Halong Bay in May: Weather and 5 best activities
The weather in Halong Bay in May is characterized by warm temperatures and high humidity, making it ideal for hiking, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the bay. In this article, Ha Long Bay Cheers Tours will help you explore the climatic conditions in detail and discover the most exciting outdoor activities in Halong Bay.
1. The weather of Halong Bay in May
May marks the transition between spring and summer in Vietnam. Halong Bay embraces gentle waves, clear blue skies, and the refreshing air of early season days. Let’s take a closer look at the weather of Halong Bay in May.
Keys to take away:
- Temperature: 25°C – 32°C (Average: 27.5°C)
- Average sea temperature: 27°C, about 3°C higher than in April
- Average humidity level: 75%
- Sunshine hours/day: 8 hours
- Rainy days: 14 days of rain in May with an average rainfall of 192mm
1.1. Temperature
The temperature of Halong Bay in May is around 27.5°C, occasionally accompanied by light breezes carrying a touch of moisture. Visitors will feel a natural coolness, ideal for exploration and engaging in outdoor activities.
During this time, the days are longer than the nights, with sunlight gracing the sea surface for up to 8 hours a day. The gentle sunshine brings a sense of peace, offering travelers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
1.2. Rainfall and Humidity
Summer is the season of rain and exploration. In May, showers become more frequent, occurring about 14 times a month, with an average rainfall of 192 mm. Unexpected rains soften the summer heat and add a refreshing charm to outdoor adventures, making even a walk in the rain a memorable part of the journey.
Overview of Halong Bay weather in May
2. Pros and cons when visiting Halong Bay in May
Pros:
- The warm weather in May offers ideal conditions for water sports or sunbathing on a cruise deck.
- After the public holiday on May 1st, both tourist crowds and prices for Halong Bay trips drop significantly, giving visitors more quiet space to enjoy the bay’s beauty.
- With longer days than nights in May, you will have more time to experience activities such as kayaking, scuba diving, and hiking on the islands.
Cons:
When planning your May trip to Ha Long Bay, it’s worth noting that there’s a small chance of storms or heavy rain, which could sometimes lead to cruise cancellations.
Also, if you’re traveling at the very beginning of May, be prepared for potentially larger crowds due to Labor Day and the Halong Carnival events in Ha Long Bay.
Pros and cons when visiting Halong Bay in May
3. Top 5 best things to do in Halong Bay in May
Stunning landscapes combined with a variety of activities offer visitors many unforgettable experiences when visiting Halong Bay in May. Here are some must-try activities you shouldn’t miss:
3.1. Kayaking to explore Halong Bay’s beauty
With their lightweight and streamlined design, kayaking is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore limestone mountains, caves, floating villages, and hidden lagoons in Halong Bay.
Floating villages and fish farms are where local communities live and cultivate seafood. Kayaking gives you the chance to witness their unique and simple way of life, preserved through generations. Halong Bay is renowned for its mysterious caves and secluded lagoons, many of which can only be reached by kayak. As you paddle deeper into the bay’s hidden corners, you’ll uncover its majestic beauty and tranquil landscapes.
Halong Bay is naturally sheltered by numerous islands and limestone formations, which help keep the waters calm. Visitors don’t need to worry about strong currents or large waves, making it an ideal place for a relaxing kayaking trip.
Kayaking in Halong Bay is possible year-round, but the experience varies with the seasons. In May, frequent showers are common, so visitors should prepare raincoats or umbrellas. It’s also recommended to kayak in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the hottest time of the day.
Explore the beauty by kayak in Halong Bay in May
3.2. Visiting cultural and historical sites of Halong Bay in May
Halong Bay is home to numerous valuable archaeological sites, most notably the Halong culture, one of the oldest ancient cultures of the Vietnamese people.
With artifacts dating back tens of thousands of years uncovered and discovered, Halong Bay is often referred to as a vast museum that holds important information about the historical formation of the region.
At the famous tourist sites in Halong Bay, such as Thien Cung Cave, Me Cung Cave, Tien Ong Cave, Sung Sot Cave, Trinh Nu Cave, Trong Cave, Thien Long Cave and Bo Nau Cave, archaeologists have discovered numerous stone tools, animal bones, pottery, and shellfish remains.
Stone tools such as knives, axes, and pestles indicate that ancient inhabitants of this region crafted advanced tools to aid in hunting, gathering, and daily activities.
Visiting cultural and historical sites of Halong Bay in May
3.3. Cruising through the bay
Halong is a unique masterpiece created by ‘Mother Nature’, covering an area of about 1,553km² and consisting of 1,969 islands. Therefore, while relaxing on a cruise, visitors will have plenty of time to explore many fascinating destinations.
