12 Best Things to Do in Halong Bay: Top Spots and Hidden Gems

Practical information about Halong Bay

• Time zone: Indochina Time (UTC+7).
• Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND).
• Language: Vietnamese; English commonly used in tourist areas.
• Weather: Best from March to May or September to November for mild and dry conditions.
• Visa: Most visitors need a visa; e-visa or visa on arrival are popular options.
• Getting there: 3-4 hours by road from Hanoi or via Van Don Airport.
• Local transportation: Taxis, motorbikes, electric cars, and boats for exploring.
• Tipping: Optional but appreciated; 5-10% in restaurants or for guides.
• Local SIM cards: Affordable and widely available; ensure your phone is unlocked.
• Key areas to stay: Bai Chay, Tuan Chau Island, Cat Ba Island, or Halong City.

Halong Bay is a treasure trove of natural wonders and cultural experiences that promise unforgettable memories. From exploring hidden caves to cruising through emerald waters, the things to do in Halong Bay are as diverse as its stunning landscapes. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, the Halong Bay attractions offer something for everyone. Don’t miss the chance to discover its breathtaking limestone karsts, floating villages, and pristine beaches. Start planning your visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site and experience one of Vietnam’s most iconic destinations.

12 Things to do in Halong Bay: Cruise, Caves and More

Halong Bay is located in northeastern Vietnam, along the coastline of Quang Ninh Province, near the border with China. This Vietnam famous bay offers endless activities that highlight its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

1. Cruise around Halong Bay and soak up stunning views

Cruising is hands down one of the best things to do in Halong Bay—a must for anyone visiting this stunning destination. Whether you're on a budget or splurging on a luxury liner like Ambassador Cruise, Scarlet Pearl Cruises, or Heritage Cruises, there's a cruise for every traveler.

Options range from 1-day tours (starting at $40) to 3D2N adventures (up to $500), perfect for exploring local fishing villages, cycling through Viet Hai Village, or enjoying traditional music shows. Most Halong Bay cruises offer comfy stays with onboard activities like cooking classes, Tai Chi, and squid fishing. Outdoorsy types can kayak, swim, or visit caves, while those seeking relaxation can unwind in a Jacuzzi or on the sundeck.

You can cruise around Halong Bay to enjoy its breathtaking panoramic views.

2. Check out the hidden caves in Halong Bay

One of the answers to what Halong Bay is famous for lies in its stunning caves, a testament to the incredible Vietnam rock formations. Formed over millions of years, these natural wonders are a must-see for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Many Halong Bay caves are included in cruise itineraries, offering visitors a chance to explore their beauty up close. Here are some of the top caves worth visiting:

• Sung Sot Cave: Spanning 10,000 square meters with two massive chambers, it’s the largest and most popular cave. Its unique stalactites resemble elephants, horses, and even soldiers.
• Thien Cung Cave: Known as the "Heavenly Palace," this cave dazzles with colorful lights and beams of sunlight piercing through its openings. Legends say it was the home of the Dragon King.
• Me Cung Cave: The oldest cave, featuring 10,000-year-old fossils and intricate, narrow tunnels perfect for curious explorers.
• Luon Cave: Accessible only by kayak or small boat, it offers a serene journey under limestone arches surrounded by lush greenery.
• Trinh Nu Cave: Famous for its natural sunlight and the romantic legend of a love story etched into its stones.

Explorers find hidden caves tucked away in Halong Bay’s natural wonders.

3. Paddle through calm waters on a kayak in Halong Bay

For a unique Halong Bay sightseeing experience, kayaking is a must-try. Exploring the bay’s hidden caves, narrow channels, and secret lagoons is one of the best activities in Halong. With over 1,960 islands, many spots are only accessible by kayak, offering an up-close look at limestone karsts and pristine beaches.

Paddle through Mat Rong Island’s calm, emerald waters to discover untouched beauty and listen to nature’s melody. Most cruises include kayaking in their itinerary, so don’t miss it! Tip: Bring a waterproof bag for your phone and camera—you’ll want to capture the magic of this adventure.

Kayaks glide through Halong Bay’s calm waters, surrounded by tranquil scenery.

4. Hike up Titov Island for amazing views

Titov Island, located 8 kilometers southeast of Bai Chay, is one of the must-see places in Halong Bay. Though small at 3.7 hectares, this island is a favorite for its stunning views and fascinating history. Named after Russian cosmonaut Gherman Titov in 1962, it symbolizes the friendship between Vietnam and Russia.

The hike to the summit takes 10–20 minutes, depending on your fitness level, and involves about 400 steep steps, making it moderately challenging. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking 360-degree view of Halong Bay, showcasing its iconic limestone karsts and emerald waters.

Tip: Wear sturdy shoes, and bring water and a camera to capture the unforgettable scenery. This hike is a must for your Halong Bay guide!

Titov Island’s hiking trail leads to breathtaking views of the bay below.

5. Drop by a floating village to meet the locals

Visiting a floating village is one of the top experiences in Halong Bay. These villages, such as Cua Van, Ba Hang, Vung Vieng, and Cong Dam, offer a unique glimpse into life on the water. Cua Van, the largest, has over 300 households living in floating houses tightly anchored together to withstand strong winds, with small boats or rafts bobbing at their entrances.

Once bustling with locals, these villages are now preserved as cultural treasures where you can learn about traditional fishing practices and the peaceful rhythm of life. Many platforms are used for fish and shellfish farming, highlighting the villagers’ deep connection to the sea.

