A Halong Bay weekend getaway is one of the most ideal plans. Whether you are touring the Southeast Asian landscape for weeks on end or setting your sights on Hanoi and Halong Bay in particular, this Unesco World Heritage site is a must-see.

There are many options for visiting Halong Bay, but when planning a short weekend trip, it is necessary to organize and prioritize. The two main ways of enjoying a quick stay in this stunning area of Vietnam include one night in a hotel or one night on a traditional cruise ship.

Both options have their benefits and are suitable for different kinds of travelers. Detailed below are two optimal itineraries for a wonderful weekend in Halong Bay.

CHOOSE CRUISE 2D1N TOUR IN HALONG BAY

A 2-day cruise is one of the most popular and time-efficient ways of exploring Halong Bay. You get the opportunity to sail through the brilliant blue seas and witness some of the main tourist highlights without having to do much legwork. You will be taken from point A to point B, all of your meals are included and your itinerary is set in stone.

Who should take this option?

This tour is perfect for the traveler who would like to get the guide around the bay. While you will have to do some research in choosing a cruise, once you are on board you don’t have to worry about where you go, what you will eat or what you want to do.

Everything is pre-planned and designed for you to see as much of Halong Bay as you can in a limited time. Cruises are geared toward anything from romance to family to parties. It is pretty much ideal for almost any traveler who doesn’t mind a set itinerary.

What is included?

Halong Bay Cruises are notable for certain features. They normally include transport to and from Hanoi, meals, some drinks, accommodation, entertainment and excursions.

It is essentially an all-in-one package deal to see the most renowned parts of Halong Bay. You will most likely be picked up early from Hanoi and then shuttled to Halong Bay.

This transfer normally takes place in a car or shuttle bus, though there are fancier options including things like flying in a seaplane.

Many tours include welcome drinks on board your vessel or traditional junk boat, after which you will begin to tour the bay. Stops include various limestone caves, beaches and traditional floating villages.

Most cruises allow time for kayaking, swimming and other water sports. You will have traditional Vietnamese or International fare for your meals and participate in  several onboard activities such as cooking classes, tai chi, and squid fishing.

When to take?

The high season for international tourism is during the winter months from November to December whereas high season for domestic travel is during the summertime. Months like September, November to March and May are ideal for weather, when you will be able to avoid the wet season.

Fortunately, Halong Bay cruises run throughout the year almost every day of the week. No matter when you are planning your trip to Vietnam, there is sure to be a cruise option available to book.

It can certainly be nice to avoid the prime tourism months when the already packed bay is overflowing. Despite tourist traffic, however, there will always be cruise available.

Going where?

Halong Bay is a relatively small area of Southeast Asia. Cruises generally tour through the Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay regions. The latter is considered a more “off the beaten path” destination.

It is generally touristy anywhere you go in the area, though some beaches and islets are less populated than others. By booking a cruise, you are obliged to venture into the areas preset by the itinerary. These will include various limestones caves, popular beaches and floating villages.

How much?

One of the best parts about a cruise through Halong Bay is that there is a large range of price options available. There are cruises for the budget traveler as well as the luxury tourist and all manner in between.

If you have a pack of rowdy kids by your side or are backpacking on your own, cruises are by far the most economical choice around.

While you can find cruises offered for less than $100, it is generally advisable to go up a bracket and choose between one of the many options offered between $100-150. If you have interest in additional luxury, the price can go as high as you wish.

The Upside and Downside?

Cruises are generally one of the best ways to experience Halong Bay for a quick weekend away. You will see many of the most popular sights, get a taste of local culture. However, there are a few downsides.

You will want to investigate your cruise options so that your boat is safe, reputable and provides everything you require. Because Halong Bay is a prime tourist destination, you are likely to be doing all of the same activities as every other tourist out on the bay.

There are many itineraries to pick from but you have far less flexibility than if you were choosing your own adventure. A cruise is definitely not the best idea for a traveler looking to escape the traditional tourist path.

Check out our Cruise Tours with Emeraude/ L’Azalee Cruise

CHOOSE A NIGHT AT A HOTEL AND DAY CRUISE TOUR

Cruises are not the only option in Halong Bay, nor are they the best option for all. Travelers looking for a more flexible itinerary with a sturdier home base may want to book a hotel instead. To fully take advantage of all that Halong Bay has to offer, a hotel with an additional day cruise can be an ideal choice for people in search of tourism combined with tranquility.

Who should take this option?

Staying in a hotel has many advantages, specifically for certain types of travelers. Business people in town for a conference, tourists attending events in the area, or even seasick passengers had better stay away from cruise ships for too long.

There are several hotels in Halong Bay that cater to the luxurious surroundings and offer a comfortable destination for travelers on the go. Many cruise lines offer one-day tours and some even promote half-day tours, meaning that you can still fit in a bit of tourism despite your already busy schedule.

