If you’re ever scrolling through your Instagram feed and come across images of a beautiful turquoise bay with thousands of limestone karsts sticking out of the water, I bet you’ll want to know where to find this paradise…well Most of the time the hashtag corresponds to Ha Long Bay.
This bay is famous for being one of the 7 new wonders of nature and you should visit it to observe the miraculous beauty of nature. It’s definitely worth the detour! There are many activities to explore in Ha Long, however, visiting the islands is always the most exciting. Take a cruise, kayak, explore the national park and party until the early hours on the beach.
Most of the islands that belong to Ha Long Bay are protected and preserved by the government. So it is important to know which ones you can visit and how to explore the right way. In this article, I’ll provide you with all the information you need to get you going!
Where is Ha Long Bay?
Ha Long Bay is a spectacular work of Mother Nature located in Quang Ninh province. This 1,553 square kilometers area belongs to Ha Long Town, Cam Pha Town and part of Van Don District, Quang Ninh Province.
The bay is home to thousands of karsts and small limestone islets, all of different shapes and sizes.
When is the best time to go to Ha Long Bay?
Due to the weather conditions in Vietnam, ideally you should visit Ha Long Bay from April to September. It’s the dry season. It might be a little hot, but that’s okay if you’re about to dive into the blue ocean for a swim anyway.
From November to March, it will be cold in northern Vietnam. You can always visit Ha Long Bay during this time to escape the southern heat. But don’t forget to bring a jacket with you.
Thunderstorms are likely to occur frequently during the months of June and July. If you are present during these months, the tourism agency may have to cancel your trip at the last minute for your safety.
Finally, August is the month of meteorological transition. Heavy downpours may occur on certain days of the month, putting an end to your plans. Apart from that, it is not a bad idea to travel to Ha Long then.
Now let’s take a closer look at some famous islands and islets in Ha Long.
Islands to visit in Ha Long Bay
1. Cat Ba Island
Nestled in the heart of the Gulf of Tonkin, Cat Ba Island stands out as the largest island in the majestic Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This iconic island of Vietnam is not only a geological wonder but also a recognized ecological sanctuary, classified as a world biosphere reserve by UNESCO. It illustrates the harmonious encounter between natural splendor and the conservation of biodiversity.
Cat Ba National Park, the pulsing heart of the island, is a haven for endemic and protected species. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich flora and fauna by hiking trails, taking guided wildlife tours, or exploring the mystical caves that dot the landscape.
Ecotourism is at the center of the Cat Ba experience, with sustainable tourism practices and outdoor adventures like kayaking allowing respectful discovery of this unique ecosystem.
The crystal clear waters and serene bays of Cat Ba provide an ideal backdrop for memorable cruises. Visitors can sail around the impressive karst formations, dive into the waters to observe marine life, or simply relax on the island’s pristine beaches.
What to do on Cat Ba Island ?
Cat Ba Island offers a variety of activities that cater to different interests, making it an exciting destination for travelers. Here’s a quick overview of what you can do:
Exploring the National Park: Cat Ba National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to rich biodiversity. You can hike, observe rare animals like the Cat Ba langur and visit caves.
Climbing: With its steep cliffs and limestone mountains, Cat Ba is a great place for rock climbing, both for beginners and experienced climbers.
- Kayak : Paddle the calm waters and explore the island’s hidden lagoons and caves.
- Relaxing on the beach : Cat Ba has several beautiful beaches, like Cat Co 1 and Cat Co 3, where you can relax, swim and enjoy the sun.
- Visit Lan Ha Bay : Similar to Ha Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay offers stunning karst landscapes, but with fewer tourists. Boat trips are available to explore the bay’s islands and floating villages.
- Visit Monkey Island : Just a short boat ride away, you can see monkeys and enjoy scenic views.
- Local culture : Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the Cat Ba market or chatting with local fishermen.
- Delights of the sea : Savor the fresh seafood that Cat Ba is famous for, like grilled fish, squid and shrimp.
These are just some of the activities you can enjoy on Cat Ba Island, and they make for a memorable and action-packed visit.
2. Ti-Top Island
Discover the History and Beauties of Titop Island, Pearl of Ha Long Bay
In 1962, a historic event marked the island of Ha Long Bay when Ho Chi Minh, the iconic leader of Vietnam, affectionately known as Uncle Ho, and Gherman Titov, the famous cosmonaut of the Soviet Union , stopped there for a memorable lunch. In homage to this historic visit, Uncle Ho named the island Titop, creating an indelible link with the space age and international brotherhood.
