Kayaking in Halong Bay offers a unique and memorable way to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Surrounded by towering limestone karsts and tranquil waters, kayaking allows you to experience the bay’s natural beauty up close. Whether you’re paddling through hidden caves or gliding past floating villages, Halong Bay’s calm waters make kayaking accessible to all, even for beginners. In this guide, you’ll discover the highlights of kayaking in Halong Bay, what to expect, and practical tips to make the most of your experience.
- Highlights
- What to expect
- How to arrange kayaking in Halong Bay
- Best time to go kayaking
- Kayaking in other bays
- Tips for kayaking in Halong Bay
Highlights of kayaking in Halong Bay
Kayaking in Halong Bay offers you an immersive experience, giving you access to sights and perspectives you wouldn’t get from a cruise. Here are the highlights that make kayaking in this stunning bay truly special:
1. A unique perspective
While cruises offer breathtaking views of the bay, kayaking lets you get even closer to the limestone formations, caves, and hidden lagoons. From the water’s surface, you gain a whole new perspective of Halong Bay’s majestic beauty, paddling through narrow channels and under natural rock arches that are inaccessible by larger boats.
2. Floating farms & villages
One of the most fascinating aspects of kayaking in Halong Bay is gliding past floating fishing villages and farms. These local communities live entirely on the water, and kayaking gives you the chance to see their unique way of life up close, offering a glimpse into a culture that has existed for generations. In some areas, you can even leave your kayak, to go on a floating farm to see how they work and live here.
3. Caves & hidden lagoons
Halong Bay is famous for its secret caves and secluded lagoons, many of which can only be accessed by kayak. Paddling through these dark, mysterious caves opens up into beautiful, hidden lagoons surrounded by cliffs and lush greenery. The stillness of these hidden gems is often one of the most magical parts of kayaking in Halong Bay.
4. Visiting beaches
While kayaking, you may come across secluded, small beaches perfect for a quick stop. These hidden spots are often untouched by larger cruise boats, allowing you to relax on a quiet beach, swim in clear waters, or simply take in the scenery from the shore.
What to expect
Kayaking in Halong Bay is a relaxing and scenic experience, perfect for travelers of all levels. Here’s what you can expect when you hit the water:
Very limited currents & waves
Halong Bay is naturally protected by its numerous islands and limestone formations, which keep the waters calm. You don’t need to worry about strong currents or rough waves here, making it ideal for a leisurely paddle. Cruises also tend to pick the calmest spots, so while you might expect some gentle ripples, you won’t encounter any technical sea kayaking conditions. This peaceful environment means that even first-time kayakers can enjoy the experience.
Guided & non-guided kayak tours
Most cruises in Halong Bay offer guided kayaking tours, where an expert will lead you through caves and into hidden lagoons. These guided tours help you discover secret spots that are otherwise hard to find on your own. However, some cruises may give you the freedom to explore by yourself, allowing you to paddle around at your own pace and soak in the views.
No experience needed
Since the waters are calm and easy to navigate, you don’t need any prior kayaking experience to enjoy Halong Bay. If it’s your first time, the guides will provide basic instructions to get you started. There’s often a guide who stays at the back of the group to ensure everyone is doing well, especially those less experienced with kayaking.
Safety first
Even if you’re a confident swimmer, cruises will almost always require you to wear a life jacket while kayaking. This ensures your safety, especially in remote areas. Life jackets are provided by the tour operators, and guides will make sure you’re equipped before setting off.
How to arrange kayaking in Halong Bay
Kayaking in Halong Bay is a popular and often included activity in most cruise itineraries. Here’s how you can arrange your kayaking adventure:
Pretty much all cruises, whether they are one-day trips or multi-day adventures, include kayaking as part of the experience. It’s typically a free activity, and you won’t need to make additional arrangements if you’re already booked on a cruise. Since the mainland is quite far from the kayaking areas, the only practical way to explore the bay is by joining a cruise, which will take you to the best spots for kayaking.
Both day cruises and overnight options will allow you to enjoy this activity, so no matter how much time you have, you can still experience the beauty of Halong Bay from the seat of a kayak.
