Top 10 Most Beautiful Islands, Bays, and Fishing Villages in Ha Long to Visit Once in a Lifetime
— Royal Ha Long Editorial Team
If you visit Ha Long without exploring the bay, you have not truly experienced it. From the world-famous natural heritage site to peaceful floating fishing villages, here are 10 on-water spots and rocky islands that travelers should include in their itinerary. This list is based on TripAdvisor's attraction rankings (data as of October 21, 2026), combined with real travel recommendations.
The best time to visit Ha Long Bay: usually from March to May and from September to November, when the weather is cool, with little rain or storms, and visibility is high. Summer is hot and prone to storms, while winter is chilly and often foggy, which may occasionally require adjustments to boat schedules. Please check the weather forecast and announcements from your tour operator before departure.
How to get there: all spots in this article are accessible by boat from the Ha Long International Passenger Port, except for Lan Ha and Cai Beo, which usually depart from Cat Ba. From Hanoi, tour shuttle buses typically take about 3-4 hours each way according to TripAdvisor forums. If you want to board the boat early without having to wake up too late, you should stay overnight in Ha Long City the evening before.
1. Ha Long Bay – A World Natural Heritage Site, Best Explored by Cruise
Ha Long Bay is the number 1 destination in Ha Long on TripAdvisor, rated 4.5/5 with over 11,800 reviews. It is a UNESCO-recognized World Natural Heritage site, famous for thousands of limestone islands rising from emerald waters. You can explore it on a day cruise or an overnight cruise. It is recommended to depart early for open spaces and beautiful light.
Highlights:
- Over 1,600 limestone islands and islets as described by UNESCO, recognized as a World Heritage site.
- Options include day tours, 2-day-1-night, or 3-day-2-night itineraries.
- Popular activities: kayaking, swimming, visiting caves, and cooking classes on board.
Travel tip: read carefully what is included in the tour price. Some feedback on TripAdvisor mentions surcharges for drinks, bottled water, and spa services, so ask clearly before booking to avoid extra costs.
2. Bai Tu Long Bay – A Quiet, Less Crowded Destination in Ha Long
If you want similar scenery but with fewer crowds, Bai Tu Long is an option worth considering. This destination is rated 4.8/5 on TripAdvisor and lies adjacent to Ha Long Bay. Many travelers review this area as quieter and more pristine. It is a suitable spot for couples or groups of friends who prefer to slow down and enjoy the scenery.
Highlights:
- Limestone landscapes similar to Ha Long but with fewer boats.
- This area features many caves and remote islands, including Thien Canh Son Cave on Co Island.
- Suitable for itineraries of two days and one night or longer.
Best suited for: couples, families who prefer peace, and travelers who have been to Ha Long Bay before and want to try a different experience.
3. Lan Ha Bay – Clear Waters, Kayaking Near Cat Ba
Lan Ha is adjacent to Ha Long Bay, located south and east of Cat Ba Island (Hai Phong), spanning over 7,000 hectares. The limestone landscape is similar but with fewer boats, making it ideal for kayaking, swimming, and cycling on the island. Many 2-day-1-night tours combine Ha Long and Lan Ha in the same itinerary.
Highlights:
- Clear waters with many calm areas suitable for kayaking.
- Many tours depart from Cat Ba or from Hanoi.
- Some itineraries combine cycling and trekking on the island.
Travel tip: when booking a tour, ask clearly whether the itinerary goes exclusively to Lan Ha or combines both with Ha Long Bay, as the stops and time spent on the boat will differ.
4. Ti Top Island – Climb the Peak for a Panoramic View of Ha Long Bay
Ti Top Island is a familiar stop on almost all bay tours. Visitors climb about 400 steps to the peak for a panoramic view of the bay, then head down to the small beach below. It is recommended to wear shoes with good grip, bring drinking water, and go in the morning when it is still cool.
Highlights:
- The island is named after the Soviet cosmonaut Gherman Titov, who visited the bay in 1962.
- From the peak of the island, you can see the entire crescent-shaped beach and the surrounding rocky islands.
- You can combine a morning climb with a swim immediately afterward.
Travel tip: elderly visitors or those with knee issues should consider staying at the beach instead of climbing to the peak. Bring water and a towel to wipe off sweat.
5. Ga Choi (Fighting Cocks) Islet – The Tourism Symbol of Ha Long
Two small rock formations standing opposite each other like a pair of fighting cocks are considered the symbol of Ha Long tourism. Boats usually stop for visitors to take photos from a distance, as this spot is not for landing. TripAdvisor records a 4.1/5 rating from over 250 reviews. The most beautiful light is usually in the early morning or late afternoon.
Highlights:
- Also known as Trong Mai (Cock and Hen) Islet.
- A familiar image in many travel publications about Ha Long.
- Best photographed from the boat deck, no landing required.
Travel tip: Have your camera or phone ready as the boat passes by, as vessels usually only stop for a brief moment.
6. Cua Van Fishing Village – A Floating Village Experience in the Heart of Ha Long Bay
Cua Van is a floating fishing village where many families live on houseboats amidst the bay, rated 4.2/5 on TripAdvisor. Visitors can take a bamboo boat or kayak past the floating homes, chat with the locals, and learn about their life on the water. Please ask for permission before taking photos of residents and refrain from littering.
