Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is famous for its emerald waters and thousands of tall limestone islands. Rainforests cover the islands. Ha Long Bay is in Quang Ninh Province, northeastern Vietnam. It isn’t a natural wonder, but also a place rich in culture and history. The name Ha Long means “Descending Dragon.” It refers to a dragon legend. Locals believe the legend created the bay’s unique shape. Today, Ha Long Bay is a popular travel destination. It attracts millions of tourists every year. They are eager to explore its breathtaking landscapes, caves, and grottoes.
Ha Long Bay is Divided into Two Main Areas
Bai Chay – The Tourism Center
Bai Chay is the bustling heart of tourism in Ha Long Bay. This area is full of fun things to do. It has amusement parks and water sports. It also has shopping centers and lively night markets. Visitors can enjoy many activities. They can cruise around the bay, visit Sun World Ha Long Park, or relax on the beaches. Bai Chay is also home to a wide range of hotels and resorts, making it a convenient base for tourists.
Hon Gai – The Residential Hub
Hon Gai is different from others. It is mainly a residential area. Many long-time inhabitants of Ha Long live there. It is less touristy than Bai Chay. But, it’s a more real look at local life. It boasts many high-quality resorts, hotels, and eateries. But, for those who want more entertainment, they must travel to Bai Chay. Hon Gai is quieter and rich in culture. It provides a different but equally rewarding experience for visitors.
When to Travel to Ha Long Bay
Ha Long Bay has a humid, tropical climate. It has two seasons. Summers are hot and humid. Winters are cool and dry. Understanding the weather patterns can help travelers choose the best time to visit.
The monsoon season in Ha Long Bay typically occurs from June to September. During this time, the area gets heavy rainfall and storms. They can affect travel and outdoor activities. It’s best to avoid planning a trip then. You want to have a more pleasant experience.
The optimal time to visit Ha Long Bay is from October to April. During these months, the weather is cooler and drier. This makes it perfect for sightseeing and cruising. The period is from October to December. It offers clear skies and calm seas. The conditions are ideal for exploring the bay. They are great for enjoying outdoor activities.
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Where to Stay in Ha Long Bay
Ha Long Bay offers many types of accommodation. They suit different preferences and budgets. Depending on your travel needs and accessibility, you can choose to stay in either Bai Chay or Hon Gai.
In Bai Chay
Renowned Hotels: The top hotels in Bai Chay include Muong Thanh Luxury, A La Carte, Citadines, Wyndham, Delasea, The Watson, Muong Thanh Suoi Mo, and Novotel. These hotels offer luxurious amenities and stunning views of the bay.
Villas and Homestays: The Sun Village Premium and Sun Grand City Feria have villa and homestay options. They’re perfect for families or groups who want a more private and homely stay.
Resorts: For a lavish experience, stay at the Vinpearl Ha Long Resort. It’s on the sea and offers exclusive services and breathtaking views.
In Hon Gai
Top Hotels: Notable hotels in Hon Gai include DC Hotel, Best Western Premier Sapphire, and Ramada. These hotels have a reputation for providing excellent service and comfortable accommodations.
Resorts: The FLC Ha Long Resort is a standout option. It offers luxurious facilities and stunning views of the area.
You may prefer the vibrant tourist activities in Bai Chay. Or, the tranquil atmosphere in Hon Gai. Ha Long Bay has something for every type of traveler.
Things to Do in Ha Long Bay
Explore Ha Long Bay
To begin your Ha Long Bay adventure, you can embark from one of two main ports: Ha Long International Cruise Port or Tuan Chau International Tourist Port. Each port offers easy access to the bay’s stunning attractions. They also offer a variety of tour options.
Day or Overnight Tours: Spending a day or even a night exploring Ha Long Bay is an excellent idea. If you’re short on time, you can opt for a 4-hour or 6-hour tour, each offering a glimpse into the bay’s beauty and charm.
Popular Tour Routes: Typical tours often include stops at iconic spots. These include Fighting Cock Islet, Thumb Islet, Swan Islet, Sung Sot Cave, Luon Cave, and Titop Beach. The specific itinerary depends on the tour you choose, and can vary accordingly.
