1. Where is Halong Bay Night Market?
Halong Bay Night Market, commonly known as Bai Chay Quang Ninh Night Market, is located on Hoang Quoc Viet Street, Hung Thang Ward, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh Province. Halong Bay Night Market has an area of 5,000 square meters with 335 large and small stalls, selling all kinds of goods, from souvenirs, cuisine, clothing to Ha Long specialties.
This market is located in the Bai Chay tourist area, convenient for tourists staying near Ha Long Bay. The market is not only a place to shop and enjoy local cuisine but also a lively space, reflecting the cultural life of the city after sunset.
In terms of timing, the Halong Bay Night Market is open from around 6.00 PM to 11.00 PM, with some vendors starting as early as 5.00 PM, especially on weekends.
While Halong Bay Night Market is generally open every evening, the busiest and most colorful atmosphere is usually from Friday to Sunday, when more stalls and food vendors gather to serve both locals and travelers.
2. What things to buy in Halong Bay Night Market?
Halong Bay Night Market is a shopper’s paradise, with a wide range of goods that reflect the coastal spirit of Ha Long Bay as well as authentic Vietnamese culture. From pearls to dried seafood, the goods here are diverse and suitable for all budgets. Here are some must-buys2.1. Pearl Jewelry
Pearls are one of the most iconic souvenirs in Ha Long, a region famous for its pearl farming. At Halong Bay Night Market, you will find pearl necklaces, earrings and bracelets, from affordable pieces to more high-end collections.
If you decide to buy, remember to check the authenticity of the pearls, real pearls will be slightly rough when rubbed against your teeth, cool to the touch at first and rarely have a perfect round shape.
For high-value items, always ask for a certificate of authenticity or warranty card and consider buying from reputable pearl shops rather than just souvenir stalls.
2.2. Dried Seafood & Local Specialties
Dried seafood is one of the highlights of Ha Long Market, with popular choices including dried squid, shredded squid, dried fish, shrimp floss, and tamarind squid. These make great gifts because they are light and easy to pack.
To ensure quality, check the label for production date, packaging type, and vacuum packing options, especially if you are planning to take them abroad. Note that some countries have strict customs regulations on meat or seafood products, so always check import regulations before bringing large quantities.
2.3. Shell & Sea-Inspired Handicrafts
Stalls are filled with shell and seashell handicrafts, from wind chimes and keychains to photo frames and jewelry. These affordable, sea-inspired gifts are great for friends and family. For more unique souvenirs, look for stalls that sell handmade or artisan-crafted pieces, rather than mass-produced ones.
2.4. Textiles & Clothing
The Halong Bay Night Market also sells a wide variety of embroidered scarves, Ha Long-patterned T-shirts, brocade bags, and even traditional costumes. While many of the items are cheap souvenirs, there are also shops that specialize in selling better quality silk or brocade textiles.
2.5. Small Souvenirs
A popular choice for tourists, the souvenir section at Halong Bay Night Market offers a wide variety of affordable keepsakes such as keychains, fridge magnets, postcards, traditional paper fans, and T-shirts printed with Ha Long Bay images.
Many vendors also provide custom engraving services, allowing you to personalize items for a more meaningful gift. These budget-friendly souvenirs are perfect for travelers who want to bring home small mementos without spending much.
3. Must -Try Dishes at Halong Bay Night Market
Halong Bay Night Market is not only a shopping paradise but also a culinary paradise for food lovers, bringing the authentic taste of Northern cuisine. The food stalls are always bustling, filled with the aroma of fresh grilled seafood and traditional Vietnamese street food. Exploring the Ha Long night market gives you the opportunity to experience Ha Long’s culinary culture, from local specialties to classic snacks loved by many generations.3.1. Fresh Seafood
Seafood is definitely the highlight of Halong Bay Night Market, thanks to its prime location right next to Ha Long Bay. Visitors can enjoy fresh dishes prepared on the spot, such as grilled clams with scallion oil, salt and chili prawns, steamed crabs and grilled squid skewers.
Each dish is seasoned with local spices, which enhances the natural sweetness of the seafood. Many stalls serve fresh, hot seafood, the perfect choice after a long evening of market walking.
3.2. Banh Cuon Cha Muc (Steamed Rice Rolls with Grilled Squid Patties)
This dish is a must-try because it combines two Vietnamese favorites: soft, banh cuon (steamed rice rolls) and Ha Long’s signature cha muc (grilled squid patties). The squid patties are made from freshly caught squid, pounded by hand for the perfect chewy texture, and then grilled to perfection. When paired with rice rolls and a tangy dipping sauce, this dish captures the true essence of Ha Long cuisine.
3.3. Banh Gat Gu (Nodding Cake)
Also known as “nodding cake” because of the way it bends when served, banh gat gu is a specialty of Quang Ninh Province. Made from steamed rice flour, the soft and chewy cakes are rolled and typically served with braised pork belly and a savory fish sauce. The dish has a unique texture and flavor.
3.4. Ha Long Pearl Yogurt
Made from tapioca pearls, Ha Long pearl yogurt, a delicate delicacy, brings a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Although it has been present in many cities, the original flavor and texture of Ha Long pearl yogurt is always unique, making it a must-try dish for any tourist coming to this coastal area.