As you explore, you'll see brightly colored houses, children playing, and fishermen working on calm waters—a peaceful glimpse into Halong Bay's history.

A floating village welcomes visitors to meet locals and experience their way of life.

6. Chill on Halong Bay beaches and watch the sunset

Halong Bay isn’t just about limestone karsts and floating villages—it’s also home to some of the most stunning hidden beaches in Vietnam. As the famous bay in Vietnam, Halong offers small, white-sand beaches like Vung Ha and Three Peach Beach, perfect for a peaceful escape. These secluded spots, often only accessible by cruise, make you feel like you’ve stumbled upon a private paradise surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and lush greenery.

For a more accessible option, head to Cat Ba Island, where you can explore multiple beaches at your own pace. Whether sunbathing on Ti Top Beach or swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Bai Chay, enjoying the tropical vibe of the beautiful Halong Bay, Vietnam, is one of the best ways to relax. Don’t forget your swimsuit, sunscreen, and shades for the perfect beach day!

Halong Bay’s beaches offer a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the sunset.

7. Try your luck squid fishing after dark

Squid fishing is a must-try if you stay overnight on Halong Bay, especially during squid season from November to February. This is also the best time to visit, with calm weather and plenty of squid in the waters.

Most overnight cruises offer this fun activity, where you'll use a simple stick, string, and hook to try your luck. Flashlights illuminate the bay, creating a magical scene as fishermen and visitors alike cast their lines.

Even if you don’t catch much (squid are clever!), the experience of being out on deck under the stars, enjoying a drink, and soaking up the vibe is unforgettable. For those visiting Halong Bay in December, the cooler evenings make it the perfect time to enjoy this unique adventure. Grab a drink, cast your line, and embrace this unique Halong adventure!

Nighttime squid fishing in Halong Bay invites adventurers to try their luck.

8. Wander through the lush trails of Cat Ba National Park

Cat Ba National Park is a gem near Halong Bay and a UNESCO biosphere reserve, boasting incredible biodiversity. This largest island in Halong Bay is covered with tropical rainforests, mangroves, coral reefs, and over 1,500 plant species.

A trek through the Kim Giao Forest to Ngu Lam Peak offers stunning views and a chance to see rare Kim Giao trees. Afterward, you can explore more of the island by cycling, kayaking, or simply unwinding on its pristine beaches. Among the things to do near Halong Bay, a visit to Cat Ba combines adventure, nature, and relaxation perfectly.

The lush trails of Cat Ba National Park provide a peaceful escape into nature.

9. Bike around Viet Hai Village for countryside vibes

If you’re looking for an escape into nature, biking through Viet Hai Village is one of the unique things to do in Halong Bay. Located on Cat Ba Island, this peaceful village is home to 213 people and spans 86.25 km² of lush greenery. The 5 km cycling route takes you past rice fields, low hills, and a tunnel framed by ancient tree roots.

The fresh air and quiet surroundings make it a perfect way to connect with the natural beauty of the area. For those who prefer a slower pace, electric carts are available. Just check your bike’s brakes, follow your guide’s instructions, and enjoy the countryside vibes as you explore this hidden gem in Halong Bay.

A bike ride around Viet Hai Village allows travelers to experience rural charm.

10. Dig into fresh seafood and local eats in Halong Bay

Nothing completes a Halong Bay trip like indulging in its fresh, flavorful seafood. With what to eat in Halong Bay, seafood takes center stage—grilled straight from the water for the ultimate freshness. On a cruise, you’ll enjoy full meals featuring local specialties like cha muc (fried squid cakes), alongside international dishes.

Halong’s vibrant gastronomy is a must-try for any traveler, offering a delicious way to connect with the region’s culture. Sharing meals onboard with panoramic bay views and a quiet ambiance creates unforgettable moments. Halong Bay’s culinary delights ensure even the pickiest eater will leave satisfied and inspired.

Fresh seafood and local dishes in Halong Bay offer a taste of coastal cuisine.

11. Hop on a seaplane tour for epic views

For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, hopping on a seaplane tour is a thing you can only do in Halong Bay. Soaring 300 meters above the emerald waters, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of towering limestone karsts, sandy beaches, and lush rainforests. This 25-minute flight offers a panoramic perspective that cruising simply can’t match.

Highlights include famous spots like Dau Go Cave and Tuan Chau Island, all while enjoying live English commentary about Halong Bay’s history and myths. Operated by Hai Au Aviation, the tour starts at $99, with daily flights from Hanoi to Halong Bay and between Noi Bai Airport and Tuan Chau Harbor. It’s one of the most unique and unforgettable ways to soak up the beauty of Halong Bay.

Seaplane tours soar above Halong Bay, showcasing its stunning islands from above.

12. Dive in and snorkel to see colorful coral reefs

Beneath the emerald waters of Halong Bay lies a vibrant underwater world waiting to be explored. With over 140 species of coral, including rare varieties, and marine life like starfish, sea turtles, and seahorses, it’s a haven for underwater enthusiasts.

Halong Bay scuba diving is an unforgettable way to immerse yourself in this thriving ecosystem, especially around areas like Cong Do Island, where coral reefs cover up to 60% of the seabed. From April to December, with water temperatures around 26–29°C, conditions are perfect for snorkeling and diving.

Many PADI-certified operators offer Halong Bay tour recommendations to ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure. Equipped with masks, fins, and snorkels, you can explore underwater caves and colorful reefs, witnessing the untouched beauty of Halong Bay’s marine life firsthand.

Snorkelers explore Halong Bay’s vibrant coral reefs, teeming with marine life.