Ha Long Bay
Ha Long Bay
Last updated 2026-10-30
By Global Travel Guide Editorial Team
Introduction
The bay covers about 1,500 square kilometres and includes caves, floating villages and island beaches. Day trips from Hanoi are long; an overnight cruise gives time for kayaking and a cave visit. Cruises leave from Bai Chay or Tuan Chau, about 2.5 to 3 hours from Hanoi. The dry season from November to April has calmer water; summer brings storms and occasional cruise cancellations. Choose a cruise with a clear itinerary and check the boat's safety record.
Ticket Price
Free to visit the bay area; cruises start at about USD 100 per day, and some islands and caves charge entry.
Opening Hours
No fixed hours: access is by organised cruise from Tuan Chau or Hon Gai marina. Day cruises run roughly 8:00-17:00, and overnight cruises check in late morning. Book ahead and confirm the route, since boats follow different loops.
Transportation
From nearest city/airport (Viet Nam): taxi/private transfer (30-90 min), local bus, or ferry/boat depending on the island. Renting a scooter or car is popular on larger islands.
Best Season
Dry season (November-April) has calm waters and sunny days — peak season with higher prices. Wet season (May-October) brings occasional rain but lower prices and fewer crowds. Always check local weather patterns and typhoon/hurricane seasons.
Pro Tip: Choose an overnight cruise
Local Tips You'd Only Learn After Visiting
The details official guides skip — save time, avoid crowds, and get better photos.
1
Choose an overnight cruise A day trip covers only a small part of the bay. Book a licensed overnight cruise, check the route and inclusions, and confirm pickup from Hanoi.
Member-Only Tips
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Frequently Asked Questions3 questions
The bay has more than 1,600 limestone karst islands and islets rising from emerald water, and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994. Many islands have caves and floating fishing villages.
An overnight cruise is worth it: day trips spend 4-5 hours in transit and only a short time on the water. Two days one night allows kayaking and a quieter morning.
October-April is drier and cooler, with better visibility; May-September is hotter and stormier, and some cruises are cancelled in typhoon season.