Ultimate 2025 Month-by-Month Guide to Halong Bay: Weather, Prices, and Activities

Respecting Hue’s Vibrant Marketplace

Cultural etiquette ensures immersive, respectful visits to this bustling market. Here’s your guide, based on current norms as of 2025:

• Greetings: Offer “xin chào” (hello) or a nod to vendors; use both hands when exchanging money or goods to show respect.

• Dress: Wear modest, comfortable clothing suitable for a busy market; a lightweight scarf ($3 or 75,000 VND) aligns with local norms.

• Behavior: Bargain politely with a smile; avoid raising your voice or pushing through crowds; photography is allowed but ask vendors’ permission first. A guest shared: “Bargaining at Dong Ba Market was fun when we smiled and respected the vendors’ efforts.”

• Customs: No entry fee; expect to spend $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND) on food or souvenirs; keep small VND notes for transactions. Follow market etiquette to support local vendors.

• Tip: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you) after purchases; avoid littering to support Hue’s eco-initiatives. Tony Bùi notes: “In 20 years guiding, I’ve seen Dong Ba’s vibrant energy captivate visitors who engage respectfully with locals.”

General Tips:

• Language: Carry a phrase card ($2 or 50,000 VND) for Vietnamese basics like “bao nhiêu” (how much); Google Translate assists with communication.

• Respect: Avoid blocking stalls or walkways; respect vendors’ space and goods.

• Navigation: Expect 1-2 hours for a full visit; download offline maps (Maps.me) with “Dong Ba Market, Thua Thien Hue” for easy access.

• Eco-Tip: Use reusable totes ($3 or 75,000 VND) to reduce plastic waste, aligning with Hue’s green tourism goals post-2025 reform.

Note: Etiquette reflects current norms; verify updates via hueworldheritage.org.vn.

Halong Bay’s allure lies in its natural splendor and diverse offerings:

• Iconic Scenery: Explore Sung Sot Cave, Titop Island, and floating villages like Cua Van.

• Cruise Options: From budget junks to luxury liners like Doria Cruise (launched January 2025), there’s a cruise for every traveler.

• Eco-Tourism: Sustainable cruises by operators like Indochina Junk prioritize green practices.

• Cultural Events: Enjoy the Halong Carnival (April) or Lunar New Year (January/February).

With 4.4 million visitors in 2019 and growing international interest, 2025 promises vibrant experiences, but weather and crowds vary by month.

Halong Bay’s tropical monsoon climate features four seasons: cool spring (March–May), hot summer (June–August), mild autumn (September–November), and dry winter (December–February). Below, we detail weather, crowd levels, cruise prices, and activities for each month, updated for 2025.

 

January: Misty and Festive

Weather: Cold (13–20°C), 60–70% humidity, low rainfall (~50mm), foggy mornings. Crowds: High during Lunar New Year (January 29–February 2, 2025), otherwise low. Cruise Prices:

• Day cruise: VND 800,000–1,800,000 (~$32–72).

• 2D1N cruise: VND 2,800,000–8,000,000 (~$112–320).

• Holiday surcharges apply during Tet. Pros: Quiet outside Tet, mystical fog enhances karst views, budget-friendly except holidays.
  Cons: Chilly, limited swimming, foggy visibility.
  Activities:

• Visit Thien Cung Cave for stalactites.

• Join Tet celebrations with dragon dances and fireworks.

• Take a seaplane tour for aerial views (~VND 5,500,000, ~$220). Tip: Book early for Tet; pack warm layers and waterproof jackets.

 

February: Cool and Cultural

Weather: Warming (15–21°C), 65–70% humidity, 22–300mm rainfall, foggy mornings. Crowds: Moderate, quieter post-Tet.
Cruise Prices:

• Day cruise: VND 700,000–1,600,000 (~$28–64).

