Bai Chay Bridge in Halong Bay: Iconic Landmark, Activities, Costs & Eco-Tours

Bai Chay Bridge, an architectural masterpiece in Halong Region, Vietnam, is a symbol of pride and connectivity, linking the vibrant Bai Chay and Hon Gai districts across the Cua Luc Strait. Spanning 2,487 meters with a 435-meter main span, this single-plane cable-stayed bridge, once among the world’s largest of its kind, dazzles with 8888 LED lights that create a vibrant, harp-like silhouette at night. Offering panoramic views of Halong Bay—a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its emerald waters and limestone karsts—the bridge enhances the region’s tourism allure. Following Vietnam’s administrative restructuring, Ha Long City has transitioned into Halong Region, reinforcing its global prominence while prioritizing sustainability. Aligned with Quang Ninh’s “Green Tourism” initiative, Bai Chay Bridge complements eco-friendly exploration through its proximity to sustainable cruises and attractions. Legend Travel Group’s eco-tours provide an authentic, responsible way to experience Bai Chay Bridge—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 Bai Chay Bridge responsibly!

Vietnam’s administrative reorganization has integrated Ha Long City into Halong Region under Quang Ninh Province, enhancing access to Halong Bay’s attractions, including Bai Chay Bridge, Ha Long Market, and Bai Chay Beach. Supported by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric ferries, and a VND1.7 trillion coastal preservation project—Halong Region facilitates eco-conscious tourism, making Bai Chay Bridge a central landmark in sustainable travel itineraries.

Inaugurated on December 8, 2006, Bai Chay Bridge replaced the Bai Chay ferry, revolutionizing connectivity along National Highway 18A, a vital artery linking Hanoi, Hai Phong, and Halong Region. Designed by the Japan Bridge and Structure Institute (JBSI) with Japanese ODA funding (VND 2,140 billion), it features a 30.2-meter-wide deck with six lanes—four for vehicles (supporting 360 cars at 10,800 tons) and two for pedestrians—and a 50-meter navigational clearance for vessels. Built to withstand level-7 earthquakes and winds up to 180 km/h, it ensures safety and durability. Its 8888 LED lights, installed in 2014 for VND40 billion, transform the bridge into a sparkling nighttime spectacle, earning it the nickname “Ha Long Bow.” As a national key project, it drives economic growth, tourism, and regional connectivity, while its proximity to Halong Bay enhances its scenic appeal, offering views of Bai Tho Mountain and the karst-dotted bay.

Bai Chay Bridge is a year-round attraction, with its vibrant LED lights and Halong Bay views best experienced under varying seasonal conditions:

• Autumn (September–November): Best Time. Cool and dry, 22–28°C (71.6–82.4°F), low humidity (70–75%), minimal rainfall (50–150 mm/month). Ideal for evening strolls to see the bridge’s dazzling lights and eco-cruises ($80–$200 or 2,000,000–5,000,000 VND). Perfect for photography and Mid-Autumn Festival events.

• Spring (March–May): Warm, 20–30°C (68–82.4°F), moderate humidity (75–80%), low rainfall (<100 mm/month). Great for daytime visits and combining with attractions like Sun World Halong Complex, but peak season crowds require early bookings ($100–$250 or 2,500,000–6,250,000 VND).

• Winter (December–February): Cool, 10–22°C (50–71.6°F), low humidity (65–70%), minimal rainfall (<30 mm/month). Fog adds a mystical vibe, ideal for cultural tours and festive events like Tet ($100–$250 or 2,500,000–6,250,000 VND). Evening visits require warm clothing.

• Summer (June–August): Hot and humid, 27–34°C (80.6–93.2°F), high humidity (80–90%), frequent showers (300–450 mm/month). Budget-friendly rates ($60–$120 or 1,500,000–3,000,000 VND) suit quick visits, but typhoon risks require weather checks.

Tip: Visit in October–November for clear skies and vibrant bridge lighting, included in our Halong Bay Autumn Heritage ($100–$150).

