Halong Bay, one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is not only famous for its breathtaking natural landscapes but also rich in historical and cultural values. Located in Northern Vietnam, Halong Bay attracts millions of visitors annually with its unique beauty, featuring thousands of limestone islands rising majestically from emerald waters. Let’s explore some useful tips to help you make the most of your trip to this magical destination.
1. Best Time to Visit Halong Bay
Each season in Halong Bay has its own charm, but the best times to visit are from April to June and from September to November. During these periods, the weather is mild, not too hot, with little rain—perfect for sightseeing, swimming, and enjoying local cuisine. If you visit Halong Bay in the summer, prepare yourself for a fantastic experience with golden sunshine and crystal-clear water. Meanwhile, autumn offers a more pleasant atmosphere, ideal for watching romantic sunsets over the bay.
If you prefer a quieter experience, consider traveling during the weekdays or low season (September, October) to avoid the crowds. This way, you’ll have more tranquil moments to fully embrace the peaceful nature and explore the landmarks without worrying about overwhelming tourist numbers.
2. How to go to Halong Bay
Halong Bay is about 160 km from Hanoi, and there are various transportation options available. If you prefer driving, you can take the Hanoi – Hai Phong – Halong expressway, which takes around 2-3 hours by car. High-quality buses and limousine services are also popular and convenient choices.
For a more unique experience, consider flying to Halong with a seaplane service. This 45-minute flight from Hanoi gives you the chance to admire panoramic views of Halong Bay from above. From hundreds of meters in the air, you’ll witness the stunning scenery of thousands of limestone islands emerging from the emerald-green waters, offering a truly different and spectacular perspective.
3. Explore Halong Bay on the Emeraude Classic Cruise
One of the most memorable experiences in Halong Bay is cruising through its majestic landscapes. If you’re looking for a journey that combines luxury, history, and elegance, the Emeraude Classic Cruises is the perfect choice. This cruise is a faithful recreation of the early 20th-century steamship “Emeraude,” symbolizing the fusion of French culture and Halong’s natural beauty.
Onboard the Emeraude Classic Cruise, you’ll explore famous attractions such as Fighting Cocks Islet, Dinh Huong Islet, and the awe-inspiring Sung Sot Cave. Not only will you marvel at these natural wonders, but you’ll also immerse yourself in the unique cultural and historical essence of the region.
The cruise offers luxurious cabins, spacious decks, and modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing experience. You can enjoy an outdoor BBQ, engage in activities such as kayaking and swimming in the crystal-clear waters, or simply relax and watch the stunning sunset over the bay.
4. What to do in Halong Bay
Halong Bay is not only known for its incredible landscapes but also offers a wide range of exciting activities for tourists. A must-do is a cruise tour, where you can admire the thousands of majestic limestone islands and explore mystical caves like Sung Sot Cave and Thien Cung Cave. Opting for a luxury cruise like the Emeraude Classic Cruises will provide a relaxing yet stylish journey through this stunning seascape.
For the adventurous, kayaking is a fantastic way to explore hidden corners of the bay, including small coves and caves that larger boats cannot access. Paddling through the tranquil waters of Halong Bay is undoubtedly a memorable experience.
Families and groups of friends will enjoy Sun World Halong, a thrilling amusement park with adrenaline-pumping rides, a modern water park, and the famous Queen Cable Car, offering panoramic views of the bay from the top of Ba Deo Mountain. Sun World is the ultimate destination for fun-filled entertainment.
Another exciting activity is swimming at Bai Chay Beach—Vietnam’s longest artificial beach. With soft white sand and clear blue water, it’s perfect for sunbathing and relaxing. You can also try water sports such as jet skiing, parasailing, or challenge yourself with wakeboarding.
For those interested in local culture, a visit to Cua Van Fishing Village is a must. Here, you’ll discover the simple lifestyle of local fishermen, learn about traditional fishing methods, and enjoy fresh seafood right in the village. It’s a perfect opportunity to experience the traditional life of the locals.
Other notable activities include hiking up Bai Tho Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views of the bay, and visiting the Halong Night Market to shop for local products and souvenirs.
5. What to Eat in Halong
Halong Bay is not only famous for its stunning scenery but also offers a rich culinary experience with many signature dishes. The first must-try is Cha Muc Halong—a crispy, flavorful squid cake made from fresh squid hand-pounded to achieve the perfect chewy texture, then fried to golden perfection. It’s delicious with steamed rice or rice rolls.
Sa Sung, a rare seafood delicacy, is highly nutritious and often stir-fried, grilled, or used as a flavor enhancer in pho broth for a naturally sweet taste.
Another unique seafood dish is Ngán, a type of shellfish only found in Halong. It can be steamed, grilled, or made into a rich wine, offering a flavorful and nutritious experience.
Sam, a type of horseshoe crab, is also popular, often cooked in sweet and sour stir-fries, grilled, or made into refreshing salads. It’s a must-try for seafood lovers seeking new flavors.
For breakfast, you can enjoy Bun Be Be, a flavorful noodle soup with fresh mantis shrimp, soft noodles, and a rich seafood broth, providing a nourishing and satisfying meal.
Other popular dishes include grilled oysters with scallion oil, Gat Gu Cake, and Quang Yen Nem Chua, two beloved local snacks with their distinct textures and flavors.
Finally, don’t miss the chance to try Halong Pearl Yogurt, a refreshing dessert with tangy yogurt, chewy pearls, and aromatic coconut flakes—the perfect sweet treat to end your Halong Bay culinary adventure.
6. Where to Stay in Halong
Halong offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget hotels to luxurious resorts. For a unique and unforgettable experience, spend a night on a cruise like Emeraude Classic Cruises. This allows you to fully relax amidst the serene waters and offers a rare chance to enjoy Halong Bay at its most peaceful moments.
