Ultimate Travel Guide to Halong Bay, Vietnam

Located in northeastern Vietnam, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay is home to over 1900 towering limestone islands and islets rising from deep emerald waters. Spread across 1500 sq km (589 sq miles) in the Gulf of Tonkin, from above, the islands resemble the undulating bodies of dragons – “Halong” means “descending dragon” in Vietnamese.

According to legend, the Jade Emperor sent the Mother Dragon and her offspring to aid the Vietnamese people in a battle against foreign invaders, and they have remained here ever since in the form of jungle-clad islands.

Today, Halong Bay is a must-see destination for its otherworldly beauty – it was the filming location for some scenes in the 2017 movie Kong: Skull Island – with caves, beaches, and a range of outdoor activities, all just a few hours from Hanoi.

When is the Best Time to Visit Halong Bay?

Halong’s scenery changes with the season, offering beauty practically year-round. There are two main seasons:

• Winter (November to March): Average temperatures range from 15–20°C (59–68°F).
• Summer (May to September): Mild temperatures range from 25–30°C (77–86°F); however, June to August are the wettest months.

For adventurers, summer is ideal for water sports, including kayaking and swimming. The colorful Carnaval Ha Long is also held at the end of April/early May, making it a vibrant time to visit. Conversely, photographers might prefer visiting in winter, as early mornings regularly see misty conditions, creating eerie scenes of fog-shrouded islands in the distance.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Halong Bay?

Most travelers come to Halong Bay to cruise. For those pressed for time, there are half- and full-day trips that provide a brief glimpse of the islands; however, this can lead to a very long day when including travel to and from Hanoi. Most visitors opt for an overnight cruise, departing from Hanoi early in the morning. Typical activities include touring a cave, taking part in a cooking demonstration onboard, fishing for squid at night, and visiting beaches or floating pearl farms. The packed itinerary may feel rushed, as numerous boats often follow the same route.

To avoid crowds, consider a cruise lasting two or more nights, which offers more itinerary options and allows exploration of less-frequented areas of the bay, including neighboring Bai Tu Long and Lan Ha bays.

Choosing the Right Cruise

With reportedly 200-300 overnight boats operating in Halong Bay, travelers are spoiled for choice at every price point. First, determine whether you can cruise for more than one night. A longer cruise provides a much richer experience of Halong Bay. Moving on, select your ship, which ranges from budget-friendly to luxury options, offering a range of amenities.

Many cruise companies operate on a charter basis. For groups of 8-10 people, it is worthwhile to explore options from various providers, offering tailored itineraries that cater to your preferences.

Getting to Halong Bay

Being a major tourist destination, accessing Halong Bay is straightforward. From Hanoi (170 km/105 miles), transport options include shuttle buses (typically provided by cruise lines), private cars, or public buses. Average travel time is around 2 hours when taking the Hanoi-Hai Phong Expressway. Furthermore, Halong City is served by the Van Don International Airport, located about 50 km (31 miles) from the city.

Top Things to Do in Halong Bay

Take a Scenic Flight Over the Bay

Witness spectacular island formations and their imaginative names like Fighting Cock and Incense Burner. For a unique perspective, consider a 25-minute scenic seaplane flight, where the islands appear as mini mountain ranges snaking through the sea.

Ride on the Queen Cable Car

This cable car offers panoramic views of Halong Bay and the city. A record-breaking 230 passengers can fit in one cabin, connecting two parts of Halong City, allowing for outdoor games and theme park activities overall.

Explore Halong City

Halong City is more than just the gateway to Halong Bay; it presents a variety of attractions. Hike to the viewpoint on Bai Tho Mountain for sweeping vistas, or visit the Sun World Halong theme park, featuring roller coasters and other activities. Additionally, ensure to visit the Quang Ninh Museum, designed by Spanish architect Salvador Perez Arroyo.

What to Pack for Halong Bay?

If traveling in summer for a cruise, bring your swimsuit. Some islands have caves or viewpoints, so sturdy shoes are recommended. During other seasons, evenings and early mornings may be chilly; hence, a light jacket should be included in your packing list.

Budgeting for Your Trip to Halong Bay

Most travelers often join package cruises that cover accommodation, food, and activities. Here’s a quick pricing guide for various activities and accommodations in Halong Bay:

• Four-hour join-in day cruise: starts at 440,000d (US$18)
• One-night cruise aboard a 3-star boat: 3,500,000d (US$140) per person
• Basic hotel room in Halong City: 500,000d (US$20)
• Bowl of cu ky crab noodle soup: 50,000d (US$2)
• Average cruise tip per person, per night on a basic boat: 100,000d (US$4)
• 25-minute scenic seaplane flight: 2,400,000d (US$98)
• Queen Cable car ride: 300,000d (US$12)

In conclusion, exploring Halong Bay offers a unique blend of stunning natural beauty, rich cultural experiences, and adventurous activities. Whether you’re cruising through the emerald waters or hiking to breathtaking viewpoints, Halong Bay promises a memorable journey.