Things to Do in Ha Long Bay

Experience the magic of Ha Long Bay on a traditional junk boat or luxury cruise. Sail past thousands of limestone karsts rising dramatically from emerald waters, explore hidden caves, kayak through serene lagoons, and watch unforgettable sunsets over this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Day cruises offer 4-6 hour tours, while overnight cruises provide the full experience with sunset views, squid fishing, cooking classes, and sunrise tai chi on the deck.

Sung Sot Cave, also known as Surprise Cave, is one of the largest and most spectacular caves in Ha Long Bay. Discovered by the French in 1901, this massive 10,000 square meter cave system features stunning stalactites and stalagmites illuminated by colored lights. The cave's two main chambers reveal rock formations resembling elephants, tortoises, and even a phallus-shaped pillar. The climb up steep steps is rewarded with breathtaking views.

Ti Top Island is one of the most popular stops on Ha Long Bay cruises, named after a Soviet cosmonaut who visited with Ho Chi Minh. The island features a crescent-shaped white sand beach perfect for swimming, and 400 steps leading to a viewing pavilion offering stunning 360-degree panoramas of the bay. The climb is challenging but rewards visitors with arguably the best viewpoint in all of Ha Long Bay, especially magical at sunset.

Sun World Ha Long is northern Vietnam's premier entertainment destination spanning 214 hectares. The complex features the Dragon Park with thrilling rides, Queen Cable Car offering panoramic bay views, Ba Deo Mystic Mountain Fun Park, a serene Japanese-style Zen Garden, and the iconic Sun Wheel standing 215 meters high. The cable car system connecting Bai Chay Beach to Ba Deo Peak is one of the world's longest over-sea cable car routes.

Cua Van is one of the largest and most picturesque floating villages in Ha Long Bay, home to around 750 residents living in colorful houses on the water. Take a bamboo boat ride through the village to witness a unique way of life that has existed for centuries. Learn about traditional fishing techniques, visit the floating school, and experience the tranquil beauty of this water-based community surrounded by towering limestone karsts.

Bai Tho Mountain (Poem Mountain) rises over 200 meters in the heart of Ha Long City, offering an adventurous climb and spectacular panoramic views of the bay. The mountain gets its name from poetry carved into its rocky face by emperors and scholars throughout history. The 30-50 minute hike rewards climbers with one of the best free viewpoints in the region, especially stunning at sunrise or sunset when the bay glows golden.

The Ha Long Night Market in Bai Chay comes alive every evening with hundreds of stalls selling local handicrafts, souvenirs, clothing, and most importantly, delicious street food. Sample fresh seafood cooked to order, Vietnamese snacks, and tropical fruits while browsing for pearls (Ha Long is famous for pearl farming), lacquerware, and traditional textiles. The market offers an authentic glimpse into local life and great photo opportunities.

Thien Cung Cave, meaning Heavenly Palace, is one of the most beautiful caves in Ha Long Bay located just 4km from the main harbor. The cave features intricate stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over millions of years, illuminated dramatically to reveal formations resembling a royal palace. Vietnamese legends tell of a dragon king who held a wedding feast here. The cave spans multiple chambers connected by narrow passages, each revealing new wonders.