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Sep 11, 2025
By Thao Van
Stepping on Halong Bay, what are the must-try experiences? In this article, we’ll share with you 25 Best Things to Do in Halong Bay to make your trip truly fulfilling and unforgettable!
When it comes to travelling in Vietnam, Halong Bay will definitely be one of the very first names that comes to mind. Located in the Northeastern Vietnam, in Quang Ninh Province, about 165 kilometers from Hanoi (approximately a 3-hour drive), Halong has long been a favorite destination for both domestic and international visitors. Halong Bay has been recognized twice by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage site, with nearly 2,000 large and small islands, especially limestone karsts rising above the emerald waters, creating a mystical natural masterpiece rarely found anywhere else in the world.
Cruising around Halong Bay is one of the top things to do in Halong Bay. If you want to truly take in the views of Halong Bay, we highly recommend you to stay on a Halong Bay cruise to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes here. A Halong Bay cruise provides you with everything you need for an unforgettable trip in Vietnam. You can visit Halong Bay’s top destinations, admire the beautiful limestone islets, experience exciting activities such as kayaking, squid fishing, watersliding, watching cooking demonstration or relax on the deck to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere on the bay.
If you don’t have much time, you should choose a Halong Bay day cruise to explore Halong Bay. If you want to explore more and spend the night on water, you should take a Halong Bay overnight cruise.
Many travelers do not have much time for an overnight cruise then Halong Bay Day Cruise is a good thing to do when you are in North Vietnam. You have much time for Halong Bay or not but at least you will visit Halong.
There are different choices for Halong Bay day cruises which you may consider as below:
Amethyst Cruise is one of the most luxury day cruises in Halong Bay with a lounge and Jacuzzi on Sundeck. Halong Bay Amethyst Cruise will take you to all the destinations as of the 2-day, 1-night itinerary in Halong Bay such as Luon Cave, Titop Island and Surprising Cave. So if you don’t have much time but still want to follow the Halong Bay 2-day, 1-night itinerary, Amethyst Cruise will be the best choice for you.
Jade Sails Cruise is one of the most ideal Halong Bay luxury cruises for tourists who want to visit Halong Bay in one day, with the itinerary lasting up to 10 hours. Halong Bay Jade Sails Cruise is a modern sailboat with a wide, comfortable space. It allows visitors to fully enjoy the beauty of Halong Bay while relaxing with its elegant facilities, including two restaurants, a lounge bar and café, a sundeck, a swimming bar, a spa, and a gym.
La Casta Day Cruise is a modern and luxurious cruise launched in 2021 with capacity for up to 99 guests. La Casta Day Cruise allows tourists to enjoy a buffet lunch, visit Sung Sot Cave, kayak at Luon Cave, and climb Titop Island. La Casta Day Cruise also offers a sundeck, Jacuzzi, bar, and restaurant, all are perfect for relaxing and admiring the sunset on the bay. If you wish to experience 2-day 1-night cruise but your time is limited, then La Casta One Day Cruise will be the best option for you.
Halong Bay overnight cruises seems to be a must things to do in the list of destinations for a tour package in Vietnam.
Please see some good options for Halong Bay Overnight Cruises as below:
Mon Cheri Cruise is the cruise taking you to both Halong Bay and the beautiful Lan Ha Bay, visiting quiet beaches, islands, and caves away from the crowds. Onboard, you’ll have the chance to enjoy 5-star comfort and service, making your trip not only relaxing but also truly luxurious. As one of the top cruises in Lan Ha Bay, Mon Cheri promises to bring you an unforgettable journey.
Aqua of the Seas Cruise is one of the newest cruises in Halong Bay launched in 2023, with all luxury cabins having private balconies and bathtubs. You will have great experience when you travel to Halong Bay with Halong Bay luxury cruise - Aqua Of The Seachs Cruise. With a outdoor Jacuzzi, you will have more experience with a luxury cruise and have a memorable time in Halong Bay – one of the most beautiful places in the world.