• 2D1N cruise: VND 2,500,000–7,500,000 (~$100–300). Pros: Pleasant for sightseeing, fewer crowds, Tet afterglow.
  Cons: Fog, drizzle, cold water limits swimming.
  Activities:

• Kayak in Bai Tu Long Bay for solitude.

• Visit Yen Tu Festival (March 10–May, lunar calendar) for spiritual vibes.

• Cycle on Cat Ba Island’s coastal paths. Tip: Bring light sweaters; check festival schedules.

 

March: Spring Awakening

Weather: Warm (18–34°C), 75% humidity, 255mm rainfall, sunny mid-month. Crowds: Moderate, start of peak season.
Cruise Prices:

• Day cruise: VND 800,000–1,800,000 (~$32–72).

• 2D1N cruise: VND 3,000,000–8,500,000 (~$120–340). Pros: Ideal for cruising, kayaking, and hiking; vibrant greenery.
  Cons: Occasional monsoons, rising crowds.
  Activities:

• Explore Sung Sot Cave and Dau Go Cave.

• Attend Yen Tu Festival for cultural immersion.

• Kayak in Lan Ha Bay’s calm waters. Tip: Book 1–2 months ahead; pack sunscreen and hats.

 

April: Peak Spring Splendor

Weather: Warm (20–27°C), 75% humidity, 275mm rainfall, mostly sunny. Crowds: High, peak season with Halong Carnival.
Cruise Prices:

• Day cruise: VND 900,000–2,000,000 (~$36–80).

• 2D1N cruise: VND 3,500,000–9,000,000 (~$140–360).

• Luxury cruises (e.g., Calista Cruise, launched April 2025): VND 10,000,000+ (~$400+). Pros: Perfect for swimming, kayaking, and festivals; clear skies.
  Cons: Crowded, higher prices, April 30 holiday surge. Activities:

• Swim at Soi Sim Beach.

• Join Halong Carnival (late April) for parades and fireworks.

• Take a bamboo boat to Luon Cave. Tip: Reserve 2–3 months early; avoid April 30 if crowds bother you.

 

May: Summer Begins

Weather: Hot (24–32°C), 75–80% humidity, rising rainfall (~300mm). Crowds: High, domestic tourist season starts.
Cruise Prices:

• Day cruise: VND 700,000–1,600,000 (~$28–64, 10–20% off peak).

• 2D1N cruise: VND 2,500,000–7,500,000 (~$100–300). Pros: Warm seas for swimming, cruise discounts.
  Cons: Tropical depressions, jellyfish risks. Activities:

• Snorkel in Cong Do area.

• Visit Pearl Farm Village.

• Enjoy Halong Tourism Week deals. Tip: Check weather forecasts; bring insect repellent.

 

June: Summer Heat

Weather: Sweltering (25–35°C), 77% humidity, high rainfall (~179mm). Crowds: High, domestic peak.
Cruise Prices:

• Day cruise: VND 700,000–1,600,000 (~$28–64).

• 2D1N cruise: VND 2,500,000–7,500,000 (~$100–300, up to 40% off). Pros: Sea breezes, vibrant scenery, budget deals.
  Cons: Heavy rains, storm risks.
  Activities:

• Kayak in Ba Hang Fishing Village.

• Explore Hospital Cave for history.

• Take a seaplane tour on sunny days. Tip: Book flexible cruises; pack raincoats.

 

July: Hot and Stormy

Weather: Very hot (28–35°C), 75–85% humidity, 1,200mm rainfall, stormy. Crowds: High, domestic peak.
Cruise Prices:

• Day cruise: VND 700,000–1,600,000 (~$28–64).

• 2D1N cruise: VND 2,500,000–7,500,000 (~$100–300). Pros: Warm seas for snorkeling, fewer international tourists.
  Cons: High storm risk, itinerary disruptions.
  Activities:

• Visit Me Cung Cave.

• Enjoy spa cruises (e.g., Majesty Prime, launched 2025).

