Located in the North East of Vietnam, Halong City is 175 km by road (the journey direct from Hanoi to Halong Cất cánh takes about 3 hours) to reach Bai Chay, Halong’s main port. There are no special attractions to be found here – the dockside is dilapidated and grubby with dust from decades of coal shipments – but to the south of the ferry pier, in the lee of a limestone outcrop named Nui Bai Tho or ‘Poem Mountain’, is a picturesque fishing village. If you visit Vietnam, Halong is a must-see site in your Vietnam vacation , stroll through the village, taking note of the poems in praise of the beauty of Halong Cất cánh, carved into the rocky face of Nui Bai Tho over the centuries. From Bai Chay, it is just a short ferry ride across the narrow Cua Luc Channel to the town of Hong Gai, conjoined with Bai Chay since 1994 to create Halong City. Where Hong Gai is grimy and industrial, Bai Chay is northern Vietnam’s most developed resort. Designed to appeal primarily to locals and to visitors from nearby China, karaoke bars, and neon lights abound, but this somewhat sleazy aspect in no way detracts from the beauty of the emerald sea and the gem-like garland of the islands spread to the south.
- Things to Do & See
- Best Time to Visit
- At A Glance
- Travel Guide
Table of Contents
Best Things to Do & See in Halong Cất cánh Tours
Visiting the Beaches in Halong Cất cánh
Sunbathing on Halong Cất cánh
Halong Cất cánh tours offer various beaches of endless sand and blue water for tourists to enjoy water-based activities such as Tuan Chau, Ba Trai Dao, Ti Top, and Ngoc Vung. The sunshine here is not as dazzling as other tropical areas. Therefore, you can spend a couple of hours lying on the sand, immersing yourself in breathtaking views of Halong Cất cánh and let the sun rinse your body as well as take care of your skin. Order a cup of fresh juice to cool off if the heat makes you thirsty.
Swimming on Halong Beaches
Halong Cất cánh attracts thousands of tourists by its clear and cool jade-blue water. Swimming on the beautiful beaches of Halong will be your most relaxed and comfortable moments ever. Moreover, by experiencing scuba diving, you can discover the marvelous underwater world of diverse marine creatures such as colorful fishes and gorgeous coral reef.
Kayaking in Halong Cất cánh
If you are looking for something more adventurous than the traditional junk boat cruise, kayaking is an advised option. Exploring Halong Cất cánh by paddling from one limestone outcrop to mysterious caves leaves you wonderful adventure. The most popular places for kayaking journey are Peaches islands, Dark and Light caves.
Discovering Floating Villages in Halong Cất cánh
Exploring Grottoes in Halong Cất cánh
Among hundreds of mountains covered by jungles, there are mysterious caves and isolated grottos of all sizes and shapes. You can hire boats to reach the gate of the cave then explore inside on foot. Some famous caves are Thien Cung Cave – Heavenly Palace Cave, Dau Go Cave known as the Cave of wonders, and Sung Sot Cave (Shocking Cave).
Viewing Halong Cất cánh from a Seaplane
In spite of being costly, having a panoramic view from seaplane flying over Halong Cất cánh brings you striking and thrilling feelings. The plane takes off in Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi and flies in the sky of Halong Cất cánh. The high cost will reward you the luxury and modern space and services on plane as well as the magnificent bird-eye view of Halong Cất cánh which can be only seen through images and videos. This service is provided by Hai Au Aviation.
Seeing Cat Ba Island
Considered as the largest island in Halong Cất cánh, Cat Ba owns the astonishing natural beauty of mountains and beaches together with a wide range of floras and faunas. The common way to reach the island is by boat while the best way to explore it is by bike or on foot. The beauty of Cat Ba Island can be found by exploring limestone mountains, hidden dreaming waterfalls, untouched caves; spotting wildlife of tropical forests as well as mangroves. Endless options to visit in Cat Ba will take lots of your time but be worthwhile if you want to experience this island at its best.
Halong Cất cánh tours offer various beaches of endless sand and blue water for tourists to enjoy water-based activities such as Tuan Chau, Ba Trai Dao, Ti Top, and Ngoc Vung. The sunshine here is not as dazzling as other tropical areas. Therefore, you can spend a couple of hours lying on the sand, immersing yourself in breathtaking views of Halong Cất cánh and let the sun rinse your body as well as take care of your skin. Order a cup of fresh juice to cool off if the heat makes you thirsty. 
