That first morning in Halong Bay felt like waking up in a movie. I just stood on our boat’s deck, coffee in hand, watching the mist dance around thousands of giant rocks jutting out of the sea. I’ve seen plenty of photos, but nothing comes close to the real thing, especially when the morning sun hits those limestone cliffs just right.
The things to do in Halong Bay turned me into a kid again. I paddled through caves in my tiny kayak, watched the sun set from Ti Top Island, and couldn’t stop taking photos even though I knew they’d never do this place justice. Let me show you why this slice of Vietnam completely blew my mind..
Best Things to Do in Halong Bay
Looking for the coolest things to do in Halong Bay? Explore the mystical Surprise Cave, unwind on the stunning Cat Ba Island, and cruise through the breathtaking Bai Tu Long Bay. Discover local life at the Vung Vieng Fishing Village and indulge in fresh seafood at the famous Cua Vang Restaurant. Whether you’re interested in natural wonders, cultural experiences, or Vietnamese cuisine, here are the top attractions to visit in Halong Bay.
1. Mystical Surprise Cave
Surprise Cave (Sung Sot Cave) is one of Halong Bay’s most impressive natural wonders. Located on Bo Hon Island, this massive limestone cave is known for its dramatic rock formations and glowing natural skylights. The entrance looks small, but once inside, you’ll find a vast chamber filled with towering stalactites and stalagmites. The formations take on unique shapes—some look like animals, while others resemble mythical figures.
As sunlight filters in, the cave’s textures and shadows create a mystical atmosphere that feels almost unreal. I wasn’t expecting the second chamber to be so huge—it’s like walking into a natural cathedral. The ceiling is high, the rock formations are intricate, and the space feels surreal.
If you’re into geology, photography, or just want to experience one of Halong Bay’s must-visit spots, Surprise Cave won’t disappoint. Bring good walking shoes, as the climb to the entrance is steep but totally worth it.
2. Cat Ba Island
Cat Ba Island is the largest island in Halong Bay and a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and local culture. The island is home to Cat Ba National Park, where you can hike through dense jungles, spot rare wildlife, and climb to scenic viewpoints with sweeping views of the bay. If you prefer the water, kayaking through Lan Ha Bay is a quieter alternative to Halong Bay. The island also has beautiful beaches like Tung Thu Beach for a laid-back afternoon.
One of my favorite moments here was hiking to Ngu Lam Peak at sunrise—the view was absolutely breathtaking. After a morning of exploring, I grabbed a fresh seafood meal at a beachfront restaurant, which made the experience even better.
Whether you’re a nature lover or just want a scenic escape, Cat Ba Island is a must-visit spot that adds variety to any Halong Bay trip.
3. Bai Tu Long Bay
Bai Tu Long Bay is Halong Bay’s lesser-known but equally stunning neighbor. If you want the beauty of Halong Bay without the crowds, this is the place to be. The bay is dotted with towering limestone karsts and hidden beaches, making it perfect for boat cruises and kayaking through secluded lagoons. Since fewer tour boats visit here, the water is clearer, and the experience feels more intimate.
You’ll also find floating fishing villages, where locals have lived for generations, giving a glimpse into traditional Vietnamese life. I took a boat tour through Cong Dam Area, and it felt like discovering a secret part of the world. The stillness of the bay, interrupted only by birds and gentle waves, was incredibly peaceful.
If you’re looking for one of the coolest things to do in Halong Bay that feels off-the-beaten-path, Bai Tu Long Bay is the perfect hidden gem.
4. Vung Vieng Fishing Village
A visit to Vung Vieng Fishing Village offers a fascinating look into life on the water. This floating village is home to a small fishing community that has thrived in Halong Bay for generations. Instead of roads, wooden boats and floating docks connect the homes, schools, and markets. Visitors can take a traditional bamboo boat ride through the village, meet local fishermen, and even try their hand at casting fishing nets or pearl farming.
I loved how welcoming the villagers were—they showed us how they farm pearls and navigate the waters with ease. Floating on the calm bay, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, felt like stepping into a different world.
If you’re searching for a more authentic cultural experience in Halong Bay, Vung Vieng Fishing Village offers something truly unique. It’s a chance to slow down, learn from the locals, and see a side of the bay that many tourists overlook.
5. Cua Vang Restaurant
For a true taste of Halong Bay, Cua Vang Restaurant is a must-visit. Known for its fresh seafood and traditional Vietnamese flavors, this waterfront restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience. The menu highlights include steamed prawns, grilled squid, and their famous crab dishes, all prepared with local herbs and spices.
The restaurant’s open-air design lets you enjoy your meal with panoramic views of the bay, making it a perfect spot to soak in the scenery. I ordered the signature grilled crab with tamarind sauce, and it was one of the best seafood dishes I’ve ever had. Pairing it with a glass of local white wine while watching the boats pass by made the moment even better.
If you want to experience the best flavors of Halong Bay, Cua Vang Restaurant is the place to go. Come hungry—you’ll want to try everything on the menu!
