6 things to do at Halong Bay for thrilling adventures
Today, Halong Bay is a must-see destination in Vietnam for its otherworldly beauty – it was the filming site for some scenes in the 2017-movie Kong: Skull Island – with caves, beaches and range of outdoor activities, all just 2-hour travel from Hanoi. In this blog post, Ha Long Bay Cheers Tours will introduce 6 best things to do at Halong Bay for your thrilling adventures and unforgettable experiences.
1. Halong Bay – A magical place in Vietnam
Halong Bay is truly a magical place, where towering limestone karsts rise dramatically from the emerald waters, creating a surreal and breathtaking landscape. This natural wonder, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994, has become Vietnam’s most beloved tourist destination.
Spanning 1500 square kilometers along the Vietnamese coastline, just south of the Chinese border, the bay is a captivating maze of thousands of uninhabited islands, charming floating fishing villages, and intricate cave systems. These caves hold ancient fossils, unique rock formations, and a wealth of local myths and mysteries, making Halong Bay an unforgettable experience. A lot of things to do at Halong Bay are waiting for you. Let’s read on!
A magical place Halong Bay in Vietnam
2. How much time should I spend in Halong Bay?
Almost everyone visiting Halong Bay takes a cruise, and there are options for every schedule. If you’re short on time, you can do a quick half-day or full-day trip, though be prepared for a long day of travel from Hanoi. But for the full experience, an overnight cruise is the way to go.
- For a tight schedule: 1 day or 2 days 1 night
- For a more relaxed and less crowded Halong Bay experience: 3 days 2 night
You’ll leave Hanoi in the morning, hop on your boat around lunchtime, and return to the pier the following day. These cruises are packed with activities: exploring stunning caves, visiting beaches or pearl farms, trying your hand at Vietnamese cooking, and maybe even squid fishing at night.
You can do a quick half-day or full-day trip in Halong Bay
However, the busy schedule can sometimes feel rushed, leaving little time to just relax and soak in the amazing views. The downside? Since it’s the most popular choice, you’ll likely be sharing the experience with many other boats, all following similar routes and schedules.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed and less crowded Halong Bay experience, a two-night (or longer!) cruise is your best bet. This gives you way more flexibility, allowing your boat to venture deeper into the bay, or even explore the stunning neighboring Bai Tu Long or Lan Ha bays. You’ll enjoy leisurely stops at charming floating villages, discover secluded beaches, and visit quieter, less-touristy spots.
Plus, these longer cruises often have fewer passengers, making for a more intimate atmosphere. And if you have the time, consider spending a few extra days in Halong City itself. It’s quickly becoming a fantastic tourist destination in its own right, offering plenty to see and do!
How much time should I spend in Halong Bay
3. When should I go to Halong Bay?
Halong Bay is beautiful any time of year, with each season offering a unique charm. You’ll find 2 main seasons:
- Winter, from November to March, with comfortable temperatures between 15 and 20°C (59-68°F)
- Summer, from May to September, when it’s warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 30°C (77-86°F). Keep in mind that June to August are the rainiest months.
For those who love splashing around and paddling, summer in Halong Bay is ideal, especially with the lively Carnaval Ha Long happening in late April or early May. But if capturing stunning, atmospheric photos is your priority, winter might be your season. The frequent misty mornings transform the bay into a dreamlike landscape, with islands shrouded in fog, creating truly magical and mysterious scenes.
When should I go to Halong Bay?
4. Top 6 best things to do at Halong Bay for first-time visitors
What to do at Halong Bay is a frequently asked question by many travelers. Here are 6 best things to do in Halong Bay for first-time visitors to have thrilling adventures. Let’s dive into it!
4.1. Snorkel and dive to explore coral reefs
While the iconic limestone karsts of Halong Bay steal the show, a vibrant underwater world awaits discovery. Snorkeling and diving to explore coral reefs are two of the best things to do at Halong Bay for first-time visitors.