Halong Cất cánh attracts thousands of tourists by its clear and cool jade-blue water. Swimming on the beautiful beaches of Halong will be your most relaxed and comfortable moments ever. Moreover, by experiencing scuba diving, you can discover the marvelous underwater world of diverse marine creatures such as colorful fishes and gorgeous coral reef.If you are looking for something more adventurous than the traditional junk boat cruise, kayaking is an advised option. Exploring Halong Cất cánh by paddling from one limestone outcrop to mysterious caves leaves you wonderful adventure. The most popular places for kayaking journey are Peaches islands, Dark and Light caves. 
Floating villages are not only the home of the locals but also a vital part in their custom. Visiting these villages, you will wish to have a floating life like theirs: living every day surrounded by the beauty of the most well-known destination in the world; enjoying the delicious dishes made of fresh seafood; rising and falling with the natural tide. Spend a day living as a fisherman in a floating house, attending the fishing at night, you will see life so simple and peaceful.Among hundreds of mountains covered by jungles, there are mysterious caves and isolated grottos of all sizes and shapes. You can hire boats to reach the gate of the cave then explore inside on foot. Some famous caves are Thien Cung Cave – Heavenly Palace Cave, Dau Go Cave known as the Cave of wonders, and Sung Sot Cave (Shocking Cave). 
After a day of activities like swimming and kayaking, your stomach must be empty. How about having dinner in such a quiet, romantic and mysterious cave? This new type of dinner really impresses tourists as its uniqueness and admirableness. A special meal with both of fresh Halong Cất cánh seafood and cuisine of Western and Eastern countries will perfect your night.In spite of being costly, having a panoramic view from seaplane flying over Halong Cất cánh brings you striking and thrilling feelings. The plane takes off in Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi and flies in the sky of Halong Cất cánh. The high cost will reward you the luxury and modern space and services on plane as well as the magnificent bird-eye view of Halong Cất cánh which can be only seen through images and videos. This service is provided by Hai Au Aviation. 
Considered as the largest island in Halong Cất cánh, Cat Ba owns the astonishing natural beauty of mountains and beaches together with a wide range of floras and faunas. The common way to reach the island is by boat while the best way to explore it is by bike or on foot. The beauty of Cat Ba Island can be found by exploring limestone mountains, hidden dreaming waterfalls, untouched caves; spotting wildlife of tropical forests as well as mangroves. Endless options to visit in Cat Ba will take lots of your time but be worthwhile if you want to experience this island at its best.
Weather in Halong Cất cánh
Halong Cất cánh has a typical coastal climate with two distinct seasons: winter (dry season, from November to April) and summer (rainy season, from May to October). The average temperature is about 23.7oC. Despite the coastal city, Halong Cất cánh is a sealed sea and hardly affected by storms.
Best Time to Visit Halong Cất cánh
As one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites, Halong Cất cánh is a long-standing spot on the bucket list of travelers worldwide. It is true that you can take your Halong Cất cánh tour at any time of the year. Visit Halong Cất cánh tourist not only can appreciate the beauty of the cất cánh but also indulge in a lot of exciting activities such as swimming, diving, canoeing, kayaking, etc. Enjoy reading to know more about the weather of Halong Cất cánh and to have a perfect Halong Cất cánh tour package.
January – February: Best Time to Enjoy Vietnamese Traditional New Year in Halong Cất cánh Tours
March: Best Time to Take a Look at Traditional Festivals during Halong Cất cánh Tours
This is the best time to enjoy traditional festivals including the Cherry Blossom Festival – the colorful traditional events In Halong Cất cánh. Hit Halong Square from 17th to 21st March to admire the beauty of a variety of flowers from different countries. Tourists will be mesmerized by vivid flowers blooming under sunshine such as cherry or golden apricot blossom. Especially, at night you will soak up in the charming melodies of traditional instrument concert performed by Japanese and Vietnamese artists to learn more about the cultures from both countries. Thanks to the pleasant weather, clear and blue sky this time is also the perfect time to enjoy seaplane flight over the cất cánh.
