Bai Tu Long Bay

Beach in Ha 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 dot the seascape in imaginative shapes. Several larger islands within the bay house forest reserves that protect rare species, and the surrounding waters are home to dugongs.

Overview of Bai Tu Long Bay

According to local legend, Ha Long Bay was the settling ground of a mighty dragon mother sent to aid the Vietnamese in defending their land against invaders. Bai Tu Long Bay is believed to be where her offspring descended. The name “Bai Tu Long” translates to ‘paying homage to the dragon’s children.’

Comprising hundreds of islands and islets, Bai Tu Long Bay offers both popular tourist spots and untouched areas unknown to most outsiders. This bay features a diverse range of ecosystems including mangroves, schist islands, coral reefs, and tropical forests. The landscape of Bai Tu Long mirrors that of Ha Long Bay, appearing more as an extension rather than merely a neighbor. Here, the limestone karsts loom taller, the clusters denser, and the tourist crowds sparser, contributing to a sense of undiscovered wonder that allows visitors to fully engage with the serene environment.

Exploring Bai Tu Long Bay

The quintessential way to experience Bai Tu Long Bay is on a traditional wooden junk boat tour. Many cruise operators provide an enriched experience with various activities designed to showcase the best of the bay.

Must-Visit Attractions in Bai Tu Long Bay

Vung Vieng Fishing Village: A visit to this village offers a deep dive into the local culture, with insights into the lives of the fishing families. Exploring by kayak is highly recommended, as it provides a peaceful and personal way to navigate the calm waters.
Caves: Bai Tu Long is also known for its caves, similar to those in Ha Long Bay. Each cave offers a mesmerizing experience with its stalactites and stalagmites illuminated by natural light. Thien Canh Son Cave is a standout, accessible via a hidden path beneath the lush forest canopy.
Beaches: The beaches of Bai Tu Long may rival those of Ha Long Bay, with stunning white sands, emerald waters, and dramatic backdrops of limestone karsts.

Exploring Bai Tu Long Bay offers a more secluded alternative to Ha Long Bay, with its pristine natural beauty and immersive cultural experiences, making it a rewarding destination for those willing to venture off the beaten path.

The Bai Tu Long Bay appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Ha Long Bay!

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