10+ Best Places to Visit in Halong Bay You Shouldn’t Miss
Halong Bay is a mesmerizing UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its emerald waters and towering limestone karsts. With thousands of these natural wonders adorned in lush greenery, the bay offers a unique and enchanting experience. To fully embrace the wonders Halong Bay has to offer, consider visiting its premier attractions.
1. Sung Sot Cave
- Location: On Bo Hon Island, in the central area of Halong Bay, Quang Ninh.
- How to visit: Book a cruise in Halong Bay (Catherine Cruise, Paradise Elegance, Athena Luxury)
Sung Sot Cave, also known as the Surprise Cave, is a stunning karst cave situated within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay. Its name reflects the astonishment that befalls visitors as they enter the cavern and witness its grandeur.
Ancestors say that after defeating the enemy, Thanh Giong rode a cloud into the sky, leaving behind his beloved sword and horse as symbols of comfort for the people. Sung Sot Cave today is a testament to the heroic battle of the past.
The magnificent view inside Sung Sot Cave
Things to know about Sung Sot Cave
Sung Sot Cave, the largest cave in Halong Bay, features two immense chambers and a spacious inner area of 10,000 square meters. Filled with imaginative stalactites and stalagmites, it's a captivating showcase of nature's beauty in the heart of Halong Bay.
You can take guided tours providing insights into its geological and historical importance. Photography enthusiasts can capture the surreal beauty of the cave's intricate formations.
2. Titop Island
- Location: Halong Bay, Quang Ninh, about 7 - 8 km Southeast of Bai Chay Port.
- How to visit: Reserve a cruise to Halong Bay (Hermes Cruise, Ambassador Cruise, Indochine Premium)
Titop Island, named after the Soviet astronaut Gherman Titov, offers a pristine white sand beach and panoramic views of Halong Bay. It's a popular stop for those seeking a blend of relaxation and natural beauty.
Gaining insights into the amazing Titop Island
Titop Island in Halong Bay is a haven of natural beauty with its uniquely shaped crescent moon beach, featuring long stretches of pure white sand and clear blue waters. The island's summit offers an ideal vantage point for a breathtaking panoramic view of the bay.
Hiking to Titop Island summit for incredible views, then relaxing on its tranquil beach, can offer you a perfect blend of adventure and serenity in the heart of Halong Bay.
The pretty scenery of Titop Island
3. Luon Cave
- Location: On Bo Hon Island, Halong Bay, 14 km South of Bai Chay.
- How to visit: Schedule a cruise in Halong Bay (Calista Cruise, Emperor Cruise, Paradise Sails)
The cave is named "Luon" because it is essentially a closed mountain circle with a clear blue lake in the middle, connected to the sea by a tunnel created by a flooded cave. This cave is like a gift from Mother Nature, where hidden wonders and mysterious formations are waiting to be discovered at every turn.
The main points of the stunning Luon Cave
This place captivates with stalactites shaped over millions of years, limestone cliffs draped in lush greenery, and a distinctive complex structure beneath a mountain, all contributing to its majestic and enchanting beauty.
Visitors can embark on a kayaking adventure through the tranquil waters of Luon Cave, surrounded by lush greenery. Alternatively, they have the option to enjoy a peaceful bamboo boat ride, expertly guided by local rowers.
Explore the Unique Luon Cave by kayaking or bamboo boat.
4. Lan Ha Bay
- Location: Located in the East of Cat Ba Island, Hai Phong, close to Halong Bay
- How to visit: Book a cruise for Lan Ha Bay (Mon Cheri, Orchid Cruise, Peony Cruise)
Lan Ha Bay is known as a paradise in Vietnam and is considered one of the most beautiful bays in Vietnam, attracting many tourists with its beautiful scenery. The conditions in Lan Ha Bay are ideal for kayaking with calm and pristine waters, numerous sheltered areas, and gentle winds, creating a perfect environment for this water activity.
A Closer Look at Lan Ha Bay
Lan Ha Bay, with around 400 karst islands, is a picturesque haven boasting stunning beaches with crystal-clear emerald waters. It is also home to diverse marine life and vibrant coral reefs, making it a captivating destination for nature lovers. Therefore, this area offers many luxury cruises for travelers to enjoy.
