Halong Bay Weather in September
September signals the arrival of autumn on Halong Bay and is still in the rainny season. The temperatures and rainfall are on a gradual decline. In addition, the weather is rather hot in the daytime and cools down at night.
- In September, the weather starts to fall slowly but there are some days when the high temperatures reach over 30 degrees.
- Even though rainfall is frequent, it is not as heavy as in August.
- September marks the end of the tourist off-peak season.
- The weather can still be quite agreeable at times so it is a great month for water activities like swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling.
September marks a transitional month for Halong Bay, where the weather is characterized by more manageable precipitation and humidity levels, making it a more comfortable destination compared to the preceding months. As tourist numbers gradually rebound, this period becomes a perfect time to plan memorable outdoor activities such as cruising, mountain trekking, and biking.
September Weather In Halong Bay
Temperature
As September progresses, Halong Bay experiences the tail end of summer. While the heat begins to ease, average temperatures remain around 28°C, typically not falling below 22°C. Some days can still see temperatures soar above 30°C.
The sea temperature also dips slightly compared to the previous month, making swimming more enjoyable.
Sunshine
In September, Halong Bay receives around 6 hours of sunshine daily. The sun remains vigorous, so adequate sun protection is advisable when outdoors.
Humidity
September witnesses a slight decrease in humidity levels, averaging about 72%.
Rainfall
Rainfall is less frequent in September compared to July and August, with an average precipitation of 190mm occurring over 14 days, which means you might still experience wet conditions!
Historical Weather Data
| Month | High / Low (°C) | Average Rainfall (MM) | Rain Days (≥2mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| September (2022) | 33.1°C (91.58°F) / 21.9°C (71.42°F) | 180.2mm / 7.09in | 13 days |
| September (2023) | 32.9°C (91.22°F) / 22.5°C (72.5°F) | 200.4mm / 7.87in | 15 days |
| September (2024) | 34.0°C (93.2°F) / 24.0°C (75.2°F) | 185.0mm / 7.28in | 12 days |
| September (2025) | 31.5°C (88.7°F) / 23.0°C (73.4°F) | 195.0mm / 7.68in | 14 days |
September Weather Average
Pros and Cons of Visiting Halong in September
Pros:
- Precipitation decreases, yet occasional heavy downpours may still happen.
- Warm temperatures create ideal conditions for swimming and other water activities.
- Popular pursuits include kayaking, snorkeling, and swimming.
- As it marks the end of the off-peak season, an increase in tourists means a livelier atmosphere.
Cons:
- There is still a minor risk of stormy weather. Some cruise operations may proceed during severe weather, but adventures could be affected.
- September’s lingering warmth might be uncomfortable for some travelers.
Events in Halong Bay in September
On September 2nd, Vietnam celebrates Independence Day, a national public holiday where many businesses close. Halong Bay often experiences a surge in domestic visitors on this day, so securing cruises and services in advance is advisable to avoid price hikes.
Fireworks on Independence Day in Vietnam
The Mid-Autumn Festival, occurring on the 15th of the eighth lunar month, is another significant event. Mirroring aspects of Halloween and Thanksgiving, children carry colorful lanterns and participate in street parades. Families celebrate by decorating altars with fruits and mooncakes to pray for a prosperous harvest.
Mid-Autumn Festival Dates:
| Mid-Autumn Festival 2023 | Friday, September 29 |
| Mid-Autumn Festival 2024 | Monday, September 17 |
| Mid-Autumn Festival 2025 | Saturday, September 6 |
| Mid-Autumn Festival 2026 | Monday, September 25 |
| Mid-Autumn Festival 2027 | Thursday, September 15 |
Best Things to Do in Halong Bay in September
Swimming and Kayaking
Swimming and kayaking remain top must-try activities during September, as the weather lends itself to outdoor exploration. With reduced rainfall and storms, you can experience the splendor of the bay under a clear sky.
Overnight Cruise
There is a significant reduction in the likelihood of downpours, storms, and typhoons in September, allowing for a more enjoyable overnight cruise. Exploring Halong Bay is best encompassed over two to three days to fully immerse in its renowned sites and partake in activities like morning tai chi, sunset parties, squid fishing, and cooking classes.
Seaplane Tour
A seaplane tour grants guests a remarkable chance to admire Halong Bay from an awe-inspiring altitude of 150 to 300 meters. Offered by Hai Au Aviation, these tours last approximately 25 minutes.
Mountain Trekking
Located about 40 km from Halong Bay, Yen Tu Mountain attracts many tourists and pilgrims alike. At its base, a craft village showcases distinctive aspects of Vietnamese culture. As you trek the mountain trails, you will encounter several temples, with Dong Temple at the summit being the most famous.
