Lan Ha Bay: Discovering Halong Bay's Tranquil Twin

Lan Ha Bay is blessed with over 100 small, secluded sandy beaches - often described as "emerald straits" nestled between limestone mountains. These calm, wave-free spots are perfect for swimming and relaxing. In May 2020, the World’s Most Beautiful Bays Club officially recognized Lan Ha Bay as one of the most stunning bays in the world.

Sister to the superstar Halong Bay, the quieter and more isolated Lan Ha Bay offers plenty in her own right. If you're torn between the two or considering a visit to Lan Ha Bay, we're here to guide you! Discover why Lan Ha Bay is a perfect alternative for your trip, especially if you’re looking to escape the crowds.

Written by Trang Nguyen (Local Expert) Updated on 27-03-2025

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1. Where is Lan Ha Bay? Are Halong Bay and Lan Ha the same?

1.1 Location

Located south of Ha Long Bay and east of Cat Ba Island, Lan Ha Bay is about 150 km from Hanoi (roughly a 2.5-hour drive).

In comparison, Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Wonder of the World, lies approximately 165 km from Hanoi (about a 3-hour drive).

1.2 Are Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay the Same?

No, Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay are distinctly different. While both bays share a complex of islands and islets with towering limestone cliffs, a trademark feature of the Gulf of Tonkin’s terrain, and are renowned for their dramatic limestone karsts rising from the seas, their atmospheres differ significantly. 

Ha Long Bay is famous for its grand vistas, striking limestone caverns, and bustling tourism, while Lan Ha Bay offers a more sedate, pristine getaway with swimming-friendly waters and a peaceful setting surrounded by rocky mountains.

2. How to get to Lan Ha Bay

To begin your Lan Ha Bay trip, you must first reach Hai Phong. From there, you can travel to Cat Ba Island as a starting point or take a Lan Ha Bay cruise directly to the bay. Some cruises also depart from Halong Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay and include Lan Ha Bay in their itineraries.

From Hanoi:

• Road: 150 km to Hai Phong (~4 hrs). Buses from Nuoc Ngam or Gia Lam every 15–20 mins, or take a limousine to Hai Phong/Cat Ba.
• Train: Scenic 2.5–3 hr trip from Hanoi, Gia Lam, or Long Bien Station to Hai Phong, then continue to Cat Ba for Lan Ha Bay.

From Ninh Binh: From Tam Coc, 160 km by road + 40 km by water to Cat Ba (~4–5 hrs).

From Central or Southern Vietnam: A faster route is to fly directly to Cat Bi Airport in Hai Phong, then travel to Cat Ba Island.

Once at Cat Ba Island, visitors can purchase boat tickets at Beo Pier to explore Lan Ha Bay. Groups have the option to rent private boats, with prices varying depending on the boat type and tour duration.

3. Top things to do

• Cruise Trip in Lan Ha Bay

If you're planning to explore Lan Ha Bay by boat, here are two great options for you:

1. Tuan Chau International Port: Start your journey here, where you can catch a high-speed boat to Halong Bay. From there, you'll transfer to a cruise ship heading to Lan Ha Bay. This port has spacious docks, modern facilities, and less traffic, making it a more convenient choice with smooth roads leading to the harbor.

2. Got Ferry Terminal in Hai Phong: Alternatively, you can start your trip from Got Ferry Terminal. A quick 15-minute speedboat or tender ride will take you to your cruise ship, offering a scenic and quick start to your journey.

On the cruise, you can relax on deck, kayak through limestone karsts, swim in calm waters, savor fresh seafood, join a cooking class to learn Vietnamese dishes, or practice tai chi with bay views.

• Kayaking in Lan Ha Bay

In Lan Ha Bay, kayaking is a must. Because of its calm waters, the bay is a great place for families with young children (up to age 8) as well as beginners. The bay's rocky islands are easily accessible by kayak at locations like: Tra Bau, Frog Pond (Ao Ech), Bright Cave (Hang Sang), Tunnel Cave (Hang Luon).

Don't worry if this is your first time. You will receive instruction on how to steer, paddle, and stop the kayak.

• Swimming and Snorkeling at Sandy Beaches

If you love the beach, Lan Ha Bay has several small, beautiful beaches that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. I would suggest visiting Van Boi, Van Ha, Ban Chan and Three Peaches (Ba Trai Dao) beaches. These beaches are known for their calm waters, soft sand, and tranquility.

On Monkey Island, you’ll find two pristine beaches: Cat Dua 1 and Cat Dua 2, which are also famous for a relaxing swim. To me, Nam Cat Beach on Nam Cat Island is the greatest spot for sunbathing.

However, if you want a more adventurous experience, consider booking a snorkeling trip through Monkey Island Resort Diving Center to dive into the underwater world.

• Solo Climbing

Rock climbing in Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba is an experience you shouldn't pass up if you're looking for an adrenaline rush. 

In addition to providing exhilarating challenges, climbing these cliffs also gives you a view of the breathtaking sightseeing of the bay. There are cliffs that are appropriate for climbers of all skill levels. 

My go-to spots: Ben Beo cliffs (only 2 km from Cat Ba town), Ba Trai Dao Island (22 km south of the tourist port), Dau Be Island (2 hours away by boat from Cat Ba).

• Explore Cat Ba Island & Cat Ba National Park

Cat Ba Island is a natural treasure with 367 islands, which you shouldn’t sleep on. Make sure to visit Cat Co Beach, famous for its clear waters and scenic views. 

Cat Ba is also home to fascinating caves. You can bike or take a bus through Cat Ba National Park to reach these caves. Inside, you’ll see natural formations millions of years old, with Quan Y Cave offering a historical experience as it once housed a wartime field hospital.

