January
17°C ~ 63°F
8 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
Ha Long Bay
Bai Tu Long Bay
A quieter neighbour of Ha Long, with the same limestone scenery and far fewer boats.
- Time needed
- From 1 day
- Entry fee
- Entrance usually included…
- Best months
- Sep – Nov
- Best time
- March – May and September – November
Overview
Bai Tu Long Bay lies north-east of Ha Long Bay and has the same limestone islands and green water, but a much calmer atmosphere. The main tourist routes do not enter it, so you often have a lagoon or a cave to yourself.
Boats usually depart from Van Don or Ha Long and include kayaking, a beach stop and a small cave. It is a good choice for visitors who have already done Ha Long or who want a less crowded cruise.
Highlights
- Cruise among quieter limestone islands
- Kayak through lagoons and sea caves
- Visit a small beach and fishing village
- Stay overnight on a boat with fewer neighbours
Visitor information
| Opening hours | Cruises depart daily |
|---|---|
| Entry fee | Entrance usually included in cruise tickets Cruise prices vary by boat |
| Time needed | 1 – 3 days |
| Best time of day | March – May and September – November |
| Good for | Couples, kayakers, travellers who dislike crowds |
| Accessibility | Boat boarding by gangplank; some cave stops include steps |
| Facilities | Cruise boats, small beaches, kayaks |
Prices and hours can change. Check the official source before you go.
Best time to visit
Weather in Ha Long Bay by month.
February
17.8°C ~ 64°F
7 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
March
20.9°C ~ 70°F
11 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
April
24°C ~ 75°F
12 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
May
27°C ~ 81°F
19 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
June
28.9°C ~ 84°F
22 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
July
28.7°C ~ 84°F
24 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
August
28.2°C ~ 83°F
26 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
September
27.5°C ~ 82°F
22 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
October
25°C ~ 77°F
11 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
November
22.3°C ~ 72°F
9 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
December
18.1°C ~ 65°F
5 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
How to get there
From Ha Long Bay centre
Bai Tu Long Bay is about 3 to 3.5 hours from Hanoi by road via the expressway to Van Don. Cruise companies run shuttles from Hanoi or Ha Long, and some include a transfer by speedboat.
Tips before you go
- Ask your operator exactly which area the boat visits
- Choose a smaller boat for quieter anchorages
- Bring a light layer for the wind at night
- Combine with a night on Quan Lan Island if you have time
Location
Bai Tu Long Bay, Van Don, Quang Ninh
About 40 – 80 km north-east of Ha Long city
More attractions in Ha Long Bay
FAQs
How is Bai Tu Long different from Ha Long Bay?
The scenery is similar, but there are far fewer boats and the water is quieter. The big caves and highlights of Ha Long are not part of it.
Is Bai Tu Long Bay worth it?
Yes, if you want a calmer cruise. If you want the famous caves, stay in Ha Long Bay.
How do I get there?
Most visitors go with a cruise that includes a transfer from Hanoi. Self-travel is possible by bus to Van Don, then a local boat.