6. Ti Top Island
If you’re looking for one of the best viewpoints in Halong Bay, Ti Top Island is the place to go. A short but steep hike up the island’s 400-step staircase rewards you with a panoramic view of Halong Bay’s emerald waters and limestone formations.
The island also has a small sandy beach, perfect for swimming or relaxing after the climb. It’s a popular stop on most cruise itineraries, and for good reason—the views are absolutely breathtaking. I visited Ti Top Island in the late afternoon, and the golden light on the water made the bay look even more magical.
After taking in the view, I cooled off with a quick swim before heading back to my boat. Whether you’re into hiking, photography, or just admiring the bay from above, Ti Top Island offers an experience you won’t forget.
7. Quan Lan Beach
For a more secluded beach experience, Quan Lan Beach is a hidden gem in Halong Bay. Located on Quan Lan Island, this long stretch of white sand is far less crowded than other beaches in the area. The clear blue waters and gentle waves make it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or even trying out water sports like jet skiing or paddleboarding.
Unlike the busier spots, you’ll find a peaceful, laid-back atmosphere here, making it ideal for travelers looking to escape the crowds. I spent an entire afternoon here, and it felt like having a private beach. The sand was soft, the water was warm, and the views were incredible.
I even found a small local seafood shack serving grilled fish and fresh coconut juice, which made the experience even better. If you’re wondering where to go in Halong Bay for a quiet beach day, Quan Lan Beach is the answer.
8. Cai Beo Fishing Village
If you want to experience a traditional floating village, Cai Beo is one of the most fascinating places in Halong Bay. Located near Cat Ba Island, this is one of the oldest fishing villages in Vietnam, with homes and markets floating on wooden rafts. Life here revolves around the water—locals fish, trade, and travel by boat, just as they have for generations.
Visitors can explore the village by kayak or bamboo boat, meet the fishermen, and even learn how local pearl farms operate. One of the highlights of my visit was paddling through the village at sunrise, watching fishermen cast their nets as the morning mist hovered over the bay.
The quiet rhythm of life here is a stark contrast to the busy tourist spots, making it one of the coolest cultural experiences in Halong Bay. If you’re looking for something beyond the usual sightseeing, Cai Beo is a must-see.
9. Cong Dam
For travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path adventure, Cong Dam is one of the most untouched and scenic areas in Halong Bay. This cluster of limestone karsts, hidden beaches, and emerald-green lagoons is part of the Bai Tu Long Bay region, known for its quiet beauty and lack of crowds.
The best way to explore is by kayaking through its hidden caves and secluded inlets, where you might spot monkeys on the cliffs or schools of colorful fish below. I kayaked through small limestone arches and into a tranquil lagoon, where the only sound was the gentle splash of water against my paddle. It felt like discovering a secret part of Halong Bay.
If you love adventure, nature, and escaping the crowds, Cong Dam should be high on your list. It’s a perfect place to experience the bay’s beauty in its most untouched form.
10. Luon Cave
Luon Cave is a must-visit for anyone who wants to see Halong Bay from a different perspective. Unlike the massive Surprise Cave, this hidden water cave is only accessible by small bamboo boats or kayaks. As you pass through the low, natural rock arch, you enter a peaceful lagoon surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, creating a breathtaking scene.
The calm waters make it perfect for a relaxing paddle, and you might even spot monkeys climbing on the cliffs above. I took a bamboo boat ride here, and it was one of the most peaceful experiences I had in Halong Bay. Drifting through the cave’s entrance into the lagoon felt like entering another world.
If you want a tranquil, nature-filled escape, Luon Cave is the perfect spot to soak in the beauty of Halong Bay at a slower pace.
11. Poem Mountain
For the best panoramic view of Halong Bay, Poem Mountain (Núi Bài Thơ) is an unforgettable hike. Located near Halong City, this steep but rewarding climb leads to a viewpoint that offers one of the most iconic photo spots of the bay’s limestone islands. The trail is short but challenging, with a mix of stairs and rocky paths, but the breathtaking view from the top makes every step worth it.
I started my hike early in the morning to avoid the heat and was rewarded with a sunrise view that left me speechless. Looking down at the endless stretch of emerald water and scattered islands was a moment I’ll never forget.
If you’re up for an adventure, Poem Mountain is one of the coolest things to do in Halong Bay—just be sure to check if access is open before heading out.
12. Trinh Nu Cave
A visit to Trinh Nu Cave isn’t just about exploring another beautiful limestone cavern—it’s also about experiencing a legendary love story. Known as the “Virgin Cave,” this site is tied to a famous Vietnamese tale about a young woman who turned to stone while waiting for her lost lover. Inside the cave, you’ll find natural rock formations that locals say resemble figures from the legend, adding a mystical charm to the experience.
The cave itself is spacious and beautifully lit, with dramatic stalactites and hidden passageways. I visited just before sunset, and the soft golden light filtering through the entrance made the whole place feel even more magical.
Whether you’re interested in mythology, nature, or just discovering another stunning cave, Trinh Nu Cave is a must-see in Halong Bay. It’s a place where history, culture, and natural beauty all come together.
