Halong Bay, a destination that needs no introduction, has spectacular scenery and an abundance of activities. While cruising through the bay is a must-do, there’s a wealth of experiences
beyond the cruise that await you in this mesmerizing corner of Vietnam. Join us as we explore some exciting things to do in Halong Bay beyong the cruise tour.
Best Things to Do in Halong Bay
1. Discover Marvelous Caves
When you reach Ha Long, you can visit the bay by boat or cruise and immerse yourself in the unique geological wonders of Halong Bay’s caves. These can be Surprise Cave, Thien Cung Cave, or Luon Cave. Apart from the caves in Ha Long Bay, you can explore caves in neighbouring area like Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay for a diverse cave experience.
If you prefer non touristic area, take a tender or speedy boat ride to Viet Hai fishing village. or you can delve into the daily lives of fishermen in Cua Van floating village, the largest and oldest floating village in Halong Bay. If time allows, try experience activities like cycling, trekking, boat paddling, and swimming in the charming Viet Hai fishing village.
3. Take a Seaplane Tour
This is not a popular option for some, but it’s highly recommended for adventure lovers. Imagine yourself soaring above
Halong Bay with Hai Au Aviation for a breathtaking seaplane experience. The tour is usually around 25-minute, offering stunning views of the bay’s beauty from low altitudes.
4. Go Kayaking
This option usually included if you book a cruise tours, but you can book kayaking alone without booking a cruise tour. There’s are a number of kayaking spots like Luon Cave, Vung Vieng Fishing Village, and Tung Sau Pearl Farm. Alternatively, you can opt for a bamboo boat rowed by locals for a leisurely experience. Best enjoyed from March to June and October to December.
5. Try Adventure Sports
For a more adventurous experience, try activities like rock climbing, kite surfing, water motor riding, and trekking through dense jungles. Ha Long Bay has a diverse landscape with many service providers willing to take you through every nook and cranny. They will definitely hype your trip up compared to the normal things to do in Halong Bay!
6. Explore Sun World Halong Park
Not far from Ha Long city center, there’s Sun World Halong Park, one of the most famous and beautiful things to do in Halong Bay. For a panoramic view of the city, take a ride on the famous Sun Wheel. And don’t forget to dive into the world-class amusement complex with attractions like Queen Cable Car & Mystic Mountain, Dragon Park, and Typhoon Water Park.
7. Tuan Chau Island
If you enjoy thrilling games, dolphin and seal performances, and water activities, you can play at King Kong Amusement Park on Tuan Chau Island. Or, if you prefer a chill night-out with some excitement, visit the Tuan Chau Water Music Show and enjoy a mesmerizing 40-minute with impressive performances shaped by water and fire.
8. Wander Around Halong Night Market
If you ask a local about what the best things to do in Halong Bay are, they will probably direct you to the Halong Night Market. Soak up the local atmosphere with a leisurely walk around the night market, featuring over 300 stalls offering everything from souvenirs to local dishes. Indulge in Halong’s fresh seafood, including specialties like “cha muc,” horseshoe crab, oyster, “ngan,” and exotic dishes like nodding cake and “sa sung.”
9. Visit Quang Ninh Museum
Located at the center of Quang Ninh Province, next to Ha Long Bay, the city centre has built the iconic Quang Ninh Library next to the Quang Ninh Museum. Here, visitors are expected to have the best experiences among all thing to do in Halong Bay:
- Explore the unique black exterior of Quang Ninh Museum, showcasing exhibitions of the sea, nature, artefacts, and the history of the coal mining industry.
- Experience the vivid exhibitions of Parody, Aquarium, Adventure, and animals at the 3D Funny Art Halong Museum inside Marine Plaza.
10. Check-in Bai Chay Bridge
If you are a sunset or sunrise lover, there’s a must-see spot for you – the Bai Chay Bridge. The bridge is considered the icon of Halong, with beautiful structures and colorful lights shine at night. If you stay in Ha Long city center, take a walk to Bai Chay Bridge for a mesmerizing experience. You can capture stunning photos of Bai Chay Bridge, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
11. Swim on Primitive Beaches
Even if you are on a cruise, don’t worry because this is your chance to visit the most beautiful beaches Halong Bay has to offer! Some pristines beaches in Halong Bay are Ba Trai Dao, Titop, and Cat Co. If you stay on land not, you can still enjoy Tuan Chau beach just near Halong city center.
12. Take a Snorkeling or Scuba Diving Tour
If you enjoy snorkeking or scuba diving among all the things to do in Halong Bay, you will have to travel abit further. Halong Bay has one of the most beautiful aquatic ecosystems in Vietnam, so you will guarantee to have the best experience diving here. Some place for you to discover coral reefs and sea creatures in Halong Bay are Cat Ba Island, Lan Ha Bay, Cong Do area, Vung Ha Island, and Co To Island.
Conclusion
Beyond the cruise, Halong Bay unfolds as a treasure trove of experiences, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and thrilling adventures. Plan your itinerary wisely to make the most of your visit to this mesmerizing destination. Whether you’re exploring caves, indulging in local cuisine, or enjoying chilling on the beach,
Halong Bay promises memories that will last a lifetime.
Ready to embark on your Halong Bay adventure? Explore beyond the cruise with YESD Travel and make each moment count!
When you reach Ha Long, you can visit the bay by boat or cruise and immerse yourself in the unique geological wonders of Halong Bay’s caves. These can be Surprise Cave, Thien Cung Cave, or Luon Cave. Apart from the caves in Ha Long Bay, you can explore caves in neighbouring area like Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay for a diverse cave experience. 
If you prefer non touristic area, take a tender or speedy boat ride to Viet Hai fishing village. or you can delve into the daily lives of fishermen in Cua Van floating village, the largest and oldest floating village in Halong Bay. If time allows, try experience activities like cycling, trekking, boat paddling, and swimming in the charming Viet Hai fishing village. 
This option usually included if you book a cruise tours, but you can book kayaking alone without booking a cruise tour. There’s are a number of kayaking spots like Luon Cave, Vung Vieng Fishing Village, and Tung Sau Pearl Farm. Alternatively, you can opt for a bamboo boat rowed by locals for a leisurely experience. Best enjoyed from March to June and October to December. 
Not far from Ha Long city center, there’s Sun World Halong Park, one of the most famous and beautiful things to do in Halong Bay. For a panoramic view of the city, take a ride on the famous Sun Wheel. And don’t forget to dive into the world-class amusement complex with attractions like Queen Cable Car & Mystic Mountain, Dragon Park, and Typhoon Water Park. 
Located at the center of Quang Ninh Province, next to Ha Long Bay, the city centre has built the iconic Quang Ninh Library next to the Quang Ninh Museum. Here, visitors are expected to have the best experiences among all thing to do in Halong Bay: