Lan Ha Bay is a hidden gem in northern Vietnam, offering a quieter and less crowded alternative to the world-famous Halong Bay. With its stunning limestone karsts, crystal-clear waters, and tranquil atmosphere, Lan Ha Bay provides the perfect setting for a peaceful escape. Whether you’re interested in cruising, kayaking, or simply relaxing on a beach, this ultimate guide will help you plan your visit and find the best cruises in Lan Ha Bay.
- An Introduction to Lan Ha Bay
- Better alternative to Halong Bay?
- Things to see in Lan Ha Bay
- Best things to do
- How to explore Lan Ha Bay
- Lan Ha Bay cruise tips
- How to get to Lan Ha Bay
- Best time to visit Lan Ha Bay
- Arranging a cruise in Lan Ha Bay
An Introduction to Lan Ha Bay
What is Lan Ha Bay?
Lan Ha Bay is a picturesque and less crowded extension of the famous Halong Bay, located to the south of Cat Ba Island. While it shares the same breathtaking scenery of limestone karsts and emerald waters, Lan Ha Bay is often seen as a more peaceful alternative, offering a serene atmosphere that is ideal for travelers looking to avoid the bustling crowds of Halong Bay. The bay covers an area of over 7,000 hectares and is home to more than 400 small islands, many of which are uninhabited and pristine.
Location
Lan Ha Bay is situated in the northeast of Vietnam, bordering the southern edge of Halong Bay and directly adjacent to Cat Ba Island. It’s part of the Cat Ba Archipelago and lies within the boundaries of the larger Ha Long – Cat Ba UNESCO World Heritage site. The bay is easily accessible via Cat Ba Island or through Halong Bay itself, making it a convenient yet more secluded option for those looking to explore this stunning part of Vietnam.
Is Lan Ha Bay a better alternative to Halong Bay?
In most cases, yes, Lan Ha Bay is considered a better alternative to Halong Bay, especially for those seeking a quieter and more serene experience. While Halong Bay is the more famous of the two and closer to Hanoi, its popularity comes with a price: crowded cruises, busy viewpoints, and well-known beaches and caves that are often packed with tourists. The increase in boat traffic has also raised concerns about pollution in certain areas.
Lan Ha Bay, on the other hand, offers almost identical scenery, with far fewer tourists and boats. This makes it an excellent alternative for those looking to enjoy the bay’s natural beauty in a more peaceful setting.
Key differences between Lan Ha Bay and Halong Bay:
- Tourist experience: Less crowded
Lan Ha Bay sees far fewer boats and tourists, giving you a much more intimate experience. You can enjoy the beauty of the bay without the large crowds that often flood Halong Bay’s popular spots, especially during high season. - Scenery: Similar
Both bays offer breathtaking limestone karsts rising from emerald waters, creating a similar landscape. In fact, many travelers find the scenery in Lan Ha Bay to be just as stunning as Halong Bay, if not more, due to its quieter atmosphere. - Cruise options: Fewer choices
While Halong Bay has a larger selection of cruises due to its popularity, there are still plenty of excellent options for Lan Ha Bay. The fewer choices available tend to focus on quality and tailored experiences, ensuring a relaxing trip.
Is Lan Ha Bay better? Overall, yes.
If you’re looking for a more tranquil experience with fewer crowds, Lan Ha Bay is the better choice. The scenery is equally stunning, and you’ll have more space to explore without feeling overwhelmed by other tourists.
When to pick Halong Bay
However, there are still good reasons to pick Halong Bay. If you want to tick it off your bucket list or visit iconic sites like Ti Top Island or some of the most famous caves, Halong Bay might be the better option. Keep in mind that Lan Ha Bay cruises often pass through parts of Halong Bay, so you can still get a glimpse of its beauty without spending the whole trip there. If visiting famous viewpoints or caves is a top priority, Halong Bay could be worth the crowds, especially if you’re visiting during the off-season.
