Ha Long Bay Travel Guide
Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food to try, and where to stay in Ha Long Bay, Vietnam. Read on for our comprehensive travel guide to make the most out of your trip.
- Introduction to Ha Long Bay
- List of Places to Visit in Ha Long Bay
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Ha Long Bay
- Best Things to Do in Ha Long Bay: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Ha Long Bay
- Food and Drink Scene of Ha Long Bay
- Where to Stay in Ha Long Bay: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Ha Long Bay: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Ha Long Bay
- Best Time to Visit Ha Long Bay
- Do’s and Don’ts of Ha Long Bay
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Ha Long Bay: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Ha Long Bay
- Where to Go Next from Ha Long Bay: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Ha Long Bay
Ha Long Bay is a breathtaking natural wonder located in Northern Vietnam. It boasts of towering limestone karsts and islets, emerald-green waters, and serene fishing villages, making it one of the country’s top destinations and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
List of Places to Visit in Ha Long Bay
There are several cultural and natural attractions and adventures to experience in Halong Bay. Below is a list of must-visit sites:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Ha Long Bay Museum
- Quang Ninh Museum and Library
- Hon Gai Church
- Dau Go Cave
Natural Attractions of Ha Long Bay: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Sung Sot Cave
- Ti Top Island
- Cat Ba National Park
- Bai Tu Long Bay
Hiking/Biking Routes of Ha Long Bay
Hiking and biking through the hills and valleys around Ha Long Bay offer a unique perspective of the region’s natural beauty. Here are some of the popular routes to take:
- Cua Van fishing village trail
- Ba Trai Dao beach trail
- Pineapple Island trail
Best Things to Do in Ha Long Bay: Activities and Tours
Ha Long Bay offers a vast array of activities and tours, ranging from a leisurely cruise around the bay to thrilling water sports. Here are some of the top things to check out:
- Kayaking and canoeing
- Sunset sailing tour
- Squid fishing at night
- Cooking classes
Week-Long Itinerary for Ha Long Bay
For travelers planning to spend a week in Ha Long Bay, below is an itinerary we recommend:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Exploring Ha Long Bay’s famous caves |
| 2 | Touring fishing villages surrounding the bay |
| 3 | Cat Ba Island day trip |
| 4 | Water sports and beaches |
| 5 | Trekking at Soi Sim Island |
| 6 | Cycling to ancient villages surrounding Ha Long Bay |
| 7 | Relaxing and enjoying the scenery |
Food and Drink Scene of Ha Long Bay
Vietnamese cuisine is known for its unique flavor combinations and fresh ingredients. Here are some of the dishes and beverages you must try while visiting Ha Long Bay.
Must-Try Dishes
- Pho – rice noodle soup
- Banh Mi– Vietnamese baguette sandwich
- Nem– spring rolls
- Ca Kho To – caramelized fish
Local Beverages
- Bia Hoi– a light, fresh beer
- Tra Chanh– iced lemon tea
- Ca Phe Trung– egg coffee
Where to Stay in Ha Long Bay: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
There are several accommodation options available in Ha Long Bay, ranging from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some of the top picks:
- Vinpearl Resort & Spa
- Halong Plaza Hotel
- Royal Lotus Hotel Halong
- Central Backpackers Hostel
What to Buy in Ha Long Bay: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
If you’re looking to bring home local souvenirs and products, here are some of the must-buys:
- Vietnamese conical hats
- Locally grown coffee beans
- Handmade silk products
- Wooden sculptures
Local Culture and Customs of Ha Long Bay
Vietnamese culture is diverse and rich in traditions and customs. Here are some local etiquettes to follow when visiting Ha Long Bay:
- Bow when greeting someone
- Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting a religious site or temple
- Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home
- Pour drinks and serve food with both hands
Best Time to Visit Ha Long Bay
The best time to visit Ha Long Bay is from March to May or September to November when the weather is mild and rainfall is low. However, Ha Long Bay can be visited all year round, but the summer months can be very hot and humid with occasional typhoons.
Do’s and Don’ts of Ha Long Bay
Do:
- Dress appropriately for the weather
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
- Respect local customs and traditions
- Explore both popular and off-the-beaten-path areas
Don’t:
- Litter in public areas
- Touch or climb on religious structures
- Disrespect the local culture
- Swim or bathe in certain areas due to strong currents and tides
Safety and Health
Safety in Ha Long Bay
Ha Long Bay has a low crime rate, making it a safe destination for travelers. However, to stay safe, here are some tips to remember:
- Keep your valuables locked in your accommodation’s safe
- Keep an eye on your belongings in public areas
- Wear life jackets when taking part in water activities
Health in Ha Long Bay
While Ha Long Bay has several hospitals and clinics, it’s always best to take precautions to keep yourself healthy. Here are some tips to follow:
- Drink clean, bottled water
- Use mosquito repellent to prevent mosquito bites
- Apply sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun
- Seek medical help if you feel unwell
Getting to Ha Long Bay: Transportation Options and Logistics
Ha Long Bay is easily accessible by bus, car, or train from Hanoi and other major cities in Vietnam.
Airports Near Ha Long Bay
- Cat Bi International Airport
- Noi Bai International Airport
Bus Stations Near Ha Long Bay
- My Dinh Bus Station, Hanoi
- Luong Yen Bus Station, Hanoi
Other Options
- Private Car Transfer
- Helicopter Transfer
How to Get Around in Ha Long Bay
The most popular and convenient way to get around Ha Long Bay is by hiring a boat or joining a cruise. However, you can also explore the bay on foot, bicycle, or motorcycle.
Where to Go Next from Ha Long Bay: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
If you have extra time for exploring the surrounding areas, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to check out:
- Hanoi city tour
- Sapa trekking tour
- Bai Dinh Pagoda
Conclusion
Ha Long Bay is a must-visit destination for travelers who want to experience Vietnam’s natural and cultural heritage. With so many things to do and see, it’s no surprise it’s one of the country’s top destinations. Plan your next trip to this beautiful region and experience its wonders for yourself.
