15 Best Things to Do in HaLong Bay

Astrid Freja

2025-04-02

Having called Vietnam home for eight enriching years, I've gathered countless authentic stories that I'm now eager to share with you. As a VietAdvisor contributor, my passion lies in the freedom of discovery, allowing me to deeply immerse myself in Vietnam's rich, diverse cultures from north to south. Let my experiences help you forge a deeper connection with this extraordinary country.

Ha Long Bay looks like something out of a dream. Emerald waters stretch out, pierced by thousands of limestone karsts that tower like ancient sentinels. Mist drifts over the peaks at dawn, and wooden boats with red sails bob gently near floating villages. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, tucked off Vietnam’s northern coast, pulls travelers in with its raw beauty and quiet charm. It’s a place where nature and culture tangle in the best way.

For those new to Vietnam, Ha Long Bay is a perfect starting point. It’s got adventure—think kayaking through caves or hiking for views. It’s got relaxation—lazy beach days or slow boat rides. And it’s got stories—legends of dragons and lives lived on the water. This guide lays out the 15 best things to do in HaLong Bay, handpicked for curious explorers. Whether it’s a quick trip or a deep dive, there’s plenty to fill the days.

Pressed for time? Here’s the gist. For the full breakdown—where to go, how to do it, and what to expect—stick around. Ha Long Bay’s got a lot to show.

Quick Rundown: 15 Best Things to Do in HaLong Bay

• 1. Cruise Through the Limestone Karsts: Sail past cliffs and sleep under the stars.
• 2. Kayak Hidden Lagoons and Caves: Paddle into secret spots like Luon Cave.
• 3. Explore Sung Sot Cave: Wander a massive cavern of stalactites.
• 4. Visit Ti Top Island: Hike for views, swim at the beach.
• 5. Discover Cat Ba Island’s National Park: Trek through jungles and spot wildlife.
• 6. Experience a Floating Village: Row through Vung Vieng and meet locals.
• 7. Try Squid Fishing at Night: Cast a line under the moonlight.
• 8. Relax on Bai Chay Beach: Unwind with sand and seafood.
• 9. Take a Seaplane: See the bay from above in style.
• 10. Visit Dau Go Cave: Step into history with wooden stakes from a Mongol battle.
• 11. Cycle Around Cat Ba Island: Pedal past rice fields and villages.
• 12. Enjoy a Cooking Class: Learn to roll Vietnamese spring rolls on a boat.
• 13. Snorkel or Dive: Peek beneath the waves at quiet spots.
• 14. Photograph the Bay at Sunrise: Capture the golden glow over karsts.
• 15. Shop at Ha Long Night Market: Grab souvenirs and street eats.

Why Visit Ha Long Bay?

Ha Long Bay isn’t just a pretty view. It’s a wonder carved by time—limestone islands rising from the sea, some draped in green, others hiding caves. UNESCO gave it World Heritage status in 1994, and it’s easy to see why. The bay’s a mix of geology and myth—locals say dragons shaped it to protect Vietnam. Today, it’s a magnet for travelers who love nature, adventure, or just a good story.

Timing matters. Spring (March to May) brings mild weather and clear skies. Fall (September to November) is cool and dry—perfect for exploring. Summer gets hot and rainy; winter can feel raw. Getting there’s simple. Buses roll from Hanoi in about four hours, costing $10-$15.

Shuttles or private cars bump it up to $50. Flights into Cat Bi Airport near Hai Phong cut the trip shorter. For visas, most foreigners can grab an e-visa online—quick and painless.

The things to do in HaLong Bay keep it exciting. One minute, it’s a boat ride through karsts. The next, it’s a peek into a fisherman’s life. It’s a place that sticks with visitors long after they leave. Need travel basics? Check our guide for Vietnam travel

Top 15 Things to Do in HaLong Bay

1. Cruise Through the Limestone Karsts

A cruise defines Ha Long Bay. Picture wooden junk boats—red sails flapping—threading through a maze of limestone karsts. These trips launch from Tuan Chau Wharf, a bustling dock 10 miles from Ha Long City. Overnight cruises are the real deal. They offer cabins with sea views, open decks for sunset drinks, and meals of grilled fish and rice wine. Day trips, lasting four to six hours, hit the highlights but skip the night-on-the-water vibe.

The karsts are the star. Some rise straight up, sheer and gray. Others wear a cap of green jungle. At dusk, the sky burns orange, and the water glows. Most cruises weave in stops—caves, beaches, fishing villages. Budget options start at $40 per person, including meals. Mid-range boats, like those from Indochina Junk, hover around $120. Luxury liners—think hot tubs and private balconies—climb to $250 or more.