This landscape offers a range of activities, from swimming and coral watching to kayaking and climbing. Visitors can immerse themselves in the pristine waters, explore vibrant coral reefs, or enjoy the thrill of climbing in this scenic and adventurous destination.
The breathtaking landscape of Lan Ha Bay
5. Dark & Bright Cave
- Location: In the area bordering Lan Ha Bay and Halong Bay, near Cat Ba National Park.
- How to visit: Schedule a cruise to Lan Ha Bay (Elite of the Sea, Heritage Cruise Binh Chuan, Lyra Grandeur)
Dark & Bright Cave was miraculously created by nature. This cave is a 70m-long mountain passage with a hidden underwater section. Inside, the cave dazzles with diverse stalactite formations. Upon exit, the surroundings reveal majestic natural beauty with an array of diverse flora.
Things to know about Dark & Bright Cave
The atmosphere inside Dark Cave is cool and dimly lit, creating a sense of tranquility. Sailing out of the cave into the radiant daylight unveils a breathtaking panorama of mountains, forests, and the sea, leaving visitors in awe of the stunning natural beauty.
You can explore Dark & Bright Cave on a rowing boat, immersing yourself in the captivating scenery. Or you can extend your journey by kayaking around, adding natural richness to your adventure in this picturesque destination.
Take a rowing boat to the mysterious Dark & Bright Cave
6. Trung Trang Cave
- Location: Cat Ba Island, Lan Ha Bay, about 12km from the Cat Ba tourist center
- How to visit: Reserve for a cruise tour to Cat Ba Island (Orchid Premium, Nostalgia Cruise)
Trung Trang Cave is one of the largest and most famous caves on Cat Ba Island. This is a cave that spans approximately 300m through the mountain on Cat Ba Island and showcases a myriad of sparkling stalactites in various shapes and sizes. Beyond its natural beauty, the cave holds countless legends and historical tales.
What to expect in Trung Trang Cave
Going deep inside the cave, there are shimmering stalactites created by nature over millions of years. The unique shapes of the stalactites, combined with colored lights, make the cave seem like a majestic sculpture. Magnificent stalactites intertwine with large cave domes to form an enchanting maze that mesmerizes every visitor.
In Trung Trang Cave, you can leisurely walk to navigate the beauty here. Capture your unique perspective and memories through photography as you immerse yourself in the scenic wonders.
The astounding stalactites in Trung Trang Cave
7. Viet Hai Village
- Location: Located inside Cat Ba National Park, Cat Ba Island, Lan Ha Bay
- How to visit: Embark on a 3-day cruise through Lan Ha Bay (Capella Cruise, Sena Cruise, Ambassador Signature)
Viet Hai Village is a hidden gem in the heart of Cat Ba National Park. Surrounded by lush greenery and embraced by limestone mountains, the village offers a glimpse into the traditional way of life in Northern Vietnam.
This village has a long history of more than 100 years. Previously, when fishermen went fishing on Lan Ha Bay, they encountered a big storm, so they took refuge in the fishing village and suddenly discovered a source of fresh water and settled in this place.
A charming corner of Viet Hai Village
Gaining insights into Viet Hai Village
Nestled in a scenic natural landscape, Viet Hai Village exudes a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere. Here, the locals still live a primitive life as in the ancient past and the gentle heart.
Experience the excitement of trekking or cycling through the picturesque trails surrounding the village. You can also engage in enriching cultural exchanges with the friendly residents to have meaningful connections and unforgettable experiences.
8. Bai Tu Long Bay
- Location: Gulf of Tonkin, in the Northeast region of Halong Bay.
- How to visit: Take boat tours that travel to Bai Tu Long Bay (Cycad Cruise, Swan Cruise, Signature Cruise)
Bai Tu Long is a hidden gem that includes hundreds of large and small islands created thousands of years ago; each island has majestic and ancient beauty, creating a scene that attracts tourists.
This is also a place to commemorate the heroic victories of General Tran Khanh Du and the three Pham brothers who defeated the grain fleet of Mongol enemy general Truong Van Ho in 1288. If you are interested, let's check the best Bai Tu Long Bay cruise.
