Discover the 10 best things to do in Halong Bay, from eco-cruises to kayaking, with costs and sustainable tips. Book eco-tours with Legend Travel Group for an unforgettable UNESCO adventure!
Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Halong Region, Vietnam, captivates with its surreal landscape of over 1,600 limestone karsts rising from emerald waters, earning its place as one of the world’s seven natural wonders. Beyond its natural splendor, Halong Bay offers a rich tapestry of cultural and eco-friendly experiences, from exploring floating villages to savoring sustainable seafood. Halong Region, formerly Ha Long City, serves as the vibrant gateway to this iconic bay, blending coastal charm with cultural hubs like Hòn Gai and tourist-friendly Bãi Cháy. Following Vietnam’s administrative restructuring, Halong Region remains a tourism powerhouse, prioritizing sustainability through Quang Ninh’s “Green Tourism” initiative, which promotes eco-friendly cruises, low-impact activities, and community support. Legend Travel Group’s sustainable eco-tours ensure a responsible, immersive journey through Halong Bay’s wonders—book your adventure via the links throughout this guide!
Legend Travel Group, a premier local tour operator, specializes in sustainable Southeast Asia journeys, emphasizing environmental and cultural preservation. Our Halong Bay tours feature eco-friendly transport—electric boats, bamboo rowboats, and low-emission shuttles—guided by local experts who share the region’s heritage. Supporting communities in Halong Region and Van Don, we align with Quang Ninh’s sustainability goals. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless experience. Contact us at sales@legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp +84825862222 to book eco-tours and explore Halong Bay responsibly!
Capture the breathtaking beauty of Halong Bay’s iconic landscapeVietnam’s administrative reorganization has integrated Ha Long City into Halong Region, a ward under Quang Ninh Province, enhancing access to Halong Bay’s attractions, including Sung Sot Cave, Tuan Chau Island, and Bãi Cháy’s vibrant markets. With a 250-km coastline and sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric ferries, and a VND1.7 trillion coastal preservation project—Halong Region facilitates eco-conscious tourism, making it a premier hub for sustainable exploration of Halong Bay’s natural and cultural treasures.
Below are the top 10 sustainable activities in Halong Bay, with details on costs, eco-friendly tips, and how Legend Travel Group’s tours enhance your experience:
Sail through Halong Bay’s karsts on an electric boat cruise, visiting iconic sites like Sung Sot Cave ($5 or 125,000 VND entry) and Ti Tốp Island (free entry). Overnight cruises offer sunset views and stargazing, minimizing environmental impact.
Cost: 2D1N cruises $80–$200 (2,000,000–5,000,000 VND); 3D2N $120–$350 (3,000,000–8,750,000 VND), including meals and transfers.
Sustainability: Choose operators like Indochina Junk with eco-certifications to reduce emissions; avoid single-use plastics onboard.
Tip: Opt for a 3D2N cruise to explore quieter areas like Bai Tu Long Bay, included in our Halong Bay Immersion ($150–$300).
Paddle through serene lagoons like Luon Cave or Cong Dam ($10–$25 or 250,000–625,000 VND), a zero-emission activity offering close-up views of karsts and marine life.
Cost: Kayaking $10–$25 (250,000–625,000 VND), often included in cruises.
Sustainability: Use biodegradable sunscreen to protect coral reefs; follow designated routes to avoid disturbing ecosystems.
Tip: Kayak at dusk for tranquil views, included in our Halong Bay Explorer ($95–$140).
Explore Vung Vieng, a historic floating village, via bamboo boat tours ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND) rowed by locals, offering insights into sustainable fishing traditions.
Cost: Bamboo boat tours $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND); included in many cruises.
Sustainability: Support local rowers to preserve community livelihoods; avoid littering to protect water quality.
Tip: Engage with locals for cultural stories, included in our Halong Bay Heritage Cruise ($100–$150).
Discover Sung Sot Cave, Halong Bay’s largest grotto, with its stunning stalactites and stalagmites illuminated by eco-friendly lighting ($5 or 125,000 VND entry).
Cost: Entry $5 (125,000 VND); accessible via cruise or day tour ($20–$50 or 500,000–1,250,000 VND).
Sustainability: Stick to marked paths to protect geological formations; choose low-impact tour operators.
Tip: Visit early to avoid crowds, included in our Halong Bay Explorer ($95–$140).
Climb Ti Tốp Island’s 400 steps for panoramic bay views (free entry) or relax on its sandy beach. The hike showcases Halong’s biodiversity and karst landscapes.
Cost: Free entry; included in cruises or day tours ($20–$50 or 500,000–1,250,000 VND).
Sustainability: Dispose of waste properly; avoid picking plants to preserve the ecosystem.