Doris Cruise is a new luxury cruise in Halong – Lan Ha Bay with 24 modern cabins. The trip takes you to quiet beaches, caves, and villages, where you can kayak, swim, or relax on a bamboo boat. It’s a family-friendly cruise that offers comfort, beautiful views, and unforgettable memories.
Exploring amazing caves is a not-to-missed activity for travellers when arriving at Halong Bay. Halong Bay now has about 59 caves that have been officially explored, and this number continues to rise as more caves are still being found. About 2/3 are dry caves on the cliffs, while 1/3 are water caves, where you can only explore by boat. Tourists are allowed to visit only around 20 caves, so as to help protect the nature and culture of these sites. There are some not-to-missed famous caves when visiting Halong Bay such as Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave), Trinh Nu Cave (Virgin Cave), Thien Cung Cave (Paradise Cave), Trong Cave (Drum Cave) and Hospital Cave.
Sung Sot Cave is the most famous cave in Halong Bay, located on Bo Hon Island. It has two large chambers filled with amazing stalactites and stalagmites that look like animals and other shapes. The cave is wide and easy to walk through, making it great for all visitors, especially families and first-time travelers.
Thien Cung Cave (Paradise Cave)
Thien Cung Cave is like a natural art gallery, with colorful stalactites and rock formations that look like dragons, birds, and flowers. The lighting inside makes the cave even more magical. It’s a must-visit for travelers who love photography and dramatic scenery.
Dark and Bright Cave is a beautiful spot in Lan Ha Bay. You can kayak through the Dark Cave or take a bamboo boat to the Bright Cave, which leads to a quiet lagoon with high cliffs. It’s a peaceful place to enjoy nature.
Trinh Nu Cave is known for the legend of a young woman turned to stone, this cave is both beautiful and romantic. Inside, you’ll see sparkling stalactites and hear stories told by the locals. It’s a special spot for couples and those who enjoy cultural tales along with natural beauty.
Trong Cave (Drum Cave or Male Cave)
Trong Cave is opposite to Trinh Nu Cave. Standing inside, you can hear the sound of wind hitting the cave walls is like the beating of a drum. The cave itself is spacious and mysterious, making it a fun stop for adventurous visitors and those who enjoy myths and stories.
Hospital Cave
Hospital Cave is a cave that you should not miss when coming to Halong Bay. It is located on Cat Ba Island and was used as a secret hospital during the Vietnam War. Inside, there are rooms and tunnels carved into the rock, showing a unique mix of history and nature. It’s especially interesting for history lovers and travelers who want to learn more about Vietnam’s past. We highly recommend you to go with a tour guide so that you will understand more about the history of Hospital Cave.
If you’d like a change of experience, instead of exploring dry caves, you can try visiting water caves such as Luon Cave (Tunnel Cave), where you can only enter by boat or kayak. Inside, you’ll find calm emerald waters surrounded by high limestone cliffs and lush greenery. It’s ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone who enjoys kayaking.
When exploring caves in Halong Bay, you should put on comfortable shoes to easily walk in the cave. Moreover, you should bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenes inside the caves and save your precious moments during your Vietnam trip.
You can have a look at The Best Caves to Visit in Halong Bay.
Kayaking is one of the most popular activities and it is a must thing to do for visitors in Halong Bay. It’s a fun way to explore the bay on your own and get closer to nature. Like many other Vietnam cruise tours, kayaking is an interesting activity for most of travelers. You can paddle along limestone mountains, pass through small caves on the clear blue water. Some of the best spots for kayaking include Luon Cave, Dark and Bright Cave, Ti Top Island, Ba Trai Dao Beach and Ao Ech Lagoon. Going kayaking is best done in the morning or afternoon. Don’t forget to wear a life jacket for safety.
Climbing to the top of Ti Top Island is one of the most exciting activities for travelers. After climbing about 400 steps, from the top, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of Halong Bay. At the foot of Ti Top island, there’s also a clean sandy beach where you can swim and relax. Don’t forget to bring some water for the hike!