Cruising in May allows you to seamlessly access various parts of the bay, including its numerous islands, caves, and floating villages, without the hassle of arranging separate transportation. You can wake up to breathtaking views right outside your cabin window, enjoy delicious fresh seafood onboard, and partake in activities like kayaking, swimming, and exploring hidden lagoons, all within a relaxed and organized itinerary.
Cruising on Halong Bay in May
Ha Long Bay Cheers Tours is a prestigious and classy cruise tour agency, with a dynamic and enthusiastic consulting team. We will bring you the cruise tours that best suit your needs, promising unforgettable experiences in Vietnam.
Best cruises for your trip to Halong Bay in May:
3.4. Trekking through forests and hills
Walking to explore Ha Long is an exciting outdoor activity for visitors who want some light physical exercise, with the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature and local life.
With a Halong Bay tour, visitors will have the opportunity to take part in an exploration activity to the Viet Hai village. This activity allows guests to slowly take in the surrounding scenery, as well as explore more places within the valley.
The path from the pier to Viet Hai village seems to be made for trekking. Visitors will walk through lush green forests and admire the vegetable and fruit gardens surrounding the village. There will also be plenty of time to converse and learn about the local way of life.
Trekking through forests and hills of Halong Bay in May
3.5. Fishing and tasting seafood
Squid fishing is one of the most exciting activities visitors can try during their Halong Bay tour. The crew on the cruise will provide special rods and nets designed for squid fishing. The catch will be cooked on the spot by the chef into delicious dishes. Visitors can fully enjoy the fresh taste of this seafood.
While fishing, visitors will also experience Halong Bay from a completely different perspective. The shimmering water, mixed with the reflection of lights from the cruise, creates a magical scene. The limestone karsts turn into mysterious silhouettes against the night sky, adding to the unique atmosphere.
Squid fishing is one of the most exciting activities in Ha Long
4. Some festivals in Halong Bay in May
When visiting Halong Bay in May, visitors will also have the chance to explore some vibrant festivals in May. These offer even more unforgettable experiences for tourists.
4.1. International Labor Day
International Labor Day is celebrated on May 1st in Vietnam. On this day, visitors can expect a vibrant atmosphere with various events and festivals.
During this time, many Vietnamese people take the opportunity to travel, return to their hometowns to visit their parents, or explore domestic and international destinations. As a result, accommodations, buses, trains, and flights are often fully booked. Popular tourist attractions also tend to be more crowded than usual.
4.2. Halong Carnival Festival
Halong Carnaval usually takes place at the end of April or early May, coinciding with Vietnam’s 30th April and 1st May holidays. During this time, visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery and immerse themselves in the festival without worrying about the peak season crowds.
Halong Carnaval features a variety of lively and captivating activities that attract visitors. Many traditional festivals are held in the evening, such as the Tien Cong Festival, the Dao people’s festival, the wedding ceremony of Quang Ninh fishermen, and the singing and dancing festival of the San Diu ethnic group.
Halong Carnival Festival of Halong Bay in May
>> Read more: Halong Bay in December: Weather and Travel Guide 2025
5. Essential packing tips for Halong Bay in May
Before sightseeing around Halong Bay in May, make sure you’ve packed everything you need. Here are some essential items to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip:
Travel documents: Visitors need to bring their passport and visa in order to board the plane.
Clothing: Visitors should bring at least three sets of clothes: one for daily wear, one for evening activities, and one for swimming. If traveling in May, it’s a good idea to pack shorts, dresses, and short-sleeved shirts.
Water bottle: While cruise ships usually provide water for guests, some shuttle vehicles may not. Stay hydrated throughout the trip to maintain good health and have the best possible experience.
Footwear: A pair of shoes is ideal for exploring caves and some coastal villages. Since your shoes might get wet at times, it’s a good idea to bring along a pair of sandals for relaxing and resting on the cruise.
Electronics: A camera is essential for capturing memorable moments. Travelers should fully charge their devices before leaving Hanoi and make sure to recharge them while resting in the cruise cabin.
Essential packing tips for Halong Bay in May
In conclusion, Halong Bay in May carries gentle waves, a clear sky, and the cool air of the early summer days. The warm sunlight mixed with gentle breezes creates the perfect atmosphere for visitors to explore the heritage sites in Halong and engage in exciting outdoor activities. Make sure to prepare all the necessary items for a meaningful trip.
6. FAQ
Is May a good time for cruising in Halong Bay?
May is considered one of the most ideal months to visit Halong Bay due to its favorable weather conditions. The area experiences hot and humid summers and cool winters. In May, the temperature is warm and pleasant, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the landscape.
Are the prices for hotels and tours higher in May?
After the May 1st holiday, the number of tourists and the prices for Halong Bay exploration trips decreased significantly. Visitors have more peaceful space and ideal tour offers to enjoy the beauty of the bay.
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