Timing’s key. Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) bring clear skies. Summer rains can chop up schedules. Book through a trusted operator—Paradise Cruises or Bhaya get solid nods. Scams lurk—overcrowded boats, hidden fees—so check reviews on TripAdvisor first. Bring binoculars for distant karsts and a light jacket for cool nights.

This tops the list of things to do in HaLong Bay. It’s the bay’s heart, seen slow and steady. Check our guide for the Best 7 Cruises in Ha Long

2. Kayak Hidden Lagoons and Caves

Kayaking unlocks Ha Long’s quiet corners. Paddle through narrow tunnels—like the arch at Luon Cave—and pop into lagoons ringed by cliffs. The water’s glassy, reflecting the karsts. Fish dart under the surface; birds call from the trees. It’s peaceful but alive—a workout with a view.

Most overnight cruises include kayaks, usually free for an hour or two. Day trippers can rent them at Cat Ba Island’s docks for $5 an hour. No experience needed—just paddle and steer. Life jackets are standard, and guides often lead small groups. Luon Cave, near Bo Hon Island, is a go-to spot—its tunnel’s tight but short. For something wilder, head to Cong Do Island’s lagoons—less traffic, more solitude.

Mornings are best—calm water, fewer boats. Afternoons get busy; rainy season (June-August) turns it murky. Wear quick-dry clothes and water shoes—flip-flops float away. Ha Long Bay kayaking ranks high among things to do in HaLong Bay. It’s intimate, hands-on, and unforgettable.

3. Explore Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave)

Sung Sot Cave lives up to its billing. Tucked into Bo Hon Island, it’s massive—three chambers, each grander than the last. Stalactites hang like chandeliers, stalagmites rise from the floor. Soft lights highlight the rock, and guides point out shapes: a turtle, a dragon. It’s touristy—crowds and a bit of kitsch—but the scale impresses.

Getting there takes a 10-minute climb—100 steps, steep and slick after rain. Sneakers beat sandals here. Entry’s typically bundled with cruise tickets, around $3 standalone. The cave’s cool inside, a relief from the humidity. Mornings dodge the rush—by noon, it’s a conga line. Bring a small flashlight; the back corners dim out.

Ha Long Bay caves like Sung Sot mix nature and showmanship. It’s a standout on the list of things to do in HaLong Bay—big, bold, and worth the steps.

4. Visit Ti Top Island for Panoramic Views

Ti Top Island packs a punch. A quick boat ride from main cruise routes, it’s got a sandy beach and a killer lookout. The hike up—400 steps, winding past trees—lands at a tower. From there, the bay unfolds: karsts spiking the horizon, boats dotting the green. It’s a sweat-soaked reward, best at sunrise or late afternoon.

The beach below is solid. Clear water, soft sand, free to swim. Midday crowds swell—cruise groups pile in—so early or late visits win. Bring a towel, sunscreen, and a hat—shade’s rare. Water’s $1 from vendors; snacks are slim. Ha Long Bay islands like Ti Top make the things to do in HaLong Bay list for their double hit: views and a dip.

5. Discover Cat Ba Island’s National Park

Cat Ba Island sits on Ha Long’s fringe, a rugged escape. Its national park spans half the land—jungles, limestone ridges, and rare critters like the Cat Ba langur. The trek to Ngu Lam Peak takes two hours—steep, shaded, with a bay vista at the top. Shorter trails, like the 30-minute walk to Trung Trang Cave, suit lighter days.

Entry’s $2 at the gate, 6 miles from Cat Ba Town. Guides cost $10 and spot wildlife—monkeys, hornbills. Rent a motorbike ($5/day) or bike ($3/day) to get there; taxis run $10 one-way. Spring and fall keep it pleasant; summer’s a steamy slog. Pack water and bug spray—mosquitoes love the trees.

This Ha Long Bay attraction adds a wild twist to the things to do in HaLong Bay. It’s nature unfiltered.

6. Experience a Floating Village (Vung Vieng)

Vung Vieng feels like a world apart. Tucked among Ha Long Bay’s karsts, this floating village sits on the water—houses perched on barrels, tethered to the cliffs. Fishermen row bamboo boats, hauling nets heavy with the day’s catch. Kids splash between homes, and women sort fish on tiny porches. Pearl farms hum nearby, their buoys bobbing in the green. It’s a living snapshot of Ha Long Bay culture, raw and unpolished.