April: The Best Weather for Halong Cất cánh Tours
With the temperature which is around 20 Celsius degrees, you can take part in any outdoor activities you want. Go to Halong Cất cánh by yourself in April to relax your mind and escape from the busy life. Visit Ti Top island to admire its beauty with the white sandy beach at the front and the breathtaking view from the top. You also can challenge yourself through a variety of water activities and book a ticket to appreciate the spectacular scenery from the luxury seaplane. Pack your stuff to explore the majestic Halong on your own. Do not forget to visit many famous temples in Halong Cất cánh such as Ba Vang, Long Tien or Cua Ong to have an in-depth look into Vietnamese culture. Soaking into Halong Carnival is another great choice for you. This festival is held annually on 28th April at 8:00 PM at Sunworld Halong Park.
May: Suitable Time to Enjoy Halong Cất cánh Tours from the Top
Travel to Halong Cất cánh in May to avoid the intense tourism flows and take the advantage of this month before the school break starts. With moderate temperature and clear sky, this is the best time to take a seaplane tour to get a perfect sightseeing. Halong Cất cánh this month is so cool makes it easier for outdoor activities like fishing, cycling, kayaking, and swimming. Let your hair down in a bar at night… that’s so much fun.
June to July: The Months to Avoiding the Tropical Heat by a Halong Cất cánh Excursion
Halong Cất cánh is an ideal destination to avoid the heat of summer. Book an overnight tour to relax on a boat, have a sauna and relax on the top deck under sunshine. Because the temperature in May can rise up to 35 Celsius degrees at noon, make sure that you do not forget to bring your sunglasses, sun cream in the luggage to avoid getting sunburn and a camera to take a ton of amazing photos.
August – October: Best Time to Travel for Couples on a Halong Cất cánh Tour
November: Wonderful Time to Visit Halong Cất cánh
November is the time when domestic tourism is down and inbound tourism reaches peak because the Vietnamese are much more focus on work during this time. It is the most suitable time to visit Halong for travelers who want to discover this beautiful place without the intense flow of locals. With the moderate temperature (around 22 Celcius degree), you can enjoy all activities from cycling, kayaking to visiting the fishing village. However, the prices are not much lower than summer because a lot of international tourists hit the cất cánh this month.
Halong Cất cánh in December: Best Time to Try Local Foods in Halong
Halong Cất cánh has a typical coastal climate with two distinct seasons: winter (dry season, from November to April) and summer (rainy season, from May to October). The average temperature is about 23.7C. Despite the coastal city, Halong Cất cánh is a sealed sea and hardly affected by storms.As one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites, Halong Cất cánh is a long-standing spot on the bucket list of travelers worldwide. It is true that you can take your Halong Cất cánh tour at any time of the year. Visit Halong Cất cánh tourist not only can appreciate the beauty of the cất cánh but also indulge in a lot of exciting activities such as swimming, diving, canoeing, kayaking, etc. Enjoy reading to know more about the weather of Halong Cất cánh and to have a perfect Halong Cất cánh tour package. 
January and February are considered as an ideal time to visit Halong because the weather is so cool. At this special time, tourists can have an opportunity to soak into Vietnamese culture. Visit Halong market or Vincom shopping center to witness how the locals prepare for Tet. You also can visit a local’s house, you will be given lucky money and taste traditional dishes such as Chung cake, spring rolls, etc. If you take your Halong Cất cánh tour during this time you should bring your umbrella, comfort shoes and some hoodies in your luggage because drizzle is the signature of Sring weather.This is the best time to enjoy traditional festivals including the Cherry Blossom Festival – the colorful traditional events In Halong Cất cánh. Hit Halong Square from 17th to 21st March to admire the beauty of a variety of flowers from different countries. Tourists will be mesmerized by vivid flowers blooming under sunshine such as cherry or golden apricot blossom. Especially, at night you will soak up in the charming melodies of traditional instrument concert performed by Japanese and Vietnamese artists to learn more about the cultures from both countries. Thanks to the pleasant weather, clear and blue sky this time is also the perfect time to enjoy seaplane flight over the cất cánh. 
