Dark and Bright Cave is the most beautiful frog-shaped cave in Lan Ha Bay, and always contains a special attraction, making visitors curious and want to explore.

Dark and Bright Cave with unique beauty in Lan Ha Bay

Bright and Dark Cave is nearly 100m long, passing through a limestone mountain with a unique geological structure.

This place is divided into two parts: Bright Cave and Dark Cave; each part has its own unique beauty.

Let's explore this beautiful frog cave with Cat Ba Express through this article.

Bright Cave

Coming to Bright Cave, visitors will be overwhelmed by the bright light filtering through the cliffs, creating a shimmering, magical scene.

The clear seawater reflects the multi-shaped stalactites, making visitors feel like they are lost in a magical world.

Bright Cave - Lan Ha Bay

Dark Cave

In contrast to Bright Cave, Dark Cave has a somber and mysterious atmosphere. Sunlight cannot penetrate into the cave, only dim rays of light from the cave entrance create a magical scene.

Visitors will experience the feeling of kayaking in the dark, explore strange stalactites and listen to the sound of water dripping from the cave ceiling.

Currently, because of the danger of Dark Cave, the Bay management board temporarily closed Dark Cave.

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Journey to discover Dark and Bright Cave

To explore the Dark and Bright Cave, visitors often choose to take the Serenity Premium cruise tour during the day or spend a long day sleeping on Lan Ha Bay.

The cruise will take visitors to the cave entrance, and then visitors can kayak or take the fishermen's raft into the cave to get closer to the geological formations here.

Kayaking is a fun and challenging experience. Visitors will be immersed in pristine nature as they explore the mysterious nooks and crannies of the cave.

See details of Serenity Premium Cruise tour to Dark and Bright Cave → here, or contact Mr. Hien at +84976951999 (WhatsApp/ Zalo).

However, visitors need to be careful when moving through the cave, especially the Dark Cave.

In addition to kayaking at Dark and Bright Cave, visitors can also:

Admire the diverse stalactites formed over millions of years.
Swim and relax in the pristine natural space.
Participate in other recreational activities, such as fishing, scuba diving, SUP, etc.

Bright Cave, Dark Cave is an ideal destination for tourists who love to explore wild nature and experience new things.

Tourists who come to Dark and Bright Cave will be immersed in a mysterious, magical space and retain unforgettable memories.

Travel Tips

1. Choose a reputable cruise:

Book with well-reviewed cruises such as Serenity Premium Cruises, which include professional guides and kayaking equipment.

2. Time your visit right:

Go in the morning (8:00–10:00 AM) to enjoy the calmest sea and the most beautiful sunlight reflecting off the limestone cliffs.

3. Stay safe while kayaking:

Always wear a life jacket, follow the guide’s instructions, and keep a safe distance from cave walls to avoid sharp stalactites.

4. Protect your devices:

Use waterproof bags for your phone or camera — splashes are common when kayaking!

5. Don’t rush the experience:

Take your time to enjoy the silence, the sound of dripping water, and the natural beauty inside the cave — it’s one of the most peaceful spots in Lan Ha Bay.

6. Combine with nearby attractions:

Plan to visit other scenic spots such as Ba Trai Dao Beach, Van Boi Beach, or Frog Pond Area to complete your Lan Ha Bay adventure.

FAQs – Dark and Bright Cave, Lan Ha Bay

1. Where is Dark and Bright Cave located?

Dark and Bright Cave, locally called Hang Sáng Tối, lies deep within Lan Ha Bay — an untouched corner connected to the southern edge of Ha Long Bay.

Surrounded by vertical limestone cliffs and emerald waters, this cave area forms a natural border between the two bays.

It’s often referred to as the “frog-shaped cave” because of the unique shape of the mountain above. The site can only be reached by water, which adds to its peaceful and mysterious atmosphere.

2. How can I get to Dark and Bright Cave from Hanoi or Cat Ba Island?

From Hanoi, most visitors join a full-day or overnight cruise departing for Lan Ha Bay. These tours typically include transfer services by bus to Cat Ba Island, then a speedboat or cruise to the cave area.

If you’re already on Cat Ba Island, you can easily book a half-day kayaking tour or join a day cruise such as the Serenity Premium Cruise, which includes kayaking, lunch onboard, and sightseeing stops around Lan Ha Bay.

Independent travelers can also rent a private boat or join local fishermen’s bamboo raft tours for a more authentic experience.

3. Can I enter both the Dark Cave and Bright Cave?

At present, only Bright Cave is open for exploration, while Dark Cave remains closed to ensure visitor safety due to the risk of falling rocks and high tide conditions inside the tunnel.

However, you can still admire the mysterious entrance of Dark Cave from your kayak — it’s a thrilling sight, especially when the tide rises and the water reflects the rock ceiling like a mirror.

The contrast between the two caves symbolizes the dual beauty of Lan Ha Bay: serene on one side and adventurous on the other.

4. What is the best time to visit Dark and Bright Cave?

The best months to visit are from April to October, when Lan Ha Bay enjoys calm seas, warm temperatures, and longer daylight hours — perfect for kayaking and photography.

Early mornings and late afternoons are especially magical, as the light beams gently filter through the limestone cliffs, illuminating Bright Cave with golden reflections.

During the winter months (November–March), the weather can be cooler and slightly misty, giving the cave a more mysterious, almost cinematic vibe for those who enjoy quieter moments on the bay.

5. What should I bring when visiting the cave?

Pack light but smart. A waterproof phone case, hat, sunscreen, reusable water bottle, and light, quick-dry clothing are must-haves. If you plan to kayak, avoid bringing valuables or heavy electronics, and keep your camera in a dry bag.

Some cruises provide free waterproof bags, but it’s best to have your own. For photographers, a wide-angle lens is perfect to capture the full view of the cave’s arches and reflections on the water.

6. Is kayaking difficult for beginners?

Not at all. The route around Bright Cave is calm, with gentle waves and no strong currents — perfect even for those who have never kayaked before.

Cruise staff will give you basic instructions before you start and will always be nearby in case you need help.

For a more relaxing option, you can choose a bamboo raft rowed by local fishermen, which allows you to sit back and simply enjoy the view.

7. Are there any entrance or environmental fees for visiting the cave?

Entrance fees are generally included in your cruise or tour package, covering both the cave and the surrounding protected areas of Lan Ha Bay.

These fees help maintain the natural ecosystem of the bay, ensuring the area remains clean and sustainable for future travelers.

8. Can children or elderly travelers join the cave tour?

Absolutely. Bright Cave is one of the most accessible natural sites in Lan Ha Bay. Families with small children or elderly travelers can opt for a bamboo raft instead of kayaking.

Life jackets are always provided, and the calm water ensures a smooth ride. Many cruises also design flexible schedules, so you can enjoy the view at your own pace — no rush, no pressure, just pure nature.

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