Beneath the shimmering surface, a rich ecosystem flourishes, boasting over 140 coral species, some of which are incredibly rare. These stunning reefs blanket a significant portion of the seabed, reaching coverage of 30 – 60% around islands like Cong Do. Here, thanks to protective regulations and its remote location, marine life thrives, shielded from the disturbances of boat traffic, pollution, and human activity. It’s a hidden treasure trove of biodiversity.
Explore Halong Bay’s hidden depths by diving into the vibrant coral reefs and witness a mesmerizing underwater world teeming with starfish, seahorses, and sea turtles swimming in crystal-clear waters. Discover fascinating underwater grottos and intricate cave systems that provide shelter for diverse marine life. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a beginner, diving schools offer guided trips, or for a simpler experience, grab a snorkel and explore the shallows from a boat. It’s a chance to see a whole new side of Halong Bay.
Snorkeling and diving – Things to do at Halong Bay
4.2. Explore Halong Bay on a cruise
To truly experience Halong Bay’s magic, a cruise trip is essential. You can choose from traditional junk boats for a leisurely sail or opt for faster yachts to cover more ground. While quick half or full-day cruises are available, a two or three-day voyage is highly recommended. These longer trips allow you to fully unwind, with meals, drinks, and sightseeing all taken care of.
Imagine spending your days cruising through the bay and your nights gently rocked to sleep on the water. Stargazing from the deck of a boat anchored in the open ocean is an unforgettable experience. These cruises offer a range of amenities, from buffet meals and cooking classes to guided tours of secluded beaches and fishing villages. Tailor your trip to your preferences: indulge in a “spa cruise” with massages and sunrise yoga, or embark on an adventure with deep-sea diving and moonlit squid fishing.
No matter your style, be sure to spend an afternoon kayaking amongst the karsts. Paddling through the calm waters is one of the best things to do at Halong Bay to get up close to these stunning formations, exploring caves and floating villages at your own pace. Take refreshing dips in the clear water before returning to your yacht for sunset cocktails and a delicious dinner.
Going on a cruise is one of the things to do at Halong Bay
4.3. Hike to hidden caves on Cat Ba Island
Cat Ba Island, the archipelago’s crown jewel, is a lush paradise, mostly covered in vibrant rainforest. Its national park is not just a haven for diverse wildlife, it’s also a crucial sanctuary for the critically endangered white-headed langur monkeys. To truly appreciate the island’s natural wonders, explore its well-maintained hiking trails, ideally with a knowledgeable guide who can share insights into the local flora, fauna, and history.
These trails offer varied experiences, leading you to breathtaking mountain summits, secluded sandy beaches, and fascinating cave systems. While Hoa Cuong Cave sparkles with a gem-like beauty, Thien Long and Trung Trang caves showcase stunning stalactites and stalagmites, sculpted into bizarre formations over millennia. Stepping into these ancient underground worlds is a truly awe-inspiring experience.
For a unique historical perspective, visit Hospital Cave, a relic from the American War. This cave, once a shelter for soldiers, now serves as a museum, preserving its medical rooms and equipment in their original state, offering a poignant glimpse into the island’s past.
Things to do at Halong Bay – Hike to hidden caves on Cat Ba Island
>> Read more: Top 9 best Cat Ba cruise and must-see spots
4.4. Spelunking in Me Cung, Thien Cung and Sung Sot caves
Beyond Cat Ba Island, Halong Bay is a treasure trove of fascinating caves, each a testament to the bay’s long and intricate history. Among the most captivating are Sung Sot, Me Cung, and Thien Cung.
Sung Sot Cave, or “Surprise Cave” is renowned for its sheer size and the fantastical shapes of its stalactites and stalagmites. Though reaching its 10,000-square-meter interior requires a steep climb, the reward is immense. As you venture into the second chamber, the interplay of light and shadow brings the rock formations to life, conjuring images of elephants, mammoths, and even military formations.
