Best Time to Visit Bai Tu Long Bay: Weather, Activities, Costs & Eco-Tours

Bai Tu Long Bay, a pristine extension of the UNESCO World Heritage Site alongside Halong Bay in Halong Region, Vietnam, captivates with its untouched limestone karsts, emerald waters, and tranquil islands. Less crowded than its famous neighbor, it offers an authentic escape with serene beaches like Ban Chan, dramatic caves like Thien Canh Son, and vibrant floating villages like Vung Vieng. Spanning over 15,000 hectares, the bay is part of Bai Tu Long National Park, home to diverse ecosystems including tropical rainforests and marine habitats, fostering rare species listed in Vietnam’s Red Book. Following Vietnam’s administrative restructuring, Ha Long City has transitioned into Halong Region, yet the area’s tourism prominence endures, with Bai Tu Long Bay emerging as a sustainable alternative to Halong Bay. Aligned with Quang Ninh’s “Green Tourism” initiative, the bay prioritizes eco-friendly exploration through regulated cruises and community-supported tourism. Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours provide an immersive, responsible way to experience Bai Tu Long Bay’s allure—book your adventure via the links throughout this guide

Legend Travel Group, a leading local tour operator, crafts sustainable Southeast Asia journeys with a focus on environmental and cultural preservation. Our Bai Tu Long Bay tours feature eco-friendly transport—electric boats, bamboo rowboats, and low-emission shuttles—guided by local experts who share the bay’s heritage and folklore. Supporting communities in Halong Region and nearby Van Don, we align with Quang Ninh’s sustainability goals, ensuring minimal environmental impact while empowering locals. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we guarantee a seamless experience. Contact us at sales@legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp +84825862222 to book eco-tours and explore Bai Tu Long Bay responsibly

Vietnam’s administrative reorganization has integrated Ha Long City into Halong Region under Quang Ninh Province, enhancing access to Bai Tu Long Bay’s attractions, including Cong Thien Cave, Vung Vieng Fishing Village, and Co To Island. Supported by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric ferries, and a VND1.2 trillion coastal preservation project—Halong Region facilitates eco-conscious exploration, making Bai Tu Long Bay a serene destination for sustainable tourism.

Located in the Gulf of Tonkin, Bai Tu Long Bay experiences a humid tropical monsoon climate with four distinct seasons: spring (March–May), summer (June–August), autumn (September–November), and winter (December–February). The bay’s weather is influenced by northeastern monsoons, with annual rainfall of 1,800–2,400 mm, concentrated in summer (70–80%), and cooler winters with occasional fog. Average temperatures range from 21–24°C (70–75°F), with humidity around 80%. The sheltered karsts and calm seas ensure safe cruising year-round, though weather forecasts are recommended during summer’s typhoon season.

Key Climate Features:

• Temperature: Annual average 23°C (73°F), ranging from 12–34°C (53.6–93.2°F).

• Humidity: ~80%, peaking in summer (85–90%).

• Rainfall: 1,800–2,400 mm, with 90–150 rainy days, mostly July–August.

• Seasons: Spring (Mar–May), Summer (Jun–Aug), Autumn (Sep–Nov), Winter (Dec–Feb).

• Storms: Low risk outside summer; rare typhoons mitigated by June–August forecasting.

Tip: Pack a reusable water bottle ($0.50 or 12,500 VND) and SPF 50+ sunscreen ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND) year-round, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Eco-Cruise ($95–$140).

Bai Tu Long Bay’s climate and cultural calendar make it a year-round destination, with optimal times based on weather, festivals, and activities. Below is a guide to plan your visit, complete with costs and eco-friendly options, focusing on sustainable tourism.

Spring (March–May): Ideal for Warm Weather and Outdoor Activities

• Weather: Warm and dry, 20–28°C (68–82.4°F), moderate humidity (75–80%), low rainfall (<50 mm/month).

