Explore Halong Bay’s top destinations, from Bai Tu Long to Co To Island, with our guide on activities, costs, and sustainable eco-tours. Book with Legend Travel Group for an unforgettable adventure!
Photograph the coastal allure of Quang Ninh’s paradiseHalong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Halong Region, Vietnam, is a mesmerizing seascape of over 1,600 limestone karsts, emerald waters, and pristine beaches, making it a global tourism icon. Beyond its iconic bay, Halong Region encompasses a network of stunning destinations, including the serene Bai Tu Long Bay, unspoiled Co To Island, and spiritual Yen Tu Mountain. With a 250-km coastline and over 600 historical-cultural relics, the region blends natural beauty with Vietnam’s rich Dai Viet heritage. Following Vietnam’s administrative restructuring, Ha Long City has transitioned into Halong Region, reinforcing its prominence while prioritizing sustainability. Aligned with Quang Ninh’s “Green Tourism” initiative, Halong Bay promotes eco-friendly exploration through regulated cruises, community-supported tourism, and sustainable resorts. Legend Travel Group’s eco-tours provide an authentic, responsible way to discover Halong Bay’s top destinations—book your adventure via the links throughout this guide!
Legend Travel Group, a premier local tour operator, crafts 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 heritage. Supporting communities in Halong Region, Van Don, and Cam Pha, 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 Bai Tu Long Bay, Co To Island, Van Don, Mong Cai’s Tra Co Beach, and Yen Tu Mountain. Supported by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric ferries, and a VND1.7 trillion coastal preservation project—Halong Region facilitates eco-conscious exploration across its 2,000+ islands and cultural landmarks.
Experience Quang Ninh Tours with sustainable adventures (Source: Internet)Below are the most captivating destinations in Halong Region, with activities, costs, and sustainable travel tips to enhance your eco-friendly journey:
A UNESCO masterpiece with over 1,600 karsts, caves like Sung Sot ($5 or 125,000 VND entry), and islets like Chó Đá. Its emerald waters and dramatic limestone peaks draw millions annually.
Activities: Eco-cruising ($80–$200 or 2,000,000–5,000,000 VND for 2D1N), kayaking ($10–$25 or 250,000–625,000 VND), squid fishing (included in cruises), and visiting Thien Cung Cave ($5 or 125,000 VND entry).
Cost: Cruises $80–$200 (2,000,000–5,000,000 VND) for 2D1N; $120–$350 (3,000,000–8,750,000 VND) for 3D2N, including meals and transfers.
Sustainability: Choose electric boat cruises like Indochina Junk to reduce emissions.
Tip: Opt for a 3D2N cruise for a comprehensive experience, included in our Halong Bay Immersion ($150–$300).
A quieter, less touristy extension of Halong Bay, featuring pristine beaches like Minh Chau and cultural gems like Vung Vieng Fishing Village. Its unspoiled charm is ideal for eco-conscious travelers.
Activities: Bamboo boat tours at Vung Vieng ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND), kayaking at Cong Dam ($10–$25 or 250,000–625,000 VND), and exploring Thien Canh Son Cave ($5 or 125,000 VND entry).
Cost: Cruises $80–$200 (2,000,000–5,000,000 VND) for 2D1N, slightly higher due to exclusivity.
Sustainability: Less crowded waters preserve marine ecosystems; support local rowers at Vung Vieng.
Tip: Visit via a 2D1N cruise for serenity, included in our Halong Bay Explorer ($95–$140).
A remote paradise with unspoiled Hong Van and Van Chay beaches, Co To offers tranquil shores and cultural sites like Co To Lighthouse (free entry).
Activities: Beach relaxation (free), snorkeling ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND), cycling to Cua Ong Temple ($5–$10/day or 125,000–250,000 VND), and swimming at pristine beaches.
Cost: Ferry from Cai Rong Port ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND one-way); homestays $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND), budget hotels $15–$30/night (375,000–750,000 VND).
Sustainability: Low-impact tourism preserves Co To’s pristine environment.
