Halong Bay vs Lan Ha Bay: Which One Should You Choose for Your Trip?

Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys, and Legend Travel Group’s expertise in Vietnam and Cambodia. Legend Travel Group since 2008. All content is copyright by Legend Travel Group.

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Both Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay are located in the Gulf of Tonkin, Quang Ninh province, and offer breathtaking limestone karst scenery. However, they deliver very different experiences:

• Halong Bay = the world-famous, UNESCO-listed icon, often crowded but undeniably spectacular.

• Lan Ha Bay = the quieter, wilder, and more natural neighbor, ideal for those who want to avoid the crowds.

Legend Travel Group has been operating both Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay cruises for over 15 years. We know exactly what type of traveler prefers which bay.

Halong Bay

• More dramatic, postcard-perfect limestone towers rising straight from emerald water

• Famous floating fishing villages and iconic floating restaurant spots

• Classic “dragon descending to the sea” atmosphere

Lan Ha Bay

• More than 400 islands, many untouched and wilder than Halong

• Larger areas of pristine forest, hidden beaches, and secret lagoons

• Better coral and marine life (especially for snorkeling/kayaking)

Verdict:

• Want the legendary, iconic view → choose Halong Bay

• Want wilder, more natural, less-touched beauty → choose Lan Ha Bay

Halong Bay

• Can be very crowded, especially between 10:00 AM–3:00 PM

• Many day-trip boats (especially Chinese & Korean groups)

• Sunrise and sunset can feel packed

Lan Ha Bay

• Much quieter — only about 10–20% of the boats compared to Halong

• Many areas feel like you have the bay to yourself

• Better chance for peaceful sunrise/sunset photos

Verdict:

• Want to experience the world-famous vibe (and don’t mind crowds) → Halong

• Want tranquility, privacy, and fewer people → Lan Ha (clear winner)

Halong Bay

• Huge variety: from budget 1–2 star boats to ultra-luxury 5-star vessels

• Many boats offer day trips (not recommended for full experience)

Lan Ha Bay

• Fewer boats, but most are mid-range to high-end (3–5 star)

• Longer routes, more time exploring hidden spots

• Better chance of having only 10–25 guests on board (more intimate)

Verdict:

• Want the widest choice of budget & luxury → Halong

• Want higher quality boats with fewer people → Lan Ha

Halong Bay

• Classic activities: kayaking, cave visits (Sung Sot Cave), swimming, cooking class

• More traditional Vietnamese cultural shows on board

Lan Ha Bay

• More outdoor adventure: kayaking, swimming, snorkeling, rock climbing, visiting Cat Ba National Park

• Better chance to see wildlife (monkeys, birds) and hidden beaches

Verdict:

• Want classic Halong experience → Halong Bay

• Want more active & nature-focused activities → Lan Ha Bay

Both bays share the same weather pattern (northern Vietnam):

• Best months: November – April (cool, dry, clear sky, perfect for photography)

• Shoulder months: May, October (still good, fewer crowds)

• Avoid (if possible): June – September (hot, rainy, typhoon risk)

Lan Ha Bay is more pleasant during the wet season because there are fewer boats and the bay feels even more peaceful after rain.

Quick decision table for different types of travelers:

After operating both Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay cruises for more than 15 years, here’s our honest suggestion:

• First time in Vietnam → Choose Halong Bay classic cruise (2 days 1 night or 3 days 2 nights)

• Already visited Halong before or want a more peaceful experience → Choose Lan Ha Bay premium cruise

• Want the best of both worlds → Choose our Halong + Lan Ha combined route (we have special itineraries that cover both bays without repeating the crowded parts)

All Legend Travel Group cruises for solo travelers, couples, families, and groups are designed with flexible payment: only 10% deposit required at booking, the remaining balance paid 30 days before departure — peace of mind guaranteed.

Halong Bay vs Lan Ha Bay — both are magnificent, but they serve different travel desires.

• Choose Halong Bay if you want the legendary, world-famous experience and the classic postcard scenery.

• Choose Lan Ha Bay if you want a more peaceful, natural, and less crowded journey.

Whichever you choose, Legend Travel Group is ready to help you book the perfect Halong or Lan Ha cruise — with the highest quality boats, best English-speaking guides, and flexible payment for peace of mind.

Ready to experience the magic of northern Vietnam?
Contact us today to choose your dream cruise:

Website: https://www.legendtravelgroup.com
WhatsApp: +84825862222
Email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com

Safe travels & see you on deck!