Things to Do in Halong Bay

The dramatic karst cliffs and iridescent waters of Bai Tu Long Bay are just as mesmerizing as the neighboring Halong Bay, but the comparative lack of crowds adds a tranquillity often lost amidst Halong’s sea of junk boats. Part of the Halong Bay UNESCO World Heritage site and largely dominated by the lush Bai Tu Long National park, Bai Tu Long Bay makes a worthy addition to any cruise, and with such striking scenery, it’s unlikely to stay off-the-beaten-track for too long.

Highlights of Bai Tu Long Bay include Van Don Island, the bay’s largest and most visited island; the traditional fishing village of Vung Vieng; the white sand beaches of Quan Lan Island; and the remote Co To Island, while popular activities include trekking through the jungle in the Bai Tu Long National Park, spotting wild butterflies on Tra Ban Island and kayaking to Thong Thien Cave.

Named in honor of Russian astronaut German Titop during his 1962 visit to Halong Bay, Titop Island’s small size hasn’t hindered its tourist appeal, with the island featuring on many junk boat cruise itineraries. It’s a striking sight from a distance - a swooping tower of limestone rising out of the sea and blanketed with thick rainforest, but the main highlight is the crescent of pristine white sand that lines its shore.

Most visitors make a beeline for the beach, where swimming and kayaking are the main pastimes, but adventurous types can also climb the 427 stone steps to the mountaintop pagoda, where they’ll be rewarded with dazzling views over the bay. Titop is also home to a number of resort hotels, restaurants, bars and souvenir shops, making it a good choice for a stopover.

Quang Ninh Museum is housed in a striking modern building located along the coast of Halong Bay. Spread across three blocks, the structure includes the main museum, a library, and a convention center, all connected by an overhead bridge system. The ground floor is dedicated to the flora and fauna of the region, and the second floor focuses on the history of the province, with displays of US wartime military and some fascinating ancient artifacts dating back to 2000 BC. The third floor of the museum is predominantly about the coal industry in the province, covering its history with stories of the miners and displays of various artifacts.

To get a real insight into the history and culture of this region, join a full-day Halong City tour and visit all of the important landmarks, such as Hon Gai Church, Long Tien Pagoda, and Quang Ninh Museum. If you’re short on time, you can include a visit to the museum on a private half-day Halong City tour, where you can enjoy the stunning views over Halong Bay from Bai Tho Mountain — the highest point in the city.