Tip: Plan a 3D2N trip for a full island experience, included in our Halong Bay Island Explorer ($150–$300).
A coastal gem in Van Don, Quan Lan Island boasts white-sand beaches like Quan Lan and Minh Chau, plus historical sites like the Quan Lan Communal House (free entry).
Activities: Swimming (free), cycling coastal paths ($5–$10/day or 125,000–250,000 VND), and visiting Cai Bau Pagoda (free entry).
Cost: Ferry from Cai Rong Port ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND one-way); homestays $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND), resorts $30–$80/night (750,000–2,000,000 VND).
Sustainability: Eco-resorts and local vendors minimize environmental impact.
Tip: Visit in spring for calm beaches, included in our Halong Bay Discovery Tour ($90–$130).
A spiritual hub and special national monument, Yen Tu is famed for its Truc Lam Zen Monastery and pagodas nestled in bamboo forests, attracting 2 million pilgrims annually.
Activities: Hiking to pagodas (free entry, guided tours $10–$15 or 250,000–375,000 VND), cable car rides ($10–$15 or 250,000–375,000 VND round-trip), and meditating at the monastery.
Cost: Bus from Halong Region to Yen Tu ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND one-way); homestays $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND).
Sustainability: Eco-friendly trails and local guides preserve Yen Tu’s sacred environment.
Tip: Visit during the Yen Tu Spring Festival (January–March) for cultural immersion, included in our Halong Bay Heritage Cruise ($100–$150).
Vietnam’s northernmost beach, Tra Co in Mong Cai, stretches 17 km with white sands and cultural sites like Tra Co Communal House and Sa Vi Temple (free entry).
Activities: Beach walks (free), exploring Mong Cai’s border market ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND for guided tours), and visiting local temples.
Cost: Bus from Halong Region to Mong Cai ($10–$15 or 250,000–375,000 VND one-way); homestays $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND).
Sustainability: Support local fishers and artisans at Mong Cai markets to sustain cultural traditions.
Tip: Visit in autumn for mild weather, included in our Halong Bay Cultural Journey ($90–$130).
To ensure a comfortable and eco-friendly visit, 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 water shoes for kayaking.
Summer (June–August): Swimsuits, quick-dry 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 or Yen Tu hikes.
Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND), sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat.
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.
Activity Gear:
Kayaking/Photography: Dry bag for electronics, quick-dry towel, and a camera with a waterproof case ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).
Hiking/Cycling: Backpack, insect repellent ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND), and a small first-aid kit for Yen Tu or Van Don trails.
Cultural Respect: Modest clothing (long pants, covered shoulders) for Yen Tu, Cua Ong Temple, or Tra Co Communal House visits.
Miscellaneous: Power bank, offline maps (Maps.me) for navigating Halong Region, and travel medications.
Tip: Pack light to reduce your environmental footprint, included in our Halong Bay Eco-Tour ($95–$140).
Begin your Quang Ninh Tours with a scenic adventure (Source: Internet)Below are approximate costs for a sustainable trip to Halong Bay’s top destinations:
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.
Seaplane (Hanoi to Tuan Chau): $400 (10,000,000 VND) one-way.
Eco-Cruise with Transfers: $80–$200 (2,000,000–5,000,000 VND) for 2D1N; $120–$350 (3,000,000–8,750,000 VND) for 3D2N.
Ferry to Co To/Quan Lan: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND) one-way.
Bus to Mong Cai (Tra Co)/Yen Tu: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND) one-way.
Accommodation:
Homestays (Van Don, Co To, Mong Cai): $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND).
Budget Hotels: $15–$30/night (375,000–750,000 VND).
Mid-Range Hotels/Resorts: $30–$80/night (750,000–2,000,000 VND).
Activities:
Kayaking: $10–$25 (250,000–625,000 VND).
Bamboo Boat Tour: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Cave Entry (e.g., Sung Sot): $5 (125,000 VND).
Yen Tu Cable Car: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND) round-trip.
Cooking Class: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).
Bicycle Rental: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND).
