Ha Long Bay: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Location: Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam

Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a truly unforgettable natural wonder nestled in northern Vietnam. Imagine emerald waters and towering limestone karsts – that’s Ha Long Bay! It’s home to thousands of islands and islets, with hidden caves and charming floating villages. Taking a cruise is the best way to soak in the views, and you’ll also have the chance to kayak, swim, and explore this unique ecosystem. Local legends add to its mystique, and the changing light throughout the day makes it a photographer’s dream. Consider booking a Halong Bay cruise tour with a reputable operator for the best experience.

Planning Your Trip to Ha Long Bay

Essential Information

Country: Vietnam
Timezone: GMT+7
Languages Spoken: Vietnamese
Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)

Ha Long Bay Weather & Best Time to Visit

Knowing the weather in Ha Long Bay will help you plan the perfect trip.

January-March: Cool and dry, sometimes misty. Temperatures range from 17-22°C (63-72°F).
April-May: Warm and sunny, perfect for cruising! Temperatures range from 22-27°C (72-81°F).
June-September: Hot and humid, watch out for potential storms and typhoons. Temperatures range from 27-32°C (81-90°F).
October-December: Pleasant and dry, great for outdoor activities. Temperatures range from 20-25°C (68-77°F).

City Overview: Ha Long City, Gateway to the Bay

While Ha Long Bay is the star, Ha Long City is your base. It’s a growing city with a mix of modern comforts and Vietnamese culture. Tourism, fishing, and aquaculture are key to the local economy, and the area has invested in good infrastructure. You’ll find everything you need in Ha Long City, from local markets to diverse dining options. The focus is on preserving the beauty of the Bay and promoting sustainable tourism.

Best Time to Visit Ha Long Bay

Here’s a breakdown to help you decide when to visit:

April-May:
- Pros: Warm weather, sunny, ideal for activities, fewer crowds.
- Cons: Occasional showers, slightly higher prices.
October-December:
- Pros: Pleasant temperatures, dry, clear skies, good for photography.
- Cons: Cooler evenings, possible boat trip cancellations.
June-September:
- Pros: Fewer tourists, lower prices.
- Cons: Hot, humid, risk of typhoons.

Getting to Ha Long Bay & Visa Information

Flights:
- Van Don International Airport (VDO): About 50 km from Ha Long City (taxi or bus).
- Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi: Shuttle bus (3-4 hours) to Ha Long City.
Trains: No direct trains to Ha Long City.
Visa Details: Most nationalities need a visa for Vietnam. Apply online or through an embassy. Check requirements before you go! Visa Application Information
Airport Transfers: Taxis, buses, and private cars are available from both airports.

Discovering Ha Long Bay

Legend of the Descending Dragon: A Ha Long Bay Story

Legend tells of a dragon sent from the heavens to help the Vietnamese fight invaders. The dragon spat out jewels and jade that became the islands, forming a barrier against the enemy. After the battle, the dragon stayed, and the place was named Ha Long, meaning “descending dragon.”

Top 10 Ha Long Bay Attractions & Things to Do

Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave): Explore this large and beautiful cave.
- Address: Ha Long Bay, Quang Ninh
Ti Top Island: Climb for panoramic views or relax on the beach.
- Address: Ha Long Bay, Quang Ninh
Bai Tu Long Bay: A quieter, equally stunning alternative to Ha Long Bay.
- Address: North East of Ha Long Bay, Quang Ninh
Thien Cung Cave (Heavenly Palace Cave): See fascinating rock formations and colorful lights.
- Address: Dau Go Island, Ha Long Bay, Quang Ninh
Dau Go Cave (Wooden Head Cave): Known for its unique formations and history.
- Address: Dau Go Island, Ha Long Bay, Quang Ninh
Kayaking in Ha Long Bay: Get up close to the beauty of Ha Long Bay.
- Address: Various locations, tours from Ha Long City
- Book a Kayak tour.
Floating Villages: Experience local life in a traditional floating village.
- Address: Cua Van, Ba Hang, Vung Vieng Floating Villages, Ha Long Bay, Quang Ninh
Halong Bay Cruise: A multi-day cruise is the best way to see the entire area.
- Address: Tours depart from Tuan Chau Marina, Ha Long City
- Book a cruise
Cat Ba Island: Explore beaches, trails, and a national park.
- Address: Cat Ba Island, Ha Long Bay, Quang Ninh
Quan Lan Island: Relax on this peaceful island.
- Address: Quan Lan Island, Bai Tu Long Bay, Quang Ninh

Ha Long Bay Hidden Gems

Me Cung Cave (Maze Cave): A smaller, peaceful cave.
- Address: Lom Bo Island, Ha Long Bay, Quang Ninh
Ba Trai Dao Beach (Three Peach Beach): A secluded, beautiful beach.
- Address: Ha Long Bay, Quang Ninh
Tuan Chau Island Water Park: A water park escape.
- Address: Tuan Chau Island, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh

Local Culture & Practical Information

Ha Long Bay Festivals & Events

Ha Long Carnival: A vibrant street festival in late April/early May.
Yen Tu Festival: A pilgrimage to Yen Tu Mountain (January-March lunar calendar).
Cua Ong Temple Festival: Dedicated to General Tran Quoc Tang (March lunar calendar).