• Shop at Cat Ba Market. Tip: Monitor weather; choose operators with refund policies.

 

August: Summer’s End

Weather: Hot (28–35°C), 75–85% humidity, 1,000mm rainfall, frequent showers. Crowds: Moderate, domestic crowds ease.
Cruise Prices:

• Day cruise: VND 700,000–1,600,000 (~$28–64).

• 2D1N cruise: VND 2,500,000–7,500,000 (~$100–300). Pros: Gentle rains, pleasant cruising, budget deals.
  Cons: Rainy days, storm risks.
  Activities:

• Kayak in Dark and Bright Cave.

• Visit Cannon Fort on Cat Ba.

• Join photography tours for misty karsts. Tip: Pack light raincoats; book cruises with flexible cancellations.

 

September: Autumn Transition

Weather: Mild (20–30°C), 75% humidity, decreasing rainfall (~800mm). Crowds: Moderate, international tourists return.
Cruise Prices:

• Day cruise: VND 800,000–1,800,000 (~$32–72).

• 2D1N cruise: VND 3,000,000–8,500,000 (~$120–340). Pros: Cooler, ideal for outdoor activities, fewer storms.
  Cons: Occasional rains, September 2 (National Day) crowds. Activities:

• Hike Titop Island for panoramic views.

• Explore Bo Nau Cave.

• Join squid fishing at night. Tip: Avoid September 2; bring umbrellas.

 

October: Autumn Bliss

Weather: Cool (20–28°C), 72% humidity, 600mm rainfall, clear skies. Crowds: High, peak season.
Cruise Prices:

• Day cruise: VND 900,000–2,000,000 (~$36–80).

• 2D1N cruise: VND 3,500,000–9,000,000 (~$140–360). Pros: Perfect for cruising, kayaking, hiking; vibrant scenery.
  Cons: Crowded, higher prices.
  Activities:

• Kayak in Cong Dam Lagoon.

• Visit Vung Vieng Floating Village.

• Take a luxury cruise with yoga (e.g., Doria Cruise). Tip: Book 2–3 months early; pack light layers.

 

November: Cool and Serene

Weather: Cool (15–23°C), 70% humidity, low rainfall, occasional monsoons. Crowds: High early-month, quieter late-month.
Cruise Prices:

• Day cruise: VND 800,000–1,800,000 (~$32–72).

• 2D1N cruise: VND 3,000,000–8,500,000 (~$120–340). Pros: Ideal for sightseeing, fewer crowds late-month, Halong Bay Heritage Marathon (November). Cons: Chilly nights, monsoon risks.
  Activities:

• Explore Trinh Nu Cave.

• Join the Heritage Marathon.

• Cycle on Cat Ba’s coastal paths. Tip: Pack jackets; book marathon spots early.

 

December: Winter Magic

Weather: Cold (17–22°C), 70% humidity, ~60mm rainfall, short daylight (7 AM–5 PM). Crowds: High during Christmas/New Year, otherwise low.
Cruise Prices:

• Day cruise: VND 800,000–1,800,000 (~$32–72).

• 2D1N cruise: VND 3,000,000–8,500,000 (~$120–340, holiday surcharges apply). Pros: Mystical fog, budget-friendly outside holidays, festive events.
  Cons: Cold, no swimming, holiday crowds.
  Activities:

• Visit Hang Trong Cave.

• Enjoy Christmas/New Year gala dinners on cruises.

• Explore Cat Ba’s Monkey Island. Tip: Book festive cruises 3 months ahead; pack warm clothes.

• Best Weather: March–April, September–October (mild, sunny, 20–28°C).

• Best for Budget: May–August (10–40% cruise discounts, VND 2,500,000–7,500,000 for 2D1N).

• Best for Festivals: April (Halong Carnival), January/February (Tet), November (Heritage Marathon).

• Best for Families: March–May, September–October (pleasant weather, kid-friendly activities).

