10 Best Things To Do In Lan Ha Bay To Enjoy Your Dream Vacation

Lan Ha Bay Overview

30 km from the city center, Lan Ha Bay is a bay located off the coast of Hai Phong City, a coastal city in the North bordering Quang Ninh province.

Before discovering what to do and see in this beautiful bay, let's learn about geographical features and weather to know when to visit Lan Ha Bay!

Geographical Features

Lan Ha Bay

Lan Ha Bay is a beautiful place located in the south of Halong Bay, and it's smaller. It covers an area of more than 7,000 ha, with about 5,400 ha being part of Cat Ba National Park.

Lan Ha Bay is famous for its stunning landscape, which includes hundreds of limestone islets spread over 76 square kilometers. These limestone formations create a unique and breathtaking sight, similar to what you'd find in Halong Bay.

Moreover, you can discover over 130 charming sandy beaches in the bay. So, it’s easy to find the perfect spot for swimming and even cliff jumping if you're feeling adventurous.

Weather

The bay's unique position, surrounded by the sea, ensures the air remains comfortable and moderate. The average temperatures typically range from 25-28°C, making it pleasant throughout the year.

Summer in Lan Ha Bay is a special time when the temperatures can occasionally rise to 30°C. While the weather is mostly sunny and inviting for water activities, you should be prepared for sudden storms.

In winter, the northern monsoon winds make their way to the bay. They bring cooler temperatures, usually between 15°C to 20°C. It's a different side of Lan Ha Bay, where the atmosphere becomes crisp and refreshing.

What Is The Best Month To Visit Lan Ha Bay?

Summer In Lan Ha Bay

The best time to visit this breathtaking bay is from April to July. During these months, Lan Ha Bay is at its most idyllic, offering perfect weather conditions that make your trip memorable.

In these summer months, the weather is absolutely delightful. The cool sea breeze gently blows in from the sea. As a result, it creates the ideal setting for various water sports in Lan Ha Bay.

The mornings are especially enchanting as the sunrise casts its golden rays through the numerous caves and rock formations. The summer sun, while intense, provides clear and vivid views of the majestic islands and limestone formations that dot the bay.

However, it's important to note that the late summer months, from August to October, should be avoided for travel. During this period, the weather becomes less favorable, with occasional storms and heavy rains.

• 4 Reviews

Hanoi Halong Bay Tour 2 Days

Hanoi - Halong Bay

100% Price Beat Guarantee

No hidden costs

• Depart Time:Daily
• Starts/Ends:Hanoi/Hanoi
• Tour type:Private Tours
• Age range:1 To 90 Years
• Operated in:English, French, Spanish, German, Italian

• 4 Reviews

Days

2

Price From

$

View TourRequest Quote

Things To Do In Lan Ha Bay

When coming to this Mong Mo Bay area, you can participate in many activities, from island hopping and kayaking to visiting a fishing village and exploring caves.

Each gives you an unforgettable experience and you learn more about the culture here. Let’s explore these activities!

Island Hopping

Island Hopping

Island hopping in Lan Ha Bay is an absolute must for any visitor seeking to immerse themselves in the natural wonders of this stunning bay.

With almost 400 islets scattered throughout the bay, you're in for a true adventure. Each boasts its unique charm, from sandy beaches that invite you to relax and unwind to limestone cliffs that leave you in awe of nature's artistry.

The cost of island hopping depends on the means of transportation you choose and the activities you will participate in.

Kayaking

On A Kayak

Kayaking is a perfect fusion of sport and exploration on the pristine, emerald waters of Lan Ha Bay. Picture yourself in a small kayak, gliding close to the base of towering limestone mountains, marveling at their intriguing shapes.

You'll have the opportunity to get up close and personal with the natural wonders of the bay, narrow passages, and hidden coves. It’s a privilege that cruising can't provide.

Some popular kayaking spots include Tung Gau Cave, Ang Vem, and Cat Dua Beach. You'll be amazed by the stunning landscapes and rock formations as you paddle through the bay.