• Why Visit: Clear skies and calm seas are perfect for eco-cruises ($80–$150 or 2,000,000–3,750,000 VND, electric boat), kayaking at Vung Ha ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND), and swimming at Ban Chan Beach (free). Ideal for exploring Thien Canh Son Cave ($5 or 125,000 VND entry) and cycling on Quan Lan Island ($5–$10/day or 125,000–250,000 VND). Spring is peak season for international visitors, with blooming flora enhancing the bay’s beauty.

• Key Events:

  • Yen Tu Festival (March, lunar calendar): Buddhist pilgrimage 45 km from Halong Region, complementing cultural cruises (free entry).

  • Halong Carnival (late April–May): Parades and fireworks at Bai Chay Beach (free).

• Pros: Vibrant scenery, ideal for water activities, cultural festivals.

• Cons: Peak season crowds; higher cruise rates; book 2–3 months ahead ($50–$100/night or 1,250,000–2,500,000 VND).

• Best Months: April–May for mild weather (22–28°C or 71.6–82.4°F) and fewer crowds.

• Tip: Visit caves early (7:00–9:00 AM) to avoid crowds, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Spring Explorer ($95–$140).

Autumn (September–November): Perfect for Mild Weather and Festivals

• Weather: Cool and dry, 22–30°C (71.6–86°F), low humidity (70–75%), minimal rainfall (<150 mm/month).

• Why Visit: Pleasant weather enhances eco-cruises ($80–$200 or 2,000,000–5,000,000 VND), bamboo boat tours at Vung Vieng Fishing Village ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND), and cycling on Co To Island ($5–$10/day or 125,000–250,000 VND). Fewer crowds and lower accommodation rates ($15–$50/night or 375,000–1,250,000 VND) make it budget-friendly. Ideal for squid fishing (included in cruises) and cultural immersion.

• Key Events:

  • Mid-Autumn Festival (September–October, lunar calendar): Lantern displays and mooncake stalls at Bai Chay Night Market (free).

  • Quang Ninh Tourism Week (November): Cultural shows and discounted tours in Halong Region.

• Pros: Scenic beauty, fewer crowds, vibrant festivals, ideal for outdoor activities.

• Cons: Early September may have residual showers; book cruises 1–2 weeks ahead.

• Best Months: October–November for cool weather (22–27°C or 71.6–80.6°F) and festive vibes.

• Tip: Join morning cruises for clear views, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Autumn Heritage ($100–$150).

Summer (June–August): Budget-Friendly with Lush Scenery

• Weather: Hot and humid, 27–34°C (80.6–93.2°F), high humidity (80–90%), frequent showers (250–450 mm/month).

• Why Visit: Lush karsts enhance eco-cruises ($60–$150 or 1,500,000–3,750,000 VND, up to 40% off) and kayaking at Cong Dam ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND). Budget accommodations ($10–$40/night or 250,000–1,000,000 VND) and fewer international tourists attract savvy travelers. Brief storms are mitigated by sheltered bays. Popular for Vietnamese visitors during summer holidays.

• Key Events:

  • Halong Summer Tourism Festival (June–July): Beach parties and cultural displays at Tuan Chau Island (free).

• Pros: Budget-friendly, lush scenery, ideal for water activities, fewer international crowds.

• Cons: Frequent showers and rare typhoons; check forecasts; domestic crowds in July–August.

• Best Month: June for fewer showers and vibrant festivals.

• Tip: Plan indoor activities like cooking classes ($15–$25 or 375,000–625,000 VND) during showers, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Foodie Cruise ($85–$120).

Winter (December–February): Serene and Festive

• Weather: Cool and dry, 12–22°C (53.6–71.6°F), low humidity (65–70%), minimal rainfall (<30 mm/month). Occasional fog adds a mystical charm.

• Why Visit: Misty karsts create a tranquil cruising experience ($100–$250 or 2,500,000–6,250,000 VND). Fewer tourists allow intimate visits to Cong Thien Cave ($5 or 125,000 VND entry) and Halong Night Market ($1–$5 or 25,000–125,000 VND for food). Ideal for cultural immersion, though cooler waters limit swimming.