Halong Bay is 170km from Hanoi (~2.5–4 hours). Updated 2025 transport options:

• Private Car/Taxi: ~VND 1,500,000–2,000,000 (~$60–80) round trip.

• Shuttle Bus: ~VND 250,000 (~$10) from Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

• Seaplane: 45-minute flight, ~VND 5,500,000 (~$220) one-way via Hai Au Aviation.

• From Cat Ba: 1-hour ferry to Tuan Chau Marina, ~VND 120,000 (~$5).

Updated 2025 prices (based on 2024 data, adjusted for inflation and new launches):

Item	Cost (VND)	Cost (USD)
Day Cruise (4–6 hours)	800,000–2,000,000	$32–80
2D1N Cruise (Standard)	2,500,000–9,000,000	$100–360
2D1N Cruise (Luxury)	10,000,000–20,000,000	$400–800
Kayaking (Per Person)	250,000	$10
Cave Entry (Sung Sot)	60,000	$2.40
Seaplane (One-Way)	5,500,000	$220

Note: Prices vary by operator (e.g., Bhaya Cruises, Indochina Junk). Holiday surcharges (Tet, Christmas) may add 10–20%. Book via trusted platforms like Halong Bay Cruises for deals.

Day 1:

• 8:00 AM: Depart Hanoi.

• 12:00 PM: Board a cruise at Tuan Chau Marina; enjoy seafood lunch.

• 2:00 PM: Kayak in Luon Cave; swim at Soi Sim Beach.

• 6:00 PM: Sunset cocktails, squid fishing.

• 8:00 PM: Dinner and overnight on cruise.

Day 2:

• 6:00 AM: Sunrise tai chi.

• 8:00 AM: Visit Sung Sot Cave.

• 10:00 AM: Hike Titop Island for views.

• 12:00 PM: Brunch; return to Hanoi (~4:00 PM).

• Monitor Weather: Check AccuWeather 3–5 days before, especially June–August.

• Pack Smart: Summer: swimsuits, sunscreen, hats; winter: jackets, sweaters.

• Book Early: Reserve cruises 2–3 months for peak months (April, October); 1 month for off-peak.

• Choose Sustainable Cruises: Operators like Indochina Junk prioritize eco-friendly practices.

• Avoid Storms: Flexible bookings are key for July–August.

• Respect Nature: Follow UNESCO guidelines to preserve Halong Bay.

1. What’s the best month to visit Halong Bay in 2025?
   March, April, September, and October offer mild weather (20–28°C) and clear skies.

1. How much is a Halong Bay cruise in 2025?
   Day cruises start at VND 800,000 (~$32); 2D1N cruises range from VND 2,500,000–20,000,000 (~$100–800).

2. Are cruises safe during rainy months?
   Yes, with reputable operators (e.g., Bhaya Cruises) and weather monitoring; cancellations are managed by the Halong Bay Management Board.

3. What activities are available in Halong Bay?
   Kayaking, cave exploration, swimming, squid fishing, and seaplane tours.

Halong Bay in 2026, a magical blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and modern cruise experiences, offers an unforgettable escape with limestone karsts, emerald waters, and serene caves. This updated guide helps you pick the perfect month (autumn for misty views or spring for vibrant blooms), budget ($50–$500/night for cruises), and activities (kayaking, cave explorations, or Tai Chi on deck) for your adventure. Book with trusted operators like Bhaya Cruises or Indochina Junk for a seamless journey. Legend Travel Group’s Halong Bay Tours ensure a sustainable Halong Bay Travel experience, blending eco-friendly cruises with cultural immersion. Don’t miss out—start planning your Halong Bay escape today and book with Legend Travel Group for a responsible, unforgettable coastal voyage!
Ready to sail through Halong Bay’s majestic karsts in 2026? Reserve your eco-friendly cruise with Legend Travel Group and embark on a timeless coastal adventure!

Author Bio: 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.