Things to do in Lan Ha Bay
Lan Ha Bay is located at the East of Cat Ba Island and borders Halong Bay. The bay measures 7000 ha, of which 5400 ha are under the management of the Cat Ba National Park.
This smooth area with a curvy shape counts around 400 large and small islands. The islands and islets of Lan Ha Bay are all covered with lush green.
Lan Ha Bay
Book a bus & tour
- Hanoi to Cat Ba
- Cat Ba to Hanoi
- Lan Ha Bay full-day tour from Cat Ba Town
- Lan Ha Bay full-day tour from Hanoi
- Cat Ba National Park tour
Things to do in Lan Ha Bay
1. Go Kayaking Through Limestone Caves and Hidden Lagoons
Lan Ha Bay is often called a kayaking paradise. The calm, clean water and hundreds of small islands make it the perfect place to paddle.
Popular kayaking spots include:
- Cai Beo Floating Village
- Van Boi Center Area
- Ba Trai Dao (Three Peaches) Area
- Monkey Island (Cat Dua Island)
Gliding through the limestone caves and lagoons, you’ll feel completely immersed in nature.
Kayaking Lan Ha Bay
2. Swim at Secluded Beaches
There are countless hidden sandy beaches in Lan Ha Bay — each surrounded by towering cliffs and crystal-clear water.
Favorite swimming spots:
- Van Boi Beach
- Monkey Island Beach
It’s an incredible way to relax after kayaking or cruising around the bay.
Swimming in Lan Ha Bay
3. Try Rock Climbing Over the Sea
Adventure seekers will love rock climbing in Lan Ha Bay. The Cat Ba Climbing Center offers guided half-day and full-day climbing trips, with both beginner and advanced routes on limestone cliffs overlooking the turquoise water.
Rock climbing in Lan Ha bay
4. Visit Viet Hai Village
For a glimpse into local life, visit Viet Hai Fishing Village inside Cat Ba National Park.
From Lan Ha Bay, you can take a boat to Viet Hai Harbor, then continue by bike or motorbike (around 6 km). The village is known for its peaceful scenery, ancient stilt houses, and friendly locals.
Visit Viet Hai fishing village
5. Explore Cai Beo Floating Village
Cai Beo Floating Village is one of the oldest in Vietnam, where generations have lived and fished for centuries. You’ll see floating homes, schools, and fish farms, and can even buy fresh seafood directly from local fishermen.
Visit Cai Beo floating village
6. Relax on a Private Island Resort
Several private beaches in Lan Ha Bay offer bungalows and eco-resorts, where you can stay overnight and enjoy beachside activities like volleyball, kayaking, and sunbathing.
Staying overnight in the bay is a magical experience — imagine waking up surrounded by calm water and jungle-covered cliffs.
Play and stay at a private beach
7. Jump Into the Bay from Your Cruise
Unlike Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay allows swimming and jumping off the cruise deck — a favorite activity among travelers.
Make sure to follow the safety instructions from your guide or crew before diving in!
Jumping at Serenity Cruises
FAQs about Things to Do in Lan Ha Bay
1. Is Lan Ha Bay better than Halong Bay?
Yes — many travelers believe Lan Ha Bay Vietnam offers a more peaceful and authentic experience compared to Halong Bay.
While Halong is famous and often crowded with large cruise ships, Lan Ha Bay remains relatively untouched and cleaner, with calm emerald waters, smaller limestone islands, and fewer tourists.
It’s ideal for those who prefer quiet kayaking routes, private beaches, and a closer connection with nature.
Plus, most Lan Ha Bay tours include activities like swimming, snorkeling, and visiting fishing villages, which make the experience more personal and memorable.
2. Can I visit Lan Ha Bay from Hanoi in one day?
Yes, it’s completely possible to explore Lan Ha Bay in one day from Hanoi thanks to organized full-day tours.
Most tours include round-trip transportation by bus and speedboat, lunch on board, and exciting activities such as kayaking through caves, swimming, or visiting floating villages.
The trip usually starts around 6:30 AM from Hanoi and returns around 8:00 PM, giving you a full day to enjoy the bay’s beauty.
However, if you have more time, consider staying overnight on a Lan Ha Bay cruise — it allows you to enjoy sunrise, sunset, and peaceful starry nights on the water.