Tip: Hike at sunrise for cooler temperatures, included in our Halong Bay Discovery Tour ($90–$130).
Taste Halong Bay’s fresh seafood, like Chả Mực Hạ Long (squid patties, $3–$10 or 75,000–250,000 VND) or Bề Bề Noodle ($1.50–$5 or 37,500–125,000 VND), at Hạ Long Market or onboard eco-cruises.
Cost: Market meals $1–$10 (25,000–250,000 VND); cruise dining included ($80–$200 or 2,000,000–5,000,000 VND for 2D1N).
Sustainability: Choose vendors sourcing from local, regulated fisheries to support sustainable practices.
Tip: Try a cooking class onboard, included in our Halong Bay Foodie Cruise ($85–$120).
Explore Cat Ba Island, Halong Bay’s largest island, by bicycle ($5–$10/day or 125,000–250,000 VND), visiting its national park (free entry) and beaches like Cat Co.
Cost: Bike rental $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND); ferry from Tuan Chau ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND one-way).
Sustainability: Cycling reduces emissions; support local rental shops to boost the economy.
Tip: Visit in spring for mild weather, included in our Halong Bay Island Explorer ($150–$300).
Take a 25-minute seaplane tour ($400 or 10,000,000 VND) for a bird’s-eye view of Halong Bay’s karsts, offering a low-impact way to appreciate its vastness.
Cost: $400 (10,000,000 VND) per person; includes transfers from Hanoi.
Sustainability: Seaplanes have a lower environmental footprint than helicopters; book with operators like Hai Au Aviation.
Tip: Fly in autumn for clear skies, included in our Halong Bay Luxury Tour ($250–$400).
Stroll through Bai Chay Night Market in Halong Region, sampling local delicacies like Bánh Mì Mỏ ($0.50–$1.50 or 12,500–37,500 VND) and eco-friendly souvenirs ($1–$10 or 25,000–250,000 VND).
Cost: Free entry; food and souvenirs $1–$10 (25,000–250,000 VND).
Sustainability: Choose bamboo or recycled crafts to reduce plastic waste; support local artisans.
Tip: Arrive after 6 PM for vibrant stalls, included in our Halong Bay Discovery Tour ($90–$130).
Join morning tai chi sessions on eco-cruise decks (included in most cruises), a serene way to connect with Halong Bay’s tranquil energy while promoting wellness.
Cost: Included in cruises ($80–$200 or 2,000,000–5,000,000 VND for 2D1N).
Sustainability: Low-impact activity supports mental and physical health; engage with local instructors for cultural insights.
Tip: Practice at sunrise for stunning views, included in our Halong Bay Eco-Cruise ($95–$140).
Experience Halong Bay Tours with sustainable explorationTo ensure a comfortable and eco-friendly visit, pack thoughtfully based on Halong Bay’s tropical monsoon climate and activities:
Clothing:
Spring/Autumn (March–May, September–November): Lightweight, breathable clothing (t-shirts, shorts, long pants for cultural sites), a light jacket for evenings, and water shoes for kayaking.
Summer (June–August): Swimsuits, quick-dry clothing, sandals, and a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection.
Winter (December–February): Warm layers (sweaters, fleece), a waterproof jacket, scarf, and closed-toe shoes for foggy days.
Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND), sunglasses, and a hat to shield against UV rays, especially for beach or kayak trips.
Rain Gear (Summer): Lightweight raincoat ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND), waterproof bag, and umbrella for showers.
Eco-Friendly Essentials: Reusable water bottle ($0.50 or 12,500 VND), biodegradable toiletries, and a reusable tote to minimize plastic waste, aligning with Halong Bay’s plastic-free policies.
Activity Gear:
Kayaking/Cruising: Dry bag for electronics, quick-dry towel, and a camera with a waterproof case ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).
Cycling/Hiking: Backpack, insect repellent ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND), and a small first-aid kit for Cat Ba or Ti Tốp Island.
Cultural Respect: Modest clothing (long pants, covered shoulders) for visiting fishing villages or cultural sites.
Miscellaneous: Power bank, offline maps (Maps.me) for navigation, and travel medications.
Tip: Pack light to reduce your environmental footprint, included in our Halong Bay Eco-Tour ($95–$140).
Below are approximate costs for a sustainable trip to Halong Bay, covering activities, transport, and dining:
Transportation:
Shuttle Bus (Hanoi to Hon Gai/Tuan Chau): $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND) one-way.
Private Car/Limousine: $50–$120 (1,250,000–3,000,000 VND) one-way for 2–4 people.
Seaplane: $400 (10,000,000 VND) one-way.
Eco-Cruise with Transfers: $80–$200 (2,000,000–5,000,000 VND) for 2D1N; $120–$350 (3,000,000–8,750,000 VND) for 3D2N (10–20% off in summer).