Kayaking: One of the must-try activities in Ha Long Bay is kayaking. Paddling through the bay’s calm waters is unforgettable. You can also explore hidden caves and lagoons.
Seaplane Tours: For a unique perspective, consider taking a seaplane tour. Soaring between 500m and 3,000m above sea level, you’ll get to admire Ha Long Bay from a breathtaking aerial view.
Sun World Ha Long
Sun World Ha Long is Vietnam’s top entertainment complex. It offers a wide range of activities and attractions.
Ticket Prices: The fees range from 150,000 to 360,000 VND for both kids and adults. The price depends on the attractions you choose to visit.
Sun World Ha Long has three Main Zones:
Dragon Park: This area has many thrilling rides and family-friendly attractions. It caters to all ages with its many roller coasters and rides.
Typhoon Water Park: This water park is a perfect spot to cool off in the hot summer. It has many slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers. These provide fun for everyone.
Queen Cable Car and Ba Deo Hill Complex: Offering a scenic cable car ride, this zone allows you to enjoy panoramic views of Ha Long Bay. Once you reach the top, you can explore a Japanese-style garden. There’s also an indoor game center and other relaxing and scenic spots. They’re perfect for photography and leisure.
Bai Chay Beach
During the summer, Ha Long can get very hot. So, it’s best to visit Bai Chay Beach in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak heat. The beach is a great place to relax, swim, and enjoy the beautiful sunset.
Sun Carnival Plaza
In the evenings, Sun Carnival Plaza comes alive. It has food and drink stalls, children’s play areas, musical fountains, and other fun. Under the plaza is a night market. There, you can buy souvenirs and local crafts.
Tandem Biking Around Bai Chay Center
Explore the vibrant Bai Chay area on a tandem bike. This is a fun and eco-friendly way to see the sights, interact with locals, and discover hidden gems in the city.
Beach Bars
Valley Beach Bar: This bar is on Bai Chay Beach. It’s known for its loud sound system and lively atmosphere. It’s a great spot to party with friends.
Chill Beach Bar and Love Drunkey: These beach bars have a relaxed vibe. You can enjoy a drink at them and see the ocean.
Check-In Spots
The Quang Ninh Museum and Library and Dolphin Palace are iconic landmarks. They are popular check-in spots in Ha Long. The entry fees are relatively cheap. They range from 10,000 VND to 40,000 VND. The fee depends on whether you are a child, a student, or an adult.
Evening Activities at 30/10 Square
Spend your evenings at 30/10 Square. There, you can enjoy simple pleasures like iced tea or it’s sau da (green plum juice) and kite flying. The square is lively. Locals and tourists gather there. It offers a glimpse into local culture and life.
What to Eat in Ha Long Bay
Seafood Restaurants
You can choose to dine à la carte or enjoy a buffet at one of the following restaurants:
Hong Hanh Restaurant Chain (branches 1, 2, 3, 6): Offering à la carte dining with prices ranging from 350,000 VND to 450,000 VND per person.
Ngoc Phuong Nam Restaurant Chain (branches 1, 2): Also à la carte, with the first branch offering a stunning sea view opposite Reu Island. Prices range from 350,000 VND to 450,000 VND per person.
Sen A Dong Buffet Restaurant: This buffet restaurant features a refreshing sea view, with prices between 350,000 VND and 400,000 VND per person
Tien Quy Buffet Restaurant: Another buffet option with a similar price range of 350,000 VND to 400,000 VND per person.
Cua Vang Restaurant: Offering à la carte dining at 450,000 VND to 500,000 VND per person.
Huong Duyen Restaurant: Known for its à la carte menu, priced between 300,000 VND and 400,000 VND per person.
Sen Ha Thanh Buffet Restaurant: A buffet dining experience costing between 350,000 VND and 400,000 VND per person.
Bimone and Talata Restaurants: Both offer à la carte menus with prices ranging from 300,000 VND to 400,000 VND per person.
