Halong Bay, a stunning destination in Vietnam, is famous for its emerald waters, towering limestone karsts, and luxurious cruises. From the bustling gateway of Ha Long City to the serene beauty of Lan Ha Bay, there are numerous options to suit every traveler’s needs.
Our pick of the best hotels in Halong Bay 🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long
- ✨ 5-Star: Hôtel Perle d'Orient Cat Ba - MGallery
- 🏨 4-Star: Citadines Marina Halong
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Catba Paradise Hotel
- 💸 Cheap: Catba Pod Hostel
- 🏢 Apartment: Blue Kites Residence Ha Long Bay
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Wyndham Legend Halong
- 🏩 For Couples: Emerald Cruises Cat Ba
When you visit Halong Bay, you’ll find a variety of accommodations ranging from global hotel chains with 24-hour front desks to charming boutique hotels and hidden gems. Whether you want to stay on an island like Cat Ba, known for its white sandy beaches and adventure activities, or prefer the off-the-beaten-path tranquility of Bai Tu Long Bay, there’s something for everyone. With so many options, it’s essential to choose the right cruise or hotel to fully appreciate the beauty of Halong Bay and make your trip an unforgettable experience.
Quick Halong Bay Area Guide: ☀️
- 🌆 For First-Time Visitors: Halong City
- 🌿 For Adventure and Nature: Cat Ba Town
- 🌊 For Seclusion and Serenity: Lan Ha Bay
- 🗺️ For Off-the-Beaten-Path Exploration: Bai Tu Long Bay
- 🏝️ For Beach Getaways: Quan Lan Island
- 🚤 For Scenic Port Views: Cai Rong
1. Halong City – Best Place to Stay in Halong Bay for the First time 🌆
🔥 Must-visit: Halong City is the vibrant gateway to the stunning Ha Long Bay. It’s the perfect base for exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its limestone karsts and emerald waters. The city is divided into two main areas: Bai Chay and Hon Gai. Bai Chay is the main tourist hub, bustling with activity and home to the first hotel in Bai Chay, while Hon Gai offers a more local vibe.
🌉 Convenient transport: Taxis are readily available, and the city is well-connected by road, making it easy to travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay. For a unique experience, take a seaplane from Hanoi for panoramic views of Halong Bay. The city center is also close to the Bai Chay Bridge, which offers stunning views of the bay.
🍤 Seafood heaven: Halong City is a paradise for seafood lovers. The Halong Night Market is a must-visit for fresh seafood and local delicacies. You can also find a variety of dining options, from street food stalls to high-end restaurants. Don’t miss out on trying the famous squid sausages and other local specialties.
🏞️ Top sights: Halong City is packed with interesting activities and places to visit. Some of the top attractions include:
- Bai Tho Mountain: Offers breathtaking views of Halong Bay.
- Quang Ninh Museum: A great place to learn about the local history and culture.
- Sun World Halong Complex: Perfect for family fun with its amusement park and water park.
- Bai Chay Beach: A man-made beach ideal for sunbathing and swimming.
🛳️ Cruise central: Halong City is the starting point for many Halong Bay cruises. Whether you choose a day cruise or an overnight cruise, you’ll be treated to unforgettable views of Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay, and Bai Tu Long Bay. Many cruises offer activities such as kayaking, cave exploration, and cooking classes, ensuring a memorable experience.
Accommodation in Halong City: 🏨
⭐ Best hotels in Halong City
- Bhaya Cruises This cruise offers a luxurious experience with elegantly designed cabins, gourmet dining, and a variety of activities such as kayaking and visiting local fishing villages. Guests can enjoy the stunning scenery of Ha Long Bay while relaxing on the sun deck or participating in onboard activities.
- Orchid Classic Cruise This cruise boasts world-class service and luxurious amenities, including air-conditioned rooms with private balconies, a spa center, and a fitness center. The itinerary includes cruising along Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay, with stops for activities like squid fishing and cooking classes.
- Indochine Cruise Lan Ha Bay Indochine Cruise offers a luxurious journey through Lan Ha Bay with spacious cabins, modern amenities, and a variety of on-board activities. The cruise includes stops at popular attractions and offers stunning views of the bay’s limestone karsts.
🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Wyndham Legend Halong This 5-star hotel offers luxurious accommodations with panoramic views of Ha Long Bay, featuring an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and multiple dining options. Guests appreciate the modern amenities and excellent location in Bai Chay.
- Vinpearl Ha Long Bay Resort Located on Tuan Chau island, this resort offers luxurious rooms with stunning views of Ha Long Bay, along with a private beach, outdoor swimming pool, and spa services. The resort’s elegant design and top-notch amenities make it a perfect choice for a lavish getaway.
- Hôtel Perle d'Orient Cat Ba - MGallery This 5-star hotel offers luxurious rooms with panoramic views of Cat Co 3 Beach, featuring an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and spa for a relaxing stay. Guests particularly appreciate its excellent location and world-class service, making it a top choice for couples.
🛏️ Best hostels
- Citadines Marina Halong This modern hotel offers comfortable accommodations with beautiful views of Ha Long Bay, featuring an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant. Its convenient location makes it an ideal base for exploring the bay and nearby attractions.
- The Watson Premium Ha Long This hotel provides luxurious rooms with modern amenities, an outdoor swimming pool, and a fitness center. Guests enjoy the stylish design and excellent service, making it a great choice for a comfortable stay in Ha Long.
- Sol Halong Hotel by Melia This hotel offers elegant accommodations with stunning views of Ha Long Bay, featuring an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and multiple dining options. The hotel’s premium amenities and excellent location make it a top choice for visitors.
2. Cat Ba Town – Where to Stay in Halong Bay for Adventure and Nature 🌿
🌴 Island gateway: Cat Ba Town serves as the main hub of Cat Ba Island, the largest island in Halong Bay. This bustling town is where most visitors base themselves when exploring the island and its surrounding attractions.
🍽️ Culinary delights: Green Mango Restaurant is a personal favorite, offering a mix of Vietnamese and Western dishes with a great view of the harbor. For a more local experience, head to the night market near the pier. Here, you can sample fresh seafood grilled to perfection at very reasonable prices. Don’t miss trying the local specialty, “Chả Mực” (squid sausage), at Yummy Restaurant.
🚴 Adventure base: Cat Ba Town is the perfect starting point for various adventures:
- Rent a motorbike to explore the island’s winding roads and hidden beaches
- Join a rock climbing tour to scale the limestone cliffs
- Book a kayaking trip to explore the hidden lagoons and caves of Lan Ha Bay
- Hike through Cat Ba National Park to spot the endangered langur monkeys
🏞️ Nearby attractions:
- Cannon Fort: A short hike from town, offering panoramic views of the bay
- Hospital Cave: A fascinating remnant from the Vietnam War
- Cat Co 1, 2, and 3 Beaches: Beautiful stretches of sand just a short ride from town
- Lan Ha Bay: A quieter alternative to Halong Bay, easily accessible from Cat Ba Town
🚢 Transportation hub: Cat Ba Town is well-connected to the mainland. Regular speedboats and ferries run between the town and Hai Phong city. You can also book tours that include transportation from Hanoi. Within the town itself, everything is within walking distance, but you can easily rent a bicycle or motorbike to explore further afield.
🌅 Sunset spots: End your day by watching the sunset over the karst-studded bay. The rooftop bar at Monkey Island Resort offers stunning views, or for a more local vibe, join the crowds at the waterfront promenade. It’s the perfect way to wind down after a day of island adventures.
Hotels and resorts in Cat Ba Town: 🏨
⭐ Best hotels in Cat Ba Town
- Sand Hotel This beachfront hotel offers comfortable accommodations with direct access to Cat Co 2 Beach, ideal for those looking to stay right on the beach. It features an on-site restaurant serving fresh seafood and a terrace with stunning views of the bay.
- Azure Bay Villa Located on Quan Lan Island, this villa offers a tranquil retreat with spacious rooms and private beach access. Guests can enjoy the serene surroundings, outdoor activities like kayaking and cycling, and the villa’s beautiful garden and terrace.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Lepont Bungalow Hostel This budget-friendly hostel offers unique bungalow accommodations with a social atmosphere, perfect for backpackers. Located near Cat Ba Town, it provides easy access to local attractions and activities like rock climbing and hiking.
- Catba Pod Hostel This modern hostel features pod-style beds for a comfortable and private stay, with a communal area for socializing. It’s conveniently located in Cat Ba Town, close to restaurants, bars, and the ferry terminal.
