Explore a natural wonder - Ha Long bay

Best for: Nature, scenic views, cruises, outdoor activities
Ideal stay: 1 to 2 days
Best time: March to May, September to November

Ha Long Bay is one of Vietnam’s most famous natural destinations and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognised for its outstanding natural beauty and unique geological value. Located in northeastern Vietnam, the bay is known for its emerald waters and thousands of limestone islands rising dramatically from the sea.

Why visit Ha Long Bay?

• Spectacular landscapes: See towering limestone islands, hidden lagoons, and beautiful coastal scenery.

• Memorable cruises: Explore the bay on a day trip or enjoy an overnight stay on the water.

• Outdoor adventures: Experience kayaking, swimming, and visits to natural caves.

• A peaceful escape: Enjoy a slower pace surrounded by open water and impressive rock formations.

Top experiences

Take a cruise around the bay

Sail between limestone islands, admire the scenery from the deck, and enjoy the changing views throughout the journey.

Explore Sung Sot Cave

Walk through spacious chambers filled with impressive stalactites and stalagmites in one of the bay’s best known caves.

Visit Ti Top Island

Relax on the sandy beach or climb to the viewpoint for panoramic views of Ha Long Bay and its surrounding islands.

Go kayaking

Paddle through calm waters, explore small lagoons, and get closer to the limestone cliffs for a different perspective of the bay.

Discover a fishing village

Learn about traditional fishing life and see how local communities have adapted to living in the waters around Ha Long Bay.

Best time to go

The best time to visit Ha Long Bay is generally from March to May and September to November, when the weather is often comfortable for sightseeing and cruising. Summer is suitable for swimming and beach activities, although heavy rain and occasional storms may affect cruise schedules.

How to combine

Hanoi

Combine Ha Long Bay with a stay in Hanoi, where you can explore the Old Quarter, visit famous landmarks, and experience the atmosphere of Vietnam’s capital.

Ninh Binh

Continue to Ninh Binh to admire limestone mountains, peaceful rivers, and green countryside. Boat trips through Trang An or Tam Coc are highlights of the region.

Sapa

Pair a Ha Long Bay cruise with a trip to Sapa for a contrast between coastal scenery and mountain landscapes, with terraced rice fields and traditional villages to explore.

Lan Ha Bay

Extend your coastal journey to Lan Ha Bay, where you can enjoy scenic cruises, kayaking, and quiet beaches around Cat Ba Island.