Prices typically range from 50,000 to 100,000 VND per person, and the best part is that there is no set time limit. In other words, you can take your time and savor the bay's beauty at your own pace without feeling rushed.

Swimming

Swim In Lan Ha Bay

Swimming in the azure waters of Lan Ha Bay is a must-do activity! Lan Ha Bay boasts 139 stunning beaches. Among them, the three best-known beaches are Ban Chan, Three Peaches, and Tiptop.

• The Ban Chan beach is known for its tranquil atmosphere and the gentle shelving of the shore, making it ideal for swimmers of all levels.

• The Three Peaches beach offers a more secluded experience, nestled between towering limestone cliffs.

• The Tiptop beach is a hidden gem, with a sense of serenity that few places can match.

Depending on your Lan Ha Bay itinerary, the cruise will often stop at one of these idyllic spots. It's impossible to resist the allure of these stunning beaches, with their pristine white sands and the brilliant sunshine warming your skin.

As the sea breeze whispers in your ears and the turquoise waves gently lap at the shore, you'll find yourself in a state of pure relaxation.

Snorkeling

Lan Ha Bay Is The Perfect Place For Snorkeling

Snorkeling in Lan Ha Bay is a fantastic way to explore the underwater world. While the beautiful beaches and rocky islands above the water are great, there's a whole different world waiting for you beneath the waves.

When you go snorkeling, you put on special gear like a mask and a breathing tube, and then you can float on the water's surface and look down into the sea. The cost for this activity is usually around 600,000 to 1,000,000 VND/person.

What's really special about Lan Ha Bay is that the water here is much cleaner than in other places. What you'll see is a colorful, bustling city under the water. The coral reefs come in colors, and you'll see fish swimming among them.

Some of the best spots for snorkeling in Lan Ha Bay:

• Monkey Island

• Turtle Island

• Nam Cat Island

These places have calm, peaceful waters where you can get up close to the fish and coral. If you're lucky, you might spot a sea turtle, which is always a thrilling experience.

Sunbathing

Sunbathing

Sunbathing allows you to relax under the warm sun, surrounded by the natural beauty of this paradise. It's hard to resist the call of the allure of the pristine white sand.

The scene is picture-perfect, with the sun above, the white sands beneath, and lush green coconut trees swaying gently in the breeze. As the cool sea breeze wafts over you, it's a feeling of pure bliss.

You can lounge on Ban Chan Beach, Ba Trai Dao Beach, or any other picturesque spot in Lan Ha Bay. It's an opportunity to recharge your energy, appreciate the simple joys of life, and create memories under the glorious Vietnamese sun.

Rock Climbing

Rock Climbing

Love adventure and sports? Rock climbing in Lan Ha Bay is your go-to activity! It helps you stay fit and gives you a thrill when you conquer the natural rocks.

There are many places to climb in Lan Ha Bay, both on the land and on Cat Ba Island, including:

• Dau Be Island: It has triangular-shaped rocky cliffs. Climbing here can be fun and a little risky. You'll need safety ropes when climbing here.

• Ben Beo Cliffs: This place is a primary port on Cat Ba Island. The rocks are usually good, but they might get more challenging to climb in the dry season. It's a bit tough but still safe for most people.

• Van Boi: It's a small beach near Cat Ba, and climbing here is for experienced climbers. The cliffs are a bit dangerous.

These climbing services offer difficulty levels, so there's something for everyone. Don't worry too much; you'll find routes that suit your skills.

Cruising

Cruising

If you're looking for a remarkable and luxurious way to explore Lan Ha Bay, cruising offers a blend of comfort, opulence, and the beauty of nature. These are some of the best Lan Ha Bay cruises to consider:

• Stellar of the Sea

The accommodations on Stellar of the Sea are incredibly luxurious and spacious. Travelers who have stayed on this cruise have praised the modern and impressive rooms.

Also, the cruise has lavish amenities like a golf course, swimming pool, a play area for kids, a wine cellar, and a top-notch bar and restaurant.

