Ha Long Bay
Vietnam · Southeast Asia
A UNESCO-listed seascape of more than a thousand limestone islands in northern Vietnam, best seen from the water.
Why visit
Why visit Ha Long Bay
Ha Long Bay is one of the few places where the geology is the attraction. UNESCO lists it with the Cat Ba Archipelago as one property of 1,133 islands and islets in north-eastern Vietnam, across Quang Ninh Province and Hai Phong City, and describes it as the world’s most extensive example of marine-invaded tower karst.
The scenery is of cones and isolated towers of limestone standing in water, many hollowed by caves, and it is best experienced afloat.
Explore
What to see
Ha Long Bay proper has the famous caves of Thien Cung, Sung Sot and Dau Go. Lan Ha Bay, to the south around Cat Ba Island and part of Hai Phong, has similar scenery with fewer boats. Bai Tu Long Bay lies to the north-east. Most visitors see the bay on an overnight cruise, with kayaking, swimming and visits to caves and fishing villages.
Experiences
Experiences in Ha Long Bay
Before you go
Practical information
Best time to visit
November to March is cool, around 15 to 20 °C, misty and with fewer storms. April and May are mild with good visibility. June to August is hot and humid with the highest risk of storm-related cancellations. September and October are warm, with falling rain and thinner crowds.
Getting around
From Hanoi the bay is about 170 kilometres away, roughly two to two and a half hours by expressway. Boats depart from piers such as Bai Chay, Hon Gai and Tuan Chau; Lan Ha Bay is reached through Hai Phong and Cat Ba Island.
Practical notes
The currency is the Vietnamese dong. Most cruises include meals and a transfer from Hanoi, and storms can disrupt sailings in summer, so keep some flexibility in the itinerary.
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