Halong Bay in September: Weather, Activities, Costs & Eco-Tours

September ushers in the tranquil beauty of autumn to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Halong Region, Vietnam, offering cooler temperatures, clear skies, and vibrant cultural events. As the rainy season fades, this shoulder season is perfect for exploring the bay’s 1,600+ limestone karsts, serene islands like Titop and Cat Ba, and floating villages, with ideal conditions for cruising, kayaking, and cultural immersion. Following Vietnam’s administrative restructuring, Ha Long City has transitioned into Halong Region, yet Halong Bay’s global allure remains unmatched, drawing visitors to its emerald waters and festive celebrations like the Mid-Autumn Festival. September’s moderate crowds, pleasant weather, and budget-friendly rates make it a prime choice for eco-conscious travelers. Aligned with Quang Ninh’s “Green Tourism” initiative, Halong promotes sustainable exploration through electric boats and community-supported tourism. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly tours offer an authentic, responsible way to experience Halong Bay in September—book your adventure via the links throughout this guide!

Legend Travel Group, a premier local tour operator, specializes in sustainable Southeast Asia journeys, prioritizing environmental and cultural preservation. Our September Halong Bay tours feature eco-friendly transport—electric boats, bicycles, and low-emission shuttles—guided by local experts who share the bay’s myths and heritage. Supporting communities in Halong Region and nearby Hong Gai, 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!

Vietnam’s administrative reorganization has integrated Ha Long City into Halong Region under Quang Ninh Province, streamlining access to Halong Bay’s attractions, including Sung Sot Cave, Tuan Chau Port, and Ba Trai Dao Islet. Enhanced by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric ferries, and a VND1.2 trillion coastal preservation project—Halong Region offers seamless exploration of its iconic seascape, making September a serene time for eco-conscious travel.

September marks the transition from summer to autumn in Halong Bay, with cooler temperatures, lower humidity, and minimal rainfall creating a pleasant climate. The bay’s subtropical climate, sheltered by limestone karsts, ensures safe cruising conditions, with occasional light showers that rarely disrupt plans. Sea breezes and clear skies enhance the experience, making September one of the most comfortable months for exploration.

September Weather Details:

• Temperature: 24–31°C (75.2–87.8°F), averaging 28°C (82.4°F). Early September is warmer (26–31°C or 78.8–87.8°F), cooling slightly to 24–29°C (75.2–84.2°F) by late September.

• Humidity: 70–80%, lower than summer months.

• Rainfall: 100–200 mm, with occasional light showers, significantly less than June–August.

• Sea Conditions: Calm, ideal for kayaking, swimming, and cruising.

• Storms: Rare, with minimal risk due to advanced forecasting and sheltered bays.

Tip: Carry lightweight clothing, a hat, and SPF 50+ sunscreen ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND) for September’s warm days, included in our Halong Bay September Explorer ($95–$140).

September’s mild weather, cultural vibrancy, and shoulder-season benefits make it an ideal month for Halong Bay, offering a balance of comfort, fewer crowds, and festive experiences. Here’s why September stands out, along with costs and eco-friendly options.

Benefits of Visiting in September

• Weather: Mild temperatures (24–31°C or 75.2–87.8°F) and low rainfall (100–200 mm) are perfect for eco-cruises ($80–$200 or 2,000,000–5,000,000 VND, electric boat), kayaking in Lan Ha Bay ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND), and swimming at Titop Island (free entry).

• Cultural Events:

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

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

• Fewer Crowds: September sees fewer tourists than peak spring months, ensuring a relaxed experience at attractions like Sung Sot Cave ($2 or 50,000 VND entry) and Bai Chay Beach ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND).

• Pros: Comfortable weather, vibrant festivals, budget-friendly rates, ideal for cruising and cultural immersion.

• Cons: Occasional light showers; early September may have residual summer humidity; book 1–2 months ahead for festivals ($30–$80/night or 750,000–2,000,000 VND).

• Tip: Visit attractions in the morning for clear skies and fewer visitors, included in our Halong Bay September Explorer ($95–$140).

Comparison with Other Months

• Summer (June–August): Warm and humid (26–34°C or 78.8–93.2°F), frequent showers (250–450 mm/month). Low-season discounts ($60–$150 or 1,500,000–3,750,000 VND) but unpredictable weather.

• Autumn (October–November): Cool and dry (22–30°C or 71.6–86°F), minimal rainfall (<100 mm/month), similar to September but with slightly cooler temperatures. Cruises cost $80–$200 (2,000,000–5,000,000 VND).

• Winter (December–February): Cool and misty (14–23°C or 57.2–73.4°F), low rainfall (<50 mm/month), but cooler weather limits swimming. Tet (January–February) increases costs ($120–$300 or 3,000,000–7,500,000 VND).

• Spring (March–May): Mild (18–32°C or 64.4–89.6°F), low rainfall (<150 mm/month), but peak season crowds and higher cruise rates ($100–$250 or 2,500,000–6,250,000 VND).

• Best Alternative Months: October for drier weather and similar mild temperatures; May for warmer conditions with fewer crowds than March–April.

September’s mild weather and clear skies make it ideal for a range of eco-friendly and cultural activities:

• Eco-Cruise through Halong Bay: Sail past karsts on an electric boat, visiting Sung Sot Cave and Cua Van Fishing Village ($80–$200 or 2,000,000–5,000,000 VND).

• Kayaking in Lan Ha Bay: Paddle through serene lagoons and karsts ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND).