Price for a 2-day-1-night tour: from 4,900,000 VND per person

• Mon Cheri

Mon Cheri is another top-notch choice for a 5-star experience in Lan Ha Bay. With its elegant white exterior, it exudes sophistication and luxury.

Onboard, you'll find all the modern comforts you'd expect from a 5-star hotel, including a golf course, a swimming pool, and a Jacuzzi hot tub.

Price for a 2-day-1-night tour: from 3,300,000 VND per person

• Orchid Classic

For the ultimate in luxury and elegance, Orchid Classic stands out. It's designed for a small group of 15-20 guests and boasts a Jacuzzi pool that promises to make your Lan Ha Bay vacation memorable.

Besides these three outstanding options, you can refer to other options online to find the one that best suits your needs and economic conditions.

Price for a 2-day-1-night tour: from 2,900,000 VND per person

Chase Sunsets

Chase Sunsets

Chasing sunsets in Lan Ha Bay is not just about witnessing a natural phenomenon; it's about immersing yourself in the tranquil ambiance of this breathtaking landscape.

One of the best places to catch a breathtaking sunset in Lan Ha Bay is Three Peaches Beach. Its three limestone formations, when viewed from a distance, resemble ripe peaches with a unique bow-shaped beach.

This area offers the perfect vantage point to watch the sun dip below the horizon, casting a warm, golden glow over the bay.

Visit A Fishing Village

A Fishing Village

Exploring a fishing village in Lan Ha Bay is a way to get a taste of our local culture and heritage. The most popular fishing villages to visit are:

• Cua Van

• Viet Hai

• Ba Hang

These villages are collections of floating houses where families catch seafood like fish, crabs, and squid. When you visit these places, you can meet the friendly villagers, and learn about their daily lives and traditional fishing methods.

For a more immersive experience, you can even take a boat ride with a local fisherman. They'll show you how they cast their nets and catch fish, and you can join in.

Explore Caves

Explore Caves

Caves are a must-visit attraction for anyone coming to Lan Ha Bay. Many of these caves are of historical and cultural importance in the area.

So, visiting them helps you understand more about the folklore and local legends associated with them. Thanks to that, you'll know the region's heritage. The most worth-visiting caves include:

• Dark and Bright Cave

• Luon Cave

• Dragon Jaw Cave

• Ca Cave

• Do Cung Cave

To explore these caves, you can rent a kayak with 50,000 to 100,000 VND per person. You can also hire a Lan Ha Bay tour guide to hear the legends and stories related to these places.

Things To See In Lan Ha Bay

Lan Ha Bay has many beautiful scenes that promise to give you quality photos and movies. From famous islands to mysterious caves, you can freely explore and immerse yourself in the colorful natural world here.

Nam Cat Island

Nam Cat Island

Nam Cat Island is a small paradise tucked away in Lan Ha Bay, ideal for those seeking a break from the scorching summer heat. With clear blue waters and fine white sand, this is perfect for capturing beautiful photos.

Getting to Nam Cat is easy, just a 15-minute journey if you drive from Beo Dock. This island is less crowded than islands, making it perfect for relaxation.

This heaven is a postcard-perfect spot in Lan Ha Bay. The beautiful sandy shores are hugged by magnificent mountains. As a result, it creates a picturesque landscape that captivates anyone who sets foot here.

What's unique about this place is the presence of three large wooden houses and six bamboo bungalows. The island retains its natural beauty, relatively untouched and less developed.

As you explore the island, you'll feel a sense of calmness and experience the beautiful harmony between nature and humans.

Moreover, Nam Cat Island offers a range of services for visitors, from beach activities to kayaking, snorkeling, and fishing.

At night, group activities like bonfires add an extra layer of enjoyment. The island's simple charm and connection with nature create an escape that feels magical and serene.

Cat Ba Island

Cat Ba Island

Cat Ba Island is the largest and most prominent island in the Cat Ba Archipelago, which makes it a focal point in Lan Ha Bay. It serves as a bustling hub for tourists exploring the Halong Bay area.

Many visitors who prefer not to take cruises choose this place as their base to discover this mesmerizing bay and all the incredible things it has to offer.