Places for Noodles and Other Dishes
Cù Kỳ Noodles at Cong Doan Hotel: A hearty bowl costs 50,000 VND.
Cù Kỳ Noodles at Huong Beo: Also priced at 50,000 VND per bowl.
Banh Cuon with Squid Cakes at Goc Bang: This dish is subject to personal taste preferences.
Seafood Noodles at Huy Chien: Offering a variety of seafood noodle dishes.
Tuan Hieu Chicken Pho: A local favorite for chicken pho.
Trung YnY Noodle Shop: Known for its delicious noodle dishes.
Co Thuy Duck Vermicelli: Serving a popular duck vermicelli dish.
Sour Rib Noodles next to Van Lang School: A unique and tasty option.
Snack Shops (Yogurt, Bubble Tea, etc.)
Co Phuong Yogurt at Lan Be Park: A popular yogurt spot.
Co Nghi Yogurt at MonBay near the Museum: Another well-loved yogurt place.
Tuan Lien Yogurt on Hon Gai Coastal Road: Offering a delicious yogurt treat.
Loong Toong Market Snacks: Here you can find a variety of street foods like spicy bread, sweet soups, and batiso.
La Casa Tea Bubble Tea Shop: A go-to place for bubble tea lovers.
Bars and Drinking Venues
Cua Luc Fishing Village: Known for its fresh seafood and local beer.
Cuong Ca, Tam Hung Beer, Tho Dai Uy Beer, and Thanh Rau Bar: Various spots to enjoy a cold beer and local dishes.
Beautiful and Tasty Cafés:
Ban Xu Café: A cozy place with a local vibe.
Gio Café: Known for its delicious drinks and relaxing atmosphere.
Hai Dang Café: Offering stunning views of the bay.
Doi Mat Troi Café: A great spot to enjoy a coffee with a view.
Thong Zeo Café: Popular for its unique setting.
La Luna Coffee: A charming café with a great ambiance.
In Ha Long Bay, there’s no shortage of delicious food and delightful places to eat, drink, and relax. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood or comforting noodles. Or, you want to enjoy a coffee with a view. Ha Long Bay has something for every taste.
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Transportation Options
Arriving in Ha Long by Plane
Van Don International Airport is where your flight will land if you choose to fly. It’s about 50 km from Ha Long. From the airport, you can continue your journey to Ha Long by either bus or taxi. Taxi fares range from 400,000 VND to 700,000 VND per trip. Or, you can take the free buses, numbers 14A and 14B, which leave from the bus waiting area located at the airport exit.
Arriving in Ha Long by Limousine or Coach
Limousine and Coach Services: Several companies offer them to Ha Long. They include Hoang Phu, Hoang Cuong, Ha Long Xanh, Kumho Viet Thanh, and Phuc Xuyen. These services provide comfortable and convenient transportation. They go from various cities to Ha Long Bay.
Getting Around Ha Long
Motorbike Rental: For those who prefer freedom, renting a motorbike is a great choice. Many rental shops are around Ha Long. You can hire a motorbike from them for daily or longer use.
Driving Yourself: If you have access to a car, driving in Ha Long is a pleasant experience. The roads are wide, well-maintained, and offer scenic views. But, must to avoid driving after consuming alcohol to ensure safety.
Taxi Services: Taxis are widely available in Ha Long, offering a convenient way to travel around the city. Reliable taxi companies include Xanh SM, Bai Chay, and Mai Linh. Taxis are ideal for short trips and for those who prefer not to drive themselves.
Conclusion
Ha Long Bay still captivates visitors. It has stunning natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage. It also offers many activities and attractions. You can explore the emerald waters on a kayak. Or, enjoy a panoramic view from a seaplane. You can also indulge in fresh seafood at a seaside restaurant. Ha Long Bay offers an unforgettable experience.
So, why wait? Plan your trip to Ha Long Bay today and immerse yourself in one of the most beautiful destinations in the world. You may seek adventure, relaxation, or both. Ha Long Bay has something for everyone. Pack your bags. Book your ride. Get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime!
