January
17.4°C ~ 63°F
8 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
- Time needed
- From 1 day
- Entry fee
- 120,000 VND
- Best months
- Sep – Nov
- Best time
- April – June and September – November
Overview
Lan Ha Bay lies south-east of Cat Ba Island and has about 130 limestone islands with the same scenery as Ha Long Bay but far fewer boats. The water is calm and green, with small beaches and lagoons that are good for kayaking and swimming.
It is usually seen on a day trip or overnight cruise from Cat Ba. Together with Ha Long Bay, the area has been part of the same UNESCO World Heritage site since 2023.
Highlights
- Kayak through quiet lagoons
- Swim at a small beach
- Cruise among limestone islands
- Stay overnight on a boat or a floating homestay
Visitor information
| Opening hours | Cruises depart daily |
|---|---|
| Entry fee | Bay admission: about 120,000 VND per adult from 2026 (Hai Phong fee schedule) Usually included in the cruise price |
| Time needed | 1 day to 2 days |
| Best time of day | April – June and September – November |
| Good for | Kayakers, couples, families, swimmers |
| Accessibility | Boat boarding by gangplank |
| Facilities | Cruise boats, kayaks, small beaches |
Prices and hours can change. Check the official source before you go.
Best time to visit
Weather in Cat Ba by month.
February
17.8°C ~ 64°F
7 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
March
20.8°C ~ 69°F
9 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
April
24°C ~ 75°F
11 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
May
27.2°C ~ 81°F
17 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
June
29.3°C ~ 85°F
18 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
July
29°C ~ 84°F
21 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
August
28.6°C ~ 83°F
24 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
September
27.9°C ~ 82°F
22 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
October
25.6°C ~ 78°F
13 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
November
22.9°C ~ 73°F
9 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
December
18.7°C ~ 66°F
6 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
How to get there
From Cat Ba centre
Lan Ha Bay is reached by boat from Cat Ba town or Gia Luan. Most visitors take a day trip or an overnight cruise that includes pickup from Hanoi.
Tips before you go
- Choose a smaller boat for quieter spots
- Check what is included in the price
- Bring a hat and sun cream
- Visit in spring or autumn for calm weather
Location
Lan Ha Bay, Cat Ba, Hai Phong
About 30 minutes by boat from Cat Ba town
More attractions in Cat Ba
FAQs
How is Lan Ha different from Ha Long?
The scenery is similar, but there are far fewer boats and more quiet water for kayaking and swimming.
Can I go on a day trip?
Yes. A day trip from Cat Ba town covers the main sights, and an overnight trip gives more time.
Is it good for kids?
Yes. Calm water and small beaches suit families, but keep life jackets on during the boat trip.