Visitors can explore by rowboat. For about $5, a local paddles a bamboo craft through the village. The ride’s slow—30 to 45 minutes—letting the details sink in. Nets dry in the sun, their salt crust glinting. Fish hang on racks, filling the air with a briny tang. Some tours toss in a stop at a pearl farm. Workers show how oysters are seeded—small beads slipped in, years of waiting. It’s not just a sales pitch; it’s a peek at a craft that’s kept families afloat for generations.

Mornings are the time to go. The village buzzes—boats head out, voices bounce off the water. By afternoon, it quiets down; fishermen nap, and the heat settles in. Wear a hat and sunscreen—the sun reflects hard off the bay. Bring a bottle of water, too; vendors are scarce. Vung Vieng’s one of several floating villages—others like Cua Van or Ba Hang are options—but it’s less crowded, more real. Cruises often include it, though independent trips from Cat Ba Island work too (ferry to Gia Luan, then a boat, $20 total).

For travelers, this ranks high among things to do in Ha Long Bay. It’s not just scenery—it’s life on the water, close enough to touch. Bring a camera; the colors and faces beg for a shot.

7. Try Squid Fishing at Night

Squid fishing is Ha Long’s quirky nightcap. Most overnight cruises—especially mid-range and up—offer it as a free add-on. After dinner, the boat drops anchor in a calm pocket of the bay. Crew flip on bright lights, turning the water into a glowing pool. Squid chase the shine, drawn like moths. Guests get bamboo rods, a quick demo—dip the line, jiggle it, pull—and then it’s game on.

It’s not high-stakes fishing. Some nights, the squid bite fast; others, they’re shy. Either way, the deck turns into a party. People laugh over tangled lines, sip beers, trade tips. The air’s cool—bring a light jacket—and the stars pop against the dark. If luck hits, the crew might grill the catch right there—salty, chewy, fresh. No squid? No loss—the vibe’s the win.

Timing depends on the cruise. Most start around 8 p.m., lasting an hour or two. Boats pick spots near karsts to shield from wind—Ba Ham Lake’s a favorite. No skills needed; it’s beginner-friendly. Kids love it, though the late hour might tire them out. Luxury cruises (like Paradise or Stellar) sometimes add flair—better rods, fancier snacks—but the basics are the same.

This oddball Ha Long Bay activity makes the list of things to do in HaLong Bay for its charm. It’s low-pressure fun, a taste of local tradition with a twist. Bring a phone for night shots—the lit water glows eerie green.

8. Relax on Bai Chay Beach

Bai Chay Beach stretches along Ha Long City’s waterfront, a laid-back break from the bay’s bustle. It’s man-made—sand hauled in years back—but it does the job. The shore’s wide, golden, sloping into gentle waves. Swimming’s fine; the water’s warm and shallow near the edge. Sunbathing’s the main draw—sprawl out, soak up the rays. Vendors wander with coconuts ($1) and grilled corn ($0.50), keeping it simple.

Seafood’s the real pull. Stalls line the road behind—crab, clams, squid, all pulled from the bay that day. A plate runs $5-$7, piled high with lime and chili dips. Pick a spot with plastic chairs and a sea view; it’s casual, loud, tasty. Spring (March-May) keeps it mellow—fewer crowds, softer sun. Summer packs it tight—locals and tourists jostle for space. Winter’s too chilly for a dip.

Chairs and umbrellas rent cheap—$1 and $2. Cash rules; ATMs are a 10-minute walk back in town. Bring a towel and flip-flops; the sand’s soft but hot midday. Water quality’s decent, though storms can stir up junk. For a quieter stretch, head to the west end—less hawkers, more calm.

Ha Long Bay beaches like Bai Chay offer a chill counterpoint to the boats and caves. It’s one of the easy things to do in Ha Long Bay—sand, sea, and a cold drink.

9. Take a Seaplane for Aerial Views

Seaplanes flip Ha Long Bay upside down. Run by Hai Au Aviation, they take off from Tuan Chau Island, buzzing over the karsts in a 25-minute loop. From 300 meters up, the bay shrinks—limestone peaks turn into teeth, water glints like a mirror. It’s a perspective boats can’t touch, a quick hit of awe.

Flights cost $100-$150 a head, depending on season. It’s a splurge—day cruises are half that—but the view justifies it. Morning slots (8-10 a.m.) catch the best light; clouds can dull it by noon. Booking’s a must—12 seats per plane, and they fill fast. Online’s easiest, or grab a spot at Tuan Chau’s desk a day ahead. Weight limits apply—check if bags tip the scale.