The unspoiled beauty of Bai Tu Long Bay
What to expect in Bai Tu Long Bay
Bai Tu Long Bay offers a tranquil escape, less visited and more peaceful than Halong Bay. This gem features picturesque natural beauty with numerous limestone islands, vast ocean views, pristine beaches, and rich biodiversity, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking serenity amidst breathtaking landscapes.
At Bai Tu Long Bay, travelers can immerse themselves in serene cruises, explore enchanting caves, and partake in water sports like kayaking. Cultural enthusiasts have the opportunity to engage with local fishing communities, gaining insights into their traditional way of life.
9. Thien Canh Son Cave
- Location: Hon Co Island, Cong Do Area, Bai Tu Long Bay, about 25km from Bai Chay Port.
- How to visit: Book a Bai Tu Long Bay cruise tour (Signature Royal, Dragon Legend, Dragon Pearl)
Thien Canh Son Cave, nestled on an islet, enchants with its mystical stalactite formations and ethereal ambiance. The path to this cave lasts about 400 steps and is made of stone. Located right under the lush green forest foliage all year round, walking to the cave makes you feel like this is truly a fairyland.
Discover what makes Thien Canh Son Cave noteworthy.
Thien Canh Son Cave is a natural masterpiece with rock formations resembling art. Inside the cave, visitors have the opportunity to marvel at the peculiar beauty of limestone stalactites formed over thousands of years, creating unique formations resembling various things like lotus flowers, elephants, etc.
You can join guided tours that unravel the geological marvels within the cave, offering insightful glimpses into its fascinating formations. Capture the ethereal beauty of this outstanding cave, where every corner tells a story written in stone.
Wonderful rock formation in Thien Canh Son Cave
10. Vung Vieng Fishing Village
- Location: Bai Tu Long Bay, Quang Ninh, about 25km from Tuan Chau
- How to visit: Embark on a Bai Tu Long Bay cruise (Prince Private Junk, Renea Cruise, Garden Bay Legend)
Vung Vieng Village was formed in the 19th century when ancient fishermen here created the habit of anchoring ships and exchanging and trading food. Today, about 50 families are living in the fishing village. The main job of the people here is fishing and providing an authentic cultural experience, allowing visitors to witness the daily lives of local fishermen and their families in floating houses.
Unlocking the beauty of Vung Vieng Fishing Village
Vung Vieng Fishing Village stands as a tranquil floating community, enveloped by stunning natural beauty. With a rich cultural heritage, it is one of the last two places preserving the traditional essence of fishing villages.
Guided by residents, tourists can have a sailing tour around the village, providing insights into traditional fishing. Join local fishermen to understand aquaculture intricacies and explore the village by kayak for a more intimate experience.
The tranquillity of Vung Vieng Floating Village
Each of Halong Bay's allure offers a unique glimpse into the natural wonders of coastal beauty. This place stands as an enchanting testament to the country's rich biodiversity and picturesque landscapes, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking an immersive travel experience. Contact Best Halong Cruises now to explore the extraordinary beauty of Halong Bay!
You might also learn about: Top 8+ Must-try Things In Halong Bay.
Meadow Pham
Image source: Internet
FAQs
1. What are the must-see places in Halong Bay?
The must-see places in Halong Bay include Sung Sot Cave, Titop Island, and Luon Cave; they are the most iconic attractions. For those who want to avoid the crowd, Bai Tu Long Bay, Vung Vieng Village, Cap La Islands,... are a great choice.
2. How many days are enough to visit Halong Bay?
Most travelers spend 2 to 3 days in Halong Bay to explore its main attractions. An overnight cruise allows you to visit caves, islands, and beaches at a relaxed pace, especially on 3-day cruises.
3. Can I visit these places without taking a cruise?
Some places in Halong Bay can be visited on day tours, but many of the most beautiful locations are best accessed by an overnight cruise. Cruises allow you to reach quieter areas and experience the bay more fully.
4. Which area is better to visit: Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay, or Bai Tu Long Bay?
Halong Bay is more famous for its iconic scenery, Lan Ha Bay is trendy and relaxing, while Bai Tu Long Bay is quieter and less crowded. Both areas offer stunning landscapes, and many cruises now combine visits to both bays. It's a matter of preference.
5. Do I need a fee to visit these attractions?
The attractions in Halong Bay need entrance fees. But don't worry, they are all included in the price of the cruises.
