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Though not as diverse as the South, Northern Vietnam is still a coastal paradise teeming with breathtaking seascapes and islands just waiting to be explored. The shimmering waters of the Gulf of Tonkin lap against limestone. Who knows those limestone islands are nature-gifted to be the world-famous Ha Long Bay.
Ha Long Bay is the iconic beauty of northern islands. Photo: Vietnam.vn
A trip to northern sea is a great way to escape the summer heat and treat yourself to some delicious seafood. Get ready to fall in love with the islands. Let’s find out the island-hopping best itinerary in 5 days with Asia King Travel!
The best time to visit island paradise lasts long from the shoulder seasons of spring to fall (March - October). You'll enjoy mild temperatures perfect for outdoor adventures, with highs around 30 degrees Celcius and lows around 20. The skies are generally clear, and rainfall is minimal. Summer might be hot but the sea will ease you.
The heat makes you crave a refreshing dip in the ocean. Photo: Eco Tour
Winter can feel quite chilly, especially in the evenings. Temperatures range from 15 to 20. It can be missing some summer beach activities. But you don't mind bundling up, this is the least crowded and most affordable time for a budget-friendly travel.
Let's start your island-hopping adventure by buying a ferry ticket from the mainland to Cat Ba Island. After settling into your accommodation, spend the afternoon exploring Cat Ba Town, the main hub bustling with restaurants, bars, and shops selling locally-made goods.
Relax and enjoy the picturesque views of Ha Long Bay on a leisurely 1-hour ferry ride. Photo: Zing
For an active start, hike up to the scenic Cannon Fort to soak in sweeping views of the bay's iconic limestone islets. Or head to one of the island's beaches like Cat Co 1 or Cat Co 2 to wiggle your toes in the soft sand and cool off with a refreshing dip.
As the sun sets, slowly walk along the waterfront promenade and grab some fresh seafood at one of the casual eateries. With its laid-back island vibe, Cat Ba makes for an ideal introduction to this hidden trip to Vietnam.
Get ready for a day of pure outdoor adventure at Cat Ba Island! This lush, jungle-covered island is an absolute playground for nature lovers. Start your morning off by renting a kayak and paddling through the emerald waters, weaving through towering limestone karsts that jut out of the sea. Keep your eyes peeled for caves along the shoreline that you can paddle right into and explore.
You can paddle a boat into the caves under islets. Photo: Tripadvisor
For the adrenaline junkies, Cat Ba has some world-class rock climbing routes along its sheer cliffs. Hire a guide to show you the ropes (literally!) and get that blood pumping as you scale the craggy rock faces. The views from the top are simply jaw-dropping.
In the afternoon, lace up your hiking boots for a trek through Cat Ba National Park. This 26-square-mile protected area is home to an amazing diversity of plants and animals. Your guide will point out interesting species as you hike past scenic overlooks. Cool off with a swim in one of the picturesque lakes or seek out the park's caves to explore their eerie depths.
Cat Ba National Park possesses a diverse biodiversity of forest, sea, and even human archaeological sites. Photo: Sun World Cat Ba
Cap off your adventurous day by treating your tired muscles to a massage at one of the local spas. You've definitely earned it after conquering Cat Ba's great outdoors! As the sun sets, sit down on the beach with a cold beer and swap stories about your epic day of island adventures.
Cruising through Ha Long Bay is the main event! This is what you came for - towering limestone islands jutting out of emerald waters, creating a jaw-dropping karst landscape. Your day starts by boarding a cruise for an unforgettable voyage.
As you glide through the bay, you'll stop at scenic spots to really drink in the views. Maybe you'll hop off to explore mystical caves with bizarre rock formations and echoing chambers. Or you could disembark onto pristine beaches, feeling that soft white sand between your toes. The energetic can even try kayaking around the islands to get up close and personal with this natural wonder.
Enjoy the convenient services while relaxing on the bay. Photo: Tomorrow Travel
No matter where you stop, prepare to be wowed by Ha Long Bay's unearthly beauty. From on deck, you'll score panoramic vistas of the scattered isles that will make you wonder if you're dreaming. Grab a drink, lay down, and let the stunning scenery just wash over you. This is peak relaxation and the perfect break from the hustle of regular life. Savor every second in this true natural marvel.
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After an early morning boat transfer from Cat Ba Island, you'll arrive at the remote and rustic Co To Island around mid-day. This hidden gem is a truly off-the-beaten-path destination, with few tourists visiting its pristine shores.
While Co To Island is a well-known destination for Vietnamese, it is still quite unfamiliar to foreign tourists. Photo: Worldtrip
Upon arrival, you'll check into your simple beach bungalow or local homestay. Most accommodation is basic but clean, oozing authentic island charm without frills. After dropping your bags, fuel up with a classic Vietnamese banh mi before hitting one of Co To's stunning beaches.
Hong Van is the island’s best beach, stretching over 1 kilometer of powdery white sand lapped by turquoise waters. Rent a chair and umbrella and spend the afternoon swimming, sunbathing, or just zoning out to the sound of the waves.
When the sun starts to dip, walk into the town center to browse the local market stalls selling everything from seafood to fruits. Grab a refreshing fresh coconut and watch the sun slip below the horizon, painting the sky in brilliant oranges and pinks. For dinner, try the catch of the day at one of the awesome seafood shacks lining the beach.
You can't miss Quang Ninh specialties like shrimp, crab, or especially squid cakes. Photo: VinWonders
If you'd rather be a bit more active, hire a motorbike and explore the island's interior on two wheels. Take the road less traveled through rural villages and past swaying palm plantations. Stop to check out historic Buddhist temples, scenic viewpoints, or even a hidden waterfall or two. Don't forget to get back before dark since the island has little lighting at night.
Today we must head first into the best that Co To has to offer. Book a morning snorkel or scuba dive to explore the lively underwater world with coral and tropical fish. The visibility is insane, so keep those eyes peeled for sea turtles and rays gliding past.
After working up an appetite, hit up one of the local restaurants for a seaside lunch of fresh-caught seafood. The grilled squid and sa sung are out-of-this-world delicious! Spend the afternoon walking on Love Road, a 2-kilometer brick path running between two rows of tall casuarina trees.
The romantic scene of the road is just like in the romantic movies. Photo: Lux Tour
If you've still got energy to burn, lace up those hiking boots for a scenic trek to Co To’s lighthouse. The views from the peaks are jaw-dropping! Along the way, you might spot some colorful birds. Then, hire a motorbike taxi to admire Mong Rong Cliffs in the south. The naturally stacked layers of rocks with various shapes offer a one-of-a-kind view. This is also the island's prime sunset viewing spot.
In just a 5-day Northern Vietnam tour between islands, you have captured the beauty of Ha Long Bay and found hidden treasures. Summer is the perfect time to explore and experience new things, so why not try a unique yet familiar way of travel? Contact Asia King Travel for a summer worth remembering!
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