The ride’s smooth, loud, thrilling. Windows frame the shot—bring a camera, not just a phone. Spring and fall keep the sky clear; summer storms ground it. Dress light; the cabin’s tight. This Ha Long Bay activity lands among the luxe things to do in Ha Long Bay—pricey but unmatched.

10. Visit Dau Go Cave’s Wooden Stakes

Dau Go Cave carries Ha Long’s past in its bones. On Dau Go Island, it’s smaller than Sung Sot but thick with history. Wooden stakes jut from the rock—relics from 1288, when Vietnam’s Tran Dynasty spiked Mongol ships here. Stalactites drip overhead, and the air’s cool, damp, heavy. It’s less a showpiece, more a story.

Design your trip to Ha Long Bay

×

Select a Platform

×

💡 Ask about Ha Long Bay

Best hotels in Ha Long Bay for couples

Must-do tours & activities in Ha Long Bay

Private car from airport to Ha Long Bay

Travel eSIM for Ha Long Bay

Top 5 luxury hotels in Ha Long Bay

📍 Map Places

Map data is loading...

📰 Latest Guides

🤠

Local Buddy (Ha Long Bay)

Online

Personalizing for YOU...

Designing your adventure...Checking flight routes...Curating best hotels...Polishing your itinerary...

🤠

👑

Send to Email

🔥 For You

⭐ Insight

✈️ Best Flights

🏨 Top Stays

🎫 Must-Do

🎒 Essentials

🚕 Getting Around

Letter from your Local Buddy

Check availability

See Reviews on TripAdvisor ➜

Start Over

The climb’s 50 steps—shorter than most caves, but slick after rain. Sneakers grip best. Entry’s often in cruise packages, $3 standalone. Mornings beat the heat and crowds; afternoon tours pile in. Inside, guides spin the tale—how the stakes sank invaders. Lights are dim—bring a flashlight for the back.

Spring keeps it dry; summer humidity fogs it up. A hat helps outside; the sun’s fierce. Ha Long Bay caves like Dau Go weave history into the things to do in Ha Long Bay—quietly epic.

11. Cycle Around Cat Ba Island

Cat Ba Island’s backroads beg for a bike. Rent one near the ferry pier—$5/day for a motorbike, $3 for a pedal bike. The Viet Hai Village loop—10 miles—cuts through rice paddies, past karsts and hamlets. It’s three hours, mostly flat with a few climbs. Locals wave, buffalo plod, and the air smells of earth.

Helmets aren’t standard—ask hard. Spring (March-May) paints it green; summer (June-August) turns it into a sauna—go early. Pack water and snacks; shops fade fast. The road’s paved but narrow—watch for scooters. Viet Hai’s a stop—$1 entry, a quiet spot for tea.

Motorbikes zip it faster; pedals soak it in. Bike shops check ID—passport’s fine. This Ha Long Bay activity ranks among the things to do in Ha Long Bay for its slow, rural charm.

12. Enjoy a Cooking Class on a Cruise

Cooking classes heat up Ha Long cruises. On deck, guests tie aprons and dive into Vietnamese staples—spring rolls, pho broth, maybe fish sauce dips. Chefs keep it basic: roll rice paper, stuff it with shrimp and herbs, fry it crisp. Ingredients gleam—fresh prawns, mint, noodles from the galley.

It’s an hour, usually free on mid-range cruises ($100+ packages). Hands get messy, oil splatters, laughs roll out. The payoff? Eating it—crunchy rolls, hot broth. Mornings or afternoons slot it in; evening’s too dark. Spring and fall keep the deck breezy; summer’s sticky. No gear needed—just appetite.

Some boats skip it—check with Bhaya or Paradise. This Ha Long Bay activity spices up the things to do in Ha Long Bay—food meets fun.

13. Snorkel or Dive in Ha Long’s Waters

Ha Long’s underwater world is subtle, not splashy. Snorkeling near Cat Ba—Van Boi Island or Tra Bau—shows coral patches and darting fish. Gear rents for $10/day from Cat Ba Town’s dive shops. Diving’s rarer—Cong Do Island or Monkey Island offer wrecks and reefs, $80-$100 a dive. Visibility swings—5-15 meters, best in spring (March-May).

Summer silt muddies it; winter chills the water—wet suits help ($5 extra). Snorkeling’s DIY—swim out from shore—or book a $20 boat drop. Diving needs a pro—Cat Ba Ventures runs safe trips. Marine life’s modest: clownfish, sea urchins, maybe a turtle.

