Ha Long Bay is a stunning destination in Vietnam that is popular for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands topped with rainforests. With so much to see and do in this beautiful area, it’s important to plan your trip carefully to make the most of your time there.
Here are some travel tips for visiting Ha Long Bay:
- When to Go: The best time to visit Ha Long Bay is from October to April when the weather is cooler and drier.
- Book a Cruise: The best way to see Ha Long Bay is by taking a cruise. There are a variety of options available, from day cruises to overnight stays on a boat.
- Pack Properly: Make sure to pack comfortable clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent, and sturdy walking shoes for exploring the islands.
- Stay Hydrated: The weather in Ha Long Bay can be hot and humid, so be sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Respect the Environment: Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so be sure to respect the environment by not littering and following designated paths.
Now that you have some travel tips for visiting Ha Long Bay, here are the
Things to do in Ha Long Bay Vietnam / Top 20 sites and monuments Must Visit Ha Long Bay
- Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave) – One of the largest and most beautiful caves in Ha Long Bay, with stunning limestone formations. [https://www.travelhalongbay.com/ha-long-bay-attractions]
- Ti Top Island – A small island with a sandy beach and a panoramic view of Ha Long Bay from the top. [https://www.vietnam-guide.com/halong-bay]
- Thien Cung Cave (Heaven Palace Cave) – A colorful cave with intricate stalactites and stalagmites. [https://www.halonghub.com/blog/thien-cung-cave-heaven-palace-cave]
- Bai Tu Long Bay – A less crowded alternative to Ha Long Bay with equally beautiful scenery. [https://www.indochinajunk.com/bai-tu-long-bay/]
- Tuan Chau Island – A popular entertainment island with water sports, dolphin shows, and a man-made beach. [https://www.halonghub.com/blog/tuan-chau-island/]
- Cua Van Floating Village – Experience the unique way of life of the fishermen who live in floating houses. [https://www.halongbaycruises.com/top-things-to-visit-in-ha-long-bay/cua-van-floating-village/]
- Dau Go Cave (Wooden Stakes Cave) – Known for its historical significance and stunning cave chambers. [https://vietnamuniquetours.com/destination/dau-go-cave-wooden-stakes-cave/]
- Me Cung Cave (Maze Cave) – A mystical cave with narrow passages and beautiful formations. [https://www.halongbaycruises.com/top-things-to-visit-in-ha-long-bay/me-cung-cave/]
- Soi Sim Island – A small island with a pristine beach and hiking trails to enjoy panoramic views. [https://sailsindochina.com/soi-sim-island/]
- Luon Cave – A unique cave with an entrance by boat, leading to a serene lagoon surrounded by cliffs. [https://www.indochinajunk.com/luon-cave/]
- Trong Mai Islet (Cock and Hen Islet) – A famous rock formation resembling a pair of chicken. [https://www.visitourvietnam.com/cat-ba-island-and-halong-bay-3-days.html]
- Bao Lau Cave – A historical cave with evidence of prehistoric human habitation. [https://www.vietnam-guide.com/halong-bay]
- Quang Ninh Museum – Learn about the history, culture, and biodiversity of Ha Long Bay and its surrounding areas. [https://www.travelhalongbay.com/quang-ninh-museum-halong-bay]
- Cho Da Islet (Stone Dog Islet) – An iconic islet that resembles a sitting dog, surrounded by lush greenery. [https://www.indochinajunk.com/cho-da-islet/]
- Bai Chay Beach – The main beach in Ha Long Bay, perfect for swimming and relaxing on the sandy shores. [https://www.vietnam-guide.com/halong-bay]
- Tien Ong Cave – A cave known for its archaeological significance and ancient human artifacts. [https://www.halongbaycruises.com/top-things-to-visit-in-ha-long-bay/tien-ong-cave/]
- Trung Trang Cave – A cave with unique limestone formations and a mystical atmosphere. [https://www.halongbaycruises.com/top-things-to-visit-in-ha-long-bay/trung-trang-cave/]
- Bai Tho Mountain (Poem Mountain) – A popular spot for hiking with breathtaking views of Ha Long Bay from the top. [https://www.vietnam-guide.com/halong-bay]
- Cong Dam Fishing Village – Experience the traditional fishing lifestyle in this picturesque floating village. [https://www.halongbaycruises.com/top-things-to-visit-in-ha-long-bay/cong-dam-fishing-village/]
- Hon Gai Church – A historical church with stunning architecture and a peaceful atmosphere. [https://www.halonghub.com/blog/ha-long-city-attractions/]
Ha Long Bay Cruise Pricing and How to Get There from Hanoi
The pricing for activities in Ha Long Bay can vary depending on the type of cruise or tour you choose. Day cruises typically range from $30 to $70 per person, while overnight cruises can range from $100 to $300 per person. To get to Ha Long Bay, you can take a bus from Hanoi, which takes about 4 hours, or hire a private car for a more comfortable journey.