Day Trips from Ha Long Bay

Yen Tu Mountain (1.5-hour drive): Temples and stunning views.
Bai Dinh Pagoda (3-hour drive): One of Vietnam’s largest Buddhist complexes.
Hanoi (3-4 hour drive): The capital city!

Top Ha Long Bay Photography Spots

Ti Top Island Viewpoint: Panoramic views.
Sung Sot Cave: Stalactites and stalagmites.
Ha Long Bay Cruise: Limestone karsts and emerald waters.
Cua Van Floating Village: Unique lifestyle.
Sunset over Ha Long Bay: Breathtaking.

Where to Stay in Ha Long Bay & How to Get Around

Recommended Stay Duration

3-4 days is ideal for exploring Ha Long Bay.

Top Ha Long Bay Hotels

Budget

Halong Backpackers’ Party Hostel: 66 Anh Dao Street, Bai Chay Ward, Ha Long City
OYO 966 Hoang Anh Hotel: 133 Vuon Dao, Bai Chay Ward, Ha Long City
Dream Hotel Halong: No. 20, Alley 2, Vuon Dao, Bai Chay Ward, Ha Long City

Mid-Range

Muong Thanh Grand Ha Long Hotel: Bai Chay Ward, Ha Long City
Wyndham Legend Halong Hotel: 12 Halong Road, Bai Chay Ward, Ha Long City
Novotel Ha Long Bay: 160 Ha Long Road, Bai Chay Ward, Ha Long City
City Bay Palace Hotel: Halong Road, Bai Chay Ward, Ha Long City
Book a Hotel

Luxury

Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long: Reu Island, Bai Chay Ward, Ha Long City
Paradise Suites Hotel: Tuan Chau Island, Ha Long City
Stellar of the Seas Cruise: Tuan Chau Marina, Ha Long City (Cruise option)
La Casta Cruise: Tuan Chau Marina, Ha Long City (Cruise Option)

Getting Around Ha Long City

Taxis: Readily available, negotiate the fare.
Motorbike Taxi (Xe Om): Cheaper, negotiate the price and wear a helmet.
Bus: Connects different parts of the city, can be crowded.
Walking: Great for exploring Bai Chay.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

What to Pack for Ha Long Bay

Lightweight clothing
Swimsuit
Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
Comfortable shoes
Rain jacket or umbrella
Insect repellent
Adaptor (if needed)
First-aid kit

Useful Apps for Travel in Vietnam

Google Maps: Navigation
Grab: Taxis and motorbike taxis
Google Translate: Vietnamese translation
Agoda/Booking.com: Accommodation
TripAdvisor: Reviews

Safety Tips & Cultural Etiquette in Ha Long Bay

Do’s:
- Dress respectfully at temples.
- Remove shoes before entering homes.
- Try local food.
- Bargain respectfully.
Don’ts:
- Point your feet at someone/something sacred.
- Raise your voice.
- Take photos without permission.
- Litter.
Scams to Avoid:
- Overpriced taxis.
- Fake tours.
- Pickpockets.

Food, Fun & Finds in Ha Long Bay

Top Ha Long Bay Restaurants

Cua Vang Restaurant: Seafood with a view.
- Description: Fresh seafood, beautiful views. Mid-range.
- Address: Halong Road, Bai Chay Ward, Ha Long City
Green Mango Restaurant: International cuisine with a Vietnamese twist.
- Description: Variety of dishes, local ingredients. Mid-range.
- Address: 96 Le Thanh Tong, Ha Long City
1958 Restaurant: Traditional Vietnamese dishes.
- Description: Authentic cuisine, relaxed atmosphere. Budget-friendly.
- Address: Group 3, Zone 5, Bai Chay Ward, Ha Long City

Must-Try Dishes in Ha Long Bay

Cha Muc (Grilled Squid Cake): Local specialty.
Banh Cuon (Steamed Rice Rolls): Thin rice crepes with pork and mushrooms.
Sam (Horseshoe Crab): Unique seafood dish.
Ngao Hap (Steamed Clams): Clams steamed with lemongrass and chili.

Ha Long Bay Nightlife & Entertainment

Halong View Club: Rooftop bar with panoramic views.
- Description: Drinks, live music, stunning views. Mid-range.
- Address: Halong Road, Bai Chay Ward, Ha Long City
Club 99: Nightclub with DJs.
- Description: Lively atmosphere, mix of music. Mid-range.
- Address: Halong Road, Bai Chay Ward, Ha Long City
Bai Chay Night Market: Food stalls, souvenirs, and entertainment.
- Description: Street food, clothing, souvenirs. Budget-friendly.
- Address: Bai Chay Ward, Ha Long City

What to Buy in Ha Long Bay (Souvenirs & Markets)

Handicrafts: Lacquerware, silk products, wood carvings.
- Description: Available at markets and shops.
- Address: Ha Long Market, Bai Chay Night Market
Seafood: Dried squid, shrimp, fish.
- Description: Popular souvenir.
- Address: Ha Long Market, Bai Chay Market
Pearls: Cultured pearls.
- Description: Available at jewelry stores and pearl farms.
- Address: Various locations in Ha Long City and Tuan Chau Island.