Call Us: +1 315 998 1998
Vietnam - Getting to know Halong Bay
rnHalong Bay looks like those cinematic images of coastal Asia that hover in the collective subconscious - traditional junks sailing past craggy shorelines, as apricot sunsets blaze into the ocean. You may blame these on the Bond films, but Halong Bay is the coastline that started it all. Here you can cruise the waters in a luxury junk (there are some you can have all to yourself - perfect for a honeymoon treat), explore the bays by kayak, and relax on tiny island beaches before dining in style aboard your boat.
rnVietnam Halong Bay Travel Guide
rnOne of the world’s ‘natural wonders’, and an absolute must-do on any first-time holiday in Vietnam, Halong Bay (also spelt Ha Long) is an area of more than 1,000 towering limestone karsts, winding tributaries and sub-tropical islands of various sizes. It’s slowly modernizing, but the Bay’s UNESCO status makes sure it stays well protected. The area plays host to a huge diversity of ecosystems, including offshore coral reefs, freshwater swamp forests, mangrove forests, small freshwater lakes, and sandy beaches.
rnWhat to do in Halong bay
rnCruise the Bay on a traditional junk. Throughout much of the year (weather & season permitting!) overnight junk journeys give you the chance to sunbathe, swim and snorkel. You can be sure to stop at caves, deserted bays, remote islets and hidden lagoons. If you fancy taking things even easier, just stretch out on the sundeck, sip a cocktail and soak up the magic.
rnIsland hop. Folklore says that dragons descended from the heavens to help locals by spitting jewels and jade into the sea, forming a natural fortress against invaders - the islands that you see today. Several of these boast beautiful grottos and huge caves that you can explore during your tour of the bay.
rnEfforts are being made to minimise the environmental impact on the bay. While the number of junks has increased in recent years, and pollution levels in some areas are causing concern (particularly around the main ports), Halong Bay’s iconic status and irresistible beauty are unaltered.
rnExploring Halong Bay: A Must-Do Adventure
rnSet Sail on a Traditional Vietnamese Junk
rnExperience the magic of Halong Bay aboard a traditional Vietnamese junk. These junks, originally Chinese sailing boats, found their way to Vietnam in the 14th century. Today, they are an integral part of Vietnamese culture and have been transformed into comfortable passenger vessels, offering one or two-night cruises.
rnFrom your junk, embark on adventures by water, kayaking through hidden bays and secret caves, all while taking in the stunning scenery. Onboard, savor freshly cooked delicacies like spice squid (muc rang muoi), chicken curry (cari ga), and enjoy cocktails at sunset on the beautifully polished top deck. Choose from 10- to 24-cabin vessels or opt for a private boat for a more intimate experience.
rnDiscover Tranquility in Bai Tu Long Bay
rnFor a deeper exploration of Vietnam's coastline, consider extending your journey to two nights. Just 30 kilometers east of Halong Bay, you'll find Bai Tu Long Bay. Initially, it may resemble Halong Bay with its limestone karsts and lush greenery, but Bai Tu Long is quieter, receiving fewer boats, ensuring a more peaceful atmosphere.
rnWitness the Sunrise and Practice T'ai Chi on Deck
rnStaying on a junk in Halong Bay offers a unique opportunity to witness the sunrise over the water. Set your alarm to catch the enchanting peach-pink sky reflected on the limestone formations. Many junks also offer early morning T'ai Chi classes on the deck. Led by an experienced instructor, these gentle movements synchronize with the soothing sounds of waves lapping against the boat's hull.
rnAscend to the Peak of Ti Top Island
rnWhile most images of Halong Bay are captured from the water, Ti Top Island offers a distinctive perspective. Hike to the island's summit, named after Russian astronaut Gherman Titov, who visited the island during the 1960s, strengthening Soviet-Vietnamese relations.
rnLocated southeast of Bai Chay Harbour in the western part of Halong Bay, Ti Top Island is a jungle-covered rock formation with a staircase leading to its peak. At the summit, you'll find a wooden viewing platform, providing breathtaking views across the bay. After the hike, unwind on the island's cozy crescent beach, and if you arrive in the late afternoon, the beachside bar beneath the cliffs might be open for a refreshing cocktail.
Explore our recommended travel plans in Halong Bay, showcasing routes that have been carefully curated for your inspiration. Keep in mind that your unique journey will be crafted by one of our dedicated specialists.
Browse through our handpicked Halong Bay tour plans, which showcase routes that have excelled. Remember, your adventure will be meticulously designed by one of our dedicated specialists.
Explore Vietnam's top beach resorts on your dream Vietnam tour. Relax in luxury by the sea.
rnWelcome to the ultimate Vietnam travel guide brought to you by My Way Travel! Vietnam's coastline is an undiscovered treasure, often overshadowed by more popular destinations. But let me tell you, it's a gem waiting to be discovered. Stretching in a graceful S-shape from the northern reaches of China to the southern borders of Cambodia, this coastal wonderland boasts not one, not two, but three distinct microclimates. What does that mean for you, the intrepid traveler? It means that regardless of when you embark on your Vietnamese adventure, you'll find yourself bathed in the warm embrace of the sun, whether you choose the central or southern coast.
5 mins read
Read this guide
Discover the top 9 experiences in Vietnam tour that will make your trip unforgettable. Vietnam has everything from cruising in Halong Bay to exploring Hoi An.
5 mins read
Read this guide
Explore highlights of Hue in Vietnam’s imperial city with the Vietnam Travel Guide by My Way Travel. Plan your journey today!
7 mins read
Read this guide
Embark on a food journey through Vietnam: from bun cha to banh mi. Discover the flavors with our Vietnam travel guide, brought to you by My Way Travel.
7 mins read
Read this guide
Create lasting memories on your honeymoons in Vietnam. Our travel guide has tips to plan the perfect trip. Book your custom tour with My Way Travel.
6 mins read
Read this guide