Visiting a floating village is an activity that is loved by many visitors when coming to Halong Bay as it gives visitors a chance to discover the daily life of people living right on the sea. When reaching floating village, you may take a bamboo boat or kayak to explore around, see the floating houses and learn about the community’s traditions and daily activities.
Beside floating village, you can visit a pearl farm where you can discover the fascinating process of pearl cultivation, watch skilled workers harvest pearls with great care, and even visit a showroom where beautiful pearls are displayed. Many farms also sell pearls as souvenirs, making it a great place to pick up something special to take home.
However, not all cruises in Halong include these activities in their itinerary, so you should check in advance and choose a cruise that offers this interesting experience.
Watching the sunset in Halong Bay is one of the most romantic moments you can experience. The golden light of the sun reflects on the calm water, creating a magical view. Some of the best beaches to enjoy this are Ti Top Island, Ba Trai Dao Beach, and Bai Chay Beach.
Night squid fishing is a fun evening activity on the cruise. You can try catching fresh squid yourself and even have it cooked right on the boat. It’s an exciting and unique experience to enjoy with friends or family. The best time to try this is in the summer, when squid are more abundant.
Before boarding on your Halong Bay cruise, what can you do? If you love trekking, you can go trekking at Cat Ba National Park, which is recognized by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve. Cat Ba National Park is a well-known nature reserve with untouched forests and rich wildlife. Trekking here, you can walk along green trails, see rare animals, and enjoy diverse plant life. There are both short routes (about 2–3 hours) and longer ones (4–5 hours), so choosing which route to trek depends on your time and fitness. Remember to wear comfortable sports shoes for the hike and a phone full of batery to take precious photos.
Viet Hai Village is a small fishing village deeply hidden in the heart of Cat Ba National Park. You can get to Viet Hai Village by trekking about 4 hours or take a 1-hour boat ride from Beo pier. Viet Hai Village is less visited by tourists so the atmosphere here is peaceful and tranquil. Cycling here, you’ll pass through rice fields, local houses, and enjoy the fresh natural scenes. It’s a relaxing way to see local life. You can also combine cycling with trekking or walking for a fuller experience.
Many Halong Bay cruise tours offering a trip to Viet Hai Village on 3 Day 2 night Halong itinerary. With this cruise tour you will visit Viet Hai Village on the 2nd day. You may choose cycling option or electric car option to go from the harbor to the center of Viet Hai Village.
Bai Tho Mountain, a limestone mountain 200 meters high, is a famous check-in place with one of the best views of Halong. From the top, you can see the whole city and the bay with its limestone islands. The hike takes about 30 minutes, and it’s best to go early in the morning when the weather is cooler and there are fewer people.
Monkey Island is a small island located in Cat Ba Island, with a sandy beach and many wild monkeys living there. Reaching Monkey Island, you can swim, go kayaking, watch the playful monkeys or feed the monkeys with fruits. It will definitely be an unforgettable experience for you when coming here. Just be careful with your food and belongings, as the monkeys often try to grab them.
Ban Sen Island is a quiet and untouched island in Bai Tu Long Bay, with very few tourists. As Ban Sen Island hasn’t been fully explored, it is still prinstine, natural and there is no specific swimming area yet. Ban Sen Island is covered by green forests and has natural trekking trails, so it’s perfect for those who love adventure and exploring off the beaten path. If you’d like to go hiking on Ban Sen Island, remember to bring water, some snacks, and proper trekking shoes to ensure a safe hike.
A seaplane tour is a unique way to see Halong Bay from above. From the sky, you can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the islands and emerald waters, especially on clear days. Flights take off from Tuan Chau Marina, and it’s best to book in advance. Ticket price (includes insurance and VAT) for a 25-minute flight over Halong Bay is 250,000 VND (~10 USD) for children under 2 years old and 2,500,000 VND (~95 USD) for children over 2 years old and adults (price in 2025). Though the price is quite high, the experience is truly worth it. If you plan to try a seaplane tour, you can refer to Hai Au Aviation, which offers many scenic flights over Halong Bay.