Bai Chay Bridge is both a functional marvel and a scenic attraction, offering eco-friendly activities that highlight Halong Bay’s beauty. Below are the top experiences, with costs and sustainable tips:

• Evening Stroll on the Bridge: Walk the 2.5-meter pedestrian lanes (free) to marvel at the bridge’s LED-lit cables, resembling a harp, and enjoy panoramic views of Halong Bay, Bai Tho Mountain, and Cua Luc River. Best at night for a romantic ambiance.

  • Cost: Free; taxi to bridge from Bãi Cháy ($5–$8 or 125,000–200,000 VND round-trip).

  • Sustainability: Walking minimizes carbon footprint; avoid littering to preserve the bay’s UNESCO status.

  • Tip: Capture the twinkling boat lights below, included in our Halong Bay Discovery Tour ($90–$130).

• Photography: Shoot the bridge’s iconic silhouette and Halong Bay’s karsts from the deck or nearby viewpoints like Bãi Cháy Beach (free). Sunset or night shots in autumn highlight the LED colors.

  • Cost: Free; optional drone use requires permission (check with local authorities).

  • Sustainability: Use reusable gear to reduce waste; respect pedestrian flow.

  • Tip: Try angles from the Hon Gai side, included in our Halong Bay Eco-Cruise ($95–$140).

• Eco-Cruise Viewing: Sail under Bai Chay Bridge on an electric boat cruise ($80–$200 or 2,000,000–5,000,000 VND for 2D1N) to admire its 90-meter pillars from the water, paired with visits to Thien Cung Cave ($5 or 125,000 VND entry).

  • Cost: Cruises include meals and transfers; kayaking add-on ($10–$25 or 250,000–625,000 VND).

  • Sustainability: Electric boats like Indochina Junk reduce emissions.

  • Tip: Opt for a 2D1N cruise for bridge and bay views, included in our Halong Bay Explorer ($95–$140).

• Explore Bãi Cháy Beach: A 1,000-meter artificial beach near the bridge offers swimming and pine-lined walks (free), perfect for post-stroll relaxation.

  • Cost: Free; beachside snacks $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

  • Sustainability: Use eco-friendly sunscreen to protect marine life; dispose of waste properly.

  • Tip: Visit at dusk for sunset views, included in our Halong Bay Discovery Tour ($90–$130).

• Dine at Hạ Long Market: A 10-minute taxi ride from the bridge ($5–$8 or 125,000–200,000 VND round-trip), this market offers local dishes like Bánh Gật Gù and seafood ($1–$6 or 25,000–150,000 VND).

  • Cost: Meals $1–$6 (25,000–150,000 VND); market tours $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

  • Sustainability: Support local vendors to boost the economy.

  • Tip: Try pure squid patties, included in our Halong Bay Foodie Cruise ($85–$120).

Visiting Bai Chay Bridge is budget-friendly, with costs mainly tied to nearby activities and transport. Below are approximate expenses for a sustainable trip:

• Transportation:

  • Shuttle Bus (Hanoi to Hon Gai/Van Don): $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.

  • Local Taxi (e.g., Bãi Cháy to Bridge): $5–$8 (125,000–200,000 VND) round-trip.

  • 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.

• Accommodation (if not on a cruise):

  • Homestays: $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND).

  • Budget Hotels: $15–$30/night (375,000–750,000 VND).

  • Mid-Range Hotels: $30–$80/night (750,000–2,000,000 VND).

• Activities:

  • Bridge Stroll/Photography: Free.

  • Kayaking (nearby): $10–$25 (250,000–625,000 VND).

  • Bamboo Boat Tour (Vung Vieng): $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

  • Cave Entry (e.g., Thien Cung): $5 (125,000 VND).

  • Cooking Class (nearby): $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

• Food and Drinks:

  • Street Food (e.g., Bánh Mì Mỏ): $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).

  • Restaurant Meals: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

  • Bottled Water/Coconut Juice: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).

• Total Daily Budget (per person, excluding cruise):

  • Budget Traveler: $20–$35 (500,000–875,000 VND).

  • Mid-Range Traveler: $40–$80 (1,000,000–2,000,000 VND).

  • Luxury Traveler: $100–$300 (2,500,000–7,500,000 VND).

