Halong Bay is in Quảng Ninh, a province along Vietnam's northeastern coast. It is renowned for its emerald green waters, diverse array of adventure sports, and thousands of limestone islands, many of which are topped by lush rainforests. 

The bay is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, renowned for scuba diving, cruises, kayaking through caves, rock climbing, and simply taking in the breathtaking scenery. All of these make it a perfect getaway from a stressful daily life.

But before you visit Halong Bay, you need to know a few things you can do there to unwind, relax, and enjoy.

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Table of Contents

• TripAdvisor Ratings & Reviews
• Things To Do
• Best Time To Visit
• What To Eat
• Deep Dive into Finer Aspects
• Other Things to Do Near 
• Hotels Nearby Halong Bay
• Restaurants Nearby Halong Bay
• Final Verdict
• FAQs

TripAdvisor Ratings & Reviews 

Ratings: 4.5 (11,733 reviews) 

• Excellent: 7,956
• Very Good: 2,314
• Average: 894
• Poor: 313 
• Terrible: 257

Most visitors appreciated the beauty and breathtaking views of Halong Bay. They loved small adventures, such as scuba diving, kayaking through caves, rock climbing limestone cliffs, and cruising. The mesmerizing sunrise and sunset made people forget about their daily stressful routine. However, some didn't enjoy the peak season due to the crowds, unpredictable weather, and litter in certain areas. 

Things to do in Halong Bay 

There are a lot of adventurous activities to do in Halong Bay:

Scuba Diving

Exploring Halong Bay's emerald waters is like entering another universe, as beneath the surface, you can see colourful coral reefs, a variety of fish, and unusual marine life swimming in and out of the rocks. It is quiet and peaceful. Most of the dives are beginner-friendly, and a guide is available to assist you throughout your dive. It's an unreal experience.

Spending Time on a Cruise

You can sunbathe on the deck, sip a cocktail, or lean over the railing and watch the calm sea. Some cruises offer tai chi at sunrise and squid fishing under the moonlight. In the evening, some cruises host live music, movie screenings on the deck, and simple games and gatherings. People who enjoy luxury, spa treatments, or foot massages can find them on some cruises. 

Kayaking Through Caves

You'll gently paddle through calm waters, pass under low cave roofs, and find little hidden corners of the bay. In some places, you will emerge into still and peaceful water surrounded by rocks, where everything feels silent and untouched. It's the kind of moment that makes you feel close to nature.

Rock Climbing on Limestone Cliff

The karst cliffs are very sharp and rise straight out of the sea. Some routes start right from your boat, and you climb barefoot with the waves below. The view from the top is unreal. You will feel exhausted, but the view will be worth it.

Best Time to Visit Halong Bay

The best time to visit is from October to April. The weather is cool and dry. The sky is clear, which is perfect for photoshoots and outdoor adventurous activities. The summer months, from May to September and rainy months, can be very hot and rainy, but they are also when the bay is lush and green.

What to Eat in Halong Bay 

Halong Bay is a paradise for seafood lovers. The seafood, including prawns, fish, squid, shrimp, oysters, clams, crabs, and local vegetables, is served fresh and flavourful, as it is caught just a few hours before serving. 

One local specialty is cha muc (fried squid cake), which is crispy, chewy, and served with sticky rice or bánh cuốn. The other dish is nem chua (fermented pork roll), served as a snack or side. You can also try cá nướng (grilled fish), hàu nướng mỡ hành (grilled oysters with green onion oil), and canh ngao chua (sour clam soup), which is refreshing.

Deep Dive into Finer Aspects of Halong Bay

We have covered all the activities available in Halong Bay. Now let's deep dive into the finer aspects of it:

The Karst Formations

The tall, rocky limestone cliffs, sculpted by nature over millions of years, are the subject of most visitors' comments. There are more than 1,600 islands in the harbor, and each one has a slightly different appearance. Some have animal-like features, while others have faces or features that resemble statues. As your cruise passes through them, it feels like the rocks are telling their own stories. Many found themselves gazing out at the formations, amazed by their size and beauty. There are quiet lagoons and small beaches hidden between these untouched cliffs. These beauties make the bay feel almost magical.