Alternatively, a trek to Titop Island is usually included in many cruise itineraries. The ascent takes about 30 minutes, rewarding you with breathtaking views of Halong Bay.
Activity Ratings
Activities |
Best Places to Do |
Pros and Cons in September |
Rating |
Swimming |
Titop Island, Ba Trai Dao Beach, Ao Ech Area |
- Pros: Hot weather, low humidity. - Cons: Sudden rain could interrupt swimming. |
8/10 |
Kayaking |
Luon Cave, Dark & Bright Cave, Tung Sau Pearl Farm, Ao Ech Area |
- Pros: Warm weather, extended sunshine hours, and low humidity. - Cons: Sudden rainfall could disrupt your excursion. |
8/10 |
Overnight Cruise |
Orchid Cruise, Stellar of the Seas, Elite of the Seas | - Pros: Favorable weather conditions. - Cons: High season might lead to crowding and elevated prices. |
9/10 |
Seaplane Tour |
Hai Au Aviation (Seaplanes.vn) | - Pros: Bright, clear skies and cooler temperatures while enjoying the aerial views. - Cons: It’s high season, so bookings fill up quickly. |
8.5/10 |
Mountain Trekking |
Yen Tu Mountain, Titop Island |
- Pros: Views are clearer for magnificent panoramic sights. - Cons: Trekking can be hindered by rainy weather. |
8/10 |
Cycling |
Viet Hai Village, Cat Ba Island |
- Pros: Reduced rainfall allows for more pleasant cycling conditions. - Cons: May not suit all abilities and can be tiring. |
7.5/10 |
What to Pack in September
For a September visit, light clothing, sandals, and a sun hat are recommended. Heavy and warm clothing is unnecessary. Since this month is suitable for water activities, don’t forget to bring your swim gear. Strong sunlight also necessitates suitable sun protection—high-factor sunscreen is essential.
Recommended Packing List by Activities
Activities |
September Weather |
Packing List |
Swimming & Kayaking |
- Hot - Low humidity - Lower chance of storms |
- Sunscreen - Sun hat - Light clothes - Sandals - Bath towels - Swimsuits |
Overnight Cruise |
- Warm and relatively dry - Reduced rainfall and storms |
- Light clothes - Sunscreen - Swimsuits - Camera |
Seaplane Tour |
- Warm, dry weather - Intense sunlight - Minimal rain chances |
- Light clothing - Sunglasses - Sunscreen - Camera |
Mountain Trekking |
- Hot and sunny - Occasional sudden rains |
- Sunscreen - Sports shoes - Sun hat - Camera - Insect repellent - Bottled water - Light clothing |
Cycling |
- Hot and sunny - Less likely to rain |
- Sports shoes - Insect repellent - Bottled water - Sunscreen - Sun hat |
Local Tips
While September's weather is generally favorable for cruising and outdoor endeavors, tourism peaks during this time, prompting a few essential tips:
- Halong Bay gets busy with local tourists on public holidays; it’s advisable to book services well in advance.
- Pricing may increase during the high season, so budget accordingly.
- Even with optimal conditions to travel, it’s prudent to check the weather forecast prior to arrival.
- Light clothing and adequate sun protection are necessary for this season.
FAQs
1. Is it worth planning a trip to Halong Bay in September?
September indicates the start of the peak tourist season in Halong Bay, with much more pleasant weather. Storm occurrences are lower, and rain typically doesn’t last long. Additionally, some cruise operators and services provide enticing promotions, enabling visitors to access quality experiences at competitive prices.
2. Does it rain a lot in Halong Bay in September?
Rainfall is significantly lower during September with an average of 190mm occurring across 14 days. The chances of enjoying sightseeing in pleasant weather are promising.
3. Is it better to go to Halong Bay in September or October?
Both September and October are fine choices for visiting Halong Bay. October typically offers slightly better weather conditions, but crowds can be more substantial.
4. Should I book services in advance?
Absolutely. As September signifies the early peak season in Halong Bay, cruises and services can book up quickly, making early reservations necessary. Many cruise operators also continue to provide promotions, presenting opportunities for cost-effective bookings.
5. What alternative activities can I pursue if I prefer to stay indoors?
If outdoor activities are not appealing, consider unwinding on the cruise while enjoying stunning bay views. Alternatively, explore indoor attractions, visit museums, or enjoy entertainment at the Sun World amusement complex, along with an excursion to Tuan Chau Island and Tuan Chau Park.