You can read more about in 3 Days in Hanoi Things to Do Where to Stay or learn more about Hanoi to Ha Long Bay in this travel guide, enjoy your stay in Hanoi and Vietnam!
Don’t forget to get Travel Insurance Before You Travel
If you’re looking for travel insurance, we recommend the following travel insurance provider:
World Nomads Travel Insurance | Find the Perfect Insurance Plan for Your Trip with Travelex | Cancel for any reason with Travel Guard |
Our Top Travel Gear and Equipment Recommendations: Best Camera, Photo and Video Equipment for Your Travels
If you’re interested in our recommended travel gear and photo/video equipment:
- Best and Most Useful Travel Gear:
- Best photo / video cameras and equipment for Travel:
- Best Action Cameras and Portable Cameras
- Best Full-Frame DSLR Cameras and DSLR Cameras for Amateur and Professional Photographers
- Best Drones and Aerial Photography Cameras
- Best Tripods, Monopods and Selfie Sticks for Photography and Videography
- Best Mobile Phones and Cell Phones, Best Laptops and Computers for Travel:
3 Days in Ha Long Bay Visit Itinerary
Day 1:
- Visit Sung Sot Cave and Ti Top Island
- Enjoy a cruise around
- Ha Long Bay and take in the stunning scenery
- Relax on Bai Chay Beach
- Explore the nightlife and dining options in Ha Long City
Day 2:
- Explore Thien Cung Cave and Me Cung Cave
- Visit the Cua Van Floating Village
- Enjoy water sports at Tuan Chau Island
- Watch the sunset from Soi Sim Island
Day 3:
- Discover the history of Dau Go Cave and Trong Mai Islet
- Hike up Bai Tho Mountain for panoramic views
- Experience the tranquility of Cong Dam Fishing Village
- Visit the Quang Ninh Museum for insight into the region’s culture
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Where to Stay in Ha Long Bay / Top and Best Hotels in Ha Long Bay Vietnam
Top Rated Hotels Ha Long Bay priced over $200 per night:
- Essence Grand Halong Bay Cruise
- Citadines Marina Halong
- Oakwood Ha Long
- Indochine Premium Halong Bay Powered by Aston
- Doris Cruise
Best Reviewed Hotels in Ha Long Bay priced between $100 to $200 per night:
- Hôtel Perle d’Orient Cat Ba – MGallery
- The Watson Premium HaLong Hotel
- Halong Lavender Hotel
- Paradise Suites Hotel
- Cat Ba Paradise Pool & Sky Bar
Recommended Hotels Ha Long Bay priced between $50 to $100 per night:
- The Yacht Hotel by DC
- Grand Fleuve Boutique
- Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long
- Wyndham Legend Halong
- A La Carte Ha Long Bay Hotel
Top Ha Long Bay Hotels priced between $20 to $50 per night:
Best Hostels Ha Long Bay and Budget Hotels in Ha Long priced below $20 per night:
- Tran Chau Garden Home
- Anh Nhu Hotel
- Private room in Halong center
- SECRET GARDEN CAT BA
- Cat Ba Countryside Homestay
Please note that ratings and prices may vary depending on the season and availability. Make sure to check the current rates and availability through the provided links.
I hope this helps in finding the perfect accommodation in Ha Long Bay for your upcoming trip.
Your itinerary may need to be adjusted based on personal preferences and travel dates. Additionally, be sure to check the latest travel advisories and entry requirements before planning your trip to Ha Long Bay. Enjoy your magical journey in this UNESCO World Heritage Site!
For more about Vietnam, Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang and other travel destinations in Vietnam, read the travel tips and see all travel stories, videos, photos and writing on Rolling Coconut’s Travel section.
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