If you want a more interesting and adventurous activity in Halong Bay, don’t miss the chance to try parasailing. Parasailing lets you fly over the sea while being pulled by a speedboat, giving you both thrill and fun. From above, you’ll have an amazing view of Halong Bay’s blue waters and limestone islands. This activity is popular at Bai Chay and Tuan Chau beaches, and it’s best to try it in summer when the weather is sunny and clear.
Diving or snorkeling is a great way to discover the underwater world of Halong Bay. You’ll find beautiful coral reefs and schools of colorful fish. The best places for this activity are in Bai Tu Long Bay or around Cong Do and Ba Ham areas. It’s best to go in summer (from May to September) when the water is clear and the weather is perfect. Don’t forget to bring your underwater camera to save all the interesting moments under water.
Cultural Experiences & Onboard Entertainment
Morning Tai Chi on the cruise sundeck, which is a Chinese martial art, often referred to “meditation in motion”, is a gentle and relaxing activity. It’s a perfect way to stretch your body while watching the sunrise over Halong Bay. This activity provides benefits to both mental and physical health.
A cooking class is a fun way to learn how to make traditional Vietnamese dishes right on the cruise. Many travelers say this is one of the most interesting things to do in Halong Bay. You can practice rolling fresh spring rolls, mixing dipping sauce, and then enjoy your favorite entertainment activities. This activity is usually included in 2-day 1-night or 3-day 2-night cruises. Some popular overnight cruises in Halong Bay that offer cooking classes are Mon Cheri Cruise, Aqua of the Seas Cruise,... It’s a great experience for food lovers and anyone who wants to take a taste of Vietnam home.
A sunset party is a lovely way to spend the late afternoon on the cruise. You can enjoy drinks, music, and fun conversations with other travelers while watching the sun set over the bay. It’s best on clear days when the golden sky makes the view even more magical.
Taking a break with a massage or spa treatment is a wonderful way to relax during your trip. Many cruises offer professional therapies to help you refresh both body and mind. There are different spa packages to choose from, and it’s a good idea to book early, especially in the peak season.
Evenings on the cruise can be lively with entertainment activities. You can sing karaoke, watch movies, or relax in a mini-cinema on board. It’s a fun option for groups of friends, families, or even couples wanting to spend some cozy time together.
A cave dinner is a unique and luxurious experience in Halong Bay. Imagine sitting in a beautifully decorated cave, surrounded by candlelight and a romantic atmosphere. This special activity is usually offered only on high-end cruises and must be booked in advance. It’s perfect for couples or anyone wanting to celebrate important events like birthday or wedding anniversary and looking for a truly unforgettable evening.
Dining & Entertainment
Savoring fresh seafood is a highlight of the local cuisine in Halong Bay. You can enjoy a wide variety of seafood, including shrimp, crab, clams, and geoduck, all are freshly prepared. Some of the best places to try them are at Bai Chay night market or in well-known local restaurants. It’s a must-try experience for food lovers visiting the bay.
Sun World Halong Park is the largest amusement park in Halong. It offers thrilling rides for adventure seekers and a fun play area for children. Sun World Halong Park has three main areas: Dragon Park with thrilling rides, Typhoon Water Park with fun water games, and the Queen Cable Car & Mystic Mountain area with beautiful views of Halong Bay. This makes it an ideal destination for families with kids or anyone looking for an exciting day of entertainment.
Dragon Park has an entrance fee of 300,000 VND (~12 USD) for adults and 200,000 VND (~8 USD) for children, while Typhoon Water Park tickets cost 350,000 VND (~14 USD) for adults and 250,000 VND (~10 USD) for children. In addition, visitors can choose a 2-park combo ticket starting from 500,000 VND (~19 USD) for adults and 400,000 VND (~16 USD) for children, all applying on both weekdays and weekends. (Price in 2025)
The Queen Cable Car at Sun World Halong Complex is an impressive attraction. It has received two Guinness World Records:
• Largest cabin in the world: Each cabin can carry up to 230 passengers.
