Lan Ha Bay Travel Guide: Vietnam’s Hidden Paradise Beyond Halong 

Where Is Lan Ha Bay? 

Lan Ha Bay lies just south of the iconic Halong Bay and to the east of Cat Ba Island, in northern Vietnam’s Hai Phong Province. This tranquil bay is part of the Gulf of Tonkin and is about 150 kilometers from Hanoi, taking roughly 2.5 to 3 hours by road and ferry. 

While Halong Bay draws global attention as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lan Ha Bay remains a lesser-known gem. It features the same dramatic limestone karsts, emerald waters, and hidden caves—but with fewer tourists, less boat traffic, and more untouched charm. It’s the perfect alternative for travelers seeking serenity, authenticity, and eco-friendly adventures in Vietnam. 

Lan Ha Bay vs. Halong Bay: What’s the Difference? 

While Lan Ha Bay and Halong Bay are neighboring destinations that share the same spectacular seascape of towering limestone karsts, calm emerald waters, and hidden caves, they offer distinct experiences for visitors. 

Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is widely recognized as one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders. Its fame, however, has made it a bustling tourist hub, with hundreds of boats and a well-developed infrastructure catering to large volumes of visitors. 

By contrast, Lan Ha Bay, located just to the south of Halong and extending around the eastern edge of Cat Ba Island, remains relatively untouched. Often referred to as Halong Bay’s quieter sister, Lan Ha Bay boasts the same dramatic geological formations but sees far fewer tourists, offering a more peaceful and intimate atmosphere. 

In addition, Lan Ha Bay features over 100 small beaches, many tucked between limestone islands, which are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. Halong Bay, though visually similar, offers fewer accessible beaches and more structured excursions. 

Lan Ha Bay is also known for its traditional floating fishing villages, such as Cai Beo, where visitors can gain insight into the lives of local fishermen. While Halong Bay has similar communities, they are often more commercialized and integrated into standard cruise itineraries. 

For travelers seeking a quieter, more authentic, and more nature-oriented experience, Lan Ha Bay is an ideal alternative to the more famous—and more crowded—Halong Bay. 

How to Get to Lan Ha Bay 

The easiest way to explore Lan Ha Bay is by first traveling to Cat Ba Island, the largest island in the Gulf of Tonkin and the primary gateway to the bay. Whether you’re starting from Hanoi, Ninh Binh, or other parts of Vietnam, here are the best travel options: 

From Hanoi 

1. Bus + Ferry (Approx. 4–5 hours total)

• Take a bus or shuttle from Hanoi to Got Pier in Hai Phong. 

• From there, board a ferry or speedboat to Cat Ba Island. 

• This is a convenient and budget-friendly route favored by most travelers. 

2. Train + Ferry

• Enjoy a scenic train ride from Gia Lam Station or Long Bien Station in Hanoi to Hai Phong City. 

• Continue by taxi or bus to Got Pier, then transfer to a ferry bound for Cat Ba. 

• A great option if you prefer a slower pace and more local experience. 

3. Limousine Van Service

• The most comfortable and hassle-free option. 

• Luxury vans with door-to-door hotel pickup in Hanoi, often including ferry transfer in one ticket. 

• Reliable operators include Cat Ba Express, Good Morning Cat Ba, and Eco Sapa Limousine.

From Ninh Binh 

• Take a private transfer or sleeper bus to Hai Phong (around 4 hours). 

• Then follow the same ferry route to Cat Ba Island. 

• Ideal for those combining a trip to Trang An or Tam Coc with a coastal adventure. 

From Central and Southern Vietnam 

1. Fly to Hai Phong (Cat Bi International Airport)

• Direct flights available from major cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Hue. 

• From Cat Bi Airport, it’s a 30-minute drive to Got Pier, followed by a short ferry ride to Cat Ba. 

Once You’re on Cat Ba Island 

• Head to Ben Beo Pier, the main departure point for Lan Ha Bay cruises. 