Things to see in Lan Ha Bay
Lan Ha Bay offers a wide range of natural and cultural attractions, making it an exciting destination for exploration. Here are some of the top sights you won’t want to miss:
1. Limestone caves and grottos
Lan Ha Bay is home to several impressive limestone caves and grottos that are a must-see for adventure lovers. Notable ones include the Dark & Light Cave, Hang Ca Cave, and Ham Rong Cave. These caves feature stunning stalactites and stalagmites, and many can be explored by kayak or small boat. The experience of paddling through these natural formations is both peaceful and awe-inspiring, as you glide beneath towering cliffs into hidden caverns.
2. Floating villages and fish farms
The bay is dotted with floating villages and fish farms, providing a glimpse into the traditional way of life on the water. The fishermen here not only make their living from the sea but also live on it. Visiting these villages offers you a chance to learn about the local culture and how people have adapted to life in such a unique environment. You can even tour the fish farms, where you’ll learn about fish farming techniques and might even sample freshly caught fish, cooked right there on the water.
3. Sandy beaches
Lan Ha Bay is home to many small, secluded sandy beaches, perfect for relaxing in peace. Unlike Halong Bay’s busier beaches, the ones in Lan Ha Bay are quieter, making them ideal for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying a private picnic by the water. Many of these beaches are hidden away and can be accessed by kayak or boat.
4. Hidden lagoons
One of the most magical aspects of Lan Ha Bay is its hidden lagoons. Accessible only by kayak or small boat, these lagoons are surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and are a haven of tranquility. Paddling through the narrow entrances of the lagoons and discovering these secret oases is a highlight of any trip to the bay.
5. Majestic limestone cliffs
The towering limestone karsts are the hallmark of Lan Ha Bay’s scenery. These cliffs, with their dramatic shapes, create a stunning backdrop to any activity you choose, whether it’s kayaking, cruising, or simply enjoying the view from a beach. Some of the cliffs have caves and grottos to explore, while others provide homes for wildlife, including birds and monkeys.
6. Islands
Lan Ha Bay is dotted with many small islands, each with its own charm and attractions. Some of the most popular islands include:
Monkey Island: Known for its population of monkeys, this island is a fun spot to observe wildlife. While it’s possible to feed the monkeys, it’s important to follow guidelines to protect them and their habitat.
Van Boi Island: A favorite for rock climbers, this island boasts stunning limestone cliffs that rise dramatically from the water. You can also kayak around the island and discover its hidden lagoons and caves.
Nam Cat Island: A quiet island with a fishing village and a beautiful beach, Nam Cat is perfect for swimming and snorkeling in calm waters.
Ba Trai Dao Island (Three Peaches Island): Named for its three small beaches separated by rocky cliffs, this island is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. There are also hiking trails offering stunning views of the surrounding bay.
Best things to do in Lan Ha Bay
Lan Ha Bay offers a variety of activities, making it an exciting destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. Here are some of the best things to do in the bay:
1. Enjoy a cruise through Lan Ha Bay
A cruise is one of the best ways to explore the stunning landscapes of Lan Ha Bay. Whether it’s a day trip or a multi-day journey, cruising allows you to take in the beauty of the limestone karsts, hidden beaches, and floating villages from the comfort of a boat. Many cruises also offer onboard activities like cooking classes, fishing, or tai chi at sunrise.
2. Kayaking to hidden lagoons
Kayaking is a must-do activity in Lan Ha Bay. You can paddle your way into hidden lagoons and caves that are inaccessible to larger boats. This gives you an up-close view of the bay’s stunning limestone cliffs and the chance to discover its most secluded and peaceful spots.
3. Explore hidden caves
The bay is home to many beautiful caves, such as Dark & Light Cave, where you can either paddle through or take a small boat. These caves often open up into secret lagoons, offering a magical and adventurous experience.
4. Visit floating farms & villages
Take a tour of Lan Ha Bay’s floating villages and fish farms to learn about the traditional way of life here. You’ll see how people live and work on the water and have the opportunity to sample freshly caught seafood.
5. Relax on the beach
The bay is dotted with small, quiet beaches that offer a peaceful retreat from the world. Spend some time sunbathing, swimming, or having a picnic on one of the bay’s secluded beaches.
6. Swimming in the calm water
The calm, emerald waters of Lan Ha Bay are perfect for a refreshing swim. Many cruises stop at spots where you can jump right off the boat and enjoy the crystal-clear waters.