For those tourists who don’t have much fear for seafaring or are physically incapable of boarding a boat, a hotel will still allow you to enjoy Halong Bay.

What is included?

Not everyone wants to spend their entire trip to Halong Bay at sea. If you have specific reasons for being a landlubber, there are many hotels available. You can book one night in a hotel and a full day cruise separately or sign up for a pre-existing package that includes both.

Hai Au Aviation, for example, pairs their spectacular seaplane service one way from Hanoi to Halong Bay where you will stay for one night in at the Wyndham Legend. You can add a full day tour through L’Azalée Cruise line and have the best of both worlds at your fingertips.

You will be able to catch the hot spots of Halong Bay on a limited time schedule while still enjoying the luxury of a 5-star hotel.

When to do?

Hotels get less influence from weather conditions so you can easily book this form of accommodation all year round. With events and business engagements occurring nonstop, hotels are ready and waiting to receive you and your travel companions.

If you are heading to Halong Bay for tourism, the best months are still in the winter from November to December. However, without the worry of longer stays on board a ship, it is easier to plan.

It is still better to avoid the wetter months if you would like to see the karsts and beaches at their best, but a luxury hotel usually makes up for any weather trials.

Where?

Halong City is a petite metropolis. Waterfront property is sparse and therefore coveted by landowners so that they can boast rooms with a breathtaking view. There are also several full-day or half-day tours through many cruise lines in Halong Bay.

These tours will generally give you a glimpse into the highlights of Halong Bay, including notable limestone caves, perhaps a floating fishing village and an hour or two of swimming or kayaking. It’s a wonderful quick taste of the area for a perfect weekend by the sea.

How Much?

Hotels rates can vary vastly just as cruises do but you can also book them at wonderful prices. Rates can range from $50 per night to $250. Just as with the wide range of cruises out there, hotels will accommodate all manner of traveler.

One-day cruises have the same price. Most decent options will cost around $100 for a full day cruise. When combined with a package deal, this rate may decrease. The more luxuries and perks that you want to add to your package, the more expensive they can become.

All in all, you will most likely spend more money when combining a hotel with a day cruise option than when you book a two-night cruise out at sea. Once again, this allows for more flexibility and independence than a pre-planned cruise itinerary, but comes at a cost.

The Upside and Downside?

One night in a hotel plus one-day cruise through Halong bay will allow you the opportunity to see the many wonders of Halong Bay with the added bonus of flexibility and independence.

Business people and travelers with a specific agenda will find that this option gives them the opportunity to explore Halong Bay on their own terms, with a few hours of guided tourism.

However, you will not be able to see as many of the fantastic spots that you could see in a weekend if you were floating the seas of Halong Bay the whole time. It is generally a more expensive route, though there are many deals that might fit perfectly into your schedule and financial plan. You may miss out on some traditional hot spots due to such a short stay in Halong Bay.

There are amazing adventures ready and waiting for all weekend Halong Bay travelers. Southeast Asia is a veritable Utopia for anyone touring Vietnam, whether it be a few days or a few weeks or months.

Whether it be a night in a hotel overlooking the bay or a cruise floating atop the sea, a weekend in Halong Bay is always a magical experience overall.

While there is an infinite amount of itineraries available to all manner of voyager, these are two foolproof options that a large amount of tourists choose. Visit Hai Au Aviation for more great options.

Ha Long Bay, located in northern Vietnam and accessible from Hanoi, is a must-see destination on your Vietnam travel. Ha Long Bay offers exhilarating experiences, from unforgettable seaplane rides with Hai Au Aviation to kayaking in some of the bay’s most coveted area.

The enchanting activities in this northeast region will make you want to stay longer than you had originally planned, and heighten your sense of wanderlust. 

Shortly after moving to Vietnam, I decided to plan a peaceful, out of the city quick trip.  I chose to visit Ha Long Bay with a quick one-night stop in Hanoi.

To get to Ha Long Bay, you will first need to get to Hanoi.  While there are plentiful options for transportation, I chose to travel by Hai Au’s scenic seaplane tour. Therefore, I could get a good aerial view of the bay.

When you Google “Vietnam,” you’re almost always bound to have pictures of Ha Long Bay come up in your search. These images will fill you with wanderlust beyond belief.  The bay is an absolute must-see, and I wanted to see it from a different angle.  Now that I had my transportation set, I was ready for my big adventure!

DAY 1: ENJOY THE MAGNIFICENT VIEWS

Travel day arrived, and I greeted it with my new favorite, a Vietnamese coffee.  I spent most of the morning, and my hour long Uber ride to the airport, thinking about the fun flight ahead, as well as what I wanted to do with my two short days in Ha Long Bay.  With a few ideas in mind, I decided I would finalize plans upon arrival after I talked with local excursion companies.