• Tallest cable car tower in the world (recorded in 2016): Tower T1 stands 188.88 meters high, about 30 meters taller than Bai Chay bridge.
The cable car journey stretches more than 2 km, connecting Bai Chay tourist area to the top of Ba Deo Hill, offering visitors a breathtaking panoramic view of Halong Bay from above. The ride takes about 5–7 minutes each way. For the best experience, we highly recommend you to go in the afternoon to enjoy the sunset over the bay. This activity is perfect for couples, families, and groups of friends who want to admire the breathtaking landscape from above.
The ticket price for the Queen Cable Car is 380,000 VND (~15 USD) for adults and 280,000 VND (~11 USD) for children, applying on weekdays and weekends. (Newest price in 2025)
For more details, check out our article on Sun World Halong Bay Cable Car.
Quang Ninh Museum is a unique architectural landmark in the region. It’s about 7,1 km from the center of Halong city. You can easily get there by many different means of transport such as motorbike, car, taxi,... so Quang Ninh Museum is an attractive destination for both domestic and international tourists. When getting inside Quang Ninh Museum, you can explore exhibitions about local culture, history, and the coal mining that shaped the province. It’s an ideal stop for visitors who want to learn more about the local traditions and history of Quang Ninh.
If you intend to visit Quang Ninh Museum, don’t forget to check the opening hours and the ticket prices in advance. Here is some information you can refer to:
Opening hours:
• Morning: 08:00 – 12:00
• Afternoon: 13:00 – 17:00
Ticket (Price in 2025):
• Children under 7 or under 1.2m: Free
• Children aged from 7 to under 16: 10,000 VND/person
• Adults: 40,000 VND/person
Note: It may be crowded on weekends so if you get to Quang Ninh Museum in groups, you will have to have a representative person who stands in line to buy tickets for all people in the group.
Vietnam Escape Tours has shared with you 25 Interesting Things to Do when visiting Halong Bay. If you’re planning to visit Halong Bay but you don’t know what to do there, this article will be useful for you. We hope this article will help you have a wonderful experience on your Vietnam tour.
Plan to visit Halong but don’t know which Halong Bay cruise or which Halong Bay package tour to choose? Contact Vietnam Escape Tours today to have the best support, a customized itinerary and the best deal!
Taking a Halong Bay cruise is the most popular choice. You can choose a day cruise if you’re short on time or an overnight cruise to enjoy sunset, sunrise, and many activities such as kayaking, squid fishing, and cooking classes.
Yes. If you visit Halong Bay with children, you can enjoy the Sun World Halong Park, the Queen Cable Car, safe beaches, and family-friendly cruises with comfortable cabins and kid-friendly services.
(If you want to know which cruise is suitable for families with children, please contact Vietnam Escape Tours to get the best support.)
Besides kayaking, you can try parasailing, snorkeling, diving, trekking in Cat Ba National Park, or hiking on Ban Sen Island. These are perfect for adventure lovers.
You can climb to the top of Ti Top Island or Bai Tho Mountain, ride the Queen Cable Car, or book a seaplane tour for a bird’s eye view of the bay.
Yes. You can visit floating fishing villages to learn about local life, visit pearl farms to see how pearls are cultivated, or explore Quang Ninh Museum to discover Quang Ninh province’s culture and history.
It’s recommended to book Halong Bay cruises and special activities like seaplane tours in advance, especially during peak season, to secure the best price and availability.
5 days itinerary tour is very popular itinerary for many travelers especially for travelers from Aisa. This is a good itinerary in North Vietnam Tours and we still recommend you to join in an overnight cruise.
You can visit Ninh Binh in 1 Day and visit Halong Bay for 2 day 1 night. The other days are for arrival and departure and for Hanoi discovery.