Highlights:
- Visitors travel by bamboo boat or kayak among the floating houses.
- An opportunity to learn more about fishing and aquaculture in the bay.
- Ideal for travelers who love lifestyle and cultural photography.
Travel tip: Wear a life jacket when kayaking, bring some small cash if you wish to buy local products from the residents, and respect the privacy of each family.
7. Vung Vieng Fishing Village – Kayaking, Bamboo Boats, and Fishing Village Life
Vung Vieng is another fishing village on the bay, frequently featured in kayaking and bamboo boat itineraries. Floating houses, aquaculture cages, and calm waters create a daily life scene that is very different from the crowded caves. This spot is perfect for travelers seeking local cultural experiences.
Highlights:
- Often combined with Cua Van in a single kayaking or bamboo boat excursion.
- TripAdvisor records over 130 experiences related to this fishing village.
- Calm waters, suitable even for beginner kayakers.
Suitable for: Travelers who want a gentle morning, plenty of beautiful photos, and no climbing required.
8. Soi Sim Island – A Quiet Beach with Clear Water in Ha Long
Soi Sim Island features a small, quiet sandy beach with clear water, perfect for swimming or kayaking around, according to traveler feedback on TripAdvisor (4.1/5). This is a relaxing stop after hiking or cave exploration. Be sure to bring swimwear and sunscreen.
Highlights:
- A small, uncrowded sandy beach with clear water, according to traveler feedback.
- Great for swimming and kayaking around the island.
- Often included in tours combining other spots in the bay.
Travel tip: If you want to enjoy swimming, ask your tour operator if the itinerary allows time for swimming here, and prepare swimwear and a dry towel.
9. Castaway Island (Lan Ha) – A Pristine Beach for Swimming
Castaway Island is located in Lan Ha Bay, rated 4.1/5 on TripAdvisor from over 550 reviews. The island stands out with its pristine sandy beach, calm waters, and private atmosphere compared to more crowded spots. It is ideal for groups of friends looking to swim, picnic, or enjoy water sports.
Highlights:
- Located in Lan Ha Bay, belonging to Hai Phong and adjacent to Cat Ba Island.
- An uncrowded sandy beach, perfect for swimming and water sports.
- Suitable for groups of friends or families wanting a relaxing day.
Travel tip: Confirm with your tour operator in advance that the itinerary stops at the island, as not all Lan Ha tours visit this spot.
10. Cai Beo Fishing Village (Cat Ba) – A Rustic Floating Village Near Ha Long
Cai Beo is a floating fishing village in the Cat Ba area, rated 5/5 on TripAdvisor, though reviews are still limited. This place is perfect for travelers who want to see a different side of Ha Long: rustic, less commercialized, and deeply connected to the fishing trade. It is recommended to go with a guided tour for convenient transportation.
Highlights:
- Located about 16 miles from Ha Long, according to TripAdvisor distances.
- Deeply connected to aquaculture and fishing on the bay.
- Ideal for combining with Lan Ha in a two-day itinerary.
Note: This spot has few reviews on TripAdvisor, so please refer to recent feedback and clarify the itinerary before deciding.
Suggested 2-Day 1-Night Itinerary on Ha Long Bay
The actual itinerary will vary depending on the cruise line, but you can refer to the following framework:
- Day 1, Noon: Board the vessel at the harbor, check in, and enjoy lunch as the cruise departs.
- Day 1, Afternoon: Visit caves, go kayaking, or take a bamboo boat around Cua Van fishing village.
- Day 1, evening: Watch the sunset, enjoy dinner, and join squid fishing or a cooking class if offered by the cruise.
- Day 2, morning: Wake up early for the sunrise, enjoy light exercise on the deck, climb Ti Top Island, or go swimming.
- Day 2, afternoon: Enjoy a light meal, check out, and return to the harbor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I choose a day tour or an overnight cruise in Ha Long Bay? A day tour is ideal if your time is limited. If you wish to admire the sunset and sunrise, and visit more attractions, opt for a two-day, one-night cruise.
What is the estimated cost? According to TripAdvisor (10/2026), day tours typically range from 20 to 60 USD per person, while two-day, one-night cruises range from 50 USD to over 200 USD, depending on the cruise class and services. Prices vary by season and package.
How long does it take to travel from Hanoi to Ha Long? According to TripAdvisor forums, shuttle transfers usually take about 3-4 hours each way, depending on traffic and pickup locations.
Are these tours suitable for young children and the elderly? Yes, but it is recommended to choose a day tour or a vessel with secure safety railings. If health is a concern, you may want to skip attractions that require climbing many steps, such as Ti Top Island.
What should I bring? Sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a light jacket for the evening, non-slip shoes, motion sickness medication if needed, and some small change.
How far in advance should I book? During peak season, you should book several days to a few weeks in advance. TripAdvisor features tours labeled as likely to sell out within the last 30 days.
Book Directly at Royal Ha Long Hotel – Unwind After Your Ha Long Bay Adventure
After a day on the bay, choose a comfortable place to stay to make your journey complete. Book your room at Royal Ha Long Hotel directly here to secure your check-in date and receive personalized advice on the perfect Ha Long Bay tour itinerary.