Ha Long Bay’s pearl farms offer a fascinating glimpse into the delicate art of cultured pearl production. You can tour floating platforms, see oysters being seeded, and browse shimmering, locally crafted jewellery – an elegant, authentic souvenir.
Travel bucket list idea:
Ha Long Bay
Quang Ninh province, Vietnam
Last updated: 15 May, 2025
A breathtaking seascape of limestone karsts rising from emerald waters, Ha Long Bay is one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic natural wonders.
Scattered across the Gulf of Tonkin, its 1,600 jungle-cloaked islands and islets form a cinematic, almost surreal tableau that shifts subtly with the light. Caves, hidden lagoons, floating fishing villages, and secluded beaches are tucked among the towering rock formations, many accessible only by boat.
UNESCO-listed and steeped in legend, the bay is a serene haven for kayaking, cruising, and soaking in the ever-changing views. You’ll get to exolore vast grottoes like Sung Sot Cave, climb to panoramic viewpoints, or simply relax on a traditional junk boat as the mist settles over the water.
A place of quiet magic and timeless beauty, it’s both a visual spectacle and a soulful escape – a journey into nature’s imagination.
Don
Don’t miss the Sung Sot Cave’s spectacular chambers, or a kayak trip into Luon Cave’s lagoon. Climb Ti Top Island for gasp-worthy views, and glide past the iconic Dinh Huong Islet. Look out for floating villages and pearl farms.
Stop by a pearl farm
Logistics
Price: Free
Minimum age: 0
Age suitable: 13+
When: All year around
Getting there & doing it
The best way to experience Ha Long Bay is by overnight cruise, departing from Ha Long City or Hanoi (around 2.5 hours by road). Cruises range from traditional wooden junks to luxury liners, and often include guided excursions to caves, islands and villages. Alternatively, day trips are possible but rushed.
You can hire local guides at the pier, though organised tours offer far better logistics and comfort.
Pack light layers, sun protection, and waterproof bags for electronics. If you’re kayaking or swimming, bring water shoes. Most cruises provide meals, but a few local snacks and water bottles are always useful.
When to do it
The best months to visit are October to April, when the skies are clearer and humidity lower – ideal for photography and cruising. Summer (May–August) brings lush green scenery but occasional storms. Avoid public holidays if possible, when local crowds swell. The most atmospheric time to visit is early morning, when mists drift across the water and the bay feels serenely untouched.