Until then, I planned to sit back and enjoy the flight and its magnificent views. (If you ever have the chance to ride on a seaplane, don’t hesitate – book it!  There’s nothing else like it.)  I don’t know about you, but the thrill of a water landing excited me since it was something I’d never done before.

The scenic flight gets you to Ha Long Bay in a quick 45-minutes, plus a 15-minute tour up close and personal around the bay. The Hai Au Aviation staff is friendly and makes your flight a memorable one.  What better way to arrive in style than with a splash landing in radiant turquoise waters?

Hai Au Aviation operates out of Noi Bai International Airport, the closest airport near Ha Long Bay, Vietnam; and offers daily flight times, as well as charter and tour package options.  Worth every penny, you’ll experience the best aviation in Vietnam.

When we landed in the bay, I finalized the activities I wanted to pursue and headed to my accommodation to change, lock in my next day plans and get back out the door to explore. I walked the streets for a while, wandering aimlessly, but taking in every little bit of culture.

Fortunately, I discovered a market where vendors were selling street food including seafood dishes, fresh fruit and Pho. I also purchased a handful of items, which I’d cook for dinner at some point.

All of the scents from the market made me hungry and drove me into the first café I spotted. I noshed on a late lunch of beef stir-fry, a good dish to warm me up on this brisk afternoon.

Not too long after lunch, it started to rain, so it was back to my Air B&B to work the remainder of the evening and prepare for the one-day cruise I booked through Ha Binh Cruises.

You’re probably wondering why I brought my work with me to such a beautiful destination.  After all, I am in Ha Long Bay. The beauty of travel writing is that it allows me to work on the go from all over the world. No complaints here!

DAY 2: ONE DAY CRUISE HALONG BAY

Revived and ready to go after an early morning wake up call and pick up by Ha Binh Cruises, I boarded the bus that would take me to the Tuan Chau Marina where we would set sail. The 6-hour cruise I booked included the things I wanted to see and do: kayaking, floating villages and the Thien Cung Cave.

The first, and maybe my favorite, stop on the cruise was to Thien Cung Cave. Beautifully lit, this cave’s ambiance is one to be unmatched against any other cave I’ve seen. You’ll walk the guided concrete paths while taking in the stunning rock formations and natural beauty that lies within.

My other favorite stop on the cruise was for us to go kayaking. But I didn’t realize it would be within the Ba Hang floating villages!  It was the most fantastic time.  For a small fee, Ha Binh offers the option to self-paddle a kayak or ride in a bamboo boat while having a local lead the way.

I chose to paddle in and out of the boat villages for a closer look at the way these locals live.  While you’re floating by, you notice the simplicity of the floating village lifestyle – and it is fascinating.

The remainder of the afternoon on the boat consisted of a family-style lunch, mingling with other fellow travelers and cruising on the water while taking stock of the main islands as we’d pass by, occasionally stopping to visit a few. 

One of the best parts about traveling is meeting other like-minded individuals from all over the world. In the travel time between destinations throughout the day, I had the chance to converse with many individual.

All shared their personal backgrounds, travel history and reason for this particular visit to Ha Long Bay.  I thoroughly enjoyed hearing about each person’s life journey.

As our day concluded, I realized how much activity I was able to fit into one day. Man, I certainly got a lot done, didn’t I? Somehow, I was starting to get hungry again.  It must have been all that hard work paddling through the bay. I thanked myself for buying goods for dinner at the market the day prior. So by the time the shuttle dropped me off, I was tired from the big day I’d had.

The next morning, with only a few expendable hours before my return seaplane flight, I stopped at the café around the corner from where I was staying.  As it turns out, there were a few English-speaking locals. They were interested in my profession, and we chatted briefly about work over matcha lattes.

The time had come for me to say goodbye to Ha Long Bay. With reluctance for leaving this exquisite city and World Heritage site, I boarded my flight.  At least I would be able to enjoy the extraordinary views one last time before flying back to Hanoi.

The summer is coming and it’s time to sit down and figure out your holiday schedule. With the advent of technology, creating the perfect vacation has become simultaneously easier and harder at the same time.

There are hundreds of destinations, deals, and DIY vacation tools. With one click of your finger, you can book a flight, a hotel, and an adventure package independently or all in one. With any luck, you have already chosen Halong Bay, Vietnam as this year’s fantasy spot.

The emerald seas, junk boat cruises, and seaplane experiences make it an ideal vacation destination for solo travelers, romantic lovebirds, or globe trotting families. Instead of getting caught up in the whirlwind of choices, here is a list of the 8 steps you should take to plan your Halong Bay trip in Vietnam.

HOW TO GET READY FOR YOUR HALONG BAY TRIP?

STEP 1: RESEARCH AND PLAN

The first step in any successful vacation is to research options and start making a plan. While some travelers prefer to venture forth off the cuff, it is usually better to have at least a little lay of the land before dropping into unknown territory.

Depending on where you are coming from and how long you will be in Vietnam, you may need to acquire certain medical vaccinations. Immunizations for diseases such as Hepatitis A, Tetanus and Typhoid are frequently required for foreigners. In addition to medical and legal issues, you will want to research the various options available including travel time, transport options, activities, and food.

STEP 2: CREATE A BUDGET

Vacations are rarely cheap and are certainly never free. However, there are different options for different types of travelers. Are you a backpacker looking to do things on the cheap or plan a honeymoon and in search of luxury romance?

Are you a mother or father of 4 and wanting to combine frugality with a few splurges? Usually, Halong Bay cruise tour includes bus transfer from Hanoi to Halong so you could save some money on transportation.

Halong Bay has opportunities for all kinds of budgets. Packages and cruise deals offer options for tourists looking to lounge in lap luxury as well as winging it in the wild.

Some people prefer to spend money on beautiful accommodation whereas others would rather focus their funds on local cuisine or unique activities. If you prioritize the aspects of your trip, it will be easier to organize how and what to book.

• First, take a look at your overall spending budget.
• Next, highlight the parts of your voyage that are the most important to you.

STEP 3: CHOOSE HOW LONG YOU WILL STAY

Halong Bay is a small but culturally rich area of Vietnam. There are an amazing amount of things to see and do in this renowned Unesco World Heritage Site. From the limestone caves to the floating villages to the beautiful beaches, you could easily spend a week or two exploring this bay alone.

Depending on your budget and amount of vacation time, you may need to consider a more abbreviated or structured voyage. 

As Halong is closest to the major city Hanoi, many travelers choose to include Halong Bay as part of their larger Vietnam trip. You can find many tours from Hanoi which will give you a glimpse of Halong Bay and many of its local landmarks. Consider booking one of the many cruise options so that you can see the highlights of Halong while gliding through the exquisite waters.

From one-day to 2D1N tours, cruises will allow you an opportunity to taste local food, kayak through the karsts, and even squid fishing in the deep blue seas. There is always time for Halong Bay, you just have to decide how much you can spare.

STEP 4: DECIDE HOW TO GET THERE

Since Hanoi is the closest main city to Halong Bay, most people choose to start their travels in Vietnam’s capital. Whether you are planning to spend most of your time in Halong or it is one stop on a larger trip, there are many options for transport between Hanoi and Halong Bay.

Cruise options almost always include a shuttle transfer from your hotel or a central area in Hanoi. It is by far one of the easiest methods to get to Halong Bay. This option will typically take about 4 hours one way.

You could always hire a private car but that would be much pricier than combining transport with a tour. There are also public options such as train or bus. However, these routes will take much longer than a direct shuttle.

The fastest and most luxurious option by far is to hop on a one-of-a-kind seaplane, a unique experience provided by Hai Au Aviation. A seaplane reduces the travel time to Halong Bay by more than half and allows stunning views of the landscape below.

While it is certainly a less frugal mode of transport, it is always one of the most memorable and adventurous. You can book passage on a seaplane to or from Halong Bay or combine it with day cruise as several tour options that Hai Au Aviation offers. No matter which mode of transport you choose, a ride in a seaplane should be top on your list.

STEP 5: BOOK ACCOMMODATION

Considering your budget and allotted travel time is the first thing you need to do before booking your accommodation. Halong Bay has several different options for where to stay from hostels to hotels to classic cruises.

If you are staying in Halong Bay for several days and want to explore everything on your own terms, hostels and hotels can be great for independence.

Hostels are perfect for backpackers or younger travelers looking to spend little money and meet some fun like-minded people. Hotels range from clean and affordable to pricey and decadent.

A Halong Bay trip is never complete, however, without at least one night on a traditional cruise. These boats take you to many spots all along Halong and Bai Tu Long Bay. You will get a chance to try many adventure activities like kayaking and swimming or fishing.

You can see the limestone caves and floating villages so typical to the bay. Companies offer cruises for all types of tourists at all different price points. No matter which kind of accommodation you choose, Halong Bay will not disappoint.

STEP 6: EXPLORE FOOD OPTIONS

Food is one of the most interesting cultural elements to any vacation. Visiting Vietnam opens up a whole new world of culinary delights. An important thing to research before heading to Halong Bay is to find out what types of food are most unique to local culture.

It is an amazing opportunity to experience something truly delicious and authentic. It is also important to make sure that there are food options for you. In today’s climate of allergies, diets, and culinary values, many people have to prepare for their trips in particular ways.

Halong Bay is of course known for delectable seafood and traditional Vietnamese fare. Dishes such as sea snails and squid-sausages are local delicacies and must-tries when visiting Halong.

If you are a vegan or are allergic to seafood, for example, Halong Bay has international restaurants and many cruise ships will provide for alternate meals, but you want to make sure to investigate and notify before booking anything.

STEP 7: CHECK THE WEATHER

The weather and the season are important factors no matter where you plan on traveling. This will dictate the type of clothes you pack and what other products you might want to include in your suitcase like mosquito repellent, sunscreen or an umbrella.

The high season for inbound tourism in Halong Bay is winter time, from November to December. Domestic tourism is down and travelers from colder climates are looking for an escape from the deep chill.

Happily, Halong Bay still enjoys warm and temperate weather during these months. It’s less humid and cool at night so you can still engage in watersports but may need to pack some layers for the evenings.

The summer months are high for domestic tourism which means you will be rubbing shoulders with more native Vietnamese but still dealing with tourism traffic and longer lines.

During this time of year, the heat is most certainly on, so you will want to bring a lot of suntan lotion and make sure to invest in as many water activities as possible: swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, cruising are all great ways to avoid the heat.

STEP 8: INVESTIGATE LOCAL ACTIVITIES

No matter how you choose to get to Halong Bay, how long you stay or how much money you have, the main reason to go to this gorgeous part of the world is to experience everything it has to offer.

Even if your main agenda is lounging on a pristine beach and staring out at the sea with a cocktail in your hand, it’s worth researching exactly which beaches are the best for silence and solitude versus water sports and socializing. And for most Halong Bay tourists, there are far too many wonderful activities to choose from.

Limestone caves are a pinnacle of Halong Bay tourism and a must-see when exploring the bay. These natural masterpieces are beautiful caves with glittering walls and crystalline pools. The floating villages are home to Halong Bay locals who spend their lives fishing at sea.

Climbing Bai Tu Mountain is a wonderful way of seeing the spectacular scenery below. The kayaks, canoes, cruises, and seaplanes are all necessary activities to explore the stunning waters of the bay. Once again, you will need to prioritize the activities best for you and your travel companions so as to optimize the time you will have.

Finally, press the button and book your trip.

Every tale begins with an agenda, whether set in stone or open to interpretation. A Halong Bay holiday is a beautiful story just waiting to be told. If you want to sift through all of the websites and offers, from airplanes to accommodation, consider the best ways to plan your next exotic vacation.

Research your options and prioritize your plans. Settle on a budget and investigate local culture and customs. Finally, press the button and book your trip. From seaplanes and cruises to sea snails and beaches, these are the 7 steps to planning your Halong Bay trip in Vietnam.

Halong Bay has so much to offer when you come for a visit that you’ll want to know all the best places to check out for all the activities that you want to enjoy.

Let’s go over several of the fun activities you can take part in during your stay and the best places to do them. Don’t miss out on anything during your trip. This easy to follow guide is just all Halong Bay places for you to do your trip planning.

TOP SPOTS FOR SWIMMING AND WATER ACTIVITIES

Cat Ong Island

There are numerous spots around Halong Bay that are perfect for swimming and other water activities. One of the beaches that are off the beaten path is on Cat Ong which is a smaller island by Cat Ba.

It’s a bit more secluded as it features only the Ocean Tours resort. On this sandy beach, you’ll find plenty of seashells and the ability to get back to nature.  The water is the perfect temperature and just right for swimming. Plus, the resort offers kayaks to explore the area.

Titop Island

Ti Top Island is another beach available in the bay where you can enjoy swimming and other water activities. This small beach offers a nice place to get in the water along with all the other great activities available in the area, but you may find that this area can be rather crowded as many of the tours stop here. Titop Island is often included in 2D1N cruise tour.

Lan Ha Bay

Lan Ha Bay is another spot with beautiful beaches that you’ll want to spend all day at playing in the calm and emerald clear waters. This is a great place to go swimming or play under the waves while scuba diving with rented equipment.

No matter if you decide to sunbathe or relax in the water, this is one of the best places to do that in Halong Bay. However, to visit Lan Ha Bay, you have to arrange the transport and accommodation on your own because tours to Lan Ha are not so popular.

Cat Ba Island

You can’t go wrong in visiting Cat Ba Island for swimming and other water activities. There are several beaches on the island where you can get your water adventures started.

Imagine being able to sunbathe on a beautiful white sandy beach while getting to see an exquisite backdrop of mountain cliffs rising out of the water. Cat Ba  Island is also famous for adventurous activities such as: climbing to Hon Nghieng, trekking in the national park, deep water solo (DWS),…

TOP SPOTS FOR LOCAL CULTURE

If you’re looking to experience local culture, there are a few areas you can check out during your trip to Halong Bay.  One of the first spots that you should consider visiting is one of the floating villages that dot Halong Bay.

You can take a trip out to several of these villages to see how the villagers go about their daily lives and experience what this type of lifestyle is like.  Many of these villages earn a living by fishing and by having visitors come to see what life is like on a floating city.

Another aspect of local culture that can help to connect you to the spirit of Vietnam is visiting one of the many historic Buddhist temples around Halong Bay. One excellent choice is Cua Ong Temple.

