Climate and region of Halong Bay
Halong Bay, located in northern Vietnam, experiences a distinct seasonal climate similar to Hanoi but without the extreme altitude effects of Sapa. The region is divided into a dry season (November to April) with cooler temperatures and stable weather, and a rainy season (May to October) when heat and humidity increase. Unlike central and southern Vietnam, which remain warm year-round, Halong Bay has noticeable seasonal shifts, including chilly winters and hot summers. April marks the transition between the two seasons, making it important to understand the broader climate trends when planning a trip.
Weather in Halong Bay in April
April marks the transition from the dry season to the start of the warmer and more humid months in Halong Bay. Temperatures range between 20°C and 27°C (68°F – 81°F), making it noticeably warmer than March but still more comfortable than the peak summer heat. Rainfall begins to increase slightly, averaging 55 mm (2.2 inches), though most days remain dry or see only light, scattered showers. Humidity remains high at around 85%, and while morning mist is still possible, clear days become more frequent compared to earlier months.
As the last month before the rainy season fully sets in, April offers a mix of stable weather and increasing warmth. Skies tend to be a mix of clouds and sunshine, though prolonged clear skies are not always guaranteed. The sea remains calm, making this a reliable time for cruises. While April is warmer than previous months, it is still not as hot or rainy as the coming summer months. You want to know what to expect in other months? Read our guide about Halong Bay weather per month.
Halong Bay cruise in April, is it worth it?
April is one of the best months to take a cruise in Halong Bay, as it offers a perfect balance between warm but not overly hot temperatures and relatively stable weather. It is the last month of the dry season, meaning rain is still limited, and skies are clearer compared to earlier months. Humidity starts to rise, but overall conditions remain comfortable. The increasing warmth makes outdoor activities on deck more pleasant, and there are more chances for sunshine. However, April is also a popular travel month, so cruises can be busier, and prices may be higher than in previous months.
Pros of an April cruise
- Mild and warm temperatures, ideal for outdoor time on deck.
- Lower chances of rain, as the dry season is still ongoing.
- Better visibility, with fewer misty or overcast days.
- Sea remains calm, providing smooth cruising conditions.
Cons of an April cruise
- Humidity is rising, making it feel warmer.
- More tourists, meaning higher demand for cruises.
- Occasional light rain showers, but nothing too disruptive.
Cruise activities in Spring
April marks the end of spring and the transition toward the warmer months, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities. The air temperature ranges between 20°C and 27°C (68°F – 81°F), and the sea temperature rises to around 23°C (73°F), making swimming a more enjoyable option. While still not as warm as in summer, the water is comfortable enough for those who enjoy a refreshing dip.
Kayaking is particularly enjoyable in April, as the weather is stable and not too humid. Paddling through calm waters and exploring hidden lagoons is a highlight of this month. Beach visits are also pleasant, as it’s warm enough to relax on the sand without the scorching heat of summer. Places like Ti Top Beach and Soi Sim Beach are great for a leisurely stop during a cruise.
Trekking on Cat Ba Island remains a great choice, as April is one of the last months before the intense summer heat makes hikes more exhausting. The trails up to Ngu Lam Peak offer rewarding views without the discomfort of high humidity. Cycling in Viet Hai village is also enjoyable, with comfortable temperatures making it easy to explore. Visiting caves, such as Sung Sot Cave or Thien Cung Cave, is a fantastic year-round activity, but in April, it can be a good escape on cloudier or drizzly days.
Events and festivals in April
April is an important month for national holidays in Vietnam, though on a Halong Bay cruise, you won’t experience much of it directly. However, these holidays do affect travel patterns, with more domestic tourists visiting the bay during certain periods.
- Hung Kings Commemoration Day (10th day of the third lunar month) – This is a national holiday in Vietnam, honoring the country’s legendary founding kings. While ceremonies and celebrations take place at temples and memorial sites across the country, it does not impact a cruise experience unless you visit mainland sites. It is a day off for locals, but Halong Bay itself remains relatively unaffected.
- Reunification Day (April 30th) – A significant national holiday marking the reunification of North and South Vietnam in 1975. While there are patriotic celebrations and public events in cities, this does not directly affect Halong Bay cruises. However, Reunification Day is combined with Labour Day (May 1st), creating one of the busiest domestic travel periods in Vietnam. Expect higher prices and more crowded cruises during this time.
During this period, Carnaval Halong is also held—a major festival featuring drone light shows, street parades, dragon dances, fire performances, and fireworks. While you won’t see much of this from a cruise, visitors who stay in Halong City before or after their cruise may get to witness the vibrant celebrations.
For more details, read about Carnaval Halong.
Tips for visiting Halong Bay in April
April is one of the best months to visit Halong Bay, with warm temperatures and relatively low rainfall. To make the most of your trip, here are some essential travel tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable cruise experience.
What to bring
If you are doing a short cruise from Hanoi, you can leave larger luggage at your hotel and only bring the essentials. Here’s what you should pack for your overnight cruise:
- Light clothing, as temperatures are warm but not too hot
- A light jacket or sweater, as evenings can still be slightly cool
- Sunscreen and sunglasses, as sunny days are more frequent
- Comfortable shoes, for island visits and cave exploration
- A hat or cap, for sun protection while kayaking or walking on deck
Cruise availability
April is a high-demand month for Halong Bay cruises, as it falls within Vietnam’s dry season and aligns with spring holidays in Europe. Additionally, Reunification Day on April 30 and Labour Day on May 1 create a short peak in domestic travel, making cruises busier at the end of the month.
If you plan to visit during this period, booking in advance is highly recommended to secure a good cruise option. Outside of the holiday period, April is still a busy month, so it’s best to reserve your cruise at least a few weeks ahead.
Complete Halong Bay travel guide
April is a fantastic month to explore Halong Bay, but there’s so much more to see. Whether you want to visit Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay, take a scenic flight over the bay, explore caves and floating fishing villages, or combine your trip with Cat Ba Island, there are many options. For more information, check out our Halong Bay travel guide.