7. Island hopping
With so many islands in Lan Ha Bay, you can easily spend your time hopping from one to another. Each island has its own unique features, from beautiful beaches to opportunities for rock climbing or hiking.
8. Fishing
Some cruises offer fishing as an activity, allowing you to try your hand at catching fish in the same waters the locals do. It’s a relaxing and rewarding way to experience the bay.
9. Rock climbing & deep water soloing
For the more adventurous, Lan Ha Bay offers excellent rock climbing opportunities. Van Boi Island is particularly popular with climbers. Deep water soloing, where you climb without ropes over water, is another exciting activity that adrenaline seekers will love.
10. Visit Cat Ba Island
Lan Ha Bay is located right next to Cat Ba Island, the largest island in the area. From here, you can take a break from the water and explore Cat Ba’s national park, trek to viewpoints, cycle around the island, or relax on its beaches. Cat Ba also offers accommodations for those wanting to spend more time in the area.
How to explore Lan Ha Bay
There are several ways to explore the beauty of Lan Ha Bay, depending on your preferences and schedule. Here are the best options:
1. Day cruise
A day cruise is a great way to get a glimpse of Lan Ha Bay, though time will be limited. Most day cruises from Hanoi also include a portion of Halong Bay, as Lan Ha Bay is a bit further from the mainland. Keep in mind that the travel time between Hanoi and Lan Ha Bay takes around 5 hours round-trip, leaving only a few hours to actually enjoy the bay. For a more fulfilling experience, consider spending the night in the area or opting for a longer cruise. Alternatively, you can depart from Cat Ba Island for a shorter day cruise, giving you more time to explore.
2. Multi-day cruise
The best way to fully experience Lan Ha Bay is on a multi-day cruise, usually ranging from 2 to 3 days. Most classic Halong Bay cruises include the third day exploring Lan Ha Bay. However, some cruises focus exclusively on Lan Ha Bay, allowing you to experience this quieter and less crowded part of the region. Most of these cruises depart from the main harbor of Halong Bay, meaning you’ll pass through both Halong and Lan Ha Bays during the trip, giving you the best of both worlds.
3. From Cat Ba Island
Lan Ha Bay has the unique advantage of being accessible from Cat Ba Island, unlike Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay, which require a cruise. Cat Ba is the largest island in the bay and can be explored on its own without the need for a cruise.
While taking a boat from Cat Ba Island is still recommended for exploring the more remote parts of Lan Ha Bay, you can also rent kayaks and paddle yourself. This gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Cat Ba’s coastal roads and viewpoints, such as the Canon Fort, offer stunning views over the bay, and you can also combine kayaking with trekking or cycling around the island for a more adventurous experience.
Lan Ha Bay cruise tips
To make the most of your experience in Lan Ha Bay, here are a few helpful tips to consider when planning your cruise:
Combine with Cat Ba Island for more adventure
Lan Ha Bay is perfectly combined with an overnight stay on Cat Ba Island. After exploring the bay, spend a night on Cat Ba to enjoy more active exploration options such as trekking through the national park, cycling along the scenic coastal roads, visiting viewpoints, or simply relaxing on the island’s beaches. It’s a great way to get both adventure and relaxation in one trip.
Opt for a minimum of 1-night cruise
While day trips are possible, a 1-night or multi-night cruise allows you to fully experience the beauty and tranquility of Lan Ha Bay. A day trip from Hanoi often involves long hours on the road, leaving just a few hours to enjoy the bay. By staying overnight, you can enjoy early morning views, evening sunsets, and the quiet beauty of the bay after most of the day-trippers have left.
Check the type of cruise
Some cruises cater to couples looking for a romantic getaway, others are great for solo travelers, and some are more family-friendly. Choose the one that suits your style to ensure the best experience. You don’t want to be a solo traveler on a cruise full of couples or in a party atmosphere if you’re looking for peace and relaxation.
Leave your luggage behind
If you’re planning to leave from Hanoi and return there, consider leaving your heavy luggage at your hotel. Many hotels in Hanoi offer luggage storage for guests heading out on trips to Halong Bay, Ninh Binh, or Sapa. This makes it easier to travel light and bring only what you need for the cruise.
