Kayaking In Halong Bay: The Complete Guide

Basic safety tips

Follow these safety tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable kayaking trip in 2025:

• Before heading out, warm up your body with some dynamic stretches to prevent cramps while kayaking.
• Pay close attention to your tour guide and take note of important details regarding the route, timing, and safety regulations.
• Always wear a life jacket, even if you are a confident swimmer.
• Stay informed about the weather conditions, tide schedules, wind strength, and potential changes throughout your trip.
• Maintain a safe distance from cliffs, caves, and rocky shores to avoid accidents.
• Never attempt to kayak under the influence of alcohol or drugs, as this significantly increases the risk of injury.
• Hold your paddle with your hands positioned shoulder-width apart and ensure the concave sides of the paddle are facing behind you while you paddle.

The water temperature in Halong Bay remains relatively warm during winter, making it suitable for kayaking year-round. However, it's essential to keep warm after your activity to prevent catching a cold, as winter temperatures can drop to around 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F).

What to bring

The key to success is thorough preparation. When planning your kayaking adventure in 2025, ensure you pack the following essentials:

• One life vest per person.
• Water bottles for each participant.
• High-SPF sunscreen.
• Insect repellent.
• A camera or smartphone for capturing memories.
• Swimsuit (recommended during the warm months, April to August)
• Comfortable shoes suitable for water activities.

Recommended reading: Explore the best time to visit Halong Bay.

Best kayaking spots

Halong Bay continues to captivate visitors with its breathtaking landscapes, offering a plethora of ideal kayaking spots. As you navigate this UNESCO World Heritage site, the local government has implemented guidelines to ensure the preservation of its natural beauty, making it essential for travelers to kayak in designated areas.

Here are some of the top kayaking destinations in Halong Bay for 2025:

1. Luon Cave

Located near Bo Hon Island in the northeast, Luon Cave remains a premier kayaking location in Halong Bay, attracting thousands of adventure seekers each year. Paddling through its archway, you'll find yourself in a tranquil lake surrounded by towering limestone mountains, where you might also spot the playful golden monkeys. Beyond kayaking, visitors can opt for a bamboo boat ride to fully appreciate the stunning scenery.

2. Vung Vieng Fishing Village

Set within Bai Tu Long Bay, Vung Vieng Fishing Village is frequently included in cruise itineraries and is renowned for its kayaking opportunities. Kayaking in this picturesque area allows travelers to enjoy fresh air, serene surroundings, and striking views, while also immersing themselves in the local way of life. Beautiful floating raft houses scatter the water among striking limestone formations, providing a unique glimpse into the community here.

3. Cap La Island & Cap La Fishing Village

With its pristine beaches and serene atmosphere, Cap La Island is a beloved spot for kayaking enthusiasts in Bai Tu Long Bay. This area offers not only stunning views but also an opportunity to visit Cap La Fishing Village, where approximately 200 local residents live. Here, you can capture beautiful images of traditional floating homes and observe daily fishing activities.

4. Ba Hang Fishing Village

Adjacent to Thien Cung Cave, Ba Hang Fishing Village is a historic fishing community that enchants visitors with its self-rowing opportunities. Tourists can meet friendly fishermen and engage in their daily routines. The village gained fame as a filming location for the movie Kong: Skull Island, and its untouched beauty and impressive seascapes continue to attract tourists.

5. Tung Sau Area

Located near Cua Van Fishing Village, Tung Sau Area is recognized for its high-quality pearl farming. A kayaking excursion here is a must, letting visitors paddle through beautiful rock formations and karst cliffs. You can also visit the Tung Sau Pearl Farm to learn about the process of cultivating and creating pearls.

6. Cua Van Fishing Village

Cua Van is an ancient fishing village that dates back over a thousand years and is one of the most celebrated tourist spots in Halong Bay, frequently listed among the most beautiful fishing villages globally. Exploring this historic site by kayak is the best way to appreciate its beauty. As you paddle through the waters, you will find small floating houses surrounded by majestic limestone mountains while having options to join local tours that foster interaction with the community.

7. Trinh Nu Cave

Trinh Nu Cave is situated approximately 3km southeast of Sung Sot Cave and is famous for its untouched charm, first discovered by the French. The cave features a spectacular array of stalactites and stalagmites across three sections. Kayaking into Trinh Nu Cave reveals its stunning formations and the warm, green waters that invite exploration.

8. Cong Do Island

As part of Bai Tu Long Bay, Cong Do Island captivates visitors with its exceptional landscapes and diversely-shaped rocky formations. The island boasts a rich ecosystem, including vast coral reefs, making it an exciting place for kayaking and other outdoor activities. Enjoy the splendid views and the chance to encounter rare wildlife.

9. Hon Co Island

Also known as Grass Island, Hon Co Island is a lesser-known kayaking destination in Bai Tu Long Bay. It offers a refreshing atmosphere and sandy beaches for a more secluded experience. In addition to kayaking, visitors can enjoy swimming and exploring Co Cave, adding variety to their adventure.

Photo: Shutterstock

Best time to go

Halong Bay continues to follow the weather patterns typical of Northern Vietnam, characterized by four distinct seasons along with occasional stormy periods. For those planning to experience kayaking in Halong Bay, it is essential to stay informed about current weather conditions. Specifically, two ideal timeframes for kayaking excursions are from March to June and from October to December in 2025. During these months, visitors can expect pleasant, warm, and dry weather, with minimal chances of storms or unexpected rain. This climate allows tourists to fully enjoy the serene beauty of the bay while engaging in various outdoor activities.

Cruises that offer kayaking service

As kayaking remains one of the foremost and essential experiences in Halong Bay, nearly all cruises have incorporated it into their itineraries, often at no extra cost. Below are some of the top-rated cruises that offer complimentary kayaking in 2025:

• Stellar of the Seas Cruise
• Paradise Peak Cruise
• Aclass Stellar Cruises
• Serenity Cruise
• Swan Cruise
• Paradise Luxury Cruise