Explore Halong Bay’s fresh seafood, from peanut worms to sea crabs, with our guide on top dishes, costs, and sustainable eco-tours. Book with Legend Travel Group for a culinary adventure!
Dive into the flavorful charm of Halong Bay TravelHalong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Halong Region, Vietnam, is not only renowned for its emerald waters and limestone karsts but also for its vibrant seafood cuisine, a gift from the Gulf of Tonkin’s bountiful seas. Located at the heart of a bustling seaport, Halong Bay offers an unparalleled array of fresh, diverse seafood, including peanut worms, sea crabs, and oysters, prepared with local flair. This culinary heritage, rooted in coastal fishing communities like Vung Vieng, complements the region’s natural beauty, making it a must-visit for food lovers. Following Vietnam’s administrative restructuring, Ha Long City has transitioned into Halong Region, reinforcing its global tourism prominence while prioritizing sustainability. Aligned with Quang Ninh’s “Green Tourism” initiative, Halong Bay promotes eco-friendly dining through sustainable fisheries and community-supported markets. Legend Travel Group’s eco-tours pair seafood tastings with responsible exploration—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 seafood and fishing 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 savor Halong Bay’s seafood responsibly!
Vietnam’s administrative reorganization has integrated Ha Long City into Halong Region under Quang Ninh Province, enhancing access to Halong Bay’s culinary hubs, including Hạ Long Market, Cai Rong Night Market, and Vung Vieng Fishing Village. Supported by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric ferries, and a VND1.7 trillion coastal preservation project—Halong Region facilitates eco-conscious dining and exploration, making it a premier destination for seafood lovers.
Experience Halong Bay Tours with sustainable adventures (Source: Source: Internet)Halong Bay’s seafood is celebrated for its freshness and variety, sourced daily from the Gulf of Tonkin. Below are the must-try dishes, with details on where to enjoy them, costs, and sustainable dining tips:
A rare delicacy, peanut worms are prized for their umami-rich flavor, often stir-fried with garlic or used in broths for phở. Harvested sustainably from Halong’s sandy shores, they’re a local specialty.
Where to Try: Vung Vieng Fishing Village restaurants ($15–$30 or 375,000–750,000 VND per dish) or onboard eco-cruises like Indochina Junk ($20–$40 or 500,000–1,000,000 VND, included in meals).
Sustainability: Limited harvesting protects marine ecosystems.
Tip: Pair with a local beer ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND), included in our Halong Bay Foodie Cruise ($85–$120).
Halong’s sea crabs, including blue king crabs, are succulent and versatile, served steamed with ginger, stir-fried with tamarind, or grilled with salt. Their sweet, tender meat is a coastal favorite.
Where to Try: Hạ Long Market ($20–$40 or 500,000–1,000,000 VND per kg) or cruises like Dragon Legend ($20–$30 or 500,000–750,000 VND per dish).
Sustainability: Sourced from local fishermen using low-impact methods.
Tip: Try tamarind crab for a tangy twist, included in our Halong Bay Heritage Cruise ($100–$150).
Halong Bay’s diverse snails—nail snails, mud snails, and horn snails—are grilled, steamed, or stir-fried with lemongrass, offering chewy, flavorful bites.
Where to Try: Cai Rong Night Market, Van Don ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND per serving) or local eateries in Cam Pha ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).
Sustainability: Harvested sustainably from rocky shores, supporting small-scale fishers.
Tip: Pair with chili salt dip, included in our Halong Bay Discovery Tour ($90–$130).
Fresh oysters are grilled with scallions, baked with cheese, or served raw with lime, showcasing their briny, creamy texture.
Where to Try: Hạ Long Market ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND per piece) or cruises like Swan Cruises ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND, included in meals).
Sustainability: Cultivated in local oyster farms, reducing wild harvesting pressure.
Tip: Enjoy grilled oysters for a smoky flavor, included in our Halong Bay Eco-Cruise ($95–$140).