• Key Events:

  • Christmas and New Year: Fireworks and gala dinners at Tuan Chau Marina; book 2–3 months ahead ($120–$300 or 3,000,000–7,500,000 VND).

  • Tet (Lunar New Year, January–February): Festive markets and dragon dances; book early.

• Pros: Serene atmosphere, festive events, ideal for cultural experiences.

• Cons: Cold weather; Tet increases costs and crowds; fog may reduce visibility.

• Best Month: December for festive vibes and milder weather (15–22°C or 59–71.6°F).

• Tip: Pack warm layers for foggy mornings, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Winter Cruise ($110–$170).

Shoulder Seasons: March–May and September–November

• Why Visit: These periods offer balanced weather (20–30°C or 68–86°F), moderate crowds, and vibrant events like Halong Carnival and Mid-Autumn Festival. Budget-friendly cruises ($80–$200 or 2,000,000–5,000,000 VND) and accommodations ($15–$50/night or 375,000–1,250,000 VND) ensure value.

• Tip: Book 1–2 weeks ahead for flexibility, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Discovery Tour ($90–$130).

Bai Tu Long Bay’s pristine landscapes and regulated tourism offer a range of eco-friendly activities:

• Eco-Cruise: Sail through karsts on an electric boat, visiting Thien Canh Son Cave and Cong Do ($80–$250 or 2,000,000–6,250,000 VND).

• Kayaking: Paddle at Vung Ha or Cap La ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND).

• Bamboo Boat Tours: Explore Vung Vieng Fishing Village with local rowers ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).

• Cave Exploration: Visit Cong Thien or Thien Canh Son caves ($5 or 125,000 VND entry).

• Cooking Classes: Learn Vietnamese dishes like spring rolls on board ($15–$25 or 375,000–625,000 VND).

• Squid Fishing: Try night fishing, a cultural experience (included in select cruises).

• Cycling: Explore Quan Lan or Co To islands ($5–$10/day or 125,000–250,000 VND).

Tip: Opt for a 2D1N or 3D2N cruise to combine multiple activities, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Eco-Cruise ($95–$140).

Bai Tu Long Bay is accessible via Halong Region, 170 km from Hanoi. Here are the main transport options:

• Shuttle Bus: Comfortable buses from Hanoi to Hon Gai or Van Don ports (2.5–3 hours, $10–$15 or 250,000–375,000 VND).

• Private Car: Door-to-door service from Hanoi (2.5 hours, $50–$80 or 1,250,000–2,000,000 VND for 2–4 people).

• Motorbike Rental: Explore Halong Region to cruise ports ($5–$10/day or 125,000–250,000 VND).

• Eco-Cruise: Depart from Hon Gai or Van Don ports ($80–$250 or 2,000,000–6,250,000 VND, 2D1N).

• Seaplane: Scenic flight from Hanoi to Van Don (45 minutes, $400 or 10,000,000 VND one-way).

Tip: Book a cruise with Hanoi transfers for convenience, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Discovery Tour ($90–$130).

Bai Tu Long Bay offers budget-friendly and sustainable options, with regulated tourism ensuring fair pricing. Below are approximate costs for key expenses, supporting an eco-conscious trip.

• Accommodation:

  • Homestays: $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND), e.g., Van Don Homestay.

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

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

  • Luxury Cruises (e.g., Dragon Legend): $100–$250/night (2,500,000–6,250,000 VND).

• Transport:

  • Bicycle Rental: $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND).

  • Motorbike Rental: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND).

  • Taxi/Grab: $3–$8 (75,000–200,000 VND) within 1–10 km; Bai Chay to Hon Gai (10 km) $5–$8 (125,000–200,000 VND).

  • Eco-Cruise (2D1N): $80–$250 (2,000,000–6,250,000 VND, 2–4 people).

  • Eco-Cruise (3D2N): $120–$400 (3,000,000–10,000,000 VND, 2–4 people).

