Introduction

Lan Ha Bay is a lesser-known sister of Halong Bay. The emerald waters, towering limestone karsts, and hidden lagoons here create a surreal world, making this a perfect place for a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle. Let's explore the breathtaking beauty of the bay with Asia King Travel.

Location

Located about 30 kilometers from the center of Hai Phong City, Lan Ha Bay is deemed a bridge connecting Cat Ba Island and Ha Long Bay. This is a very impressive, crescent-shaped bay composed of 388 islands, all clothed in green, and extending over an enormous area of 70 square kilometers.

Stunning panorama of Lan Ha Bay (Source: Crystal Bay)

Stunning panorama of Lan Ha Bay (Source: Crystal Bay)

For those who want to experience the natural beauty of Vietnam, this bay is the perfect getaway because of its stunning scenery, with the blue sky, golden sand, pristine water, and a vibrant underwater world.

How to get there

You need to get to Hai Phong City first in order to get to Lan Ha Bay. Depending on your starting position and preferences, there are several ways to get around, including buses, trains, airplanes, and more.

  • Flights: Air travel is a handy choice because there are domestic and international flights to Cat Bi International Airport. 
  • Buses: Taking a bus is a practical option if you're leaving from Hanoi or nearby provinces.
  • Trains: If you don’t mind taking some more time and want to take in some views, consider a train to Hai Phong. Remember to check for the specific information as they do vary depending on what station you are leaving from.

Once arriving in Hai Phong, there are some options for transportation to Cat Ba Island:

  • Cable Car: You can always take the Cat Hai-Phu Long cable car for a great view upstairs, and it takes no more than 10 minutes of travel. Operating hours from 9:00 AM to 3:45 PM on weekdays and 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekends, the fare is VND 100,000 one way.
  • Bus: Take bus 16C to Pha Got Ferry Terminal, then transfer to bus 14 to the island. The ticket price is VND 13,000 per person.
  • Ferry: During peak seasons, consider departing from Tuan Chau to Gia Luan Ferry Terminal for a faster (45–50 minutes) and more affordable (VND 80,000 per person) journey.

Once you arrive in Cat Ba Island, there are several ways to explore Lan Ha Bay:

  • Boat or Ship: For groups of 10 to 20 people, renting a boat or ship is a great option. Rental prices vary depending on the kind of boat you rent and how long you rent it: a full day, half a day, or even just a few hours. For the most accurate and current pricing, it's always best to contact the rental company directly once you reach your destination.
  • Speedboat: In case you travel alone or with a small group (2–4 persons), consider taking a speedboat, which costs about VND 500,000 to VND 1,000,000. The price may vary depending on different rental agencies and the duality of your rental. 

You may also like: Cat Ba Island Tour 3 days: Discover the Bay’s Hidden Treasures

Best time to visit

The best time of year to visit Lan Ha Bay is during the summer (April to June). The calm seas, clear skies, and sunny weather create ideal conditions for outdoor activities like swimming, boating, and exploring the bay.

Lan Ha Bay in the summer (Source: Binh Phuoc News)

Lan Ha Bay in the summer (Source: Binh Phuoc News)

If you don’t like crowded places, consider visiting Lan Ha Bay during autumn or early winter (from September onwards). Enjoying the refreshing weather during this time of year with cool temperatures and less harsh sunlight than in the summer is truly a delightful experience.

What to do

Rowboat Cave Exploration

The Dark And Light Cave complex, situated on the edge of Ha Long Bay, is a popular attraction in Lan Ha. Visitors can navigate between the islands on a rowboat tour through these unusual flooded cave systems. Rowboats can accommodate up to 6 passengers and cost VND 15,000 per person.

Exploring the Dark And Light Cave (Source: MIA.vn)

Exploring the Dark And Light Cave (Source: MIA.vn)

Kayaking

If you prefer something a bit more self-sufficient, try taking a kayak out. You can paddle through the tranquil shallow waters and view colorful coral reefs and seaweed beneath the water's surface. The rental price is around VND 50,000 to VND 100,000 per kayak. 

Tourist kayaking to sightsee around the bay (Source: Ha Long Travel)

Tourist kayaking to sightsee around the bay (Source: Ha Long Travel)

Snorkeling to see coral reefs

Lan Ha Bay is also famous for its diversified coral reef ecosystem, ideal for snorkeling and diving. You will be provided with life jackets and snorkeling gear in order to guarantee your comfort and safety while snorkeling.

Snorkeling to explore the world under the sea (Source: Meditours)

Snorkeling to explore the world under the sea (Source: Meditours)

Some tour operators also offer underwater photography services to capture the best photo of you under the sea. The full package costs between VND 600,000 and VND 1,000,000 per person.

Visiting Cai Beo Fishing Village

If you're looking for a place that maintains its original charm and cultural heritage, then you have to visit Cai Beo Fishing Village. It is a historic fishing village with a rich archaeological history. In 1930, French archaeologist M. Colani declared Cai Beo to be the cradle of Vietnamese culture.

The rustic beauty of the fishing village (Source: Vinpearl)

The rustic beauty of the fishing village (Source: Vinpearl)

Beyond its historical significance, visitors can immerse themselves in the daily lives of the local fishermen by joining them on their fishing expeditions. This experience can help to enrich your experience, a great way to spice up your trip.

Take a Dip in the Refreshing Waters of Lan Ha Bay

After a day of going here and there, nothing’s better than a nice swim in the bay’s calm water area. Many tour boats provide floating platforms, lifeguards, and inflatable slides to not only ensure their customer’s safety but also give them an enjoyable swimming experience.

Swimming in the middle of the bay (Source: Toquoc.vn)

Swimming in the middle of the bay (Source: Toquoc.vn)

What to eat here

Salt-roasted sea mantis shrimp

A must-try when visiting Lan Ha Bay is the salt-roasted sea mantis shrimp. These large shrimp are lightly shelled, deep-fried to perfection, and tossed in a seasoned salt mixture. This dish has a slightly crunchy, chewy texture, and the salt mixture pairs so well with the taste of the mantis shrimp. 

Golden brown salt-roasted sea mantis srimp with unique taste (Source: Buffet Poseidon)

Golden brown salt-roasted sea mantis shrimp with a unique taste (Source: Buffet Poseidon)

Grilled Horseshoe Crab

To make this dish, the chef first removes all the intestines and splits the horseshoe crab in the head with a scissor, revealing the golden eggs inside. After that, it will be grilled over charcoal until well done, topped with scallion oil and some roasted peanuts, and the dish is ready to be served. This dish has an alluring aroma, the egg is so rich and creamy, offering an unforgettable culinary experience.

The exotic dish from the bay (Source: Tripmap)

The exotic dish from the bay (Source: Tripmap)

Geoduck Clam

This is another famous seafood delicacy from Lan Ha Bay. It has a slightly chewy texture and sweet meat. It can be prepared in many ways, such as grilled with scallion oil, steamed with lemongrass, or stir-fried with Vietnamese basil.

Geoduck clam is a must-try dish when visiting Lan Ha Bay (Source: Internet)

Geoduck clam is a must-try dish when visiting Lan Ha Bay (Source: Internet)

Conclusion

For those who enjoy the outdoors and want an interesting vacation, Lan Ha Bay is the ideal location. There is something for everyone, from kayaking and swimming to discovering secret caverns and enjoying the tastiest seafood. Contact Asia King Travel now to plan your dream vacation in Vietnam!

Recommend for you: Lan Ha Bay 1 day tour: Discover Nature's Hidden Gem