Explore the beauty of Lan Ha Bay with our complete travel guide. From kayaking and cruises to hidden beaches and local villages, plan your perfect Vietnam getaway.
1. The beauty of Lan Ha Bay
Lan Ha Bay, located just south of the famous Ha Long Bay in northern Vietnam, is a hidden paradise waiting to be explored. Unlike its more crowded neighbor, Lan Ha Bay remains largely untouched, offering serene waters, pristine beaches, and dramatic limestone karsts rising from emerald green seas.
The beauty of Lan Ha Bay
The bay is made up of over 400 islands and islets, each with unique shapes and secluded corners perfect for exploration. Soft sandy beaches, quiet coves, and floating fishing villages add to its charm, providing a perfect blend of natural beauty and local culture. Whether you want to kayak through calm waters, swim in secluded bays, or simply relax on the sand, Lan Ha Bay offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle. Its untouched landscapes and tranquil atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.
2. How to get to Lan Ha Bay
You can reach Lan Ha Bay either from Hanoi or from Cat Ba Island:
From Hanoi:
- Bus or limousine: Around 3.5–4 hours to Cai Vieng / Cat Ba.
- Private car or taxi: Flexible timing, ideal for groups.
- High-speed ferry: From Hai Phong to Cat Ba Island.
You can book ticket via BUS TO CAT BA ISLAND FROM HANOI or contact Cat Ba Du Ky Travel hotline at +84 989 745 338 for support.
Kayaking to explore Lan Ha Bay
From Cat Ba Island:
- Private boat or join-in tours: Various 1–3 day itineraries, including overnight cruises. You can check out some suggested Lan Ha Bay tours below.
Lan Ha Bay - Ha Long Bay 1 Day Boat Tour From Cat Ba
Night Kayaking Tour With Bioluminescence Plankton On Lan Ha Bay
Lan Ha Bay - Ha Long Bay 2 Days 1 Night Cruise From Cat Ba Island
Ha Long Bay - Lan Ha Bay 3 Days/2 Nights Cruise From Cat Ba Island
3. Best time to visit Lan Ha Bay
Lan Ha Bay is a year-round destination, but the experience can feel very different depending on when you go. Each season has its own charm, so the best time really depends on what you’re looking for.
Local fishermen casting nets on Lan Ha Bay
Spring (March–May): The weather is mild, skies are clear, and the water is calm. It’s an ideal time for sightseeing, kayaking, and photography, as the bay looks especially vibrant under the spring sun.
Summer (June–August): Expect warm, sunny days with temperatures perfect for swimming and water sports. This is the peak season for local travelers, so it can be lively and energetic. Afternoon showers are common, but they usually pass quickly.
Autumn (September–November): Often considered the best season, autumn brings pleasant temperatures, clear blue skies, and calm seas. It’s a great time for cruising, trekking on Cat Ba Island, or even camping on quiet beaches.
Winter (December–February): Cooler and quieter, this season attracts fewer visitors. While swimming may be less appealing due to lower temperatures, winter is perfect for travelers seeking peace, relaxation, and a more authentic experience of the bay.
4. Where to stay in Lan Ha Bay
When planning your trip to Lan Ha Bay, you’ll need to decide whether to stay on Cat Ba Island or spend the night on an overnight cruise. Both options offer unique experiences depending on your travel style.
Flamingo Cat Ba Beach Resort
Bungalow in Cat Ba island
Option 1: Stay on Cat Ba Island
Cat Ba Island is the gateway to Lan Ha Bay, and staying here is convenient for exploring both the bay and the island itself. For those who love comfort and luxury, you’ll find stunning seaside resorts like Flamingo Cat Ba and Mgallery Cat Ba, offering modern facilities, infinity pools, and breathtaking views of the bay. If you prefer something more casual and budget-friendly, there are plenty of cozy homestays and bungalows such as Oasis Bungalow, Lepont Bungalow, and Eco Cat Ba Hotel. Staying on the island gives you easy access to local restaurants, lively night markets, and bars—perfect if you want to balance relaxation with some nightlife.
Cabin on a Lan Ha Bay cruise
Option 2: Overnight Cruises
If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, an overnight cruise is the way to go. Most cruises last 2 days/1 night or 3 days/2 nights, taking you deeper into Lan Ha Bay and even parts of Ha Long Bay. You’ll enjoy stunning sunrises and sunsets from the deck, visit hidden lagoons and secluded beaches, and fall asleep to the gentle rocking of the emerald waters. Many cruises also include kayaking, cooking classes, and squid fishing at night, making it a truly immersive adventure.
Tour package: Lan Ha Bay - Ha Long Bay 2 Days 1 Night Cruise From Cat Ba Island
5. Best things to do in Lan Ha Bay
Kayaking
Kayaking is the most popular activity in Lan Ha Bay, and for good reason. Paddling through calm, emerald waters allows you to get up close to towering limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and untouched beaches. It’s the best way to discover corners of the bay that big boats can’t reach.
