water remains clear and calm for much of the year, creating ideal swimming conditions. In recent years, international travel publications have praised the beach for its visual harmony between turquoise waters, limestone cliffs, and soft sand.
The island’s summit viewpoint is its most iconic feature. Approximately 400-450 stone steps lead to an observation platform at the top. While the climb requires moderate effort, it remains accessible to most visitors who take their time.
From the summit, panoramic views unfold in every direction. Thousands of limestone karsts rise dramatically from emerald waters, offering one of the most photographed vistas in Ha Long Bay. Sunrise and sunset are particularly atmospheric when shifting light transforms the bay into a painterly landscape.
Ti Top Island also functions as a recreational hub. Visitors can enjoy kayaking around the island, swimming near the beach, or participating in light water sports such as banana boat rides. For those seeking relaxation, the beach provides a comfortable setting to unwind between cruise excursions.
Beyond its scenery, Ti Top Island carries symbolic meaning. The monument dedicated to Gherman Titov serves as a reminder of Vietnam’s diplomatic history and aspirations during the space age. Informational displays offer visitors insight into this unique chapter of international cooperation.
Ti Top Island encapsulates Ha Long Bay in miniature: natural beauty, layered history, and accessible adventure. Though compact, the island leaves a lasting impression through its panoramic views, inviting beach, and cultural depth.
Ti Top is one of Ha Long Bay’s most popular stops, so expect crowds (especially midday). Arrive early or choose off-peak cruises for a quieter experience. As part of a Ha Long Bay journey, it remains a destination worth experiencing.
For a refined and well-paced visit, Viet Sails Boutique Cruise offers curated itineraries that include Ti Top Island at optimal times of day. Our approach emphasizes smaller groups, environmental respect, and meaningful engagement with Ha Long Bay’s natural and cultural heritage.
VIET SAILS CRUISES – ASIA PEARLS., JSC
Phone number: +84 906 272 467 | +84 908 828 166 (WhatsApp)
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