Ha Long Bay: The Complete Guide

For many, the seascape of Ha Long Bay epitomizes Vietnam. Cruises navigate the emerald green waters amidst thousands of rugged islands and islets, pausing at spectacular caves where visitors can explore impressive, centuries-old formations. Ha Long Bay’s enchanting beauty has made it a must-visit destination in the country, yet it’s still possible to discover secluded corners to enjoy in peace.

History of Ha Long Bay

Early History of Ha Long

Ha Long’s history dates back thousands of years, with early human settlements found in the region. Archaeological discoveries have revealed stone tools and pottery from ancient civilizations, indicating a rich cultural heritage.

Ha Long During the Feudal Period

During the feudal period, Ha Long was strategically important due to its location along the coast. It served as a crucial defense point against invasions, with various Vietnamese dynasties building fortifications and naval bases in the area.

Ha Long Under French Colonial Rule

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Ha Long came under French colonial rule. The French were instrumental in developing the area, establishing coal mines and ports. They also recognized the natural beauty of Ha Long Bay, promoting it as a tourist destination.

Ha Long in the 20th Century

The 20th century saw significant changes in Ha Long. During the Vietnam War, the bay was heavily bombed, impacting both its natural environment and local communities. Following the war, efforts were made to rebuild and promote Ha Long as a major tourist destination.

Modern Ha Long

Today, Ha Long is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity. The bay attracts millions of visitors each year, drawn to its emerald waters, dramatic limestone formations, and vibrant cultural experiences. The city of Ha Long has also grown, becoming an important economic and tourism hub in northern Vietnam.

Visiting Ha Long Bay for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Ha Long Bay on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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This complete guide to Ha Long Bay not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Ha Long Bay and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Me Cung Cave (Maze Cave)

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Ji-Elle

Halong Bay, a renowned tourist destination in Vietnam, never ceases to amaze visitors with its captivating natural wonders. Travelers flock here to marvel at the myriad of shimmering caves and islands dotting the area. Recognized as a World Heritage site, Halong Bay is not only a magnet for tourists but also a focal point for scientists studying its geological and…

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Location: Mê Cung, Hà Khánh, Thành phố Hạ Long, Quảng Ninh, Vietnam | Distance: 4.9km

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Visiting Me Cung Cave (Maze Cave)

Here is a complete selection of hotel options in Ha Long Bay . Feel free to review each one and choose the stay that best suits your needs.

Quang Ninh Museum

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Hoangkid

Located on the October 30 Square along Tran Quoc Nghien Road with a panoramic view of Ha Long Bay, the Quang Ninh Museum stands out as an architectural marvel. Designed by the Spanish architect Salvador Perez Arroyo, the museum's structure is inspired by a lump of coal, reflecting the predominant mineral resource of Quang Ninh province. The building's exterior, resembling…

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Location: Bảo tàng Quảng Ninh, Trần Quốc Nghiễn, Bạch Đằng, Thành phố Hạ Long, Quảng Ninh, Vietnam | Distance: 6.0km

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Visiting Quang Ninh Museum

Click here to read our blog about Choosing a Ha Long Bay Cruise?

A day trip from Ha Long Bay offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Ha Long Bay provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary.

Thien Cung Cave (Heavenly Cave)

CC BY-SA 2.0 / xiquinhosilva

Thien Cung Cave, also known as Heavenly Palace Cave, is nestled on Dau Go Island in the southwest of Ha Long Bay, roughly 4km from Tuan Chau Harbor. Standing 25 meters above sea level, this cave is renowned for its breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites formed over millennia. Discovered in 1993 by fishermen seeking shelter from a storm, Thien Cung Cave…

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Location: Hạ Long, Cao Xanh, Đầu Gỗ Động Thiên Cung | Distance: 7.1km

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Visiting Thien Cung Cave (Heavenly Cave)

Trong Mai (Fight Cock) Islet

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Nguyễn Thanh Quang

Halong Bay, a renowned natural wonder of Vietnam, draws millions each year with its stunning landscape. Among its myriad of limestone formations, Trong Mai Islet, also known as the "Fighting Cock Islet" or "Kissing Rocks," is particularly noteworthy. This pair of towering stones resembles a rooster and hen leaning towards each other, symbolizing love and companionship. This article delves into…

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Location: Hòn Trống Mái Hạ Long, Hòn Trống Mái | Distance: 9.2km

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Visiting Trong Mai (Fight Cock) Islet

Ti Top (Titov) Island

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Greg Willis

Ti Top Island, located at the core of Halong Bay and just 8 kilometers southeast of the Bai Chay Tourist Area, may be small with its 3.7 hectares, but it stands out as one of the most visually stunning islands in the bay and is especially popular with visitors. It ranks among the top 20 tourist spots in the Halong…

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Location: Ti Top Island | Distance: 13.0km

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Visiting Ti Top (Titov) Island

Luon Cave

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Jakub Hałun

Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a mesmerizing destination for tourists who are captivated by its grandeur. Often associated with Halong Bay are the countless limestone islets of various sizes and the mysterious world of glittering caves adorned with breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites. Among these natural wonders, Luon Cave stands out as a distinctive and equally mesmerizing site…

