Are you looking for a must-visit destination when traveling to Vietnam? A place not only breathtakingly beautiful but also rich in cultural and geological value, with hundreds of fascinating stories waiting to be told? If so, then Ha Long Bay is a name you simply cannot miss.
1. Where is Ha Long Bay?

Have you ever imagined being lost in majestic nature, surrounded by blue seas, endless skies, and thousands of towering limestone islands like something straight out of a fantasy movie? The good news is, this place truly exists and is very close to you – Ha Long Bay, located in Ha Long City, Quang Ninh Province. Just a 3–4 hour drive from Hanoi, the journey to this paradise is easier than you might think.
Since being recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage Site, Ha Long Bay has become an essential icon in the travel itinerary of millions of visitors, both domestic and international.
2. What makes Ha Long Bay so captivating?
Do you know why everyone is left in awe upon arriving at Ha Long Bay? It’s because this place boasts more than 1,900 limestone islands rising from emerald-green waters, forming a natural masterpiece unlike anywhere else on Earth. Each island and rocky peak has its own unique shape, as if nature itself is telling fairy tales with stone and water.
Hidden within these islands are mysterious caves like Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave and Thien Cung (Heavenly Palace) Cave, where light filters through stone arches, creating a shimmering, dreamlike scene. And when night falls, the bay lies in peaceful silence, like a dream you never want to wake from.
3. What can you play in Ha Long Bay?
A trip to Ha Long Bay is never boring. If you’re a nature lover, try cruising – enjoy the stunning scenery while indulging in the luxury and relaxation of the open sea. Feeling adventurous? Kayaking lets you glide through rock crevices, touch the cool water, and explore every little detail of the bay up close.
If cultural exploration is your thing, don’t miss Cua Van Fishing Village, where you can meet friendly locals, learn how to cast nets, row boats, and taste fresh seafood right on the water.
4. Is a trip to Ha Long Bay expensive?
Visiting this world natural wonder is surprisingly budget-friendly. Here are some estimated costs:
- Day tour entrance ticket: 290,000 – 450,000 VND/person
- Full-day or 2D1N package tours: 1,200,000 – 2,500,000 VND/person
- Luxury cruise: 2,500,000 – 5,000,000 VND/person
- Kayak rental: 100,000 – 200,000 VND/hour
5. Tips for Traveling to Ha Long Bay
The best time to visit Ha Long Bay is from October to April, when the skies are clear, the sea is calm, and the weather is pleasant. Book your tour early to get good deals and secure your spot, especially during weekends or holidays. Essentials to bring include sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and seasickness pills if you’re going on a cruise. If you plan to explore caves or go kayaking, lightweight clothes and sneakers are ideal.
Ha Long Bay is not just a destination, it’s a journey back to pure nature and indescribable emotions. A place where you can breathe deeply, relax your mind, and let your soul listen to the whispers of waves and wind among the rocks and sea.
PBJP Travel specializes in designing private tours for families and small groups from 1 to 50 guests. We provide private car pick-up and drop-off services in Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and Vietnam.
Our services include:
- Vehicles from 4 to 50 seats in Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and Vietnam
- Local tour guides living and working in each destination
- Visa assistance
- Hotel booking on request
- Booking of entertainment and leisure tickets
- Restaurant consulting and reservation