Good to know: When visiting, don’t miss trying the local specialties, Bun Tom Cat Ba (shrimp noodle soup) and Banh Da Cua (crab noodle).

• Visit Viet Hai Village

Nestled deep within Cat Ba National Park is the historic and distinctive Viet Hai Village. The village is renowned for its peaceful, rural way of life and is surrounded by mountains and forests.

The locals lead tranquil, simple lives and depend on farming and livestock. Exploring traditional local life by bicycle or electric vehicle is possible when visiting Viet Hai Village. Through this immersive experience, you can learn about the tranquil rhythm of village life and establish a connection with nature.

• Floating Fishing Villages

Visit floating fishing towns like Cai Beo, a living museum where you can experience traditional fishing life and savor fresh catches, in Lan Ha Bay, close to Cat Ba Island. You can pick up traditional fishing methods from the people of Cua Van, another little village situated between Ha Long and Lan Ha Bay.

>>> Learn more: 10 Things to Do in Halong Bay, Vietnam That Will Blow Your Mind

• Watching Sunsets

Lan Ha Bay tenders one of the most picturesque sunset views, especially when enjoyed on the water. The calm waves and peaceful surroundings of the bay make the ideal place to see the vivid hues of the sky as the sun sets. Among the best places to see the breathtaking sunset is Hon Rua, a well-known bay landmark.

• Explore Dark & Bright Cave & Trung Trang Cave

The Dark & Bright Cave (Hang Sang Toi), which is 70 meters long and only reachable by kayak or small boat, is located about 12 kilometers from Bèo Pier. As you navigate the cave's tight spaces and take in the breathtaking rock formations, you can discover nature from a different angle. 

Another must-see local natural wonder is Trung Trang Cave. It delivers visitors a fascinating chance to experience Cat Ba Island's beauty through its distinctive geological formations.

• Island Hopping

Nam Cat Island: A 15-minute boat ride from Bèo Pier, this island gives you a secret paradise with its white sand beaches, beautiful blue waters, and majestic mountains.

Ba Trai Dao Islands: Ba Trai Dao Island is approximately a 1.5-hour boat ride from Cat Ba. The island's clear, shallow seas and neighboring rock islands make for a beautiful, safe swimming area.

Monkey Island (Cat Dua Island): Famous for its beautiful beaches and playful monkeys, this island is temporarily closed but will reopen soon.

• Visit the Seafood Market

Visit the Lan Ha Bay Floating Seafood Market to get a taste of local culture. Though smaller than other floating markets in Vietnam, you will still have a chance to buy fresh seafood directly from the fishermen. Moreover, you can also take home local delicacies as souvenirs, supporting the community while enjoying some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste.

4. Best time to visit 

Lan Ha Bay welcomes visitors year-round, but certain times of the year are more ideal for exploring.

The most ideal times to visit are:

• March to early August
• October to November

During these months, the weather is sunny, warm, and dry, making it perfect for cruising, sightseeing, and enjoying outdoor adventures without the discomfort of extreme heat or the risk of rain. (For more information, please read: Best Time to Visit North Vietnam)

5. My suggested Lan Ha Bay itinerary

• 2 Days 1 Night Trip

Perfect for travelers short on time but seeking a luxurious escape, the 2-day 1-night Lan Ha Bay trip will give you a well-rounded experience of this serene.

Day 1: Depart from Cai Beo Cruise Port – Lan Ha Bay

Day 2: Viet Hai Village – Return to Cai Beo Cruise Port

• 3 Days 2 Nights Trip

If you have more time to spare, the 3-day 2-night cruise provides a deeper exploration of Lan Ha Bay and its surroundings. 

Day 1: Cai Beo Harbor – Cat Ba Island – Ong Cam Bay

Day 2: Bai Tu Long Bay – Lan Ha Bay

Day 3: Lan Ha Bay – Cat Ba Island

For more details and to book your tour, visit our tour page to plan your Lan Ha Bay adventure:

6. Local tips for your trip

• Ask Prices in Advance: Always confirm prices before buying seafood, especially during peak summer months (May to August), to avoid unexpected costs.
• Swim Safely: Only swim in designated areas and wear a life jacket when swimming far from shore for safety.
• Prepare for Cool Nights: Nights can be chilly, so bring a warm jacket or sweater.
• Be Cautious with Night Fishing Offers: If invited to a night fishing trip, verify the details. You can enjoy the catch raw or have it cooked.
• Beware of Middlemen: Many services in Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba involve intermediaries, so research and consider options carefully before renting or purchasing anything.
• Book Cruises in Advance: To secure a spot, book your cruise 3–7 days in advance.

>>>> Read more: Tips for a Successful Trip to Vietnam

In conclusion,

Lan Ha Bay is a great place for nature lovers and adventure seekers because of its rich and varied beauty throughout the year. Its natural beauty, similar yet different to Halong Bay, makes it perfect for those looking for an off-the-beaten-path vacation. With fewer visitors, the island's peace and unspoiled landscape make it the ideal destination for ultimate relaxation and life-long memories. Contact us today to book your trip to Cat Ba this season!

✈️Explore other attractions in the north of Vietnam:

• Cat Ba Island: A complete guide in 5 questions before your visit
• Hanoi: 7 essential things to know before visiting the capital of Vietnam
• Ha Giang: 6 Essential Things to Know Before You Go
• 10 Things to Do in Halong Bay, Vietnam That Will Blow Your Mind!
• 5-Day North Vietnam: Hanoi - Halong Bay - Ninh Binh