OFFBEAT

Top 7 Things to Do in Halong Bay Vietnam

Ragini Mehra

Last updated: Apr 3, 2017

Author Recommends

Do

Helicopter ride over the bay, from Hanoi to Halong
Cruise along the limestone formations and floating villages
Water sports like diving and kayaking

Shop

Handicrafts and fresh fruits from the floating markets

Click

Sunrise/sunset shots at the gorgeous bay
Fun shots as you take a boat ride through the limestone formations

Trivia

Halong Bay literally translates into ‘descending dragon bay.’ It is believed that the islets were created when jewels dropped from the mouths of Godsent dragons.

Want To Go ? 
   

Click Here to See the Ultimate Travel Bucket List for 2017

With so many things to do in Halong Bay Vietnam, it's tough to decide on what to start with. While you are here, taste the local fruits from one of the floating markets, indulge in a range of water sports, marvel at the diverse wildlife or enjoy exquisite dining experiences. Cruise down the waters or fly over the many islands to discover the treasure that Halong Bay is. Here are some recommendations to help you make the most of your trip to Vietnam:

  1. A cruise on the charming Halong Bay is a popular activity and takes you closer to the limestone formations, natural grottoes and floating villages.

halong bay things to do

 

  1. Get a bird’s eye view of this marvel of nature as you take a helicopter tour from Hanoi to Halong. $650 per person for a round trip is all you need to pay for an experience of a lifetime!

halong bay things to do

 

  1. Halong Bay is one of the best places to swim in Vietnam. Diving and kayaking are other water sports that you can indulge in. Many private operators close to the bay offer equipment on rent for these adventure activities.
halong bay things to do

 

 

  1. Home to a diverse wildlife with hundreds of faunal and floral species existing both below and above sea level, Halong Bay is a nature lover’s delight. Many varieties of fish, deer, squirrels, monkeys and exotic plants can be commonly found here.
halong bay things to do

 

  1. Many visit Halong Bay for its food and seldom leave disappointed. The authentic cuisine, with its rich seafood delicacies like crab, clams, prawns, lobsters, lamprey and more, is a must-try. 

halong bay things to do

 

  1. Take home a piece of Vietnam as you shop at the local markets here. Handicrafts, decoratives and other knick knacks are some things you can buy. Buy fresh fruits from one of the floating markets to make your bay experience come a full circle.
halong bay things to do
 

 

  1. You can come to Halong Bay and do, well, absolutely nothing! Take in views of the sunrise or sunset at this gorgeous bay, dine at a unique cave restaurant and let the aura of the place cast a magic spell on you as you admire its oh-so-turquoise waters. 

 

With this list of things to do in Halong Bay ready, it's time you started planning your holiday. No matter what time of the year you visit, this picturesque bay has all the ingredients for a perfect holiday recipe.

 

(Shopping Photo Credit: Ciaran O´Neill/flickr)

 

More Travel Inspiration For Halong Bay