Amazing caves, idyllic islands, floating villages and fiery sunsets – you’ll find all of these and more in Halong Bay, one of Vietnam’s top attractions and a UNESCO World Heritage site!

Located east of Hanoi, Halong Bay means ‘descending dragon’ and legend has it that a dragon slumbers below the waters, protecting the bay from invaders. It’s home to more than 1000 islands, said to be originally emeralds from the dragon’s mouth. And they’re a truly impressive sight in person – there’s certainly something mystical in the air here!

Even if you’re not into group tours, they really are the best way to experience Halong Bay. You won’t have to worry about a thing, as every detail is taken care of for you.

While any hotel can organize a Halong Bay tour and will have impressive brochures lying around to tempt you, you’ll most likely get a better deal from one of the many travel agencies in town.

A variety of boat sizes and styles cater to all types of tourists. You’ll be doing everything with your fellow passengers, so keep that in mind when weighing up a more intimate tour against a ship with larger capacity. Check exactly what is included in your ticket; usually this includes transport, food, and activities.

There are day trip cruises available, as well as 2 day-1 night, 3 day-2 nights and 4 day-3 nights cruises. The longer your stay, the more opportunities you’ll have to head off the beaten track (the bays do get crowded in peak season). Given it takes about four hours to get there from Hanoi, it’s definitely worth spending at least one night in Halong Bay! You won’t want to miss the sun setting or waking up to the gentle hum of the boat and a sublime view out of your cabin window.

Halong Bay highlights

Here are some of the common options that are included in various Halong Bay cruise itineraries!

Cat Ba

Cat Ba is the biggest island in Halong Bay and home to white sandy beaches, lush forests and towering cliffs – along with hotels, bars and restaurants in spades.

Monkey Island

Not far from Cat Ba lies Monkey Island – the name says it all! Look out for monkeys swinging through the trees and frolicking on the sandy shores. Your tour might take you onto the island itself or you might kayak close enough to view the cheeky primates from the water.

Ti Top Island

While there’s a lovely little beach for swimming and sunbathing to be found here, the biggest draw is the panoramic views. Hike up the 400-plus steps to the central viewing point on the island and you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of Halong Bay and its limestone peaks as far as the eyecan see.

Caves

There are dozens of fascinating cave systems to explore in Halong Bay. One of the most popular is Sung Sot Cave, or the Amazing Cave. This otherworldly grotto is just bursting with colorful stalactites and stalagmites; the textures and shapes on show here are a photographer’s dream.

Pearl Farm

Ever wondered what goes into making beautiful pearl jewelry? Find out how oysters are cultivated and see how skilled artisans create the intricate pieces you see in stores – it’s a true craft.

Cooking classes

You’ll be well catered to on your boat, rest assured! But along with those meals, your guide may also demonstrate how to whip up some delicious Vietnamese dishes. Ours was a dab hand at assembling spring rolls in a jiffy and there were lots of laughs as we all tried (and failed) to imitate his deft movements.

With any luck you’ll make new friends aboard your boat – we wound up reliving our karaoke night with two of our shipmates months later in New York! Either way, a cruise through Halong Bay is a once in a lifetime trip you’ll never forget.