Ferry to Cat Ba: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND) one-way.
Accommodation (if not on a cruise):
Homestays (Bãi Cháy, Cat Ba): $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND).
Budget Hotels: $15–$30/night (375,000–750,000 VND).
Mid-Range Hotels (e.g., Novotel Halong Bay): $30–$80/night (750,000–2,000,000 VND).
Activities:
Kayaking: $10–$25 (250,000–625,000 VND).
Bamboo Boat Tour: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Cave Entry (e.g., Sung Sot): $5 (125,000 VND).
Cooking Class: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).
Bicycle Rental (Cat Ba): $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND).
Seaplane Tour: $400 (10,000,000 VND).
Food and Drinks:
Street Food (e.g., Bánh Mì Mỏ): $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).
Restaurant Meals (e.g., Chả Mực): $3–$15 (75,000–375,000 VND).
Bottled Water/Coconut Juice: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).
Total Daily Budget (per person, excluding cruise):
Budget Traveler: $25–$40 (625,000–1,000,000 VND).
Mid-Range Traveler: $50–$100 (1,250,000–2,500,000 VND).
Luxury Traveler: $150–$400 (3,750,000–10,000,000 VND).
Tip: Choose an all-inclusive eco-cruise for cost efficiency, included in our Halong Bay Eco-Tour ($95–$140).
Seize the adventurous spirit of Halong Bay TravelBook Early: Reserve eco-tours via Legend Travel Group 2–3 months in advance for peak seasons (December–January, March–April) or 1–2 months for shoulder seasons (October–November, February) to secure sustainable cruises.
Sustainability: Select operators with eco-certifications (e.g., Indochina Junk); support local vendors at Hạ Long Market or Vung Vieng to align with Quang Ninh’s green goals. Avoid single-use plastics to protect the bay’s ecosystem.
Weather Monitoring: Check forecasts 14 days prior, especially in summer (June–August) for typhoon risks; confirm cancellation policies with operators.
Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me) for Halong Region, Bãi Cháy, Hòn Gai, and Tuan Chau; save Tuan Chau Marina as a landmark for cruise departures.
Safety: Secure valuables on cruises; wear life jackets while kayaking; avoid swimming during jellyfish season (late summer).
Cultural Respect: Dress modestly for cultural sites like Vung Vieng or Hòn Gai markets (long pants, covered shoulders); say “cảm ơn” (thank you).
Health: Stay hydrated with bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); apply mosquito repellent ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) for outdoor activities.
Our sustainable tours highlight the best of Halong Bay, tailored to its climate and attractions:
Halong Bay Explorer (2D1N, $95–$140/person): Overnight cruise to Sung Sot Cave, Vung Vieng Fishing Village, and kayaking via electric boat, with a Tai Chi session. Includes guide, meals, and eco-transfers from Hanoi.
Halong Bay Immersion (3D2N, $150–$300/person): Two-night cruise to Bai Tu Long Bay, Cat Ba Island cycling, and Ti Tốp Island hike. Includes guide, meals, and eco-transfers.
Halong Bay Foodie Cruise (2D1N, $85–$120/person): Chả Mực Hạ Long tasting, cooking class, and Bai Chay Night Market visit. Includes eco-transfers, meals, and guide.
Halong Bay Heritage Cruise (2D1N, $100–$150/person): Vung Vieng bamboo boat tour, Hòn Gai’s Long Tiên Pagoda, and seaplane tour option. Includes lunch and guide.
Halong Bay Discovery (2D1N, $90–$130/person): Bãi Cháy Beach, Tuan Chau Marina, and Hạ Long Market culinary tour. Includes snacks and guide.
Halong Bay Luxury Tour (3D2N, $250–$400/person): Seaplane transfer, luxury cruise with Gà Tiên Yên dining, and Ba Mun rainforest hike. Includes meals and guide.
Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, and entrance fees. Enjoy 10% off for groups of 8+ or seasonal promotions. Book now via links around this page!
Capture the mystical allure of Halong Bay’s natural wondersHalong Bay and the Halong Region offer an unparalleled blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and sustainable adventure, from eco-cruises through karsts to cycling on Cat Ba Island and savoring local seafood. With optimal visiting times in autumn (September–November) for clear skies and spring (March–April) for vibrant exploration, Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly Halong Bay Tours ensure a responsible, unforgettable journey through this UNESCO paradise. Don’t wait—browse our curated Halong Bay Tours and book your Halong Bay Travel adventure today!
Ready to experience Halong Bay’s majestic karsts and sustainable charm? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse yourself in Vietnam’s Halong Bay Travel coastal treasure!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 1000+ travellersacross Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
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