Cave Exploration

If you enjoy exploring, then caves in Halong Bay are a must-visit. Sung Sot Cave, also called the Surprise Cave. It is the most loved and beautiful stop. There is a short walk uphill to reach this cave, and once you enter, the space opens up into huge chambers with rock shapes and soft lighting. Visitors say it feels like walking into another world. The natural formations inside the cave have many names and stories, which local guides share with visitors. Many other visitors enjoy taking photos here, and the view from outside the cave is also particularly special.

Floating Villages

Some cruises give you the chance to visit floating villages like Cua Van. They are real communities where people live their daily lives on the water. Construction of homes, schools, and even little stores on wooden rafts tied together. It is quiet, simple, and very different from city life. Visitors appreciate seeing this unique way of living.

Sunrise and Sunset

When the sun rises and sets over the water, Halong Bay is at its most beautiful. Visitors say that these are the most calming and gorgeous parts of their journey. The quiet sea reflects the gentle orange, pink, and gold hues that change in the sky. Visitors sit back and absorb everything without speaking during this moment. It is something which you will remember for a very long time.

Other Places to Explore Near Halong Bay

Make your visit more adventurous by visiting the places near Halong Bay:

Cat Ba Island

Many visitors enjoy visiting Cat Ba Island, located on the edge of Halong Bay, for a bit of adventure. Known for its lush greenery, birdsong, and views that stretch for miles.

If you have extra time, consider hiking, as it offers a beautiful view.

Tuan Chau Island

Most of the cruises start from Tuan Chau Island because it has beaches, resorts, and a few spots to relax before or after you go on your cruise. Many visitors like spending a night here to break up the journey.

Bai Tu Long Bay

If you're hoping for fewer crowds, consider taking a cruise to Bai Tu Long Bay instead of Halong. It is just as beautiful with the same limestone scenery, but it is much quieter. Visitors often say it feels more peaceful and untouched.

Yen Tu Mountain

There is a spiritual retreat called Yen Tu Mountain, a few hours from Halong Bay. It features walking trails, temples, and pagodas.

Yen Tu is a perfect spot for someone seeking a blend of culture and nature, thanks to its stunning views from the top.

Hotels Near Halong Bay

If you are looking for an overnight accommodation near the bay, then here are a few options for you:

Restaurants Near Halong Bay

Here are a few options where you can eat near Halong Bay: 

Final Verdict: Is Halong Bay Worth It? 

Yes, Halong Bay is worth visiting if you enjoy being close to nature, having quiet moments, and going on adventures. The calm sea, the fresh breeze, and the sight of hundreds of limestone cliffs rising out of the water give you a peaceful escape from everyday stress.

Most people find the cruise to be their best experience. They are comfortable, the food is delicious, and everything moves at a calm pace. It's the kind of place you remember because of how it made you feel relaxed, refreshed, and more connected to nature. 

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Halong Bay?

The best time to visit is from October to April, as the skies are clearer, the weather is cooler, the humidity is low, and there are fewer chances of rain. It is perfect for kayaking and spending the night on a cruise.

Can you visit Halong Bay as a day trip from Hanoi?

Yes, you can visit for a day. It takes about 3.5 to 4 hours each way by car. Some tours include a few hours of cruising, lunch, and possibly a stop at a cave or for kayaking. However, staying overnight on a cruise or in a hotel provides a more relaxed experience.

Is swimming in Halong Bay safe?

Yes, you can swim, but only in certain spots. Many cruises stop at Titop Island or Ba Trai Dao Beach, where it is safe and allowed. You should avoid swimming in stormy weather or in areas where swimming is restricted.

What kind of food is Halong Bay known for?

Halong Bay is famous for seafood. You will find prawns, fish, squid, shrimp, oysters, clams, crabs, and local vegetables. One local specialty is cha muc (fried squid cake), which is crispy, chewy, and served with sticky rice or bánh cuốn.

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