There Halong Bay is known as a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 1,900 limestone islets rising out of the water, mysterious caves and picturesque landscape.
It deserves to be one of the best attractions in Vietnam that you should not miss. However, not many people know that Halong Bay also has a series of stunning beaches scattered around the area. Most of them are very pristine and tranquil.
Let’s discover them best beaches in Halong Bay and plan to explore them.
Tuan Chau Beach
Known as one of the most beautiful beaches in Halong Bay, Tuan Chau Beach attracts many domestic and foreign tourists. It is particularly busy during weekends and public holidays in summer, from May to August. This man-made beach is 3 km long, with smooth white sand and clean water, creating a large space for many interesting activities such as swimming, sunbathing, canoeing, kayaking , climbing, camping…
Tuan Chau Beach belongs to Tuan Chau Island – a central tourist hub of Halong City, so there is a wide range of accommodation from budget hostels to 5-star hotels and luxury resorts. You can easily find and book the one that suits your stay.
Ti Top Beach
Ti Top is one of the most popular beaches in Halong Bay, about 5-6 km from Tuan Chau Port. Thanks to its convenient access and beauty, many overnight cruises include this place in the itinerary. Although Ti Top Beach is quite small, it wins the hearts of tourists with its calm, cool atmosphere and beautiful landscape.
There are many relaxing activities for travelers on the beautiful island such as swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, skydiving, surfing… It is a well-organized beach with sun loungers available, cold drinks, souvenirs and fresh water showers for visitors. Additionally, for those who want to admire the panoramic view of Halong Bay, climbing a 400-step staircase to the top of the island will be an interesting experience. Don’t forget to take breathtaking photos.
Soi Sim Beach
Soi Sim Beach is located on Soi Sim Island, about 700 meters from Ti Top Island. This place is quite new, compared to other attractions in Halong Bay, since it has been open for 10 years. There are many “Sim” (pink myrtle) trees on the island and they often bloom from March to August, forming a purple forest. This is why it is called Soi Sim.
Soi Sim beach attracts tourists with its green color of plants, wild scene, calm atmosphere, clean and clear emerald water, you will even see the small fishes swimming at the bottom. Additionally, you can also enjoy panoramic views of the UNESCO heritage site from the highest peak of the island. It is wonderful place for photo walk and other activities…
Ba Trai Dao Beach
Ba Trai Dao Beach is nestled in a corner of Ba Trai Dao islet on Lan Ha Bay – a less touristy part of Halong Bay and neighboring Cat Ba Island. Its name means “Three Peaches Beach” due to its “peach-like” appearance of the surrounding rock formations.
Ba Trai Dao Beach is blessed with soft white sand, clear emerald water and stunning surrounding scenery. On sunny days, tourists can even see the bottom of the sea.
As one of the most famous beaches in Ha Long Bay, Ba Trai Dao Beach is included in the itineraries of many overnight cruises. Thus, tourists will have the chance to swim in the clear and cool water and kayak around the islet. However, the beach is only open for swimming for 2-3 hours during the day due to the high tide. There are no accommodation options on this beach; therefore, it is only a stop for cruises.
Ngoc Vung Beach
Compared to another beach in Halong Bay, Ngoc Vung is a hidden gem that stays away from mass tourism. This pristine beach stretches for about 3km, with clean white sand and emerald water that is hardly found anywhere else.
Therefore, it is no surprise if you witness the magnificent diversity of the animal kingdom under the sea when visiting Ngoc Vung. Visitors can sunbathe, swim and enjoy the idyllic surroundings or take the opportunity to cycle away from the beach and around the island.
Ban Chan Beach
Nestled in a corner of Bai Tu Long Bay, Ban Chan Beach is definitely off the beaten track. It is not as popular as other beaches in Halong Bay and very few tourists pass through it. This is the reason why the beach remains pristine with its smooth white sand, crystal clear water, fresh air and the imposing limestone outcrops on either side. Its landscape is definitely a unique masterpiece, mesmerizing every traveler.
Heading to Ban Chan Beach, tourists can enjoy swimming in the clear and cool water, sightseeing, kayaking, camping and many interesting activities waiting for you.
Quan Lan Beach
Quan Lan Beach is located on Quan Lan Island, Bai Tu Long Bay. Quan Lan has a small village in the middle of the island hidden from sight of tourists. This is why the entire site still preserves the pristine beauty of the untouched land. The beach is well known for its majestic wilderness, fine white sand, blue water, creating a peaceful space. Therefore, Quan Lan Beach attracts many tourists, especially visitors who like swimming and camping.
To get to Quan Lan Island, you need to go to Cai Rong Port (210 km from Hanoi) or to Hon Gai harbor (160 km from Hanoi), then take a speedboat 45-60 minutes to the island. The price of a one-way ticket is around 120,000-180,000 VND/passenger.
Minh Chau Beach
Minh Chau Beach is considered one of the most splendid and pristine beaches in Halong Bay. Located about 15 km from Quan Lan Beach, it is the ideal place for all beach lovers and those who want to immerse themselves in the tranquil and peaceful atmosphere.
The unique feature is the non-sticky pristine white sand which gives a comfortable feeling while walking. Many couples choose Minh Chau Beach for wedding photos or honeymoon vacations. A variety of beach activities you can enjoy here are camping, swimming, snorkeling, exploring the island or just lying on the beach and relaxing.
Son Hao Beach
Son Hao is another stunning beach on Quan Lan Island. It’s not covered in a modern look compared to the area’s beaches, but nothing can beat Son Hao’s reputation, when it comes to the idyllic scene of an untouched destination.
However, Son Hao is a lesser-known destination in Halong Bay and it can be a bit of a challenge for those yearning for a glimpse of this place. Therefore, if this is on your travel list, do not forget to seek help from a local tour guide for the best arrangement.