Food and Drinks:
Street Food (e.g., Bánh Mì Mỏ, Grilled Squid): $0.50–$6 (12,500–150,000 VND).
Restaurant Meals: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).
Bottled Water/Coconut Juice: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).
Total Daily Budget (per person, excluding cruise):
Budget Traveler: $25–$40 (625,000–1,000,000 VND).
Mid-Range Traveler: $50–$100 (1,250,000–2,500,000 VND).
Luxury Traveler: $150–$400 (3,750,000–10,000,000 VND).
Tip: Opt for an all-inclusive cruise to simplify costs, included in our Halong Bay Eco-Tour ($95–$140).
Capture the sustainable charm of Quang Ninh’s ecotourism (Source: Internet)Book Early: Reserve eco-tours via Legend Travel Group 1–2 months in advance for peak seasons (March–May, September–November) or festive periods like Mid-Autumn Festival to secure sustainable cruises.
Sustainability: Choose operators with eco-certifications (e.g., Indochina Junk); support local vendors at Cai Rong Market to align with Quang Ninh’s green goals.
Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me) for Halong Region, Van Don, and Mong Cai; save Hon Gai Port as a landmark for cruise departures.
Safety: Secure valuables on cruises; wear life jackets while kayaking; check summer forecasts for typhoons (June–August).
Cultural Respect: Dress modestly for Yen Tu or Tra Co Communal House (long pants, covered shoulders); say “cảm ơn” (thank you).
Health: Stay hydrated with bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); apply mosquito repellent ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) for outdoor activities.
Our sustainable tours showcase Halong Bay’s top destinations, tailored to the region’s climate and culture:
Halong Bay Explorer (2D1N, $95–$140/person): Overnight cruise to Halong Bay’s Sung Sot Cave, Vung Vieng Fishing Village, and kayaking via electric boat. Includes guide, meals, and eco-transfers from Hanoi.
Halong Bay Immersion (3D2N, $150–$300/person): Two-night cruise to Bai Tu Long Bay, Co To Island, and Minh Chau Beach with bamboo boat tours. Includes guide, meals, and eco-transfers.
Halong Bay Foodie Cruise (2D1N, $85–$120/person): Seafood tasting, cooking class, and Cai Rong Night Market visit. Includes eco-transfers, meals, and guide.
Halong Bay Heritage Cruise (2D1N, $100–$150/person): Yen Tu Mountain, Tra Co Beach, and Vung Vieng Fishing Village via electric boat. Includes lunch and guide.
Halong Bay Discovery (2D1N, $90–$130/person): Quan Lan Island cycling, Tuan Chau cultural shows, and Hạ Long Market visit. Includes snacks and guide.
Halong Bay Luxury Tour (3D2N, $250–$400/person): Seaplane transfer, luxury cruise to Ba Trái Đào, and Co To Lighthouse visit. 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, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Quang Ninh Province, 160 km from Hanoi, captivates with its iconic limestone karsts, Bai Tu Long’s serene waters, Co To’s pristine beaches, Quan Lan’s tranquil shores, Yen Tu’s spiritual peaks, and Tra Co’s cultural sands, drawing over 7 million visitors yearly. This diverse tapestry of natural and cultural wonders, accessible via eco-cruises ($100–$550, 2,500,000–13,750,000 VND) and local ferries ($10–$20, 250,000–500,000 VND), is supported by sustainable practices like regulated fishing and eco-friendly pathways. Legend Travel Group’s Quang Ninh Tours ensure a responsible, immersive Quang Ninh Travel experience, guiding you through kayaking in Cong Do Area, hiking Yen Tu’s sacred trails, and exploring cultural sites like Vung Vieng Floating Village and Tra Co Border Market, with culinary delights like chả mực ($1–$3, 25,000–75,000 VND). Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to explore Halong Bay’s breathtaking destinations? Reserve your sustainable 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 Destinations Information: halongbaycruises.com, paradisevietnam.com, halongbayluxcruises.com, grandpioneers.com, indochina-junk.com, vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn
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