In contrast, Me Cung Cave, the “Me Cung Grotto,” is the oldest and narrowest of the three. Archaeological findings, including 10,000-year-old periwinkle fossils near its entrance, highlight its ancient origins. Squeezing through its narrow opening leads you into a labyrinth of chambers and tunnels, adorned with fossils and intricate rock formations.
Finally, Thien Cung Cave, the “Heavenly Palace Cave,” is arguably the most beautiful. Legend tells of the Dragon King and his wife May’s wedding held within its walls, attended by celestial beings. Today, soft, colored lights illuminate the cave, casting dramatic shadows that bring the mythical tale to life. Heavenly beams of light stream through openings in the ceiling, creating an ethereal atmosphere. Stepping outside, you’re greeted by a panoramic vista of Halong Bay, a view truly worthy of a Dragon King.
Spelunking in Sung Sot cave is one of the things to do at Halong Bay
4.5. Check out Trong Mai Islet (Fighting Cock Islet)
The iconic Trong Mai Islet, often called Fighting Cock Islet, presents a charming scene: two small islets, shaped remarkably like a rooster and hen, standing tall at about 13.9 meters. Located roughly 5 kilometers from Tuan Chau Pier in Halong City, these unique rock formations are a must-see.
Originally a small islet near Dinh Huong Islet in southwest Halong Bay—the same one you see on the 200,000 VND banknote—Trong Mai Islet has been sculpted by nature’s artistry over thousands of years. Limestone weathering, seawater erosion, and wind have carved the rocks into their distinctive rooster and hen shapes. Adding a touch of life, patches of greenery sprout from the rock crevices, softening the stone figures.
As a beloved symbol of Halong Bay, Trong Mai Islet holds cultural significance. It graces logos like that of Halong beer and appears in countless travel publications, serving as a visual representation of the captivating beauty of Quang Ninh’s coastline.
Check out Trong Mai Islet is one of the things to do at Halong Bay
4.6. Visit Monkey Island
Just a quick boat ride from Cat Ba town lies Monkey Island, a secluded paradise. Originally named Cat Dua Island, or Pineapple Island, for its wild pineapple groves, it’s now famously known for its mischievous monkey inhabitants. These playful creatures love to interact with visitors, making the island a fun and lively destination.
Monkey Island offers the best of both worlds: relaxation and adventure. Its pristine white-sand beaches are ideal for sunbathing and swimming in the crystal-clear waters, perfect for a tranquil afternoon. For those seeking more action, kayaking along the scenic shoreline or trekking through the island’s interior reveals its natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to unwind or explore, Monkey Island has something for everyone.
One of the things to do at Halong Bay is visiting Monkey Island
In conclusion, Ha Long Bay Cheers Tours has given you 6 best things to do at Halong Bay for your most memorable trip. Hope you will have the most valuable time with your family and friends in Halong Bay Vietnam.
5. FAQ
What things to do in Halong city?
Visitors can explore the bustling Halong Market for a taste of local life and fresh seafood, or stroll along the scenic Bai Chay beach promenade, enjoying the lively atmosphere and street food. Sun World Halong Complex provides entertainment with its Dragon Park amusement park, the Queen Cable Car offering panoramic bay views, and the mystical Zen Garden. For cultural insights, the Quang Ninh Museum showcases the region's history and natural wonders. A relaxing evening can be spent at the Bai Chay night market, browsing souvenirs and enjoying local cuisine.
What things to do in Halong bay other than cruise?
Some things to do in Halong bay other than cruise: Kayaking is a fantastic option to explore hidden lagoons and get up close to the limestone karsts. Rock climbing enthusiasts can find challenging routes on some of the islands. For a bird's-eye view, consider a seaplane tour, offering stunning aerial perspectives of the bay's thousands of islands. Visiting the floating villages provides a glimpse into the local fishing communities' unique lifestyle. Exploring the numerous caves, like Sung Sot or Thien Cung, on day trips, even without an overnight cruise.
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