Climate of Halong Bay
To understand the best time to visit Halong Bay, it is important to know the climate of this region. Halong Bay is located in northern Vietnam, near the Gulf of Tonkin, and experiences a humid subtropical climate with distinct dry and rainy seasons. Unlike central and southern Vietnam, which have a more tropical climate, Halong Bay also has four seasons, bringing variations in temperature and weather throughout the year.
Dry season (November – April)
- Cooler temperatures in winter, gradually warming in spring
- Mostly dry with limited rainfall and lower humidity
- Clear skies, calm waters, and excellent conditions for cruises
Rainy season (May – October)
- Hot and humid, with increased rainfall and occasional storms
- Short, heavy showers, but still plenty of dry and sunny periods
- Possibility of tropical storms affecting cruise schedules
Travel Tip: The best time to visit Halong Bay does not always match the ideal season for visiting southern or central Vietnam. If you are planning a longer trip across the country, check out our detailed guide on the best time to visit Vietnam.
Best time to visit Halong Bay
If you are looking for the best time to visit Halong Bay based purely on weather conditions, the dry season from November to April offers the most favorable climate for a cruise. During this time, rainfall is minimal, the skies are clearer, and the sea remains calm, making it the ideal season for sightseeing, kayaking, and outdoor activities. Humidity is also lower, making the overall experience more comfortable compared to the hot and humid months of summer.
However, December and January are the coldest months of the year in Halong Bay, with temperatures sometimes dropping below 15°C (59°F). While the weather remains dry, it may feel too chilly for swimming or extended time on the deck. If you prefer milder temperatures, the spring months of March and April or the autumn months of October and November are the best choices.
These months offer a perfect balance of pleasant temperatures, clear skies, and low rainfall, making them ideal for exploring the bay without the extremes of summer heat or winter chill. The visibility is also at its best, allowing for stunning panoramic views of the limestone karsts and emerald waters.
Is it worth visiting Halong Bay outside the best time?
Since the best time to visit Halong Bay is during the dry season from November to April, does that mean it’s not worth visiting in the rainy season from May to October? The answer depends on your preferences. While the rainy season brings higher humidity, more rainfall, and occasional storms, it also comes with warmer temperatures, fewer tourists, and lower cruise prices. If you don’t mind a mix of sunny and rainy days and are flexible with your plans, visiting Halong Bay in the rainy season can still be a great experience.
To understand if a rainy season cruise is right for you, let’s take a look at the transition months, rainfall patterns, and cruise experience during this time.
Transition months (add months)
The months of April, May, October, and November are known as transition months between the dry and rainy seasons. These months do not experience constant rain, making them a great alternative for travelers who want a balance between good weather and fewer crowds.
- April & May: The end of the dry season brings increasing temperatures and humidity, with occasional showers in May. These are still excellent months for visiting Halong Bay, as most days remain sunny and warm.
- October & November: The start of the dry season brings less rain, lower humidity, and mild temperatures, making these months some of the best times to visit, even though they technically follow the rainy season.
If you’re looking for a mix of clear skies, pleasant weather, and lower crowds, these transition months can be an ideal choice.
Rainfall during rainy season
One of the biggest concerns about visiting Halong Bay during the rainy season is how much it rains and how it affects travel plans. While May to October is the official rainy season, this does not mean it rains all day, every day.
- Rainfall mostly comes in short, heavy showers rather than long-lasting downpours.
- Some days are completely sunny, while others may have a mix of clouds, sunshine, and occasional rain.
- Typhoons are possible in July, August, and September, which can cause temporary cruise cancellations.
Most cruises operate normally, but travelers should be prepared for some flexibility in their itinerary due to sudden weather changes. If you don’t mind the occasional rain shower and plan accordingly, the rainy season does not ruin the Halong Bay experience.
Cruise experience during rainy season
Despite the occasional rain, cruising in the rainy season has its own advantages.
- Warmer temperatures (25°C – 35°C / 77°F – 95°F) make it perfect for swimming and beach activities.
- Lower tourist numbers create a quieter and more relaxed experience on the bay.
- Cheaper cruise prices make it a good time for budget-conscious travelers.
- Rain and mist can create a unique atmosphere, making the bay look mystical and dramatic, especially after a short rain shower.
The main downside is the potential for cruise schedule changes if storms occur. However, if you plan with flexibility and check the weather forecast, a rainy season cruise can still be a fantastic experience.
Still having doubts? Read our full guide about Halong Bay in rainy season to know what to expect.
The seasons in Halong Bay explained
Halong Bay has two main seasons—the dry season (November to April) and the rainy season (May to October). However, unlike southern Vietnam, where temperatures remain stable throughout the year, Halong Bay and the rest of northern Vietnam experience four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter.
Each season brings its own weather conditions, affecting temperatures, rainfall, and cruise experiences. Understanding these seasonal differences helps in deciding the best time to visit Halong Bay, whether you prefer cooler weather, hot summer temperatures, or lower tourist numbers. Below, we break down what you can expect in each season.
Spring (March – May)
Spring in Halong Bay is a transitional season, starting cooler and misty in March and gradually warming up by May.