3. Are there overnight cruises in Lan Ha Bay?
Absolutely! Overnight cruises in Lan Ha Bay are among the best ways to experience the charm of the area truly.
You can choose from luxury 5-star cruises, mid-range options, or private charters depending on your budget.
Most cruises include 1- or 2-night itineraries featuring kayaking, cooking classes, squid fishing, Tai Chi sessions, and cave exploration.
Popular options include routes passing Dark and Bright Cave, Ba Trai Dao area, and Viet Hai Village.
Sleeping on a cruise in Lan Ha Bay Vietnam is a once-in-a-lifetime experience — imagine waking up surrounded by limestone peaks and the gentle sound of waves.
4. What should I pack for a Lan Ha Bay trip?
Packing smart will make your Lan Ha Bay adventure more comfortable. vEssential items include swimwear, sunscreen, a wide-brim hat, and light clothing suitable for humid weather.
Bring a waterproof phone case and dry bag if you plan to kayak or swim. Comfortable sandals or water shoes are also useful for visiting beaches or floating villages.
In the cooler months (from November to February), it’s a good idea to pack a light jacket for evenings on deck, as temperatures can drop.
And don’t forget your camera or drone — the stunning scenery of Lan Ha Bay Vietnam is picture-perfect at every angle.
5. Can I swim anywhere in Lan Ha Bay?
Yes, and that’s one of the best things about Lan Ha Bay — it’s one of the few bays in northern Vietnam where you can freely swim in open areas.
Unlike Halong Bay, where swimming is restricted to certain beaches, Lan Ha Bay allows swimming and jumping off the cruise deck in many safe zones.
Popular spots for swimming include Van Boi Beach, Ba Trai Dao area, and Monkey Island. Always check with your tour guide before swimming to ensure safety, especially when the tides are strong.
The water here is clear, calm, and inviting, making it perfect for relaxing dips after a day of kayaking or cruising.
6. Is Lan Ha Bay suitable for families with kids?
Definitely! Lan Ha Bay is very family-friendly. The calm sea and soft sandy beaches make it safe for children to swim and play.
Many cruises provide family cabins, life jackets for kids, and gentle activities like fishing or visiting floating villages.
It’s also educational — children can learn about marine life, local culture, and the unique floating lifestyle of fishermen.
If you’re traveling with young kids, choose a shorter day cruise or private boat for more flexibility.
7. What are the must-try local experiences in Lan Ha Bay?
When visiting Lan Ha Bay Vietnam, don’t miss:
- Kayaking through Dark and Bright Cave
- Exploring Cai Beo Floating Village, one of Vietnam’s oldest fishing communities
- Cycling to Viet Hai Village in Cat Ba National Park
- Trying fresh seafood caught by local fishermen
- Watching the sunset from your cruise deck
These authentic experiences make Lan Ha Bay more than just a scenic destination — it’s a living, breathing coastal culture waiting to be explored.
8. How do I choose the best Lan Ha Bay tour?
To pick the right Lan Ha Bay tour, consider your travel style and time:
- If you’re short on time, a one-day tour from Hanoi or Cat Ba Town is perfect.
- For a more immersive experience, choose an overnight or 2-day cruise.
- Adventurous travelers may prefer kayaking or rock-climbing packages, while families often go for relaxing sightseeing cruises.
Always check reviews, itineraries, and safety records before booking.
Some trusted operators include Cat Ba Express, Serenity Cruises, and Heritage Line.
9. Is Lan Ha Bay crowded like Halong Bay?
Not at all. Lan Ha Bay is often called the “hidden gem of the Gulf of Tonkin” because it remains less commercialized and much quieter than Halong Bay.
You can still find yourself surrounded by hundreds of limestone karsts — but without the busy traffic of large cruise ships.
This makes Lan Ha Bay ideal for romantic getaways, photography, and eco-tourism.
10. Can I combine Lan Ha Bay with other attractions in Cat Ba?
Yes! In fact, combining Lan Ha Bay with Cat Ba Island is highly recommended. You can explore Cat Ba National Park, trek to Ngu Lam Peak, or relax at Cat Co Beach after your cruise.
Many travelers spend 2–3 days exploring both areas to enjoy the full nature and adventure experience that Cat Ba offers.
Read more →
- → Cat Ba Island, Vietnam - an unforgettable holiday
- → The top 15 hotels in Cat Ba Island
- → Lan Ha Bay – the forgotten paradise
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