Titop Island: A must-see in Ha Long Bay
Today, Titop Island has become a popular destination for visitors exploring Ha Long Bay, offering an unforgettable experience with its crescent-shaped beach that tenderly encircles a lush karst mountain. The panoramic view from the top of the island offers a romantic spectacle where land and sea meet in perfect harmony.
Titop Beach: A Paradise for Nature Lovers
Imagine yourself relaxing on a pristine white sand beach, absorbing the serene beauty of Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Titop Island Beach is the perfect place to recharge your batteries and admire breathtaking views of the emerald waters and surrounding landscapes.
A Cultural Immersion before Reaching the Island
Before docking on Titop Island, cruises often stop at an authentic floating village, offering the unique opportunity to purchase fresh seafood such as shrimp, snails and fish for a memorable picnic on the beach.
The Popularity of Titop Island: A Lively Place
It is important to note that Titop Island is often bustling with visitors throughout the year. If you’re looking for a haven of tranquility, this bustling island may not be at the top of your list. However, for those looking for a dynamic and interaction-rich experience, Titop is the perfect destination.
3. Bo Hon Island
Located in the heart of the majestic Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bo Hon Island is a Vietnamese natural gem not to be missed. This popular destination is famous for its spectacular caves, each shrouded in mysteries and legendary stories just waiting to be explored by travelers hungry for adventure and culture.
Explore the Mystical Caves of Bo Hon
Each cave in Bo Hon is a world of its own, offering impressive rock formations and epic tales that capture the imagination. Evocative names like Cave of Surprise (Sung Sot Cave) and the Grotto of the Virgin (Trinh Nu Cave) invite you to delve into the fascinating history of Ha Long Bay and discover the secrets hidden in their depths.
Navigate among the Picturesque Limestone Karsts
Your cruise to Bo Hon Island will take you through imposing limestone karsts, symbols of Vietnam’s natural beauty. These vertical formations, clad in lush vegetation, seem to emerge from the water like stone giants, creating a breathtaking spectacle that will remain etched in your memory.
L’Islet Bu Xam: A Haven of Peace and Nature
To the south of Bo Hon island, Bu Xam islet stands out as a sanctuary for lovers of nature and tranquility. This unspoiled place is perfect for those looking to escape the daily hustle and bustle and connect with nature. Let yourself be lulled by the melodies of the birds and the gentle murmur of the forest, while enjoying an idyllic setting for absolute relaxation.
4. Soi Sim Island
Escape to Soi Sim Island, the Hidden Treasure of Ha Long Bay
A short distance from bustling Titop Island, Soi Sim Island offers a tranquil retreat for travelers seeking serenity. Just 700 meters from its neighboring island, Soi Sim is an oasis of calm, preserved from the tourist influx, thus retaining its authenticity and natural beauty.
Discover the Preserved Beauty of Soi Sim
Soi Sim Island is a sanctuary where nature has remained untouched by intensive tourist development. Here, the natural splendor of Ha Long Bay is revealed in all its grandeur, offering a great escape for those who wish to experience peace and quiet away from the crowds.
A Perfect Day of Relaxation on Soi Sim
Come to Soi Sim to experience a day of absolute relaxation. Imagine yourself lying on a fine sand beach, bathed in the sun, falling asleep to the gentle sound of the waves, and dreaming of a timeless island life. Soi Sim is the ideal place to disconnect and indulge in an experience of beneficial isolation.
Adventure and Breathtaking Panoramas
For the more adventurous, a trail winds through the greenery of the island to the top of the mountain. Follow the stairs which will lead you to breathtaking views of the verdant karst formations and the azure expanse of the ocean. During your ascent, you might even meet a curious companion, a local monkey, ready to share a moment of play or mischief.
5. Ngoc Vung Island
Explore Ngoc Vung Island, the Secret Jewel of Ha Long Bay
Ngoc Vung Island is located in Van Don District, Quang Ninh, about 50 km from Van Don Pier, the island has an area of about 45 square kilometers. According to legend, in the past, this area was home to many rare species of pearl oysters that glowed in the sky at night, which is why it was called Ngoc Vung Island.
Having a 14 km long beach, including 3 km of fine white sand, brings potential for tourism development to this island. Ngoc Vung Island has all natural conditions such as rivers, seas, ports, deltas… Visitors can go to Ngoc Vung Island all year round, but should avoid months with many storms like September and October and cold winter days.
