TRAVEL GUIDE TO HA LONG BAY: A PARADISE OF NATURAL WONDERS

Ha Long Bay, a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site in northern Vietnam, is renowned for its striking emerald waters, towering limestone formations, and remarkable natural beauty. I will show you the travel guide to Ha Long Bay, as well as the top attractions in this city.

Ha Long Bay – natural wonder underground mine.

1. Where is Ha Long Bay?

Ha Long Bay is situated in Quang Ninh Province in northeastern Vietnam, roughly 170 kilometers (105 miles) east of Hanoi, the nation’s capital. It spans along the Gulf of Tonkin, covering more than 1,500 square kilometers and featuring nearly 2,000 limestone islands and islets of diverse shapes and sizes.

The favor of natural conditions has given Ha Long Bay many unique and attractive landscapes.

This awe-inspiring seascape is celebrated for its dramatic rock formations, tranquil waters, and concealed caves. Beyond its natural splendor, Ha Long Bay carries cultural and historical importance, with numerous ancient myths and legends intertwined with its history.

A trip to Ha Long is more complete when visitors can relax, sunbathe in the peaceful space of the bay, enjoy swimming in the clear blue water, and buy seafood.

2. How to get there?

Reaching Ha Long Bay is quite easy, and there are several options depending on your preferences and budget:

-By Bus: From Hanoi, travelers can reach Ha Long Bay via various options. Limousine services like Phuc Xuyen and Ha Long Travel offer convenient pick-up and drop-off, with fares ranging from 180.000 to 220.000 VND per person (7.2 to 8.8 USD). Alternatively, buses from Hanoi stations cost between 150.000 and 200.000 VND (6 to 8 USD). The best route is the Hanoi–Hai Phong and Hai Phong–Ha Long expressways, offering a smooth drive of about 2.5 to 3 hours.

-By Plane: Quang Ninh has Van Don airport. Thus, from Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang, you can travel by air directly to Quang Ninh, then travel by road from the airport to Ha Long city, about 53 km. There are buses from the airport to the city center.

-By Seaplane: For a unique experience, you can fly directly from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay via a seaplane. This option provides a bird’s-eye view of the stunning bay and takes about 45 minutes. Though more expensive, it’s a memorable way to see the landscape from the air.

3. The ideal time to visit Ha Long Bay

Ha Long City, located in northern Vietnam, experiences all four seasons. From April to June, the weather is warm and dry, while June to August brings hot, sunny days with the possibility of storms. The period from September to December is cool, transitioning to colder temperatures.

Each season has its own charm: summer is ideal for swimming and sunbathing, while spring and autumn offer cooler weather, perfect for enjoying a quieter Ha Long and outdoor activities. The peak tourist season is from June to August, when the city becomes particularly busy, especially on weekends.

Ha Long in September – Romantic beauty of the coastal city.

4. Top attractions in Ha Long Bay

4.1. Sung Sot Cave

Sung Sot Cave, located on Bo Hon Island alongside Luon Cave and Trinh Nu Cave, is one of the most stunning caves in Ha Long Bay. Recognized by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage site, this cave captivates visitors with its majestic and unique beauty, making it a must-see destination.

Sung Sot Cave is one of the most beautiful caves in Ha Long Bay.

From Bai Chay Wharf, it’s a 14-kilometer boat ride south to reach Sung Sot Cave. Upon arriving at Bo Hon Island, visitors must climb 50 steep stone steps through dense forest to access the cave entrance. Inside, along the 800-meter stone pathway, travelers will be amazed by the enchanting scenery. The cave spans 12,200 square meters and features a mesmerizing array of stalactites in fascinating shapes, creating a magical atmosphere.

The cave is also regularly voted as one of the most beautiful caves in Vietnam.

Visitors will be even more amazed when lost in the picturesque “Royal Garden”.

The path is quite rough, with many slippery sections, so you need to prepare a pair of shoes that can climb on different terrains. Prioritize comfortable shoes that are easy to move around in without being too restrictive.

Here are the fees for your reference when visit Sung Sot Cave:

+Boat rental fee: 200,000 VND/person (8 USD)

+Boat rental fee: 3.000.000 VND – 5.000.000 VND/boat. (120 to 200 USD)

+Food on board fee: about 150.000 VND – 250.000 VND/person. (6 to 10 USD)

In addition, there are service fees or separate shopping fees, so you need to bring about 640.000 VND – 740.000 VND/person when you want to visit Sung Sot Cave.

Address: Bo Hon Island, in the center of Ha Long Bay.

4.2. Bai Tho Mountain

Bai Tho Mountain is a well-known limestone peak located in the heart of Ha Long City, Quang Ninh. Formed during the Devonian period as part of the Indonesian mountain-building movement, its highest point rises 168 meters, with a spearhead shape pointing towards the sky. The mountain is surrounded by smaller peaks, steep cliffs, and jagged cat-ear rocks, creating a blend of mystery, ancient charm, and poetic beauty.

Bai Tho Mountain has the perfect height to capture all the magnificent beauty of Ha Long.

Though not the tallest mountain in the coastal city, its location facing the bay makes it the best spot for panoramic views of Ha Long. The path to Bai Tho Mountain is tucked away in a narrow alley on Hang Noi Street, Bach Dang Ward, making it relatively unknown to many. Most visitors who come to climb Bai Tho Mountain have either researched the area or received recommendations from locals. If you’re exploring on your own, it’s common to ask the residents of Hang Noi Street for directions to begin your climb.

