Cu Lao Xanh, the popular name for Nhon Chau Commune, is Gia Lai's only island commune. The island lies about 24 km by speedboat from central Quy Nhon.
Besides its clear waters, Nhon Chau features extensive rocky stretches along its eastern coast, where natural erosion has shaped rocks of varying sizes and forms.
Locals call the area the 'rock grassland', where large formations rise among vegetation overlooking the sea.
One of the most striking is a large rock resembling a giant hand. Depending on the viewing angle, other formations can appear to resemble a lion's head, seal, turtle shell, sail or human face.
Some rocks balance or overlap, while steep cliffs face the sea, making the area a popular stop for sightseeing and photography.
Nguyen Hoang Dung, 32, a visitor from Quy Nhon Ward, said she was impressed by the combination of rocks, sea, sky and vegetation on her first trip to the island.
She said the formations appeared different from each angle, offering visitors a variety of landscapes to explore.
Besides its rocky coastline and fresh seafood, Cu Lao Xanh is also home to Gieng Tien, or Fairy Well, a site associated with local folklore.
According to a story passed down among islanders, fairies once descended there to enjoy the scenery and look at their reflections in the water, giving the well its name.
The water source also played a role in the lives of earlier generations of island residents. Today, the well is among the attractions visited by tourists exploring Cu Lao Xanh.
Duong Hiep Hung, chairman of the Nhon Chau Commune People's Committee, said the unusual rock formations, together with the island's sea, low mountains and natural landscape, added to Cu Lao Xanh's appeal to visitors.