- Luna's House Hostel Situated in the center of Cat Ba Town, this hostel offers cozy rooms and a friendly atmosphere. Guests appreciate the excellent location, just a short walk from the harbor and local dining options.
3. Lan Ha Bay – Secluded and Serene 🌊
🚣 Peaceful escape: Located to the south of Cat Ba Island, Lan Ha Bay offers a more tranquil and less touristy experience. The bay is dotted with over 300 karst islands and limestone islets, creating a stunning seascape.
🏝️ Untouched beauty: Unlike the more crowded Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay is relatively untouched. I love how you can find secluded beaches and hidden lagoons perfect for a quiet getaway. Some of my favorite spots include:
- Van Boi Beach: A serene spot for swimming and sunbathing.
- Nam Cat Island: Offers beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters.
- Monkey Island: Known for its playful monkeys and scenic views.
🛶 Adventure activities: Lan Ha Bay is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some activities you shouldn’t miss:
- Kayaking: Paddle through hidden caves and lagoons.
- Snorkeling: Explore the vibrant underwater world.
- Rock climbing: Scale the limestone cliffs for panoramic views.
- Fishing: Experience traditional fishing with local fishermen.
🍽️ Local cuisine: I recommend trying the local dishes at floating restaurants. You can enjoy your meal while surrounded by the stunning beauty of the bay. Some must-try dishes include steamed crab, grilled fish and seafood hotpot.
🛳️ Cruise options: While Lan Ha Bay is less crowded, it still offers a variety of cruise options. You can choose from day cruises to overnight stays on charming boats. Many cruises offer activities such as kayaking, squid fishing, and cooking classes, ensuring an unforgettable experience. Some highly recommended cruises include Orchid Cruise, Peony Cruise, and La Pinta Cruise.
Halong hotels near Lan Ha Bay: 🏨
⭐ Best hotels in Lan Ha Bay
- Cozy Boutique Cruise This boutique cruise offers an intimate and luxurious experience on Ha Long Bay, featuring elegantly designed cabins, personalized service, and gourmet dining options. Guests can enjoy activities such as kayaking, squid fishing, and visiting local fishing villages.
- Ocean Cruise Ocean Cruise provides a memorable journey through Ha Long Bay with spacious cabins, modern amenities, and a variety of on-board activities. The cruise includes stops at popular attractions like Sung Sot Cave and Ti Top Island, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of the bay.
- Sunlight Boutique Cruise Sunlight Boutique Cruise offers a luxurious and personalized experience with beautifully appointed cabins and stunning views of Ha Long Bay. Guests can indulge in activities such as kayaking, swimming, and visiting pearl farms, making it an ideal choice for nature lovers.
🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Emerald Cruises Cat Ba This eco-friendly cruise focuses on sustainable tourism while providing a luxurious experience on Cat Ba Island. The cruise features spacious cabins, delicious local cuisine, and activities like hiking in Cat Ba National Park and exploring Lan Ha Bay.
- Catba Paradise Hotel Located in the heart of Cat Ba Town, this hotel offers modern rooms with views of the bay and easy access to local attractions. Guests enjoy the rooftop pool and bar, as well as the proximity to the bustling night market and local eateries.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Cat Ba Papillon Garden Nestled in a lush garden setting, this hotel provides a tranquil escape with spacious rooms and outdoor activities like cycling and hiking. The serene environment and beautiful surroundings make it perfect for a relaxing getaway.
- Cat Ba Eco Hotel This eco-friendly hotel on Cat Hai Island offers comfortable accommodations with a focus on sustainability. Guests can enjoy activities such as kayaking, hiking, and exploring the natural beauty of the island, all while staying in an environmentally conscious setting.
4. Bai Tu Long Bay – Off-the-Beaten-Path 🗺️
🛥️ Exclusive cruises: I’ve found that the local cruises tend to offer a more personalized experience, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the bay’s beauty. Many include stops at:
- Vung Vieng fishing village: A floating village where you can see traditional fishing methods and interact with locals.
- Thien Canh Son Cave: A stunning cave with impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
- Tra Gioi Beach: A secluded beach perfect for swimming and relaxing.
🎣 Local life: One of the things I love most about Bai Tu Long Bay is the opportunity to experience local life. You can visit floating fishing villages, where generations of families have lived on the water. It’s fascinating to see how they’ve adapted to this unique environment.