This can be a very popular tourist destination as it offers a majestic temple with a natural backdrop that is completely breathtaking. If you’re lucky enough to visit during the spring, you may even get to experience a festival where you can witness many culturally significant events.

TOP SPOTS FOR ENTERTAINMENT

Sun World Halong Park 

One of the top spots for entertainment while visiting Halong Bay is Sun World Ha Long Park. This amusement park is sure to attract visitors seeking entertainment from children to those that are young-at-heart.

There is a rollercoaster, arcade filled with games, Zen garden, and more to be explored. This top spot is so wonderful that it just so happens to be featured in the sightseeing section, as well.

The entrance fee is 300.000VNĐ/ adult.

Quang Ninh Museum

If you’re looking for more educational entertainment in Halong Bay, you can’t go wrong with a visit to the Quang Ninh Museum. Visitors to this museum rave about the modern displays that thoroughly discuss their chosen topic, and most can’t get over how amazingly fun the whole museum happens to be.

You can find information on natural history, Vietnam, and so many more topics. Just be sure that you check the time before visiting as they do close during the middle of the day for lunch.

Opening time: 8:00- 11:30 am; 1:30 – 5:00 pm (from Tuesday to Sunday)

Price: 10.000 – 30.000 VNĐ/person

Carnaval Halong

Depending on the time of your trip, you’re going to want to include time for the local carnival.  Carnaval Halong is a huge draw for many visitors from around the area to around the world.

You won’t want to miss the opening ceremony and the different performances that can be seen around you on the street and the stage. The whole Carnaval Halong wouldn’t be complete without some eye-popping fireworks to view in the night sky. Be ready to be immersed in fun.

The Carnaval is usually held in April – May each year.

TOP SPOTS FOR SIGHTSEEING FROM HANOI TO HALONG BAY

Titop Island

Ti Top Island is not only on the list for swimming, but it also offers a splendid 360-degree view of the bay thanks to the lookout platform. Keep in mind that this platform is reached by climbing 400 stairs, so be ready for a workout to earn that view.

Plus, the path is a bit narrow and steep, so be sure that you take your time as you climb. Once you arrive at the top of the platform and can look around, you’ll be glad that you persevered through all of those steps.

This is one stop that you’ll want to use your camera, and if it has panoramic picture taking features, you’re going to have one amazing picture to show off to your friends and family. 

Queen Cable Car

Sun World Ha Long Park is another great destination when you’re looking for sightseeing in Halong Bay.

The cable car and Ferris wheel available at this amusement park is another excellent way to get a bird’s eye view of the area, and this is perfect for those members of your group that probably won’t be able to make it up the 400 or so stairs at Ti Top Island.  This is a great experience during the day or at night.

The opening hour is 3:00 – 8:00 p.m on weekdays and 10:00 – 8:00 pm on weekend.

Sightseeing by Seaplane

A final idea when it comes to the top spots for sightseeing in Halong Bay is by taking a tour that will really give you the bird’s eye experience of your lifetime. Experiencing a seaplane tour will give you an amazing day.

You’ll be able to ride in a seaplane which earns you instant bragging rights all on its own, but you’ll also get a chance to see all over the bay area from the seat of the plane.

This provides yet another perfect picture taking the opportunity during your stay. You might even run out of room on your SD card with all of the gorgeous pictures you will take.

The price is $99/ person for scenic flight and from $175/ person for one-way flight.

TOP SPOTS FOR CAVING

There are a huge number of caves in Halong Bay that deserve your attention during your vacation to the area. One of the top caves is the Virgin Cave, where legend has it that a beautiful and young, but very poor fisherman’s daughter fled to this cave to escape being made to marry a man greatly her senior that held debts over the family’s head.

This legend has it that she turned to stone during her exile to his cave. Some say that you can still hear her screaming when the wind blows around the cliffs.

Sung Sot cave is another great spot to visit during your stay. This cave earned its name as it’s rather amazing to come across such huge spaces after being in very narrow paths to get to it. The area around this grotto is gorgeous. It is lush with native trees and foliage and will provide shade on your way into the cave.

No matter which cave you visit, you’re going to want to try to experience cave dining.  Many of the tour groups will offer this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity where you’re able to sit inside of one of the beautiful caves along Halong Bay and enjoy a nice meal. It’s the perfect way to relax after a day of exploring.

TOP SPOTS FOR HIKING AND ADVENTURES

Cat Ba Island

Halong Bay isn’t with its own hiking and adventures ready for those that are a little more into extreme sports than sitting on the beach sunbathing all day long. One of the best places to hike in this area is on Cat Ba Island.

Not only does this island offer great beaches, but the hiking here is perfect. You can explore all of the natural beauty, and may even spot some of the resident wildlife that calls this area home. Better make sure that you’ve brought your hiking boots along for your journey.

Lan Ha Bay

You can even go rock climbing at Lan Ha Bay. Not only does it offer a picture-perfect beach setting for your time visiting the area, but you can practice your rock climbing skills in the area, as well. This is sure to give you a lovely view of the area while helping you get some adventure in your life.

Bai Tho Mountain

Mountain climbing is another adventure experience that you won’t want to miss while visiting the area. Bai Tho Mountain is 200m height.

You’ll be able to climb up to the top of the mountain to see some of the best natural views available of the area, it takes about 30 minutes. Bai Tho Mountain is a perfect spot for watching sunrise and sunset.

To get to Bai Tho Mountain, you could follow Hang Noi street until reaching the Nam Phong cafe. From here, you will need to ask local for the direction because it will be a little complex. Don’t worry, they are all very friendly and willing to help.

Ban Sen Island

One final area to hike while visiting the Halong Bay area is Ban Sen Island which takes about an hour to get there by cano.

This island is very thickly forested, and easy to feel as though you’ve stepped back in time when the world was still more natural than human-made.

This is a slice of paradise for hikers with the very peaceful experience it provides. You can even hire a guide that can tell you all about this area. This is one thing to do if you’re looking to get away from it all.

TOP SPOTS FOR NIGHTLIFE

In Halong Bay itself, there are two different bars that you can enjoy the nightlife at during your vacation. There’s the Whisky Gallery Bar where you can find plenty of entertainment with a singer or two on staff, attentive staff and great food and drinks.

You can also visit Funky Bar, and soak up the fun ambiance. You can expect to get some great food at decent prices and dance the night away with the great music.

Not your typical nightlife, but if you find that you’re looking for something to do at night, try to take one of the cruises that offer night squid fishing. This is a fun experience that you’ll never get anywhere else.

Depending on when you travel to the area, you may be just in time for squid season where you can see many squids surrounding the boats. Your tour will typically offer you the fishing gear you need, and then, you can catch some squid.  Often, the squids you catch will then be prepared into meals.

TOP SPOTS FOR SHOPPING

Pearl Farm

There are a few great places to go shopping while in Halong Bay. One of the most unique experiences you can have in this area is when you visit a pearl farm. These farms help to cultivate the pearls that are found in the oysters by painstakingly seeding them and allowing the pearls to grow.

This fascinating process is one that you’re able to view by visiting a pearl farm at a floating village. You can even purchase pearls to take home with you. There are many luxury jewelries for you to take home as souvenirs.

Bai Chay Commercial Central and Halong Night Market

You’ll also want to visit the Bai Chay Commercial Center and the Halong Night Market which offers a lot of vendors for finding all of your trinkets and souvenirs to take home with you.

Most of goods selling here are from China with cheap price and you will need to bargain if you really want to buy anything.

These Halong Bay places to visit should be on the top of your list. You’ll have so much to do on your itinerary that it can be hard to decide which you want to do first! 

Make a list of all of the things you and your family and friends want to experience while on your vacation to Halong Bay to make sure that everyone gets a chance to do what he or she has been dreaming about doing.

It’s time to start checking items off of your bucket list in the upcoming year.  While taking your trip to Vietnam in 2019, there are plenty of Halong Bay activities that you can do that will perfect for your bucket list of everything you want to do in your life.

There’s plenty of natural beauty to leave you awestruck whether you’re cruising around the bay in an authentic Chinese Junk or flying high in the sky on an honest-to-goodness seaplane.

There are plenty of educational experiences that will continue to widen your horizons from being able to visit gorgeous temples to visiting a delightful museum. Adventure and excitement await you on your next trip to Vietnam’s jewel, Halong Bay.

ENJOY SUNWORLD HALONG PARK

SunWorld Halong Bay Park just recently opened, and this combination theme and water park are still being built, but there’s already plenty of fun waiting to be had on your visit. This is great for all ages with the games, rides, and the overall experience.

One experience that’s highly recommended is the beautiful Zen garden that’s ready for a peaceful and relaxing day.  Ticket prices and crowds will probably differ based on the part of the year of your visit, and how far along the redevelopment phase happens to be.

The entrance fee of Halong Park includes Sunwheel, Queen Cable, and Zen Garden is 300.000VNĐ (approximately $13.5)

SunWheel

The SunWheel is available in SunWorld Halong Park, but it’s so special that it deserves to earn its own particular slot on this list of must see activities. The SunWheel offers a stunning visual view of Halong Bay.

The height of this Ferris wheel is what makes it so wonderful as you can see for miles. With an impressive height, up to 215m over sea level, the Sun Wheel is one of the largest rotation in Vietnam, the rest is located in the Asia Park (Da Nang City).

You may want to ride this amazing wheel twice to get the full effect of the view.  Try riding it once during the day where you’re really able to see all around you, and then ride it again at night where the dark night sky is the perfect backdrop to the lights of the area.  Romance will definitely be in the air for this adventure.