• Choose from day trips, sunset cruises, or overnight boats that explore the quiet, limestone-dotted waters of the bay. 

• Most tours offer kayaking, swimming, and visits to floating fishing villages. 

Travel Tip:
For a smooth experience, book combo tickets that include all legs of the journey (bus + ferry + island transfer) with a reputable operator in advance—especially during peak travel seasons. 

Top Things to Do in Lan Ha Bay 

Lan Ha Bay, just south of Halong Bay, offers the same stunning limestone scenery with fewer crowds and more off-the-beaten-path adventures. Here’s how to make the most of your visit:  

🛥️ Cruise Through the Bay 

A Lan Ha Bay cruise is the ultimate way to take in the dramatic seascape. Choose from day trips, overnight luxury cruises, or private boat charters for a more intimate experience. 

Popular onboard activities include: 

• Sunset watching from the sundeck 

• Vietnamese cooking classes 

• Morning tai chi sessions 

• Kayaking and swimming in hidden coves 

🛶 Kayaking Through Hidden Lagoons 

Explore quiet lagoons, sea caves, and floating villages by kayak—one of the best ways to connect with the bay’s natural beauty. 

Top kayaking spots: 

• Tra Bau – calm waters surrounded by limestone peaks 

• Frog Pond (Ao Ech) – a peaceful lake accessible only by kayak 

• Bright Cave (Hang Sáng) – a tunnel-like passage leading to a secret lake 

• Tunnel Cave (Hang Luồn) – paddle through low arches into hidden lagoons 

🏖️ Swimming & Snorkeling 

Relax on secluded beaches or dive into turquoise waters to spot tropical fish and coral. 

Best spots to swim or snorkel: 

• Ba Trai Dao (Three Peaches) – known for its pink sand and crystal-clear water 

• Van Boi Beach – a peaceful stretch ideal for sunbathing 

• Monkey Island – popular but check accessibility before visiting 

• Nam Cat Island – quiet and family-friendly 

Snorkeling tours are available via local resorts or cruise operators. 

🧗 Rock Climbing & Adventure Sports 

Lan Ha Bay is a paradise for rock climbers, offering limestone cliffs that rise straight from the sea. 

Top climbing areas: 

• Ben Beo Cliffs – near Cat Ba town with routes for all levels 

• Dau Be Island – offers deep water soloing (climbing without ropes) 

• Ba Trai Dao Islands – dramatic scenery and challenging routes 

🌿 Explore Cat Ba National Park 

A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Cat Ba National Park is rich in biodiversity and natural beauty. 

Activities include: 

• Hiking to viewpoints like Nui Cao Vong (Navy Peak) 

• Exploring Trung Trang Cave and Hospital Cave 

• Spotting endangered langurs and native bird species 

🚴 Visit Viet Hai Village 

Hidden deep within the national park, Viet Hai Village is a peaceful place to experience authentic rural life. 

What to do: 

• Rent a bicycle or take an electric cart 

• Ride past rice paddies, bamboo homes, and water buffalo 

• Learn about sustainable farming and local customs 

🐟 Floating Fishing Villages 

Step into the daily life of local fishermen in one of Lan Ha’s floating communities. 

Notable villages: 

• Cai Beo – one of Vietnam’s oldest floating villages 

• Cua Van – located between Lan Ha and Halong Bay 

Experiences may include: 

• Net fishing or squid catching 

• Visiting floating schools and homes 

• Supporting local pearl farms or seafood markets 

🌅 Sunset Watching 

Lan Ha Bay offers some of the most unforgettable sunsets in Vietnam. 

Best places to watch the sunset: 

• Hon Rua (Turtle Islet) – an iconic silhouette at dusk 

• From your cruise deck with a cocktail in hand 

• Remote beaches or elevated viewpoints on Cat Ba Island 

Island-Hopping Around Lan Ha Bay 

With over 400 jungle-clad limestone islets, Lan Ha Bay is a dream destination for island-hopping. Many of these islands are untouched, offering quiet beaches, crystal-clear waters, and postcard-worthy views. 