• Swimming at Titop Island: Enjoy clear waters and uncrowded beaches (free entry).

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

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

• Beach Relaxation at Bai Chay: Sunbathe and enjoy beach amenities ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND).

• Cultural Visits: Explore Vung Vieng Fishing Village to learn about floating communities ($5 or 125,000 VND entry).

• Mid-Autumn Festival: Join lantern-lit celebrations and cultural events at Tuan Chau Island (free entry).

• Photography: Capture Halong Bay’s karsts and autumnal hues under clear September skies.

Tip: Combine a cruise with kayaking and festival activities for a comprehensive September experience, included in our Halong Bay September Explorer ($95–$140).

Halong Bay is accessible via Halong Region, 165 km from Hanoi. Here are the main transport options for September travel:

• Shuttle Bus: Comfortable buses from Hanoi’s Old Quarter to Tuan Chau Port (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 Tuan Chau Port or Halong International Cruise Port ($80–$200 or 2,000,000–5,000,000 VND, 2D1N).

• Flight to Van Don Airport: From Ho Chi Minh City or Da Nang to Van Don (50 km from Halong Region), then bus/taxi ($5–$15 or 125,000–375,000 VND, 1 hour).

Tip: Book a cruise with Hanoi transfers for convenience, included in our Halong Bay September Discovery ($90–$130).

September’s shoulder season offers moderate rates with sustainable options, balancing cost and comfort. Below are approximate costs for key expenses, ensuring an eco-conscious trip.

• Accommodation:

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

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

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

  • Luxury Hotels (e.g., Vinpearl Resort): $80–$150/night (2,000,000–3,750,000 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 Tuan Chau (5 km) $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND).

  • Eco-Cruise (2D1N): $80–$200 (2,000,000–5,000,000 VND, 2–4 people).

  • Hanoi to Halong Region (165 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 Cuốn, 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:

  • Sung Sot Cave: $2 (50,000 VND entry).

  • Titop Island: Free entry, kayak rental $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

  • Vung Vieng Fishing Village: $5 (125,000 VND entry).

  • 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–$250 (3,000,000–6,250,000 VND).

Tip: Save with eco-homestays and bicycles, included in our Halong Bay September Explorer ($95–$140).

• 1 Day: Suitable for tight schedules, covering a day cruise to Sung Sot Cave and Titop Island ($60–$100 or 1,500,000–2,500,000 VND). Offers a quick glimpse of Halong Bay.

• 2 Days (Highly Recommended): Includes an overnight cruise with kayaking, cultural visits, and festival activities ($80–$200 or 2,000,000–5,000,000 VND). Perfect for September’s mild weather.

• 3 Days: Ideal for in-depth exploration, including Bai Tu Long or Lan Ha Bay, with extra time for relaxation and festivals ($120–$250 or 3,000,000–6,250,000 VND).

Tip: A 2-day cruise maximizes September’s shoulder-season benefits, included in our Halong Bay September Discovery ($90–$130).

• Book Tours Early: Reserve eco-tours via Legend Travel Group (sales@legendtravelgroup.com, WhatsApp +84825862222) 1–2 months in advance for September’s festivals, such as the Mid-Autumn Festival, to secure preferred dates.

• Packing for September:

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

  • Lightweight raincoat ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) and umbrella for occasional showers.

  • Reusable water bottle and mosquito repellent ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).

• Sustainability: Support local vendors at Halong Night Market, use electric boats or bikes, and avoid plastic waste to align with Quang Ninh’s green goals.

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me) for Halong Region, Bai Chay, and Tuan Chau; save Tuan Chau Port as a landmark.

• Safety: Secure valuables on cruises; wear life jackets while kayaking; check festival schedules for crowd planning.

• Cultural Respect: Dress modestly for cultural sites and festival events (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 September experiences tailored to Halong Bay’s shoulder-season climate and events:

• Halong Bay September Explorer ($95–$140/person): Overnight cruise to Sung Sot Cave, Titop Island, and kayaking via electric boat. Includes guide, meals, and eco-transfers.

• Halong Bay Foodie Cruise ($85–$120/person): Seafood tasting, cooking class, Bai Chay Beach, and Mid-Autumn Festival activities. Includes eco-transfers, meals, and guide.

• Halong Bay Heritage Cruise ($100–$150/person): Vung Vieng Fishing Village, Lan Ha Bay, and festival celebrations via electric boat. Includes lunch and guide.

• Halong Bay September Discovery ($90–$130/person): Tuan Chau Island, Bai Chay Beach, and night market via bicycles. Includes snacks and guide.

• Lan Ha Bay Eco-Tour ($95–$140/person): Kayaking, Lan Ha Bay cruise, and Cat Ba Island visit via electric boat. Includes transfers and guide.

• Quang Ninh Immersion ($250–$400/person, 3–4 days): Halong Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay, and Yen Tu Mountain via mixed eco-transport. Includes meals and activities.

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!

September in Halong Bay offers a serene, budget-friendly experience with mild weather, clear skies, and vibrant cultural events like the Mid-Autumn Festival. Ideal for eco-cruises, kayaking, and cultural immersion, this shoulder season ensures a memorable adventure with fewer crowds than peak months. Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours combine authentic exploration with environmental responsibility, delivering an unforgettable journey through Halong Bay’s karsts and waters. Don’t wait—browse our curated September tours and book your Halong Bay adventure today!

Ready to sail through Halong Bay’s emerald waters in September’s autumnal charm? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse yourself in Vietnam’s coastal wonder!