Beautiful view from Bai Tho Mountain makes tourists ecstatic.

Address: Bai Chay Ward, Ha Long City.

Ticket Entrance: 10.000 VND/person (0.4 USD)

4.3. Quang Ninh Museum – Library

Quang Ninh Museum-Library is a popular tourist attraction in Ha Long, cherished by many visitors. It serves as a cultural hub, rich in spiritual significance for the mining region. Located on Tran Quoc Nghien Street, just 7.1 kilometers from Ha Long City center, it’s easily accessible by personal vehicle.

Quang Ninh Museum – Library is a famous check-in location.

The museum’s first floor is dedicated to exhibits focused on the sea and nature, where visitors can view impressive displays like the skeletons of giant whales and sharks.

First floor of Quang Ninh Museum

On the second floor, visitors step into the realm of history, with models and artifacts depicting various periods from prehistory to modern times. These exhibits vividly showcase the evolution of life in Quang Ninh over the ages and include insights into historical landmarks such as Dong Yen Tu Pagoda and Ha Long Bay.

The second floor area preserves artifacts from generations past.

The third floor is dedicated to coal mining, a key symbol of Quang Ninh’s identity. Here, visitors can explore detailed depictions of the region’s coal mining industry and its significance to the local people.

Sketching the real hardships in the famous coal mining industry in Quang Ninh.

Address: Tran Quoc Nghien Street, Ha Long City.

Opening Hours: 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM daily.

Ticket Entrance: 40.000/person (1.6 USD)

4.4. Bai Tu Long Bay

Bai Tu Long consists of hundreds of islands, both large and small, located in the Gulf of Tonkin in northeastern Vietnam. These islands, formed over thousands of years, possess a majestic and ancient charm, creating a mesmerizing watercolor-like landscape that captivates visitors.

Bai Tu Long Bay

When exploring the bay, visitors can discover Van Don Island and island clusters such as Cap Ky Gia, Cap Ky Nhay, Hon Ba Sao, Hon Chong.

In addition, you can experience on a cruise in Bai Tu Long Bay, visit Cong Dam fishing village, kayaking, Visit Bai Tu Long National Park.

Cruising the bay is an interesting travel experience that visitors should not miss.

The attraction of Bai Tu Long Bay tourism also comes from kayaking activities.

4.5. Vung Vieng Village

Vung Vieng Fishing Village, also called Vong Vieng Fishing Village, is situated in Bai Tu Long Bay in northeastern Vietnam, about 25 kilometers from the mainland near Cua Ong, Hon Gai, and Cam Pha. This floating village is home to around 30 households and over 300 fishermen who have lived here for generations. Traditionally, aside from drinks sourced from the mainland, the villagers relied mainly on fishing for food. Despite the challenging lifestyle, the fishermen’s floating houses are spacious and well-kept. The village also has a communal house where locals gather and where handicrafts are sold, offering a rest stop for tourists.

Vung Vieng fishing village is like a rough pearl hidden in the middle of Paradise Bay.

The “floating” village appears simple and rustic amidst the misty mountain and forest landscape.

Visitors can reach Vung Vieng by boat, ship, kayak, or the most common method, bamboo boat—a small boat typical of fishing villages. The journey passes through Hang Cao, a famous sea cave in Bai Tu Long Bay, which serves as the village’s gateway. Upon entering, visitors can experience the daily life, culture, and traditions of the villagers living within this Ha Long Bay heritage site.

Bamboo boat is a popular means of transport to take you to Vung Vieng fishing village.

Address: Bai Tu Long Bay, about 20km northeast of Tuan Chau port, Ha Long City.

4.6. Ti Top Beach

Ti Top Beach is situated on Ti Top Island in Ha Long Bay, approximately 8 kilometers southeast of Bai Chay tourist port. Known as the most beautiful island in the bay, Ti Top Beach is small yet incredibly airy, tranquil, and clean. Its pristine white sand and clear blue waters make it an ideal spot for swimming, an activity that visitors should definitely experience.

Ti Top Beach

As a popular destination within Ha Long Bay, visitors can reach Ti Top Beach in several ways, primarily by renting a boat. The beach is a common stop on many boat tours and is included in Tour No. 2 for Ha Long Bay excursions. It’s important to note that the Management Board does not sell tickets solely for Ti Top Island; tickets are sold for the entire bay experience.

The cost for a private boat is around 500.000 to 700.000 VND per hour. For individual guests, prices range from 150.000 to 250.000 VND per person. In addition to Ti Top Beach, visitors can also explore other attractions such as Cho Da Islet, Trong Mai Islet, and Sung Sot Cave.

One of the exciting activities available at Ti Top Beach is kayaking. Visitors can paddle their own kayaks and immerse themselves in the stunning natural beauty of the area. Kayak rentals are priced at approximately 150.000 VND per hour. Buoy pulling is a fantastic activity for young people, families, and companies looking for team-building experiences. Participants are secured to a canoe or motorboat and towed across the water at speeds of 50 to 80 km/h. If you’re looking for some fun and a way to unwind, this is definitely an activity to try!

Have fun kayaking at Ti Top Island

Address: Ti Top Island, Ha Long Bay.