Here are some of the top islands you should explore:

🏝️ Nam Cat Island 

Highlights: 

• Powdery soft sand 

• Calm, turquoise waters perfect for swimming 

• Ideal spot for kayaking, snorkeling, or just unwinding 

• Small eco-resorts and wooden bungalows available for overnight stays 

Nam Cat is one of the few Lan Ha islands with accommodation options, making it a great base for travelers seeking serenity and natural charm. 

🐒 Monkey Island (Cat Dua Island) 

Note: Temporarily closed—check local updates before visiting. 

Highlights: 

• Home to a group of semi-wild monkeys (fun for children—though they can be mischievous!) 

• Two white-sand beaches with shallow waters 

• Short hike to a rocky viewpoint with panoramic bay views 

• Popular stop on day cruises from Cat Ba Island 

If reopened, Monkey Island is perfect for families and photo enthusiasts alike. 

🏊 Ba Trai Dao Islets (Three Peaches Islets) 

Highlights: 

• Named after their peach-like shape from above 

• Famous for clear blue waters and white sand beaches 

• Excellent for swimming, kayaking, and sunbathing 

• Great spot for drone photography and sunset views 

Located near the border of Halong and Lan Ha Bays, Ba Trai Dao is a favorite stop for many overnight cruise itineraries. 

Best Time to Visit Lan Ha Bay 

☀️ Ideal Months: 

March to early August and October to November 

These months offer the best weather for enjoying the bay’s natural beauty: 

• Sunny skies and warm temperatures 

• Calm seas—perfect for cruises and kayaking 

• Clear water with excellent visibility for snorkeling and swimming 

• Ideal for outdoor activities like hiking in Cat Ba National Park or visiting fishing villages 

🌧️ Months to Avoid: 

• Late August to September – Typhoon season in northern Vietnam can bring heavy rain and unpredictable storms. Cruise cancellations are possible. 

• December to February – Winter brings cooler, cloudier weather and rougher seas, though the bay remains scenic and quiet with fewer tourists. 

Travel Tip:
For the best mix of weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting in April, May, or late October—right before or after peak travel periods. 

Let me know if you’d like a month-by-month breakdown or packing tips for different seasons in Lan Ha Bay. 

Sample Itineraries for Lan Ha Bay 

🕐 2 Days / 1 Night: Classic Cruise & Village Visit 

Day 1: 

• Depart from Beo Pier on Cat Ba Island 

• Cruise through Lan Ha Bay’s limestone islands 

• Stop for swimming and kayaking in hidden lagoons 

• Overnight on the cruise or return to Cat Ba Island 

Day 2: 

• Morning visit to Viet Hai Village (bike or electric cart tour) 

• Explore local life and scenic rice fields 

• Return to Cat Ba or transfer back to Hanoi 

🕒 3 Days / 2 Nights: Deep Dive into the Bay 

Day 1: 

• Discover Cat Ba Island, hike or relax on the beach 

• Visit Ong Cam Bay for kayaking or snorkeling 

• Enjoy sunset on your overnight cruise 

Day 2: 

• Paddle through Bai Tu Long Bay or Tra Bau area 

• Continue Lan Ha Bay cruise with stops at secluded beaches 

• Participate in onboard activities: cooking class, squid fishing, or tai chi 

Day 3: 

• Morning cruise with optional visit to Monkey Island (check status) 

• Relax or go island hopping before returning to Cat Ba or Hanoi 

Final Thoughts: Why Choose Lan Ha Bay? 

Lan Ha Bay is Vietnam’s untouched coastal treasure, ideal for travelers who crave peace, nature, and authenticity. With its secluded beaches, dramatic cliffs, rich marine life, and easy access via Cat Ba Island, it’s the perfect alternative—or even upgrade—to Halong Bay. 

If you want to escape the crowds, enjoy meaningful experiences, and witness natural beauty at its purest, Lan Ha Bay should be on your Vietnam travel bucket list.