🗺️ More to explore: Beyond the cruises, there are several must-see attractions in Bai Tu Long Bay:
- Bai Tu Long National Park: A haven for biodiversity with tropical forests and marine ecosystems. It’s perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting.
- Cong Dam Area: Known for its stunning lagoons and geological formations. The clear waters here are ideal for kayaking and snorkeling.
- Ban Chan Beach: A secluded beach perfect for swimming and sunbathing. It’s less crowded than other beaches, offering a peaceful retreat.
🌿 Eco-friendly tourism: Bai Tu Long Bay is committed to sustainable tourism practices. Many of the local cruises and accommodations focus on eco-friendly initiatives, such as reducing plastic use and promoting conservation efforts. For instance, Dragon Legend Cruise is known for its sustainable practices and luxurious amenities, offering a guilt-free way to enjoy the bay’s beauty.
Highly recommended hotels in Bai Tu Long Bay: 🏨
- Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long, located on its own private island in Bai Chay Ward, Quang Ninh, is a largest 5-star resort in North Vietnam, and offers a luxurious 5-star retreat just a five-minute speedboat ride from the shores of Ha Long. This stunning resort features three private beaches, lush gardens, expansive outdoor and indoor swimming pools, and a pampering spa
- A La Carte Ha Long Bay Hotel This 5-star hotel offers luxurious accommodations with world-class service, located in the Hùng Thắng area of Ha Long. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, modern amenities, and stunning views of Ha Long Bay, making it a top choice for those seeking a premium experience.
- Blue Kites Residence Ha Long Bay Situated in Ha Long, this residence offers comfortable and stylish accommodations with beautiful views of the bay. The property features modern facilities and is conveniently located near local attractions, providing an ideal base for exploring Ha Long Bay.
5. Quan Lan Island – Beach Getaway 🏝️
🏖️ Pristine beaches: Quan Lan Island is a hidden paradise in the Bai Tu Long Bay area, boasting some of the most breathtaking and secluded beaches I’ve encountered in Vietnam. The island’s crown jewel is Minh Chau Beach, a 2-kilometer stretch of powdery white sand that rivals any tropical destination. Son Hao Beach, on the island’s northern tip, offers a more rugged beauty with its rocky shoreline and crystal-clear waters. For those seeking ultimate seclusion, I recommend heading to Quan Lan Beach on the eastern coast – it’s often deserted and perfect for those ‘castaway’ moments.
🚴 Adventure activities: Rent a bicycle from Quan Lan Homestay (about 100,000 VND per day) and embark on a scenic ride around the island’s 11-kilometer perimeter. For water enthusiasts, Minh Chau Water Sports Center offers kayaking trips through hidden lagoons and around limestone karsts. If you’re lucky, you might spot some of the rare marine life that inhabits these waters.
💡 Insider tips: To make the most of your Quan Lan Island experience, keep these tips in mind:
- The island has limited electricity, with power typically available from 5 PM to 10 PM, so bring a portable charger.
- While there are no ATMs, some guesthouses like Quan Lan Homestay accept credit cards.
- For the best local insights, chat with Mr. Hung at Quan Lan Homestay – he’s a wealth of information about the island’s history and hidden spots.
- If you’re visiting during the low season (September to April), be prepared for reduced boat schedules and some closed accommodations.
🍽️ Local flavors: Quan Lan’s culinary scene is a seafood lover’s dream. Don’t miss the chance to try ‘Sá Sùng’ (peanut worms), a local delicacy often referred to as “Vietnamese Viagra.” For the freshest seafood, head to Quan Lan Market in the early morning. My favorite dining spots include Nhà Hàng Minh Châu, known for their grilled squid and clam hotpot, and Quán Ăn Bà Thoa, where you can enjoy delicious home-cooked meals with a view of the sea.
🚤 Getting there: Reaching Quan Lan requires some effort, but it’s well worth it. From Hanoi, take a bus to Cai Rong port (about 4 hours). From there, you have two options: a speedboat (1 hour, around 300,000 VND) or a slower wooden boat (2 hours, about 150,000 VND). I recommend the wooden boat for a more authentic experience – the journey through Bai Tu Long Bay is stunning. Once on the island, motorbike taxis are readily available to take you to your accommodation. For a hassle-free journey, consider booking a transfer through Quan Lan Island Transfer Service, which offers door-to-door service from Hanoi.