Swimming & Relaxation
With crystal-clear waters and sheltered coves, Lan Ha Bay is perfect for a refreshing dip. You’ll find plenty of small sandy beaches where you can swim, sunbathe, or simply float peacefully while surrounded by dramatic cliffs.
Rock climbing in Lan Ha Bay
Explore Caves
For those seeking adventure, Lan Ha Bay is home to fascinating caves like Hang Sang–Toi (Dark and Bright Cave) and Ba Trai Dao Cave. Some can be explored by kayak, while others require a guided tour, offering a sense of mystery and discovery.
Island Camping
Many tour operators arrange camping trips where you can set up tents, enjoy a BBQ dinner, and fall asleep under a sky full of stars with the sound of waves as your lullaby.
Floating Village Visits
A cultural highlight of the bay is visiting traditional floating fishing villages such as Cai Beo Village. Here, you can meet local fishermen, learn about their daily lives, and even taste freshly caught seafood. It’s a unique opportunity to experience authentic Vietnamese coastal culture.
Cai Beo floating village
6. What to eat in Lan Ha Bay
Fresh Seafood
The waters of Lan Ha Bay are teeming with fish, shellfish, and crustaceans. Popular choices include grouper, known for its firm, sweet meat; squid, often grilled or stir-fried with garlic; lobster for a more luxurious treat; and crab and scallops, which are usually steamed to preserve their natural sweetness. If you join a cruise, many chefs prepare seafood right on board, making the experience even more special.
Mantis shrimp – a fresh and delicious seafood
Local Specialties
Beyond the basics, don’t miss dishes unique to the Cat Ba area. Grilled squid is a favorite snack, smoky and flavorful. Cha muc (fried squid cakes) are crunchy outside, soft inside, and perfect with dipping sauce. Another must-try is bun tom (shrimp noodle soup), a local comfort food with a light, savory broth topped with fresh shrimp.
Traditional Dishes
If you’re dining with a group, try a traditional seafood hotpot—a bubbling pot filled with clams, crab, squid, and vegetables, cooked right at the table. Simple steamed or charcoal-grilled seafood is also a highlight, allowing you to enjoy the pure taste of the sea.
7. Top attractions in Lan Ha Bay
Cai Beo Floating Village
Believed to be one of the oldest floating villages in Vietnam, Cai Beo is home to hundreds of floating houses and fishing families. Visiting here gives you the chance to see how local fishermen live, raise fish in nets beneath their homes, and navigate their daily lives entirely on the water. A short boat ride around the village is both cultural and eye-opening.
Monkey Island
Monkey Island is famous for its population of playful wild monkeys. Visitors can relax on the sandy beach, hike up to a viewpoint for panoramic bay views, or simply enjoy fun encounters with the monkeys. It’s a great spot for families and photographers alike.
Chilling by the beach in Lan Ha Bay
Ba Trai Dao Beach
Named after three peach-shaped rocks, Ba Trai Dao Beach is one of the most beautiful in the bay. With soft white sand and crystal-clear water, it’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The beach is relatively secluded, making it a peaceful escape.
Viet Hai Village
It is a small, quiet village that feels like stepping back in time. Surrounded by lush forest and mountains, Viet Hai is ideal for trekking and cycling. Visitors can interact with locals, enjoy traditional meals, and learn about rural Vietnamese life.
Hon But
This striking limestone islet resembles a giant pen standing upright in the sea. It’s a favorite stop for photographers, offering dramatic scenery and a true “postcard view” of Lan Ha Bay’s natural beauty.
8. Travel tips for Lan Ha Bay
To make the most of your trip, here are some essential tips when visiting Lan Ha Bay:
- Pack wisely: Always bring sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and swimwear to protect yourself from the strong tropical sun. If you plan on trekking in Cat Ba National Park or camping on the islands, don’t forget insect repellent.
- Check the weather: The bay is best enjoyed in calm conditions, so take a look at the forecast before your trip to avoid storms or heavy rain. Calm, sunny days ensure safer boat rides and clearer waters for swimming and kayaking.
- Respect the environment: Lan Ha Bay is known for its pristine beauty. Keep it clean by avoiding single-use plastics and never littering on beaches or into the sea.
- Confirm prices in advance: Whether booking a small boat, a kayak, or a luxury cruise, always confirm the price beforehand to avoid misunderstandings.
- Book early: During weekends, holidays, or peak summer months, tours and cruises can sell out quickly. To secure the best options, it’s highly recommended to book your tour in advance. You can contact Cat Ba Du Ky Travel via hotline +84 989 745 338 for support and advice tailored to your needs.
Conclusion
Lan Ha Bay is the perfect destination for travelers seeking unspoiled natural beauty, tranquility, and cultural experiences. From kayaking and swimming to overnight cruises and seafood feasts, every moment here is unforgettable.
Plan your trip to Lan Ha Bay now and discover Vietnam’s hidden paradise!
