Low Season in Halong Bay: Best Times, Costs & Eco-Tours

Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Halong Region, Quang Ninh Province, is a breathtaking destination renowned for its emerald waters, towering limestone karsts, and vibrant marine ecosystems. The low season, from June to August, offers a unique opportunity to explore this iconic seascape with fewer crowds, significant cruise discounts, and lush greenery. Despite occasional showers, the warm weather is ideal for water-based activities like kayaking and swimming, while the uncrowded beaches and serene atmosphere enhance the experience. Following Vietnam’s administrative restructuring, Ha Long City has transitioned into Halong Region, yet its global tourism allure remains unmatched. Embracing Quang Ninh’s “Green Tourism” initiative, Halong promotes sustainable exploration through electric boats and community-supported tourism. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly tours provide an authentic, budget-friendly way to discover Halong Bay’s wonders during low season—book your adventure via the links throughout this guide!

Legend Travel Group, a premier local tour operator, crafts sustainable Southeast Asia journeys with a focus on environmental and cultural preservation. Our Halong Bay low-season tours feature eco-friendly transport—electric boats, bicycles, and low-emission shuttles—guided by local experts who share the region’s 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 like Sung Sot Cave, Titop Island, and Tuan Chau Port. Enhanced by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric ferries, and a VND1.2 trillion coastal preservation project—Halong Region offers seamless exploration of its iconic bay, making it an ideal low-season destination for eco-conscious travelers.

Located in Vietnam’s northern Gulf of Tonkin, Halong Region and Halong Bay experience a subtropical climate with four distinct seasons: spring (March–May), summer (June–August), autumn (September–November), and winter (December–February). The low season, coinciding with summer, features warm temperatures, high humidity, and frequent but brief showers. Sheltered by over 1,600 limestone karsts, Halong Bay minimizes storm impacts, ensuring safe cruising year-round. With an average annual temperature of 24°C (75.2°F), humidity of 80%, and rainfall of approximately 2,000 mm (concentrated in June–August), the low season’s lush environment enhances the bay’s scenic beauty, perfect for eco-friendly adventures.

Key Climate Features:

• Temperature: Average 24°C (75.2°F), ranging from 15–33°C (59–91.4°F).

• Humidity: ~80% annually, peaking at 80–90% in summer.

• Rainfall: 2,000 mm, with 300–500 mm/month in June–August.

• Seasons: Spring (March–May), Summer (June–August, low season), Autumn (September–November), Winter (December–February).

• Natural Disasters: Low risk; brief tropical storms in summer are mitigated by advanced forecasting and sheltered bays.

Tip: Carry bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND) and SPF 50+ sunscreen ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND) during low season, included in our Halong Bay Foodie Cruise ($85–$120).

The low season, from June to August, is the prime time for budget travelers to visit Halong Bay, offering up to 40% discounts on cruises, fewer crowds, and vibrant water-based activities. Below is a detailed guide to maximize your low-season experience, complete with costs and eco-friendly options.

Why Visit During Low Season?

• Weather: Warm and humid, 26–33°C (78.8–91.4°F), with high humidity (80–90%) and frequent showers (300–500 mm/month) that typically clear quickly.

• Why Visit: Lush karsts and vibrant marine life enhance kayaking ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND) and swimming at Titop Island (free entry). Low-season cruise discounts ($60–$150 or 1,500,000–3,750,000 VND) and budget accommodations ($10–$40/night or 250,000–1,000,000 VND) make it cost-effective. Uncrowded beaches like Bai Chay ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND) and fewer tourists at attractions like Sung Sot Cave ($2 or 50,000 VND entry) ensure a serene experience.

• Key Events:

  • Halong Summer Tourism Festival (June–July): Beach parties, water sports, and cultural displays at Tuan Chau Island, adding vibrancy to low-season visits.

• Pros: Budget-friendly, lush scenery, fewer crowds, ideal for water activities like kayaking and squid fishing.

