Back To Nature
Back To Nature
Whale Island Resort – A Dream Amidst the Blue Sea
Every journey begins with an idea and a belief.
For Michel Galey, a Frenchman who made Vietnam his home, that belief meant creating travel experiences that truly connect people with nature and culture. Before discovering Whale Island, he and his Vietnamese wife, Lan Phương, organized trips to remote northern villages, where visitors could immerse themselves in daily life and gain a deeper appreciation for both nature and local traditions.
When they first set foot on Whale Island in the 1990s, the couple was immediately drawn to its untouched beauty. Located in a bay recognized by the UNWTO as an ideal destination for sustainable tourism, the island had everything they dreamed of—lush forests, quiet beaches, clear blue waters, and rich marine life. Lucky visitors might even spot whales hunting near the shore, a rare and breathtaking sight.
Turning a Dream into Reality
In 1994, bringing their vision to life proved difficult. Michel and Lan Phương faced a significant challenge: Whale Island was under military administration, making it extremely difficult to obtain permits for tourism development. Additionally, they had to tackle basic infrastructure issues, such as energy supply, freshwater access, and transportation.While waiting for permits, they set up model structures and gathered materials in Ho Chi Minh City. Managing design and approvals across two locations was costly and time-consuming, but it was a necessary step.
After years of effort, Whale Island Resort was officially granted a license in 1996. The early days were tough. Every day was a race against time. But with determination and a love for nature, their dream amidst the blue sea gradually took shape.
The First Guests
In February 1998, Whale Island Resort welcomed its first guests. Back then, it was simple – just a kitchen, a restaurant, a bar, eight bungalows, and a boathouse with diving gear. No luxury, no frills – just nature at its best. This understated charm quickly turned Whale Island into a beloved destination for international travelers, a status it continues to hold to this day.
A Lasting Legacy
Whale Island Resort is more than just a retreat—it is a testament to vision, resilience, and belief. Michel and Lan Phương have proven that with passion and perseverance, what once seemed impossible can become a reality.
Today, almost three decades later, Whale Island Resort remains true to its original spirit—an ecological resort in the heart of the sea, where every visitor can create their own journey of discovery and embrace the unspoiled beauty of Whale Island.
Facilities
Restaurant
The restaurant at Whale Island Resort is a beachfront restaurant with a spacious, airy design with a simple and pristine character. With a design mainly from thatched roofs, bamboo walls and electric lighting systems, the decoration is handcrafted to make the restaurant space more intimate and bold with Vietnamese traditional colors.
+ Capacity: 80-90 guests
+ Opening time:
- Breakfast : 7:00 - 9:00
- Lunch : 12:00 - 14:00
- Dinner : 19:00 - 21:00
Bar
Our bar was inspired by the image of a boat in the middle of the ocean, offering a direct view of the sea and the natural wind. Here, you can comfortably watch the beautiful sunset on Whale Island while enjoying a refreshing drink. If you’re looking for a cozy spot to relax every night, this bar is the perfect choice for you.
+ Opening time: 6h30 – 23h00
"We are happy to offer you a truly
balanced, of a relaxing, and memorable vacation."
Mr. Andy
Managing Director