Halong Bay: How To Make The Most Of Your Time

Surrounded by thousands of limestone karsts, Halong Bay continues to enchant visitors with its stunning beauty, making it a truly unique destination. When you arrive in Halong Bay, you will immerse yourself in a world of extraordinary aquatic wonders.

Exciting Water Sports

The expansive waters of Halong Bay offer an array of exhilarating water sports, including kayaking, swimming, and jet skiing. Adventure seekers can experience the thrill of personal watercraft on Bai Chay or Tuan Chau beach, where the speed of water motors guarantees an adrenaline rush. For a different perspective, try parachute-pulled canoeing, which allows you to soar high above and take in the breathtaking views of the bay's remarkable scenery.

Photo: bestpricetravel.com

For those who prefer a more tranquil experience, kayaking offers the chance to explore at your own pace. One of the most memorable moments occurs when you paddle into one of the bay's enchanting caves. The further you go, the cooler and darker it becomes, with stunning stalactites hanging overhead. Navigating these caves can be a unique adventure, sometimes requiring a bit of ducking to avoid hitting your head.

Halong also boasts a vibrant underwater ecosystem, making it an excellent location for snorkeling and scuba diving. The best months for diving are from April to December, when water temperatures hover between 26-29 degrees Celsius. Gear up with a scuba mask, fins, and tank, and dive into an underwater paradise filled with colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life. Spot thousands of stunning corals, such as sun mushroom and leather corals, along with vibrant fish species like the sergeant major and Clark’s anemone fish. Certified and amiable dive instructors are available to ensure a safe and unforgettable experience.

Photo: lanhabaycruise.com

The soft sandy beaches, surrounded by swaying coconut palms, provide ideal spots for sunbathing and relaxation as well as for engaging in lively sports activities, such as beach volleyball and soccer. In addition to friendly matches, you might catch international competitions like the Asian Women’s Beach Volleyball Championships, which draw both local spectators and travelers alike.

Overnight on Luxurious Junks

Travelers on a budget often opt for sightseeing tours on mid-sized boats, which typically take them to popular grottoes such as Thien Cung, Dau Go, and Sung Sot for approximately four hours. In contrast, Halong Cruise offers a taste of luxury and unparalleled experiences.

Usually, a Halong Cruise lasts for 2 days and 1 night or 3 days and 2 nights, with prices ranging from $120 to $350 per person, depending on accommodation type, luxury level of the junk, and duration of the trip.

Photo by @Heritage Cruise

The luxurious junk serves as floating accommodation, offering a perfect blend of upscale hotel amenities and convenient transportation. Guests can marvel at the beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site while enjoying their morning coffee on the terrace or sunbathing on the top deck.

Besides visiting the highlights of Halong Bay, the cruise includes various exciting activities, such as scuba diving, kayaking, and Vietnamese cooking classes. Early risers can participate in morning Tai Chi sessions on the deck to greet the day with tranquility.

Floating Fishing Villages

Famous for its breathtaking scenery, Halong Bay is also rich in cultural experiences, particularly its floating fishing villages. In recent years, visiting villages like Vong Vieng and Cua Van has become increasingly popular among tourists.

Residents in these villages live in floating houses and make their living primarily through fishing and aquaculture. They typically fish in the morning and sell their catches to larger boats, which then transport the goods to the mainland. As you tour around Halong Bay, keep an eye out for local floating markets where you can purchase fresh produce, rice, and fish.

Photo: halongcruisecenter.com

To delve deeper into the local lifestyle, visitors can tour fish cultivation areas. For a truly immersive experience, you might try a homestay and partake in the daily life of local fishermen, such as rowing boats, casting nets, and listening to folk songs by night. Additionally, handmade souvenirs crafted from shells and pearls by the villagers are available for purchase, ensuring you bring home a piece of Halong's charm. Despite potential language barriers, you will find the welcoming spirit of the locals makes you feel right at home.