Halong Bay vs Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay: Which Bay is Best?
Almost every traveler passing through Vietnam has either already been to Halong Bay or dreams of visiting. It’s status as one of the seven natural wonders of the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site means that Halong Bay has been a popular choice for many travel bucket lists for many years. But Halong Bay is not the only bay worth knowing in the Gulf of Tonkin.
The Halong Bay world heritage site consists of three adjacent bays: Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay, and Bai Tu Long Bay. Halong Bay is the most renowned, but Lan Ha and Bai Tu Long also offer incredible experiences. This guide highlights key differences among these stunning locations to help you select the best Halong Bay itinerary.
What’s the difference between Halong, Bai Tu Long, and Lan Ha?
Geologically, they are interconnected. Bai Tu Long and Lan Ha are extensions of Halong Bay, located in different provinces. Halong Bay has attracted the most tourists due to its proximity to Halong City. Lan Ha Bay is located further south, while Bai Tu Long Bay lies even further east.
Bai Tu Long and Lan Ha Bay currently receive fewer visitors than Halong Bay, yet interest in these locations is growing due to their offerings for travelers.
Being less touristy, both Bai Tu Long and Lan Ha Bay remain relatively unspoiled, providing a sense of wilderness. Lan Ha Bay is smaller, and Bai Tu Long Bay comprises about three-quarters of the world heritage site. Fewer boats operate in Bai Tu Long and Lan Ha, ensuring a more serene experience.
Halong Bay
Sunset on Halong Bay
Halong Bay is one of Asia's most popular tourist destinations, famous for its towering limestone karsts. Visitors often describe Halong Bay as more beautiful than Bai Tu Long or Lan Ha due to its dramatic scenery.
Key attractions include Surprise Cave, remarkable for its stunning formations, and Titop Island, known for breathtaking panoramic views of the bay.
Halong Bay is ideal for those wanting to experience the iconic world heritage site firsthand.
Cruises visiting Halong Bay include: Paradise Cruises, Aphrodite Cruises, and Bhaya Cruises.
Lan Ha Bay
The beauty of Lan Ha Bay (Floating villages and rock islands)
Home to 139 beaches, Lan Ha Bay is perfect for swimming and sunbathing. It's also a hub for adventurous activities like deep-water bouldering, trekking, rock climbing, and kayaking. Many caves await exploration, and the Cai Beo Floating Village offers cultural insights.
Lan Ha Bay caters to those seeking diverse activities in the Halong Bay region.
Cruises to Lan Ha Bay: Orchid Cruises, Stellar of the Seas, Mon Cheri Cruises.
Bai Tu Long Bay
Fishing villages on Bai Tu Long Bay
Bai Tu Long Bay, known as 'The Other Halong Bay,' is larger yet less visited, presenting a more tranquil atmosphere. Its cleaner waters and stunning landscapes offer an alternative for those seeking peace. Many cruise operators collaborate with local communities, enabling visitors to engage with residents of floating fishing villages.
Bai Tu Long is perfect for travelers looking for serenity with options for activities.
Cruises to Bai Tu Long Bay include: Dragon Legend Cruise, and Dragon Pearl Junk.
Conclusion
Halong Bay remains the most popular destination, as evidenced by daily visitors and cruise operators. This competition might allow travelers to negotiate better cruise deals. Regardless of your choice, you will be captivated by the stunning vistas, and exploring all three bays is highly recommended.
Trip Length: How long should you go for?
Travelers can choose from three options for cruises: a day trip, a 2-day, 1-night experience, or a 3-day, 2-night adventure.
The 2-day, 1-night option is the most sought-after, providing a comprehensive overview of the bays, alongside opportunities for local cuisine and activities.
A 3-day, 2-night cruise typically allows for more exploration and activities, transferring you to a day boat after the first night.
Note: Day trips generally last 4 to 6 hours and are recommended only for those with limited time.
Which itinerary is best for which bay?
For Halong Bay, any itinerary length is satisfactory; the longer the stay, the better the experience.
For Bai Tu Long Bay, a minimum of 2 days and 1 night is advisable, with 3 days and 2 nights preferred for a more immersive experience.
Likewise, Lan Ha Bay warrants at least 2 days and 1 night to accommodate the travel distance, with 3 days allowing more flexibility for activities.