- March: Temperatures range from 18°C to 24°C (64°F – 75°F). It is still part of the dry season, but some humidity and light drizzles may appear.
- April: One of the best months to visit Halong Bay, with mild temperatures (22°C – 28°C / 72°F – 82°F) and mostly dry, clear days.
- May: Marks the end of the dry season and the start of the rainy season, with higher humidity and occasional showers, but still plenty of dry, sunny hours.
Spring is one of the best times to visit Halong Bay, especially March and April, as they offer comfortable temperatures and minimal rain, making it an ideal season for cruising and outdoor activities.
Summer (June – August)
Summer in Halong Bay is hot, humid, and rainy, falling entirely within the rainy season. It is the wettest and warmest time of the year, but it also has some advantages.
- June: Temperatures rise to 26°C – 34°C (79°F – 93°F), with high humidity and frequent short rain showers.
- July – August: These are the rainiest months, with frequent downpours and occasional tropical storms, leading to higher chances of cruise cancellations. However, the sea is warm, making it the best time for swimming and beach activities.
Despite the rain, summer has many sunny hours, and rain showers often come in short bursts rather than lasting all day. The biggest downside is the risk of storms, especially in July and August. However, if you’re flexible and prepared for occasional changes, Halong Bay in summer can still be a great experience with fewer tourists and lower cruise prices.
Autumn (September – November)
Autumn is another transitional season, starting rainy in September but becoming drier and cooler by November.
- September: The end of the rainy season, but still some heavy showers and occasional storms. Temperatures range from 25°C – 32°C (77°F – 90°F), with humidity decreasing toward the end of the month.
- October: A great month to visit, with lower humidity, fewer storms, and pleasant temperatures (22°C – 29°C / 72°F – 84°F).
- November: Fully part of the dry season, with comfortable temperatures (18°C – 26°C / 64°F – 79°F) and minimal rain, making it one of the best months for a cruise.
By late October and November, Halong Bay has clear skies, calm waters, and mild temperatures, making it another best time to visit Halong Bay. If you want perfect conditions with fewer tourists compared to peak months like December and January, October and November are excellent choices.
Winter (December – February)
Winter in Halong Bay falls entirely within the dry season, bringing minimal rain but much cooler temperatures compared to other times of the year.
- December – January: The coldest months, with temperatures between 13°C – 20°C (55°F – 68°F). While the air is dry, it can feel chilly on the water, especially in the evenings.
- February: Still cool but slightly warmer (15°C – 22°C / 59°F – 72°F), with occasional mist and fog creating a mystical atmosphere over the bay.
Winter is part of the best time to visit Halong Bay, as the weather is dry and stable. However, if you dislike cooler temperatures, you might prefer spring or autumn instead. Swimming is not ideal, but the clear skies, calm waters, and reduced humidity make winter a great time for cruising.
Events and Holidays in Halong Bay
Knowing the local events and holidays in Halong Bay is important, as they can positively or negatively impact your experience. Some holidays bring festive atmospheres and special celebrations, while others lead to busier travel periods, increased prices, or closures of local businesses. This can affect the best time to visit Halong Bay, depending on what kind of experience you’re looking for.
Some holidays appear in two different months in the list below—this is because certain events follow the Lunar calendar, meaning their exact dates change every year. Most of the events mentioned are national celebrations, but they significantly influence travel in Halong Bay, so they are important to consider when planning your trip.
It’s also worth noting that being on a cruise limits your experience of these events. Many celebrations occur on the mainland in Quang Ninh province or across Vietnam, and you might not notice them while on the water. Unless a cruise organizes a themed event, most holidays will only be reflected in decorations, special meals, or a temporary increase in domestic travelers.
Tet New Year (January or February)
Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) is the most important holiday in Vietnam, marking the beginning of the Lunar calendar. Families gather for celebrations, businesses close, and the country slows down for several days.
In Halong Bay, most cruises continue operating, but many local restaurants and shops close around this time. Domestic travel briefly peaks, as many Vietnamese take trips during the holiday. While traditional Tet celebrations are not experienced on a cruise, many boats decorate with red banners, peach blossoms, and festive ornaments, and some offer special Tet meals onboard.
Local festivals (February – April)
Several traditional festivals take place in Quang Ninh province, where Halong Bay is located. The most famous are:
- Yen Tu Festival – A Buddhist pilgrimage to Yen Tu Mountain, where visitors hike to pagodas and temples.
- Cua Ong Festival – A festival honoring a historic general, featuring processions and rituals at Cua Ong Temple.
While these festivals are deeply cultural, they are not experienced on a cruise. To see them, travelers must visit the mainland areas of Quang Ninh.
Reunification Day (April & May)
Reunification Day (April 30) marks the end of the Vietnam War in 1975, followed immediately by Labour Day (May 1), creating a 4-5 day holiday period when public holidays fall near a weekend.
Although there are no direct celebrations on cruises, this is one of the busiest domestic travel periods of the year, causing a spike in Halong Bay tourism. Prices rise, cruises sell out faster, and crowds increase for a short but intense period. If you prefer a quieter experience, it’s best to avoid this time or book well in advance.
