Halong Bay: Explore Vietnam’s Iconic Natural Wonders

The Fascinating Legend Behind the Name “Ha Long Bay”

The name "Ha Long," meaning 'descending dragon,' is rooted in legend. According to the tale, a great dragon plunged into the sea, carving valleys with its tail. As the dragon submerged, water filled the area, leaving only the peaks visible and creating the bay's unique scenery.

Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its natural beauty

Best Time to Visit Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay welcome visitors all time in year. The peak season for Vietnamese tourist is from late May to early August. January to March can be cool and drizzly, with fog adding an eerie atmosphere.

May to September offers beautiful weather, but tropical storms can cause changes or cancellations of cruises. October and November bring sunny days, fewer crowds, and cooler temperature.

How to Get to Ha Long Bay

From Hanoi

The distance from Ha Noi to Ha Long Bay is over 160km. You can choose from various transportation options, such as bus, train, private car, or seaplane.

• Public bus: It takes around 2.5 - 3 hours to get to Ha Long Bay from Hanoi. Ticket price is from $6-$10. You can book ticket at Hanoi’s bus stations such as My Dinh, Giap Bat, Nuoc Ngam
• Train: As of 2021, direct train services from Hanoi to Ha Long have been discontinued. Therefore, if you want to travel by train, you can take a train from Hanoi to Hai Phong and then drive from Hai Phong to Ha Long
• Private car: For a more personalized experience, consider hiring a private car or booking a transfer service. The fee is approximately $96 to $190, depending on the number of seats in the vehicle
• Seaplane: This is the fastest, most luxurious, and unique way to travel, offering panoramic city views. The average travel time is 60 minutes and costs $350 to $450, provided exclusively by Hải u Aviation

From other cities in Vietnam

• Flights: Domestic flights are available to Ho Chi Minh city and Danang, from where you can continue your journey to Ha Long Bay
• Bus: Long-distance buses connect many cities in Vietnam to Hanoi or Hai Phong, allowing for a comfortable and cost-effective option

International Arrival

• Hanoi: Most international flights arrive at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi. From there, you can choose from the abovementioned options to reach Ha Long Bay
• Other cities: If you're arriving in Ho Chi Minh City or Da Nang, you can take a domestic flight to Hanoi or Hai Phong, or opt for a long-distance bus journey

Things to Do in Ha Long Bay: A Bucket List

1. Experience Ha Long Bay Cruises

You can get to Ha Long City and arrange cruises there, but most visitors prefer tours from Hanoi that include sleeping on board. Many cruises also pass by the 'Fighting Cocks,' two islets that resemble battling birds and symbolize Ha Long Bay.

Independent travelers often go straight to Cat Ba Island to explore the less-visited Lan Ha Bay. Most cruises and day trips include a visit to at least one cave and island.

With hundreds of cruise companies available, choose carefully. Check the itineraries and what’s included to avoid unexpected fees. For higher-end options, consider Paradise Cruise, Ambassador Cruise, Au Co, and Heritage Line. Bhaya Cruises offers a more affordable option with a large fleet. Be cautious of the cheapest cruises, as they may use old boats and ignore environmental regulations.

Ha Long Bay cruises offer stunning views of limestone formations and emerald waters

2. Take a sightseeing tour via seaplane

This unique tour is available only in Ha Long Bay and Hue. Enjoy a 25-minute seaplane flight from Tuan Chau Marina, showcasing nearly 2,000 limestone islands over 2,000 square kilometers.

The flight offers stunning aerial views of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the islands resemble a descending dragon. Key scenic highlights include Dau Be Island, Cong Do Island, and Bo Hon Island. TMG's newest seaplane, with space for 12 passengers, ensures excellent views for everyone.

The tour departs from Ha Long City and provides breathtaking views from above

3. Kayaking

Ha Long Bay's stunning landscape offers countless kayaking spots. Recently, the local government set strict guidelines to protect certain areas.

However, there are 8 popular spots where kayaking is allowed, including Ba Hang Fishing Village, Luon Cave, and the Tung Sau area. Note that kayaking may require an additional fee, so check with your cruise provider to confirm.

Early morning kayaking offers a tranquil experience with fewer crowds and calm waters

4. Island Hopping

Titov Island is the most popular stop, named after Russian cosmonaut Gherman Titov. It offers panoramic views from its highest point.

Soi Sim Island has a less impressive viewpoint but a more attractive beach nestled in a small bay. Visits to these islands are often short, so plan accordingly if you want to swim.

Titov Island is included in many Halong Bay cruise itineraries, making it easily accessible

5. Caving

Popular caves to visit in Ha Long Bay include Hang Trong (Drum Grotto), Hang Thien Cung, and Hang Sung Sot (Surprise Cave), which has three chambers.

Another notable cave is Hang Dau Go (Cave of Wooden Stakes). It got its name because, in the 13th century, locals stored wooden stakes there. These stakes were used to destroy Mongolian ships during battles.