What to bring
Make sure to bring essentials like swimwear, sunscreen (even if it’s cloudy), a waterproof phone case, and your passport for registration. You might also want to bring snacks, as options can be limited on the cruise. Cruises often provide meals, but extra snacks can be handy for in-between activities.
Communication
Keep in mind that when you’re far out in Lan Ha Bay, cell service can be limited. While some cruises offer Wi-Fi, you may not have internet access in the more remote parts of the bay. Plan accordingly if you need to stay connected during your trip.
How to get to Lan Ha Bay
The best way to explore Lan Ha Bay is by joining a cruise, which starts at one of the local harbors. Here’s how you can reach the cruise ports and other options for getting to Lan Ha Bay:
Cruise transportation
Most Lan Ha Bay cruises depart from one of several harbors in the region. Many cruises include transportation from Hanoi to the port, with some even offering private buses or limousines as part of the package. This option is convenient because they pick you up directly from your hotel in Hanoi and drop you off right at the cruise terminal. Some cruise companies include transportation in their package, while others offer it for an additional fee.
If you prefer to arrange transportation yourself, you can hire a private car with a driver, which is a good option if you’re not coming from Hanoi. Shared limousine vans are also a comfortable alternative. Be sure to confirm which port your cruise departs from before arranging transport, as there are multiple harbors in the region.
From Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay via Cat Ba Island
If you don’t want to experience Lan Ha Bay via a cruise, an alternative route is to travel to Cat Ba Island. Since Cat Ba is an island, you’ll need to take a ferry to reach it. You can book a bus or limousine van ticket from Hanoi to Cat Ba Island, which includes the ferry crossing. Another option is to rent a private car with a driver, who can take you directly to the ferry terminal and arrange the crossing for you. Once you arrive at Cat Ba Island, you can rent kayaks or join a smaller boat trip to explore Lan Ha Bay on your own terms.
Best time to visit Lan Ha Bay
The ideal time to visit Lan Ha Bay largely depends on your preferences for weather and activities. Here’s a breakdown of the best times to go:
Best months to visit
The best time to visit Lan Ha Bay is during the transitional months between the two monsoon seasons: from September to November and March to May. During these months, the weather is mild, with pleasant temperatures, clear skies, and calm waters, making it perfect for outdoor activities like cruising, kayaking, and swimming. The bay is less crowded than during peak summer, and you’ll enjoy more peaceful surroundings.
Summer (June to August)
Summer in Lan Ha Bay brings hot and humid weather, with temperatures ranging from 28°C to 35°C. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect more crowds on the cruises and beaches. The warm weather is great for swimming and water activities, but there’s also a higher chance of rain or tropical storms. Rain showers are typically short but can be heavy, so it’s wise to plan for some wet weather gear if you’re visiting during this time.
Winter (December to February)
Winter is part of the dry season, but the weather can be quite chilly and overcast, especially in December and January. Temperatures range from 12°C to 20°C, and while you’ll still be able to enjoy the beauty of the bay, swimming and water activities might not be as enjoyable. The bay is less crowded during this time, which makes it a quieter and more relaxing experience for those who don’t mind cooler weather.
Arranging a cruise in Lan Ha Bay
When planning a cruise in Lan Ha Bay, it’s important to find the right option that suits your preferences, budget, and group size. Here’s how Local Vietnam can help you arrange the perfect Lan Ha Bay cruise:
At Local Vietnam, we specialize in matching you with the best cruise options based on your specific needs. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple seeking a romantic getaway, or a family looking for a fun adventure, we can help you find the ideal cruise. Our services go beyond just booking your trip—we can also arrange all transportation, from your hotel pickup in Hanoi to other destinations you wish to explore, such as Ninh Binh or Cat Ba Island.
If you have specific preferences for your cruise, you can request a customized cruise based on your wishes. You can also explore our Cruises & Tours section for pre-curated packages that may fit your interests. If you’re planning a longer trip through Vietnam, we offer full itinerary planning that’s tailored to your needs. From a relaxing Lan Ha Bay cruise to trekking, kayaking, or even a road trip through other parts of Vietnam, we ensure that your experience is seamless and customized just for you. Click here if you need help planning a fully customized trip through Vietnam, completely tailored to your wishes.