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Location: Hang Luồn Cát Hải | Distance: 14.0km

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Visiting Luon Cave

Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave)

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Richard Mortel

Sung Sot Cave, the largest and one of the most famous caves in Halong Bay, is also among its most frequently visited attractions. If you've had a chance to read our post about Halong Bay's must-see caves, you'll understand why we're so captivated by these stunning natural wonders. In fact, we believe some of these caves are so spectacular that…

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Location: Sung Sot Cave Ha Long Bay, Halong City Quảng Ninh | Price: Entrance ticket: $13 – $33/pax (290.000 – 790.000VND/pax); Boat ticket: $8/pax (200.000 VND/pax). | Distance: 15.0km

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Visiting Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave)

Cat Ba Island

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Jakub Hałun

Cat Ba Island, the largest within the 367-island Cat Ba Archipelago, covers an impressive 262.41 square kilometers and forms the southeastern edge of Lan Ha Bay in Northern Vietnam. Known for its dramatic and rugged features reminiscent of the famed Ha Long Bay, Cat Ba Island and its surrounding archipelago have been recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 2004.…

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Location: Cát Bà Island, Trân Châu, Cát Hải, Hai Phong, Vietnam | Distance: 19.6km

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Visiting Cat Ba Island

Cat Ba National Park

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Christophe95

Cat Ba National Park, nestled on the northeastern coast of Vietnam, spans across Cat Ba Island, the largest within the 367-island Bat Ba Archipelago. The park extends over 102 square miles (263 sq km), including 35 square miles (90 sq km) of inshore waters. This expansive park makes up the majority of the island's area. The terrain is dominated by…

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Location: Cát Bà, Cat Ba National Park, Trân Châu, Cát Hải, Hai Phong, Vietnam | Distance: 19.6km

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Visiting Cat Ba National Park

Bai Tu Long Bay

Public Domain / AnhTuan Le

Bai Tu Long Bay, positioned about 30km east of Vietnam's renowned Ha Long Bay, garners fewer visitors due to its more remote location and the limited number of accessible caves. However, the effort to reach Bai Tu Long Bay is amply rewarded with a tranquil experience, allowing visitors more time to kayak and swim among the stunning rock formations that…

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Visiting Bai Tu Long Bay

Hospital Cave

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Sitoo

On Cat Ba Island in Halong Bay, Vietnam, you might expect the wilderness to be home to bears and other forest-dwelling creatures. However, the first thing that might come to mind here is quite unexpected—a hospital. Nestled within one of the large limestone caves of the island is what has become known as Hospital Cave. Although no longer in operation,…

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Location: Hospital Cave, Trân Châu, Cát Hải, Hai Phong, Vietnam | Distance: 22.5km

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Visiting Hospital Cave

Lan Ha Bay

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Christophe95

Millions of visitors from around the globe are drawn to the legendary beauty of Halong Bay, a famed UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in the Gulf of Tonkin. Unbeknownst to many, this region encompasses not just Halong Bay but also Bai Tu Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay, all sharing the dramatic karst landscapes and limestone cliffs characteristic of the…

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Location: Lan Ha Bay, Vietnam | Distance: 24.1km

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Visiting Lan Ha Bay

Cai Beo Floating Fishing Village

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Superbass

When you explore Cai Beo Fishing Village, you're treated to a splendid fusion of nature and history. Nestled on the waters of Hai Phong City, just 2km from the center of Cat Ba, the village offers a serene glimpse into the lives of the local people. As you wander through this peaceful locale, where homes float gently on the water…

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Location: Cai Beo Floating Village, Cái Bèo, Cat Ba, Cát Hải, Hai Phong, Vietnam | Distance: 27.3km

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Visiting Cai Beo Floating Fishing Village

Cannon Fort

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Christophe95

Visiting Cannon Fort on Cat Ba Island is highly recommended for those interested in history, nature, and spectacular views. This site not only provides insights into Vietnam's tumultuous past but also offers a physical challenge with a rewarding hike that showcases the island's natural beauty. At the summit, visitors are treated to extraordinary views overlooking the town, harbor, and the…

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Location: Cannon Fort, Cat Ba, Cát Hải, Hai Phong, Vietnam | Distance: 27.8km

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Visiting Cannon Fort

Hanoi

Founded over 1000 years ago, Vietnam’s capital city, Hanoi, is steeped in history, with the streets of its winding Old Quarter dating back to the 14th century. Strolling through these tree-lined lanes and past weathered colonial facades feels like stepping back in time. Yet, modern-day Hanoi is far more than its historical roots. The ancient city is alive with modern…

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Visiting Hanoi

Ninh Binh (Tam Coc)

Visiting Ninh Binh in Vietnam offers travelers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical significance. Often referred to as the "Ha Long Bay on land," Ninh Binh features stunning limestone karsts rising dramatically from emerald-green rice paddies and winding rivers. One of the highlights is a boat trip through the Tam Coc or Trang An landscapes, where…

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Visiting Ninh Binh (Tam Coc)