Spring’s the window; rainy season (June-August) kills clarity. Bring a rash guard—sun burns fast. Ha Long Bay snorkeling’s a chill thing to do in Ha Long Bay—low-key but fresh.

14. Photograph the Bay at Sunrise

Sunrise turns Ha Long Bay into gold. Mist clings to the karsts, the sky shifts pink to yellow, and the water mirrors it all. Overnight cruise guests just step on deck—boats anchor in prime spots like near Ti Top. Landlubbers can hike Ti Top’s tower—400 steps, start at 5 a.m. It’s a huff but worth it.

A phone snaps it fine—wide shots for the sweep, zooms for misty peaks. A real camera with a 50mm lens nails the detail. Mornings are still; wind picks up by 7 a.m. Spring and fall keep the mist thick; summer burns it off fast. No cost—just timing and a steady hand.

Cruise decks crowd at dawn—stake a spot early. Ti Top’s quieter but needs a boat ride ($10 round-trip). This freebie lands on the things to do in Ha Long Bay list for its pure, easy beauty.

Here’s some places we’ve collected, or you can read the full guide here about all best spots for photograph in Ha Long:

• Bai Chay Bridge: X367+C2H, Bãi Cháy, Hạ Long, Quảng Ninh 100000, Vietnam
• Reu Island: Hạ Long, Quảng Ninh, Vietnam
• Cannon Fort: 243 Núi Ngọc, TT. Cát Bà, Cát Hải, Hải Phòng, Vietnam
• Bai Tho Mountain: Hạ Long, Quảng Ninh, Vietnam

15. Shop at Ha Long Night Market

Ha Long Night Market lights up Bai Chay after dark. Stalls spill along the strip—pearls, T-shirts, wooden dragons, all piled high. Street food’s the draw—grilled squid ($1), banh mi ($1.50), sugarcane juice ($0.50). It’s loud, packed, chaotic in the best way. Locals haggle, tourists browse, music blares.

Cash rules—24,000 VND notes ($1) work best. Bargaining’s standard—start at half, settle in the middle. Pearls vary—$5 fakes to $50 real ones; ask for a loupe. Food stalls take orders fast—point and pay. Evenings peak at 8-10 p.m.; it winds down by midnight. Spring keeps it cool; summer’s a sweat bath.

It’s a 10-minute walk from Ha Long’s center or a $2 cyclo ride. Bring a bag for loot; plastic’s thin. Ha Long Bay markets like this cap the things to do in Ha Long Bay with a loud, local bang.

Location: Bãi Cháy, Ha Long, Quảng Ninh, Vietnam

Practical Tips for Exploring Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay takes some planning. Cruises are the core—day trips cost $30-$50, overnights $100 and up. Book early for peak seasons (spring, fall). Online reviews spot the good operators—Paradise, Indochina Junk. Scams happen; stick to names with a track record.

Pack light. Swimsuits, sandals, a raincoat. A hat cuts the sun. Cameras catch the views—phones work, but a zoom lens shines. Cash is king—ATMs vanish on the water. $20-$50 in small notes covers tips and extras.

Weather shifts fast. Summer storms can cancel trips; winter’s cold on deck. Check forecasts, stay flexible. Safety’s simple—licensed boats, no solo swims far out. The things to do in Ha Long Bay shine with a little prep. Ready? Find trusted Ha Long Bay tours online now.

Beyond Ha Long Bay: Nearby Adventures

Ha Long’s a launchpad. Hanoi’s Old Quarter, three hours away, hums with pho stalls and cyclo rides. Ninh Binh—“Ha Long on Land”—has rice fields and karsts, two hours south. Sapa’s rice terraces and hill tribes call from the northwest. Each adds a new flavor to Vietnam travel.

Explore more down below the post.

Conclusion

Ha Long Bay delivers on every front. Its karsts pierce the sky, its caves whisper history, and its villages hum with life. The 15 best things to do in Ha Long Bay mix it all—adventure, calm, flavor. For travelers new to Vietnam, it’s a gateway to a country that’s wild and warm in equal measure.

Options fit any style. A quick kayak or a luxe seaplane. A beach nap or a market haul. It’s a place to breathe deep and let the world stretch out. The things to do in Ha Long Bay aren’t just a list—they’re a reason to go.

Why wait? Vietnam’s coastal gem is ready. Start planning your Ha Long Bay adventure and