Queen Cable Cab

The Queen Cable Cab is another attraction within SunWorld Halong Bay Park that shouldn’t just be lumped in with the theme park. It’s a major attraction that will have you grabbing your camera and saying wow.

The view from the cable car is going to be amazing as you travel along the cable, and can’t be mimicked by any other type of experience. Children will love the chance to ride in such a unique vehicle while riding in the sky. All ages will be fans of this experience.

KAYAKING AND CANOEING THE DAY AWAY

You cannot visit one of the most beautiful bays in the world, Halong Bay, without taking some time to enjoy the water.  You’ll be able to have the opportunity to explore the bay on a kayak or bamboo canoe if you have interest in being able to paddle around finding the most picturesque views of the surrounding area.

You’re going to want to make sure that you bring along a waterproof disposable camera that you can put around your neck to ensure that you get the best shots of your amazing water journey.

There are several ways that you can enjoy this activity during your holiday to the area.  Many of the different tours and cruises offer this as an included activity that you can enjoy the rest of your tour group during your package.

You can also book these activities as an all-day adventure rather than just as an add-on to another package. You’ll be under the watchful eye of your tour operator, so you can feel comfortable in exploring the surrounding area. However, the government has just announced Kayaking is banned in Halong Bay due to environment polluted.

WATER SPORTS: SCUBA DIVING, SNORKELING, and more in LAN HA BAY

The water fun doesn’t have to end with Halong Bay activities that take place on the water, but you can also go into the water. Lan Ha Bay is a picturesque area that offers pristine beaches to play the day away during a fun tour or just getting to swim.

One of the fun companies that offer the kayaking experience also has other adventures available for you to enjoy.

Scuba-diving in Lan Ha Bay, Halong Bay, and other bodies of water in the surrounding area is going to be some of the best scuba-diving you’ve done in your life. The beautiful waters and abundance of wildlife are sure to make this one of your favorite dive sites in your entire life.

A quick Google search of images gives you just a glimpse of what you can expect. Snorkeling is just right for families that want to make a splash, but not everyone is ready for full-blown scuba-diving.

Snorkeling is a fun way to view under the water to see the wildlife and makes for a great teachable moment for the importance of taking care of the world’s water.

For the really adventurous wanting to try something new, you may want to try out paddle boarding to see what the fuss is all about. This can be a very fun way to see the bay and play in the sunshine.

SIGHTSEEING WITH SEAPLANES

Being out on the water is not for everyone, and maybe you’d prefer to enjoy the view of the bay from the comfort of a window seat in a plane. There could be nothing more fun and adventurous than getting to a 25-minute ride in seaplane for a fun up-in-the-air tour of Halong Bay.

You’ll get a unique view of the area that’s unparallel from any other activity that you can enjoy. When you combine that unique view with the excitement of being able to ride in a real seaplane with a water landing it’s a spectacular jewel to place in your vacation crown. This is a memory that cannot be topped by the sheer uniqueness it adds to your trip.

HIKING THE COUNTRYSIDE

Tours aren’t just available to explore the bay waters and surrounding bodies of water. You can also get hiking tours that will allow you to trek around the countryside getting to see the beauty of the land in Cat Ba National Park.

You can see native animals, meet people, and explore. Plus, you can add in some fun activities while you’re exploring, such as trying traditional Vietnamese cuisine or getting to play in the water of the Bay which happens to be a perfect way to cool off after your journeys.

FLOATING VILLAGE TOUR

If you’re looking for a bit of insight into a simpler life and time, then, taking one of the tours to a floating village is a must see for you. These floating villages are homes that are moored together or close to each other among the islands in the waters of the bay.

The people that live in these villages are fishermen, and often, they have some items for sale. If you’re looking for a peaceful and relaxing boat ride, this may be just what you need for your time in Halong Bay. This is usually included in itinerary if you book a cruise for at least 2D1N.

VISITING PEARL FARM

It’s said that Halong Bay’s islands were created by a mighty dragon that adorned the water by spitting out jewels or so the legend says. This legend is so poetic and helps to allude to some of the treasures that can be found in the bay.

A floating village called the Pearl Farm is a must visit the site for anyone that loves jewelry or the miracle that nature can create such beauty out of nothing more than sand, a piece of the mantle, or pig toe.

You’re able to visit the pearl farm to learn how to produce the pearls, see the farm, visit the museum, and even buy a pearl or two to take home.

CLIMBING BAI THO MOUNTAIN

For the more adventurous and active tourists looking to burn some energy and explore the natural world in the area, there is the opportunity to climb Bai Tho Mountain. This climb is quite easy, but it can get steep in some spots on misty days.

You may wonder why to bother if it’s a rough climb, but the reward at the end of the hike is the amazing view of Halong Bay from the top of the mountain, especially for sunrise and sunset. Yet another camera moment that will take your friends’ breaths away when you get home.