January
17°C ~ 63°F
8 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
Ha Long Bay
Ha Long Bay Cruise
Over a thousand limestone islands in emerald water, explored on a day trip or an overnight cruise.
- Time needed
- From 6 hours
- Entry fee
- 250,000 VND
- Best months
- Sep – Nov
- Best time
- March – May and September – November
Overview
Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage site with around 1,600 limestone islands and islets rising from calm green water. Since 2023 it is listed together with the Cat Ba Archipelago, which makes the protected area larger and links the two destinations.
Most visitors see the bay on a cruise. A day trip covers the main islands and caves in about 6 hours, and an overnight cruise adds sunset, kayaking and a quieter morning. The routes and prices differ by boat, so check what is included before you book.
Highlights
- Sail past limestone islands in emerald water
- Kayak into quiet lagoons and caves
- Swim at a beach stop on some routes
- Watch sunset from the deck on an overnight cruise
Visitor information
| Opening hours | Cruises depart daily, usually between 8:00 and 12:00 |
|---|---|
| Entry fee | Bay route ticket: about 250,000 VND per adult, usually included in the cruise price Cruise prices vary by boat and season |
| Time needed | 6 hours to 3 days |
| Best time of day | March – May and September – November |
| Good for | Couples, families, photographers, first-timers |
| Accessibility | Boat boarding by gangplank; some cave routes include steps |
| Facilities | Cruise terminals, restaurants on board, kayaks on most routes |
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
From Hanoi, the expressway takes about 2.5 hours by car or limousine bus to Ha Long. Most cruise operators include a shuttle from Hanoi Old Quarter, and some also offer a seaplane or a private car.
Tips before you go
- Choose a boat with good recent reviews, not only price
- Check whether cave entry, kayaking and meals are included
- Bring a light jacket for the evening on the water
- Book overnight trips early in spring and autumn
Location
Ha Long Bay, Quang Ninh
About 160 km east of Hanoi, 2.5 to 3 hours by road
More attractions in Ha Long Bay
FAQs
Is a day trip enough?
A day trip shows the main caves and islands, but it is rushed. One night on a boat gives a calmer experience and time for kayaking and sunset.
When is the best time to visit?
March to May and September to November are the clearest and most comfortable. Summer is hot and stormy, and winter can be misty.
Is Ha Long Bay safe in a storm?
Cruises are cancelled when the weather is dangerous, and operators will usually reschedule or refund. Check with your operator before the trip.