The lighting inside the cave is carefully designed to enhance the beauty of the formations

6. Swimming and Sunbathing

This beautiful Vietnam’s bay offers pristine beaches like Ba Trai Dao, Tuan Chau, Titop, Ngoc Vung, Bai Chay, and Minh Chau, each with its own charm. These spots feature clear, calm waters and beautiful scenery. For a unique experience, you can jump from your cruise into the bay's refreshing water. Be cautious of jellyfish, which can cause mild irritation.

Ba Trai Dao Beach is relatively untouched by tourism, preserving its natural beauty and providing a peaceful escape from the crowds

7. Cooking Classes

A cooking class on a Ha Long Bay cruise is a highlight for food lovers. Most cruises offer this class as part of the tour, with no extra charge. Classes typically last 1 to 1.5 hours and are often scheduled before dinner on the first day or after lunch on the second day of a two-day cruise.

You’ll learn to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes, such as spring rolls, and enjoy a fun, interactive experience. Some cruises, like Mon Cheri and Era Cruises, focus on Vietnamese cuisine, while others, like Scarlet Pearl, offer cocktail-making lessons.

Cooking is a cultural experience that allows you to connect with Vietnamese traditions and customs

8. Visiting to a floating village

Cua Van, Vung Vieng and Viet Hai are the most popular fishing villages in Ha Long Bay. The exact age of these villages is unknown, but cruise guides say they have been around for about a thousand years. During a cruise, you might also visit a pearl farm. You don’t have to buy anything if you don’t want to.

Vung Vieng Floating Village is less crowded than other tourist spots, providing a tranquil experience

Where to Stay in Ha Long Bay

Onboard Cruises

Staying on a cruise in Ha Long Bay offers a unique experience with stunning views of the bay's limestone islands. You can enjoy comfort, convenience, and a variety of activities right from your boat. Cruises provide a range of amenities, including gourmet dining, guided excursions, and spa treatments. Some popular cruise options include: Mon Cheri Cruise, Scarlet Pearl Cruise, Era Cruises,...

Onshore Accommodations

For budget travelers, Vuon Dao Street and Hai Quan Street offer affordable options ranging from $8 to $30 per night, though they are far from the beach and city center.

For a seaside experience, hotels near Bai Chay Beach provide high-end stays with sea views, perfect for enjoying the bay’s beauty.

If you prefer a tranquil escape, staying on one of Ha Long Bay's islands offers a serene setting to fully appreciate the stunning natural scenery.

Tips for Visiting Ha Long Bay

Packing list

• Clothing: Light, breathable clothes, swimwear, and a light rain jacket. Also, bring a hat and sunglasses for sun protection
• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes for land excursions and sandals for beach activities
• Sun protection: Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle
• Camera: For capturing the stunning landscapes and moments
• Cash: Some small vendors and attractions might not accept cards

Budget

• Accommodation: Budget hotels start at around $10 to $30 per night, while mid-range options cost between $30 to $80. Luxury hotels and resorts can be $100 and up
• Food: Expect to spend $5 to $15 per meal at local restaurants, with higher costs at upscale dining places
• Activities: Day cruises and tours typically range from $30 to $100. Additional costs for kayaking, entrance fees to attractions, and souvenirs should be considered
• Total estimate: For a mid-range budget, plan on spending around $50 to $150 per day

Safety

• Water activities: Always wear a life jacket when kayaking or on boat trips. Ensure the equipment is in good condition and follow safety instructions from guides
• Weather awareness: Check weather forecasts before heading out to avoid storms and rough waters
• Health precautions: Stay hydrated and be cautious with street food to avoid foodborne illnesses

Must-Try Foods

• Fresh seafood: Enjoy local specialties like grilled squid, steamed crabs, and oysters
• Bánh cuốn: Steamed rice rolls filled with pork and mushrooms, often served with fresh herbs and dipping sauce
• Chả mực: Squid cakes made from minced squid meat, a delicious local delicacy
• Vietnamese Spring Rolls: Fresh or fried rolls filled with a mix of meat, vegetables, and herbs

What to Do After Ha Long Bay

If you’re looking to explore beyond Ha Long Bay, Northern Vietnam offers a wealth of diverse experiences. Here are some top destinations to consider for extending your trip and discovering more of the region’s natural beauty.

• Bai Tu Long Bay: For a quieter experience, visit Bai Tu Long Bay. It offers similar stunning landscapes to Ha Long Bay but with fewer crowds. Enjoy tranquil boat rides and explore secluded beaches
• Cat Ba Island: Head to Cat Ba Island, the largest island in the Gulf of Tonkin. Discover its beautiful beaches, hike through Cat Ba National Park, and visit the vibrant fishing villages
• Ninh Binh: Known as the "Ha Long Bay on Land," Ninh Binh features dramatic karst landscapes and serene river cruises. Explore the scenic Tam Coc and Trang An areas, and visit ancient temples
• Sapa: Experience the stunning mountainous landscapes of Northern Vietnam in Sapa. Trek through terraced rice fields, visit traditional ethnic minority villages, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Hoang Lien Son range
• Phong Nha: If you love caving and trekking, Phong Nha is a must-visit. Home to some of the world's largest and most impressive caves, including Son Doong, Phong Nha offers thrilling adventure activities and beautiful natural scenery