Carnaval Halong (April / May)
One of the most exciting local events, Carnaval Halong is an annual festival featuring:
- A drone light show over Halong Bay
- Street parades with dancers and musicians
- Cultural performances, including dragon dances, fire dances, and drum performances
- Fireworks displays
While you won’t experience this festival on a cruise, travelers staying in Halong City before or after their cruise can enjoy the celebrations.
Still deciding if you should visit during this time? Read more about Carnaval Halong.
Vietnam National Day (September)
Vietnam National Day celebrates the country’s independence, marked by patriotic events, flag-raising ceremonies, and parades.
On a Halong Bay cruise, you won’t experience any direct celebrations, but as it’s a public holiday, many Vietnamese take short trips, making the bay temporarily busier. If National Day falls near a weekend, expect increased domestic tourism during this period.
Mid-Autumn Festival (September or October)
The Mid-Autumn Festival is a celebration for children, known for lantern displays, lion dances, and mooncakes.
While not heavily celebrated on cruises, many boats decorate with lanterns and may serve mooncakes. However, the best experience is on the mainland, where children participate in lion dance performances and night markets sell colorful lanterns and festive treats.
Christmas (December)
Christmas is not a traditional Vietnamese holiday, but its commercial appeal has made it popular in tourist areas.
Most Halong Bay cruises decorate their boats with Christmas lights, trees, and ornaments, and some offer special Christmas dinners. However, the experience is low-key compared to Western countries. Also, as Christmas falls in the peak travel season, cruise prices are higher, and availability is limited.
New Year (December)
Unlike the Vietnamese Lunar New Year (Tet), the Western New Year is not a major celebration in Vietnam, but it is widely recognized in tourist destinations.
Most Halong Bay cruises host a New Year’s Eve countdown party, sometimes including special menus, drinks, and entertainment. While it is more intimate than the large public events in Hanoi, it’s still a fun way to welcome the new year while surrounded by the bay’s stunning limestone islands.
Halong Bay weather per month
The best time to visit Halong Bay is different for everyone. Some travelers love the hot summer temperatures and don’t mind occasional rain, while others prefer mild weather with clearer skies. Some even choose the cooler winter months for a less crowded experience. Below is a month-by-month breakdown, helping you decide which time suits your travel style best.
January
January is an alright month to visit Halong Bay, as it falls in the dry season, but it is also one of the coldest months. While there is almost no rain, temperatures can feel chilly on the water, and misty mornings may limit visibility. Find out more about what to expect in January, including cruise conditions and events.
February
February is a pretty good month for Halong Bay, as the dry season continues, and temperatures start warming slightly. While it’s still cool, misty conditions can make the scenery feel atmospheric, and rainfall remains very low. Read our guide on weather in Halong Bay in February to learn more about what to expect.
March
March is a very good month for visiting Halong Bay, with mild temperatures and dry, comfortable weather. It marks the transition into spring, offering pleasant cruising conditions with minimal humidity. Discover more about what to expect in Halong Bay in March, including activities and seasonal highlights.
April
April is one of the best months to visit Halong Bay, as it remains dry, and temperatures are warm but not too hot. This month sits at the end of the dry season, making it a great time for outdoor activities and cruising. Check out our guide on weather and things to do in April for more details.
May
May is a pretty good month, as it is the beginning of the rainy season, but most days are still warm and mostly dry. The humidity rises, and there are occasional showers, but cruises operate without major disruptions. Read about what to expect in Halong Bay in May to help plan your trip.
June
June is an alright month, as it is fully in the rainy season, meaning hot, humid weather with frequent rain showers. However, it is also a great time for swimming, as the water is warm, and the bay is less crowded. Get a full breakdown of weather and cruise conditions in June before planning your visit.
July
July is not the best time, as it is one of the wettest months, with high humidity, frequent rain showers, and possible storms. However, if you enjoy warmer water for swimming and can handle some rainy days, it can still be enjoyable. Learn more about weather in Halong Bay in July and how it might affect your trip.
August
August is the middle of the rainy season, meaning hot, humid, and frequent rain showers. While storms can cause occasional cruise cancellations, there are still many sunny hours, and prices tend to be lower. Get full insights into what to expect in Halong Bay in August to decide if this month works for you.
September
September is an alright month, as it marks the end of the rainy season, but there are still some storms and heavy rains early in the month. The weather improves later in the month, making it a better time to visit compared to July and August. Read more about Halong Bay weather in September to plan accordingly.
October
October is a very good month, as it marks the start of the dry season, with lower humidity and pleasant temperatures. Rainfall decreases significantly, making it a great time for a cruise with clearer skies and comfortable conditions. Find out more about things to do and weather in October.
November
November is one of the best months to visit Halong Bay, as it is fully in the dry season, with comfortable temperatures, low humidity, and almost no rain. The skies are clear, making it an ideal month for cruising and sightseeing. Learn more about what to expect in Halong Bay in November.
December
December is a pretty good month, as it is part of the dry season, but it is also one of the coldest months of the year. While rain is minimal, temperatures can feel chilly, and misty conditions are common, adding a mystical atmosphere. Read our guide to weather and things to do in Halong Bay in December.