🏛️ Cultural heritage: Beyond its natural beauty, Quan Lan Island boasts a rich cultural heritage. Visit the Quan Lan Communal House, a beautifully preserved example of traditional Vietnamese architecture dating back to the 17th century. The nearby Quan Lan Temple, dedicated to Princess Lieu Hanh, offers insight into local beliefs and customs. For history buffs, the ruins of the Van Don Trading Port, once a bustling center of maritime commerce, provide a fascinating glimpse into the island’s past as an important stop on ancient trade routes.
Best hotels in Quan Lan Island: 🏨
- Song Chau Villa This villa offers a luxurious retreat with spacious rooms, modern amenities, and a private garden. Guests can enjoy the serene surroundings and easy access to nearby beaches and local attractions.
- Phoenix Minh Chau Located in Quang Ninh, this hotel provides a relaxing atmosphere with comfortable rooms and excellent service. It features an on-site restaurant and is conveniently situated near Minh Chau Beach, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful getaway.
6. Cai Rong – Scenic Port Town 🚤
🗺️ Exploration hub: Cai Rong is the perfect starting point for exploring the stunning Bai Tu Long Bay. From here, you can take a boat to visit the bay’s pristine islands and beaches. Some must-visit spots include:
- Quan Lan Island: Known for its beautiful beaches and historical sites.
- Co To Island: Offers stunning landscapes and clear waters.
- Minh Chau Beach: A serene spot perfect for relaxation.
🍤 Seafood delights: I recommend dining at local restaurants like Quang Anh Restaurant and Hai Yen Restaurant, where you can enjoy dishes like grilled squid, steamed crab, and seafood hotpot. Don’t miss the chance to visit the local market to see the day’s catch and perhaps pick up some dried seafood as souvenirs.
🚴 Local activities: There are plenty of activities to keep you entertained in Cai Rong. Here are some of my favorites:
- Cycling: Rent a bike and explore the scenic coastal roads.
- Fishing: Join a local fishing trip to experience traditional fishing methods.
- Hiking: The nearby mountains offer great hiking opportunities with panoramic views of the bay.
🚗 Getting there: Cai Rong is easily accessible from Hanoi. You can take a bus or car to Van Don, which takes about 4-5 hours. From Van Don, it’s a short drive to Cai Rong. The town is also close to Van Don International Airport, making it convenient for travelers flying in.
🏞️ Cultural insights: Visit the Cua Ong Temple, a historical site dedicated to Tran Quoc Tang, a national hero. The temple complex is not only a place of worship but also offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Additionally, the Van Don Market is a bustling spot where you can interact with locals and purchase unique handicrafts and fresh produce. The market is a sensory delight, with vibrant colors, enticing aromas, and the lively chatter of vendors and shoppers.
FAQs about trips to Halong Bay ❔
Which island is best to stay in Halong Bay?
Cat Ba Island is often considered the best island to stay in Halong Bay due to its diverse attractions, including beaches, national parks, and adventure activities. For a more secluded experience, Quan Lan Island offers pristine beaches and a peaceful atmosphere away from the crowds.
How many days in Halong Bay is enough?
A 2-3 day trip is generally sufficient to experience the highlights of Halong Bay, including a cruise, kayaking, and visiting caves and islands. However, if you want to explore more remote areas like Bai Tu Long Bay or spend time on Cat Ba Island, consider extending your stay to 4-5 days.
How far in advance should you book a Halong Bay cruise?
It’s recommended to book your Halong Bay cruise at least 2-3 months in advance, especially during peak season (October to April)[. For last-minute travelers, it’s still possible to find available cruises a week or two before your trip, but your options may be limited[.
Which is better, Hanoi or Halong Bay?
Hanoi and Halong Bay offer very different experiences, making it difficult to say which is “better.” Hanoi is a vibrant city with rich history, culture, and street food, while Halong Bay offers stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities. Many travelers choose to visit both to experience different aspects of Vietnam.
How to get from Hanoi to Halong Bay?
The most common ways to get from Hanoi to Halong Bay are by shuttle bus (4-5 hours) or private car (3-4 hours)[. For a more luxurious option, you can take a seaplane (45 minutes), which offers spectacular aerial views of the bay.