• Cons: Sporadic storms may delay cruises; bring lightweight rain gear ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND). Brief showers can be planned around with indoor activities.

• Best Month: June for fewer showers and vibrant festivals, with mild temperatures (26–31°C or 78.8–87.8°F).

• Tip: Plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons to avoid midday showers, included in our Halong Bay Low-Season Explorer ($95–$140).

Comparison with Other Seasons

• Spring (March–May): Mild weather (20–28°C or 68–82.4°F), low rainfall (<150 mm/month), but peak season crowds and higher cruise rates ($100–$250 or 2,500,000–6,250,000 VND). Ideal for photography but less budget-friendly.

• Autumn (September–November): Cool and dry (22–30°C or 71.6–86°F), minimal rainfall (<100 mm/month), moderate crowds, and vibrant festivals like Mid-Autumn Festival. Cruises cost $80–$200 (2,000,000–5,000,000 VND).

• Winter (December–February): Cool and misty (15–22°C or 59–71.6°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).

• Shoulder Seasons (March–May, September–November): Balanced weather, moderate crowds, and cost savings make these periods a great alternative to low season, with cruises at $80–$200 (2,000,000–5,000,000 VND).

The low season offers a range of eco-friendly activities that highlight Halong Bay’s natural beauty and cultural richness:

• Eco-Cruise through Halong Bay: Sail past iconic karsts on an electric boat, visiting sites like Sung Sot Cave and Vung Vieng Fishing Village ($60–$150 or 1,500,000–3,750,000 VND).

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

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

• Squid Fishing: Try night squid fishing, a unique cultural experience (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: Soak up the sun on uncrowded shores ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND for amenities).

• Cultural Visits: Explore Cua Van Fishing Village ($5 or 125,000 VND entry) to learn about local traditions.

Tip: Combine a cruise with kayaking for a full low-season experience, included in our Halong Bay Low-Season Explorer ($95–$140).

Halong Bay is accessible via Halong Region, 165 km from Hanoi. Here are the main transport options for low-season 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 ($60–$150 or 1,500,000–3,750,000 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 Low-Season Discovery ($90–$130).

Halong Bay’s low season offers significant savings with sustainable options. 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, low-season discounts).

• 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): $60–$150 (1,500,000–3,750,000 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).

  • Cua Van Fishing Village: $5 (125,000 VND entry).

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

• Total Daily Budget (per person):

  • Budget Traveler: $15–$30 (375,000–750,000 VND).

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

  • Luxury Traveler: $120–$200 (3,000,000–5,000,000 VND).

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

• Book Tours Early: Reserve eco-tours via Legend Travel Group (sales@legendtravelgroup.com, WhatsApp +84825862222) 1–2 weeks in advance for low-season deals, especially for June–July festivals.

• Packing for Low Season:

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

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

  • 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; monitor weather updates for rare storms.

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

• Halong Bay Low-Season 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 Halong Night Market. Includes eco-transfers, meals, and guide.

• Halong Bay Heritage Cruise ($100–$150/person): Cua Van Fishing Village, Lan Ha Bay, and Halong Summer Tourism Festival (seasonal) via electric boat. Includes lunch and guide.

• Halong Bay Low-Season 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, Tuan Chau, and Bai Tu Long Bay 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 low-season promotions. Book now via links around this page!

Halong Bay’s low season (June–August) is a hidden gem for budget travelers, offering uncrowded attractions, lush scenery, and significant savings on eco-cruises and accommodations. Despite brief showers, the warm weather is ideal for kayaking, swimming, and cultural immersion, enhanced by vibrant festivals like the Halong Summer Tourism Festival. Legend Travel Group’s Halong Bay Tours blend affordability with authentic exploration, ensuring a sustainable Halong Bay Travel journey through this UNESCO masterpiece. Don’t miss out—browse our curated low-season tours and book your Halong Bay adventure today!
Ready to sail through Halong Bay’s emerald waters with fewer crowds? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse yourself in Vietnam’s coastal wonder!

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.