Climate and region of Halong Bay
Halong Bay, situated in northern Vietnam, shares a seasonal climate with Hanoi but lacks the high-altitude effects seen in Sapa. The dry season, from November to April, brings cooler and drier weather, while the rainy season, from May to October, introduces heat, humidity, and occasional storms. Unlike central and southern Vietnam, which experience more consistent warmth throughout the year, Halong Bay has a distinct summer-winter contrast. With June being deep into the rainy season, knowing how the region’s climate shifts throughout the year provides helpful context for planning a visit.
Weather in Halong Bay in June
June brings the full arrival of summer in Halong Bay, with hot temperatures ranging from 26°C to 33°C (79°F – 91°F). High humidity levels, often exceeding 85%, make the air feel even warmer. This is also one of the wetter months of the year, with 230 mm (9 inches) of rainfall on average. Rain showers become more frequent, typically occurring in the late afternoon or evening, but they are often short and intense rather than lasting all day. The sea remains warm and inviting, but occasional storms can bring rougher waters, particularly later in the month.
With long daylight hours and plenty of sunshine between showers, June still offers good conditions for outdoor activities, but the heat and humidity can be intense. Compared to earlier months, this is the first time when weather conditions can begin to affect cruise schedules, particularly if storms develop. This is also a period when the contrast between northern Vietnam’s seasonal shifts and the more stable tropical climate of central and southern Vietnam becomes even more noticeable. You want to know what to expect in other months? Read our guide about Halong Bay weather per month.
Halong Bay cruise in June, is it worth it?
A Halong Bay cruise in June is worth it, but with some considerations. This is now fully into the rainy season, with hot temperatures, high humidity, and an increase in rainfall. While there are still plenty of sunny hours, afternoon showers become more common, and occasional storms can affect cruise schedules. The sea remains warm, making it enjoyable for swimming and kayaking, but the combination of heat and humidity can feel intense. As this is not the peak tourist season, cruise prices are often lower, making June a good choice for budget-conscious travelers who don’t mind occasional rain.
Pros of a June cruise
- Lower prices, as it is not peak season.
- Still many sunny hours, despite increased rain.
- Warm waters, ideal for swimming and kayaking.
- Fewer crowds, offering a more relaxed experience.
Cons of a June cruise
- High humidity, making it feel hotter than the actual temperature.
- Frequent afternoon rain showers, though usually short-lived.
- Some cloudy days, meaning blue skies are not guaranteed.
- Chance of storms, which can lead to last-minute cruise cancellations.
Cruise activities in Summer
June is now fully into summer, bringing hot temperatures, high humidity, and an increased chance of rain. However, the warm sea temperatures (around 29°C / 84°F) make swimming one of the best activities this month. The combination of hot air and warm water makes it easy to enjoy time in the bay, whether from your cruise or at one of Halong Bay’s beaches.
Kayaking is still a great experience, though the heat and humidity make early morning or late afternoon paddles the best time to go. On sunny days, it’s important to wear a hat and sunscreen, as the strong sun can be intense on the water. Beach visits in June are perfect, as the hot weather makes lounging on the sand or taking a dip a welcome activity. However, as this is the start of the rainy season, occasional downpours may limit outdoor time on some days.
Trekking on Cat Ba Island becomes more challenging due to the heat and high humidity, so it’s not the best time for long hikes. Cycling in Viet Hai village is also possible, but best done in the early morning. Cave visits are a great way to escape the heat, as the interiors remain naturally cool. Sung Sot Cave, Thien Cung Cave, and Dark & Bright Cave are excellent options for a break from the summer sun.
Still unsure about visiting Halong Bay in June? Find out if Halong Bay in rainy season is worth it.
Events and festivals in June
June does not have any major national or local festivals that impact travel in Halong Bay. Unlike earlier months with Tet or April’s national holidays, June is generally a festival-free period. This means fewer travel disruptions and no large-scale public holidays that could affect cruise operations.
However, June marks the beginning of Vietnam’s summer holiday season, when local families start traveling more frequently, especially on weekends. While there are no official events, you may notice more Vietnamese tourists on cruises, particularly on Fridays and Saturdays.
Overall, June is a calm month in terms of festivals, making it a good choice for visitors who prefer a quieter experience without the crowds of major holidays.
Tips for visiting Halong Bay in June
June is now fully into summer, with hot temperatures, high humidity, and an increased chance of rain. With the right planning, you can still enjoy a great Halong Bay cruise while staying comfortable in the heat.
What to bring
Since June is hot and humid, packing light and practical items is important. If you are traveling from Hanoi, you can leave extra luggage at your hotel and bring only what you need:
- Breathable summer clothing, as temperatures can be high
- High SPF sunscreen, as the sun is very strong in June
- A hat or cap, for sun protection while kayaking or sightseeing
- A rain jacket or poncho, as short, heavy showers are possible
- Bug repellent, since mosquitoes can be present in humid weather
- Swimwear, as the water is warm and perfect for swimming
Cruise availability
June is not a peak month for international travelers, but it does mark the start of summer holidays in Vietnam, meaning more domestic tourists visit Halong Bay, especially on weekends. This results in a busier experience on local-oriented cruises, while international cruises remain less crowded than in peak months like April and December.
Since June is part of the rainy season, it’s best to check weather forecasts before booking and consider flexible travel plans in case of cancellations due to storms. The advantage of visiting in June is that cruise prices are lower, making it a good time for budget travelers to find deals.
Complete Halong Bay travel guide
June offers a different Halong Bay experience, with hot, humid days and warm waters perfect for swimming. If you’re interested in visiting less crowded areas like Bai Tu Long Bay or Lan Ha Bay, exploring Cat Ba Island, or taking a scenic flight over Halong Bay, our Halong Bay travel guide provides all the information you need.
