Ha Long Bay

The basics

Explore Ha Long Bay on a combination guided tour and boat cruise. Those with limited time can visit on day trips from Hanoi, which typically include a few hours cruising Ha Long Bay, stops at some islands and caves, swimming or kayaking, and a seafood lunch. 

For a more in-depth experience, opt for a multi-day or overnight cruise, spending at least one night aboard a traditional junk boat or luxury cruise ship, and enjoy activities such as cooking classes or squid fishing.

Things to know before you go

• Ha Long Bay is ideal for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and adventure travelers.

• Don't forget your camera; there are plenty of photo-worthy opportunities.

• Bring swimwear and sun protection if you plan to enjoy the water.

• Sturdy footwear is a must to hike and climb up to viewpoints.

• Full-day tours from Hanoi usually last around 12 hours.

How to get there

Located 103 miles (165 kilometers) east of Hanoi near Ha Long city in the Quang Ninh province, Ha Long Bay is easiest to visit as part of a tour that includes round-trip transportation. Otherwise, it's accessible by car, bus, motorbike, and ferry. The fastest (and most expensive) way to get there is by helicopter or seaplane.

When to get there

The best time to visit Ha Long Bay is from March to May and from September to November. Summers are the monsoon season and can see a lot of storms, which can impact a cruise. Winters can be cold, foggy, and drizzly, which can limit visibility.

Ha Long Bay highlights

Ha Long Bay offers numerous attractions, including deserted islets, caves, and villages. Some of the more popular attractions include the Surprise Cave (Hang Sung Sot) and Thien Cung Cave; the floating villages of Cua Van, Cong Dam, Ba Hang, and Vong Vieng; and Cat Ba Island National Park and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, home to plentiful wildlife, including the golden-headed langur (Vietnam's most endangered primate).

How much is a tour to Ha Long Bay?

Ha Long Bay tour prices vary hugely. A full-day trip on a basic wooden junk starting from Cat Ba Island could cost as little as $30; a 5-day extravaganza from Hanoi on a luxury ship with a pool, gym, spa, and gourmet cuisine could cost 40 times that sum.

What is the best month to visit Ha Long Bay?

October is generally the best month to visit Ha Long Bay, although climate change means weather patterns are less predictable than they were. The summer monsoon rains and humidity have passed, but the sea is still warm. Expect mellow temperatures, refreshing breezes, plenty of sunshine, and only light rainfall.

Should I book a Ha Long Bay cruise in advance?

Not always. If you're after a specific ship, a luxury cruise, or an unusually long boat tour, you should book your Ha Long Bay ticket well in advance. Advance booking is also essential at peak times: around Christmas, the northern hemisphere New Year, and Tet, Vietnam's Lunar New Year, which falls in January or February.

Can someone visit Ha Long Bay on a low budget?

Yes. A day cruise on a simple wooden boat, including meals, activities, and transfers from Hanoi, can cost just $50. But your cheapest option is to travel to Cat Ba Island, where hostel beds cost $10, explore by rented bicycle, and take a $30 day cruise.

What is the best way to see Ha Long Bay?

A cruise is the best way to see Ha Long Bay, although many travelers find adjoining Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay less crowded and equally beautiful. Two-day or 3-day cruises let you explore at a leisurely pace and follow a different schedule from the day and half-day boats.

Can I swim in Ha Long Bay?

Yes, you can swim in Ha Long Bay—although temperatures can be chilly in winter (December through February). The waters are polluted and can have off-putting amounts of plastic trash, but you’re unlikely to get sick. The beaches where cruise boats stop for swimming do not have heavy currents.

Ways to explore

Explore Ha Long Bay on a combination guided tour and boat cruise. Those with limited time can visit on day trips from Hanoi, which typically include a few hours cruising Ha Long Bay, stops at some islands and caves, swimming or kayaking, and a seafood lunch. Full-day tours from Hanoi usually last around 12 hours.

For a more in-depth experience, opt for a multi-day or overnight cruise, spending at least one night aboard a traditional junk boat or luxury cruise ship, and enjoy activities such as cooking classes or squid fishing. Kayaking lets you get closer to the karst caves and limestone formations, so check to see if your tour includes rentals.

Accessibility

Some Ha Long Bay cruises are wheelchair-accessible.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Bring swimwear and sun protection if you plan to enjoy the water.

What to wear

Sturdy footwear is a must to hike and climb up to viewpoints.

Not allowed

Littering, smoking, swimming in unsafe areas, drones without permission

Amenities

At the main entry points, there are ATMs, currency exchange, information centers, restrooms, and food services.

Address

Located 103 miles (165 kilometers) east of Hanoi near Ha Long city in the Quang Ninh province, Ha Long Bay is easiest to visit as part of a tour that includes round-trip transportation. Otherwise, it’s accessible by car, bus, motorbike, and ferry. The fastest (though most expensive) way to get there is by helicopter or seaplane.

Driving

From Hanoi Airport, the journey to Ha Long Bay takes 2.5–3.5 hours, depending on traffic. The fastest route is via the Hanoi–Haiphong Expressway (CT04). After passing Haiphong, follow signs for Halong City. Merge onto National Highway 18 toward Tuan Chau or Bai Chay, depending on where your boat trip departs from. The closest parking lots are at Tuan Chau Harbor and Bai Chay Tourist Wharf.

Public transportation

Buses depart from the Nuoc Ngam Bus Station in Hanoi for the city of Ha Long regularly; they tend to take 3.5–4 hours due to passenger stops.

Best times to visit

Entry points tend to open from 6am to 6pm, though the bay itself is open 24/7 as many boats stay overnight. Opt for an overnight stay so you can wake up and watch the sunrise over the tranquil bay.

Best days to visit

Weekdays tend to be less crowded.

Best months to visit

You’ll find the best weather from March to May and from September to November.

Special events

Carnaval Ha Long—typically held in late April—features parades, fireworks, and cultural performances.