The most ideal time to travel to the island is during the summer months, because during this time the sea is very calm, so you can enjoy the landscape of blue sea, white sand and golden sun.
Therefore, it is very convenient for agricultural development, especially wet rice cultivation, fishing and sea cage aquaculture. The population of Ngoc Vung Island is about 1,000 people.
Coming here, you not only participate in swimming activities at Truong Chinh Beach with its clear blue waters and long sandy beaches, but Ngoc Vung also includes a full range of natural features such as: plains, rivers, beaches, ports, etc. are an ideal place to live real experiences about the life of coastal populations.
6. Quan Lan Island
Discovery of Quan Lan Island: A Peaceful Paradise in Bai Tu Long Bay
Tourists are not unknown to the name Quan Lan Island, because it is an island located in Bai Tu Long Bay, in the north of Vietnam, currently very developed in terms of tourism. The island area is only about 11 km2 and has a population of about 7,000, but in recent years, Quan Lan Island is increasingly developing its strength in exploration and resort tourism through to the beauty of the sea and the heavenly bay.
April to September each year is the most suitable time to visit the beautiful island of Quan Lan, however in the north from July to September there are often tropical depressions affecting the island. Most of the northern coastal provinces, so remember to follow the weather forecast to avoid storms!
If you are coming from Hanoi, you can take the bus lines to Cua Ong and Van Don, then get off at Van Don intersection and continue to take bus number 01 (Bai Chay – Van Don) to the office Van Don Post Office. It is about 1 km further to Cai Rong Port, you can choose a motorbike taxi or walk.
Quan Lan Island has a beauty that is both romantic and rustic. Quan Lan will definitely be a promising tourist destination for you and your loved ones this summer. Not only does the blue sea and white sand attract tourists from everywhere, Quan Lan Island also has all the ideal points to become a “hot” tourist destination for this summer, such as rich sources of seafood, Unique attractions, architecture, culture, history, relics and ancient temples will definitely satisfy you with the space and landscape here.
7. Co To Island
Discover Co To: Hidden gem of Quang Ninh and tropical paradise not to be missed
Co To is a very beautiful and still very wild island, located in the east of the province of Quang Ninh, 80km from Ha Long Bay. The Co To archipelago has around 50 islands, islets and subterranean islands. Among them, Big Co To Island and Small Co To Island are two islands that have beautiful clear beaches. Currently, Co To Quang Ninh is a favorite destination of many tourists and attracts the attention of investors.
Co To is a paradise for those who love peace and quiet and want to spend time separated from the noisy everyday world. Just walking along the roads here with this green landscape makes my soul feel like it is sighing with relief.
In recent years, Co To Island has become hotter than ever, still has many wild elements, beaches with clear water, fine sand, underdeveloped services and gentle and simple people, which makes it extremely pleasant. Co To district, Quang Ninh, is located in the northern tip of the country. The climate here therefore has four seasons: spring, summer, autumn and winter. Every season, Co To carries a different beauty. The landscape and landscapes also change because of this. Depending on your interests and personality, you can arrange a time to visit this place in any season of the year.
Coming to Co To, you can not only immerse yourself in the clear blue sky and sea, but also enjoy dishes that only Co To offers. Vast white sand beaches and lush green forests provide a peaceful and romantic scene. In addition, the island also has many other check-in points such as love road, Cau My rock beach, Co To con… The seafood here is particularly delicious, so coming here , you shouldn’t miss them.
8. Dragon Eye Island
Exploring Dragon Eye Island: A hidden gem in the south of Ha Long Bay
Dragon Eye Island , also known as Bai Dong Island, is located south of Ha Long Bay, bordering Lan Ha Bay. Recently, Dragon Eye Island has become a popular tourist destination for backpackers. Today, Phuot will share with you my travel experience on Dragon Eye Island.
Dragon Eye Island has an interesting shape with 2 rocky mountain ranges flowing into the sea and a lake located in the middle of the island. It is also the highest point of Dragon Eye Island. Dragon Eye Island was discovered recently, so most of the island still retains its wild natural features. On the island there is a three to four hundred meter beach with natural white sand and cool blue sea water.
It is the “eye of the dragon” of this island and is considered to have the most unique natural ecosystem in the Gulf of Tonkin. Here, people can not only immerse themselves in the cool and clear water, but also camp and organize outdoor barbecues.
It can be said that the most attractive point of Dragon Eye Island lies in its wild and primitive characteristics. The types of services on the island are very limited, but perhaps that is why the island attracts more and more tourists.