Surf clams are steamed with lemongrass or stir-fried with black pepper, offering a sweet, tender taste. They’re a staple in coastal soups like clam spinach soup.
Where to Try: Local restaurants in Bãi Cháy ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND per dish) or onboard cruises ($10–$15 or 250,000–375,000 VND, included in meals).
Sustainability: Farmed locally, ensuring sustainable supply.
Tip: Try in a light broth, included in our Halong Bay Foodie Cruise ($85–$120).
Halong’s shrimp, from rock shrimp to tiger prawns, are grilled, steamed, or boiled, delivering sweet, succulent meat.
Where to Try: Tuan Chau Marina restaurants ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND per dish) or luxury cruises like Essence Grand ($15–$30 or 375,000–750,000 VND, included in meals).
Sustainability: Sourced from regulated fisheries, supporting coastal communities.
Tip: Opt for salt-roasted shrimp, included in our Halong Bay Luxury Tour ($250–$400).
A premium delicacy, geoduck is served raw as sashimi or stir-fried with vegetables, known for its crisp texture and mild sweetness.
Where to Try: Upscale Cam Pha restaurants ($20–$40 or 500,000–1,000,000 VND per dish) or luxury cruises ($25–$50 or 625,000–1,250,000 VND, included in meals).
Sustainability: Harvested responsibly to protect marine habitats.
Tip: Try sashimi with wasabi, included in our Halong Bay Luxury Tour ($250–$400).
Hạ Long Market: A bustling hub for fresh seafood like oysters and crabs ($1–$40 or 25,000–1,000,000 VND). Accessible by taxi from Hon Gai Port ($5–$8 or 125,000–200,000 VND round-trip).
Cai Rong Night Market (Van Don): Offers grilled snails and squid ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND), 40 km from Halong Bay (shuttle bus $10–$15 or 250,000–375,000 VND round-trip).
Vung Vieng Fishing Village: Floating restaurants serve peanut worms and shrimp ($15–$30 or 375,000–750,000 VND), reached via bamboo boat tours ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).
Bãi Cháy Restaurants: Coastal eateries offer surf clams and oysters ($3–$15 or 75,000–375,000 VND), 10 km from Hon Gai Port (taxi $5–$8 or 125,000–200,000 VND round-trip).
Eco-Cruises: Operators like Indochina Junk serve seafood feasts ($80–$200 or 2,000,000–5,000,000 VND for 2D1N, meals included), sourced from local fishers.
Tip: Dine on an eco-cruise for curated, sustainable seafood meals, included in our Halong Bay Foodie Cruise ($85–$120).
Start your Halong Bay Travel with serene vistas (Source: Source: Internet)Below are approximate costs for a sustainable seafood experience in Halong Bay:
Seafood Dishes:
Market Stalls (Hạ Long, Cai Rong): $1–$6 (25,000–150,000 VND) for oysters, snails, or squid.
Restaurants (Bãi Cháy, Vung Vieng): $3–$30 (75,000–750,000 VND) for clams, shrimp, or peanut worms.
Eco-Cruise Menus: Included in cruise packages ($80–$200 or 2,000,000–5,000,000 VND for 2D1N; $120–$350 or 3,000,000–8,750,000 VND for 3D2N). Premium dishes like geoduck cost $25–$50 (625,000–1,250,000 VND).
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 Hạ Long Market): $5–$8 (125,000–200,000 VND) round-trip.
Seaplane: $400 (10,000,000 VND) one-way.
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:
Bamboo Boat Tour (Vung Vieng): $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Cooking Class (Seafood Dishes): $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).
Market Tours: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Drinks:
Bottled Water/Coconut Juice: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).
Local Beer: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 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: Choose an all-inclusive cruise with seafood dining to simplify costs, included in our Halong Bay Eco-Tour ($95–$140).