One of the island's standout attractions is the Cat Ba National Park. This park is a natural treasure trove, home to lush forests that hide a fascinating array of wildlife.

When you venture into the park's heart, you might see civet cats, hornbills, deer, and other captivating creatures. This place is not just a paradise for nature enthusiasts; it's also a critical conservation area protecting these unique species.

This island also offers chances to explore its pristine jungles and enchanting caves. You can embark on hiking expeditions to uncover the island's hidden treasures, including captivating caves with their own stories to tell.

Monkey Island

On Monkey Island

Monkey Island offers a unique blend of nature and wildlife. Its allure is also rooted in history.

Originally named Cat Dua due to the abundance of wild pineapple trees, it later earned the affectionate moniker Monkey after the Cat Ba National Park released more than 20 monkeys onto the island.

To reach Monkey Island, you'll embark on a short boat journey from Ben Beo, passing through Cai Beo village and several small islands. Within about 10 minutes, you'll find yourself on this pristine island.

There are two famous crescent-shaped beaches on Monkey Island called Cat Dua 1 and 2. They invite you to relax on their white sandy shores and swim in the crystal-clear blue waters.

The monkeys here have grown quite accustomed to human visitors but can be mischievous, so keep a close eye on your belongings.

Apart from the monkeys, this island boasts spectacular views of Lan Ha Bay. Its peak offers one of the most breathtaking vistas in the region, which you can reach through a short trek from the beach.

The panoramic scenery of the bay from this viewpoint is absolutely mesmerizing. Don't forget to record this moment!

Cannon Fort

A View From Cannon Fort

Cannon Fort is a remarkable historical site. The fort was constructed in 1940 and is perched on a 177-meter hill that extends towards the sea, providing visitors with unobstructed views of the vast East Sea.

At Cannon Fort, you can revel in the stunning seascape of Lan Ha Bay, where the tranquil waters meet the dramatic limestone formations. The site offers several attractions, including:

• Three Observation Decks: From these decks, you can capture breathtaking views of Cat Ba Town and the magnificent Lan Ha Bay.

• Three Massive Cannons: You can explore these remnants from the past and learn about their significance during wartime.

• Command Bunker: This was the central hub for military activities and strategies during wartime.

• Traditional House: A traditional house on the site houses a collection of historical artifacts, weaponry, photographs, and memorabilia.

• Atomic Bomb Shelter: The U-shaped bomb shelter, also known as the Atomic Bomb Shelter, reveals how the local soldiers lived during conflict times.

Cannon Fort is open to the public daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and the admission fee is around 80,000 VND for adults. It's a must-visit attraction in Lan Ha Bay, where you can soak in history while being mesmerized by the bay's beauty.

Dark And Bright Cave

Dark And Bright Cave

The Dark and Bright Cave, with its two distinctive parts, offers an extraordinary experience for those seeking adventure and natural beauty.

The journey through this cave is an exploration of contrasts. You can navigate in small rowboats, each accommodating 6 to 8 people. You can also opt for the more intimate and hands-on experience of kayaking with a partner.

As you enter the cave, darkness envelops you. It creates an otherworldly atmosphere. This part of the journey feels like a voyage into the unknown.

The highlight of the Dark and Bright Cave is the transition from darkness to brightness. The dark tunnel leads you to a hidden lagoon, where the water is illuminated, revealing the bright part of the cave.

Here, the interplay of light and shadow creates a surreal and captivating spectacle. The lagoon is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. As a result, it forms a natural amphitheater that enhances the visual spectacle.

As you emerge from the cave, a stunning valley unfolds before you, cradled by majestic mountain ranges.

Drifting on the calm waters, surrounded by the vastness of the sea and sky, this moment will become a distinctive memory in your exploration of Lan Ha Bay.

Luon Cave

Luon Cave

Located on Bo Hon Island in the Cat Ba Archipelago, faces Turtle Island and Heaven's Gate, Luon Cave is surrounded by stunning nature. Think of mountains, clouds, and lush greenery when you explore this place on small boats.