Best time to go kayaking in Halong Bay
Kayaking in Halong Bay is possible year-round, but depending on the season, your experience may vary. Here’s a breakdown of the best times to visit:
Dry season (October to April):
This is considered the best time for kayaking in Halong Bay, with cooler temperatures and less rainfall. From October to April, you’ll experience clearer skies, calm waters, and ideal weather for spending time outdoors. Temperatures can range between 15°C to 25°C, making it comfortable for paddling. March and April are particularly pleasant months for kayaking, as you avoid the cold winter months and still enjoy mild conditions.
Wet season (May to September):
The wet season brings warmer temperatures, ranging from 25°C to 35°C, but also frequent rain showers and higher humidity. Although it rains more during these months, kayaking is still possible. Just be prepared for the occasional downpour and higher humidity levels. If you’re traveling during this time, morning or late afternoon kayaking is a good idea to avoid the hottest part of the day.
Cold winter months (December to February):
While kayaking is still possible during the winter months, be aware that temperatures can drop, especially in December and January. The chillier weather might not be ideal for everyone, but the bay tends to be less crowded during this time, offering a quieter and more serene experience.
Kayaking in other bays
While Halong Bay is the most famous destination for kayaking, there are other nearby bays that offer a similar, if not better, experience. These bays provide the same stunning scenery but with fewer tourists and less boat traffic, making them ideal for a more peaceful adventure.
Kayaking in Lan Ha Bay & Bai Tu Long Bay
Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay are located right next to Halong Bay, and the landscapes are very similar, with dramatic limestone karsts rising from the water. However, these bays are further from the main tourist routes, which means you’ll encounter fewer boats and enjoy a quieter kayaking experience.
This makes Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay excellent alternatives to Halong Bay, especially if you prefer more privacy and fewer crowds. The calmer atmosphere allows you to take in the beauty of the surroundings without distraction, making it a great option for those seeking a more relaxed and intimate adventure.
Kayaking in Cat Ba
When you kayak around Cat Ba, you’re technically paddling in Lan Ha Bay as well. The key difference here is that Cat Ba Island is the largest island in the area, offering additional options for those wanting to stay on land.
Cat Ba is accessible from Hanoi via ferry, and there are accommodations on the island itself. Once on the island, you can either join a boat trip for a full day of kayaking or simply rent a kayak and explore the surrounding waters on your own. Renting a kayak without a boat is a great option if you want more freedom to paddle at your own pace. However, a boat can take you to more remote and hidden spots, which might not be accessible by kayak alone. If you prefer to explore independently, kayaking from Cat Ba gives you that flexibility.
To learn more about this option, check out our complete guide to kayaking in Cat Ba.
Tips for kayaking in Halong Bay
To make the most of your kayaking adventure in Halong Bay, here are some practical tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:
Put sunscreen on
Even on cloudy days, the reflection of the sun on the water can cause sunburn, so it’s essential to apply sunscreen generously before heading out. Make sure to reapply during the day, especially if you’re kayaking for extended periods.
What to wear
Wear swim clothes, even if you don’t plan on swimming, as there’s a good chance you’ll get wet while paddling. If you have one, wear a swimming shirt, which can help keep you warm on colder days and protect you from sunburn on hot, sunny days. A hat or cap is also recommended to shield you from the sun.
Bring only what you need
You’ll want to travel light while kayaking. Leave behind anything you don’t need, especially valuables that could get wet or lost. This includes jewelry and expensive sunglasses. While sunglasses are recommended to protect your eyes from the sun, consider bringing a cheaper pair or attaching a strap to avoid losing them in the water.
Get a waterproof phone case
If you plan on taking photos, make sure your phone is in a waterproof case. Choose one that can be worn around your neck or clipped to your wrist or bag, so you don’t accidentally drop it into the water.
Dry bag
For any essentials you need to bring, such as a towel, camera, or snacks, store them in a dry bag to keep them safe from splashes. Some cruises provide these, but it’s a good idea to bring your own, just in case.