To ensure a comfortable and eco-friendly culinary experience, pack thoughtfully based on the season and activities:
Clothing:
Spring/Autumn (March–May, September–November): Lightweight, breathable clothing (t-shirts, shorts, long pants for cultural sites), a light jacket for cooler evenings, and comfortable shoes for market visits.
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 market trips.
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 plastic waste at markets.
Dining Gear: Reusable straw or utensils for street food to reduce waste; a small container for seafood leftovers ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND).
Cultural Respect: Modest clothing (long pants, covered shoulders) for visiting fishing villages like Vung Vieng.
Miscellaneous: Camera or smartphone for food photography, power bank, and offline maps (Maps.me) for navigating markets.
Tip: Pack light to reduce your environmental footprint, included in our Halong Bay Foodie Cruise ($85–$120).
Book Early: Reserve eco-tours via Legend Travel Group 1–2 months in advance for peak seasons (March–May, September–November) to secure festival-specific cruises or culinary tours.
Sustainability: Choose seafood from local fisheries or eco-cruises to support sustainable practices; avoid single-use plastics at markets to align with Quang Ninh’s green goals.
Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me) for Halong Region, Hạ Long Market, and Cai Rong; save Hạ Long Market as a landmark for culinary stops.
Safety: Ensure seafood is fresh to avoid foodborne issues; wash hands before eating street food. Carry hand sanitizer ($1 or 25,000 VND).
Cultural Respect: Dress modestly at village restaurants (long pants, covered shoulders); say “cảm ơn” (thank you) to vendors.
Health: Stay hydrated with bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); avoid tap water with street food.
Begin your Halong Bay Tours with a scenic adventure (Source: Source: Internet)Our sustainable tours offer curated culinary experiences in Halong Bay, emphasizing fresh seafood and local heritage:
Halong Bay Foodie Cruise (2D1N, $85–$120/person): Seafood tasting with peanut worms and sea crabs, cooking class, and Cai Rong Night Market visit with shuttle bus transfers. Includes eco-transfers, meals, and guide.
Halong Bay Explorer (2D1N, $95–$140/person): Overnight cruise to Vung Vieng Fishing Village, Thien Canh Son Cave, and oyster feast with kayaking. Includes guide, meals, and eco-transfers.
Halong Bay Immersion (3D2N, $150–$300/person): Two-night cruise to Ba Mun Island, Minh Chau Beach, and shrimp tasting at Hạ Long Market. Includes guide, meals, and eco-transfers.
Halong Bay Heritage Cruise (2D1N, $100–$150/person): Vung Vieng Fishing Village, grilled snail dining, and Cua Ong Temple visit with private car transfers. Includes lunch and guide.
Halong Bay Discovery (2D1N, $90–$130/person): Hạ Long Market seafood tour, Quan Lan Island cycling, and Tuan Chau cultural shows. Includes snacks and guide.
Halong Bay Luxury Tour (3D2N, $250–$400/person): Seaplane transfer, luxury cruise with geoduck sashimi, 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!
Halong Bay’s seafood, from succulent peanut worms (sá sùng) to briny oysters, is a culinary highlight of this UNESCO World Heritage Site in Quang Ninh Province, offering a taste of the Gulf of Tonkin’s bounty, located 160–200 km from Hanoi. Whether dining at Hạ Long Market’s vibrant stalls, Vung Vieng’s floating restaurants, or onboard eco-cruises, dishes like grilled squid and seafood hotpot reflect Halong’s rich coastal heritage. Legend Travel Group’s Halong Bay Tours feature curated seafood experiences, blending eco-conscious practices like locally sourced ingredients and low-emission boats with visits to cultural sites like Sung Sot Cave, ensuring a sustainable Halong Bay Travel adventure. Don’t wait—browse our eco-tours and book your culinary journey today!
Ready to savor Halong Bay’s fresh seafood delights? Reserve your eco-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:
Halong Bay Culinary Information: vietnam.travel, halongbaytours.com, vietnamtourism.org.vn, localvietnam.com
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