The entrance to the cave forms a calm arch, and the scene gets even more magical, with rowboats gently moving in the clear water. It's like stepping into a dream.

With a kayak, you can get closer to the mountain base, witness the majestic limestone cliffs, and slowly navigate in the cave. Inside, you'll find fossilized rocks shaped like seashells. This uniqueness makes this cave a favorite.

Luon Cave is a serene escape, with nature hugging you from every side. The charm comes from the mix of limestone mountains, green waters, and the blue sky. Even though many people visit, it has held onto its original beauty.

Cua Van Fishing Village

Cua Van Village

Cua Van Fishing Village is a picturesque destination that captures the essence of the bay's stunning beauty and the rich cultural heritage of its people.

Visiting Cua Van, you'll be captivated by the natural wonders and the vibrant, colorful floating houses that dot the water.

These houses are not just dwellings; they represent a unique way of life and the traditional fishing techniques of the local fishermen.

Wandering through the village, the cobblestone paths underfoot add a touch of nostalgia, creating a tranquil and peaceful ambiance. You'll love the calmness of the surroundings, coupled with the perfect harmony of nature.

This village is also an opportunity to witness the local fishermen's daily life, hear their songs that echo through the bay, and immerse yourself in the warmth of their friendly community.

Moreover, the village serves as a gateway to other wonders of Halong Bay, including the mystical Ba Ham Lake and the sacred Tien Ong Cave.

Unique boats, adorned with local flair, are readily available to take you on a cruise around the village or explore the nooks and crannies of Lan Ha Bay.

To access Cua Van, you can opt for a leisurely cruise on a boat, a swift ride in a canoe for a more intimate experience, or the comfort of a cruise ship.

Sunsets

Watch Sunset From A Cruise

One of the most enchanting and soul-stirring experiences I would recommend to visitors is to witness the sunsets here.

As the sun descends behind the karsts, the sky turns into a symphony of warm hues: vibrant oranges, deep purples, and soft pinks. The limestone formations, standing like ancient sentinels, become silhouetted against this vivid backdrop.

The best place to watch the sunset in Lan Ha Bay is the Three Peaches beach. There is even a Sunset Party held here for people to watch the sunset while enjoying dancing and snacks.

As the sun sinks lower, casting a warm glow across the bay, the entire atmosphere becomes infused with tranquility. It's a moment to wind down and appreciate the sheer beauty that nature has painted across the sky and water.

To enhance this experience, you can enjoy the sunset from the deck of a traditional junk boat or a kayak. You will drift on the calm waters, surrounded by the majestic karsts and bathed in the warm colors of the setting sun.

FAQs

Should I Visit Lan Ha Or Halong Bay?

Lan Ha Bay and Halong Bay offer stunning landscapes, but Lan Ha is less crowded, providing a more serene experience. So, if you prefer a quieter atmosphere with similar beauty, choose Lan Ha.

Is Lan Ha Bay Located In Halong Bay?

Yes, Lan Ha Bay is located to the south of Halong Bay. Both bays share the same mesmerizing karst formations.

How To Get To Lan Ha Bay?

You can access Lan Ha Bay by boat or cruise from Halong City. Alternatively, travel to Cat Ba Island and then embark on a boat or ferry to reach Lan Ha.

How Much Does A Cruise In Lan Ha Bay Cost?

Lan Ha Bay cruise costs vary. Budget cruises for a 2-day-1-night tour can start at around 2,000,000 VND per person, while luxury options may exceed 5,000,000 VND. Prices depend on the cruise type, duration, and amenities included.

When you join Asia Tour Advisor’s tours to explore Northern Vietnam, you don't have to worry about cruise costs because it is in our tours.

Conclusion

There are many things to do in Lan Ha Bay, from exploring hidden caves on a kayak to experiencing the vibrant culture of fishing villages.

The majestic pristine islands and beautiful sunsets make any tourist forever remember the things to see in Lan Ha Bay.

It's time to book your Lan Ha Bay adventure! From cruises to village tours, let Asia Tour Advisor transform your travel dreams into cherished memories!