  • Hanoi to Halong Region (170 km): Shuttle bus $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND), private car $50–$80 (1,250,000–2,000,000 VND, 2.5 hours).

• Food and Drinks:

  • Street Food (e.g., Bánh Gật Gù, Seafood): $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

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

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

• Attractions and Activities:

  • Thien Canh Son Cave: $5 (125,000 VND entry).

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

  • Kayaking: $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

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

• Total Daily Budget (per person):

  • Budget Traveler: $25–$40 (625,000–1,000,000 VND).

  • Mid-Range Traveler: $50–$100 (1,250,000–2,500,000 VND).

  • Luxury Traveler: $120–$300 (3,000,000–7,500,000 VND).

Tip: Opt for eco-homestays and bicycles to reduce costs, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Eco-Tour ($95–$140).

• Book Tours Early: Reserve eco-tours via Legend Travel Group (sales@legendtravelgroup.com, WhatsApp +84825862222) 1–2 months in advance for peak seasons (March–May, September–November) or festive periods like Christmas.

• Packing for Climate:

  • Spring/Autumn: Lightweight clothing, hat, sunglasses, SPF 50+ sunscreen ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND).

  • Summer: Lightweight raincoat ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND), waterproof bag, umbrella.

  • Winter: Layers, warm jacket, scarf for cooler evenings.

  • Year-Round: Reusable water bottle, mosquito repellent ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).

• Sustainability: Choose cruises with eco-friendly practices, support local vendors at Vung Vieng, and avoid single-use plastics to align with Quang Ninh’s green goals.

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me) for Halong Region, Van Don, and Hon Gai; save Hon Gai Port as a landmark.

• Safety: Secure valuables on cruises; wear life jackets while kayaking; check weather forecasts during summer.

• Cultural Respect: Dress modestly when visiting fishing villages (long pants, covered shoulders); say “cảm ơn” (thank you).

• Health: Stay hydrated with bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); apply mosquito repellent for outdoor activities.

Our sustainable tours offer curated experiences tailored to Bai Tu Long Bay’s climate and events, emphasizing eco-tourism:

• Bai Tu Long Bay Explorer (2D1N, $95–$140/person): Overnight cruise to Thien Canh Son Cave, Vung Vieng Fishing Village, and kayaking via electric boat. Includes guide, meals, and eco-transfers.

• Bai Tu Long Bay Immersion (3D2N, $150–$300/person): Two-night cruise to Cong Do, Ban Chan Beach, and Co To Island with bamboo boat tours. Includes guide, meals, and eco-transfers.

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

• Bai Tu Long Bay Heritage Cruise (2D1N, $100–$150/person): Vung Vieng Fishing Village, Cong Thien Cave, and Mid-Autumn Festival (seasonal) via electric boat. Includes lunch and guide.

• Bai Tu Long Bay Discovery (2D1N, $90–$130/person): Quan Lan Island cycling, Tuan Chau cultural shows, and Bai Chay Beach. Includes snacks and guide.

• Bai Tu Long Bay Eco-Tour (3D2N, $150–$300/person): Kayaking, Lan Ha Bay, and Cat Ba Island visit via electric boat. Includes transfers 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 Tu Long Bay, a serene alternative to Halong Bay in Quang Ninh Province, offers year-round beauty with optimal visiting times in spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) for mild weather and vibrant cultural festivals, while summer (June–August) brings budget-friendly deals and winter (December–February) delivers festive charm. From eco-cruises through emerald waters to kayaking near limestone karsts and cultural immersion in fishing villages, the bay’s pristine landscapes and sustainable tourism practices ensure an unforgettable adventure. Legend Travel Group’s Bai Tu Long Tours emphasize environmental responsibility, ensuring a sustainable Bai Tu Long Travel experience that’s seamless and meaningful. Don’t wait—browse our curated tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to sail through Bai Tu Long Bay’s untouched waters and karsts? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse yourself in Vietnam’s coastal gem!

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 Tu Long Bay Information: vietnam.travel, indochina-junk.com, emperorcruises.com, vietnamtourism.org.vn