Tip: Pair a bridge visit with an eco-cruise for all-inclusive pricing, included in our Halong Bay Eco-Tour ($95–$140).

To ensure a comfortable and eco-friendly visit, pack thoughtfully based on the season and activities:

• Clothing:

  • Spring/Autumn (March–May, September–November): Lightweight, breathable clothing (t-shirts, shorts), a light jacket for cooler evenings, and comfortable shoes for walking.

  • Summer (June–August): Light clothing, sandals, and a 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 wide-brimmed hat for daytime visits.

• 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 waste at nearby markets.

• Activity Gear:

  • Photography/Walking: Camera or smartphone with a waterproof case ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND), comfortable backpack for essentials.

  • Cruising Nearby: Binoculars for distant karst views and a small first-aid kit.

• Cultural Respect: Modest clothing (long pants, covered shoulders) for nearby sites like Cua Ong Temple.

• Miscellaneous: Power bank, offline maps (Maps.me) for navigating Halong Region, and travel medications.

Tip: Pack light to reduce your environmental footprint, included in our Halong Bay Eco-Tour ($95–$140).

• Book Early: Reserve eco-tours via Legend Travel Group 1–2 months in advance for peak seasons (March–May, September–November) or festive periods like Tet to secure sustainable cruises.

• Sustainability: Walk or use low-emission transport to the bridge; avoid littering to preserve Halong Bay’s UNESCO status.

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me) for Halong Region; save Bai Chay Bridge as a landmark for easy access.

• Safety: Stay on designated pedestrian lanes; secure valuables during evening strolls; check summer forecasts for typhoons (June–August).

• Cultural Respect: Dress modestly for nearby cultural sites; say “cảm ơn” (thank you) to local vendors.

• Health: Stay hydrated with bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); apply mosquito repellent ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) for evening visits.

Our sustainable tours highlight Bai Chay Bridge and Halong Bay’s attractions, tailored to the region’s climate and culture:

• Halong Bay Explorer (2D1N, $95–$140/person): Overnight cruise under Bai Chay Bridge, visiting Thien Cung Cave and Vung Vieng Fishing Village with kayaking. Includes guide, meals, and eco-transfers from Hanoi.

• Halong Bay Immersion (3D2N, $150–$300/person): Two-night cruise to Bai Tu Long Bay, Co To Island, and a bridge stroll. Includes guide, meals, and eco-transfers.

• Halong Bay Foodie Cruise (2D1N, $85–$120/person): Seafood tasting, cooking class, and Ha Long Market visit with a bridge stopover. Includes eco-transfers, meals, and guide.

• Halong Bay Heritage Cruise (2D1N, $100–$150/person): Bai Chay Bridge visit, Yen Tu Mountain, and Vung Vieng Fishing Village. Includes lunch and guide.

• Halong Bay Discovery (2D1N, $90–$130/person): Bai Chay Beach, Tuan Chau cultural shows, and bridge photography with eco-transfers. Includes snacks and guide.

• Halong Bay Luxury Tour (3D2N, $250–$400/person): Seaplane transfer, luxury cruise under Bai Chay Bridge, 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!

Bai Chay Bridge, Halong Bay’s iconic “Ha Long Bow” in Quang Ninh Province, 150 km from Hanoi, is a radiant symbol of connectivity and beauty, offering dazzling LED-lit views and a gateway to the region’s UNESCO wonders, enchanting millions yearly with free access. Best visited in autumn (September–November, 20–28°C) for its shimmering nighttime allure, it pairs seamlessly with eco-cruises ($20–$50, 500,000–1,250,000 VND) and market dining ($1–$5, 25,000–125,000 VND). Legend Travel Group’s Halong Bay Tours ensure a sustainable Halong Bay Travel experience, blending eco-friendly practices like low-impact tours and local support with visits to Sung Sot Cave and Bai Chay Market. Don’t miss out—contact Legend Travel Group to browse our curated eco-tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to experience Bai Chay Bridge’s sparkling splendor? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse yourself in Vietnam’s coastal treasure!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Sources:

• Bai Chay Bridge Information: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group