With the temperature which is around 20 Celsius degrees, you can take part in any outdoor activities you want. Go to Halong Cất cánh by yourself in April to relax your mind and escape from the busy life. Visit Ti Top island to admire its beauty with the white sandy beach at the front and the breathtaking view from the top. You also can challenge yourself through a variety of water activities and book a ticket to appreciate the spectacular scenery from the luxury seaplane. Pack your stuff to explore the majestic Halong on your own. Do not forget to visit many famous temples in Halong Cất cánh such as Ba Vang, Long Tien or Cua Ong to have an in-depth look into Vietnamese culture. Soaking into Halong Carnival is another great choice for you. This festival is held annually on 28th April at 8:00 PM at Sunworld Halong Park. 
Travel to Halong Cất cánh in May to avoid the intense tourism flows and take the advantage of this month before the school break starts. With moderate temperature and clear sky, this is the best time to take a seaplane tour to get a perfect sightseeing. Halong Cất cánh this month is so cool makes it easier for outdoor activities like fishing, cycling, kayaking, and swimming. Let your hair down in a bar at night… that’s so much fun.Halong Cất cánh is an ideal destination to avoid the heat of summer. Book an overnight tour to relax on a boat, have a sauna and relax on the top deck under sunshine. Because the temperature in May can rise up to 35 Celsius degrees at noon, make sure that you do not forget to bring your sunglasses, sun cream in the luggage to avoid getting sunburn and a camera to take a ton of amazing photos. 
From August to October is the perfect time for honeymoon thanks to the warm weather and blue sky. Many couples go to Halong Cất cánh during this time to take their wedding photos on the streets full of romantic trees’ leaves falling down. Take your Halong vacation with your lover in the autumn months to have romantic experiences like cruising in the middle of the emerald sea and holding hands on the top deck and watching the sunset together. Having dinner with a glass of wine on the rooftop is also a once-in-a-lifetime experience for your sweet holiday. The average temperature of these months is 25 Celsius degrees, makes it suitable for tourists to discover floating villages or kayak. Note that, September is the rainy month typhoons happen more frequently.November is the time when domestic tourism is down and inbound tourism reaches peak because the Vietnamese are much more focus on work during this time. It is the most suitable time to visit Halong for travelers who want to discover this beautiful place without the intense flow of locals. With the moderate temperature (around 22 Celcius degree), you can enjoy all activities from cycling, kayaking to visiting the fishing village. However, the prices are not much lower than summer because a lot of international tourists hit the cất cánh this month. 
If you take your Halong Cất cánh tour in December you should bring your jacket because the temperature is just around 15 Celsius degrees. Although swimming is avoided at this time, tourists also can indulge in some activities like visit floating villages and kayaking. Fly with Hai Au Aviation is a perfect choice. In this cold weather, the best things to do absolutely is tasting delicious local’s cuisines such as barbecue, seafood noodles or “banh cuon”- a tasty traditional Vietnamese dish before floating in the middle of the foggy sea to enjoy a fairytale-like feeling. With this article, we hope that you can choose the time to visit Halong Cất cánh. Contact us for more useful information about Halong Cất cánh tours as well as Vietnam vacations.
Halong Cất cánh General Information
Location: Northern Vietnam, Quang Ninh Province
Population: Approximately 300,000 (2018)
Language: Vietnamese
Currency: Vietnam Dong (VND)
Natural Condition: Mountainous area (North and Northeast)
Beaches and islands (South)
People, Nature & Culture in Halong Cất cánh
Halong Cất cánh People
In general, people in Halong Cất cánh are enthusiastic, hospitable, friendly, civilized and polite. They always have the awareness of preserving and popularizing the gift the Mother Nature gives to their home country. Tourists all over the world are always welcome to Halong Cất cánh by the smile and respectful attitudes. In addition, 15 ethnic groups living in the area creates the linguistic and cultural diversity in Halong Cất cánh.
Halong Cất cánh Nature
Legend of Halong Cất cánh
Legends tell Vietnam was invaded by foreign invaders. Ngoc Hoang (King of Heaven) sent Mother Dragon and her baby Dragons to help the Vietnamese fight against the enemy. Enemy’s boats just reaching to the shore were immediately burned by the fire from the Dragons. They also built the huge stones wall to block the attack of invaders. After the war, seeing the peaceful landscape with hard-working people, Mother Dragon and her baby Dragon did not return to heaven but stayed in Vietnam to protect the Vietnamese forever. The place Mother Dragon landed is Halong Cất cánh and the one her children landed is Bai Tu Long Cất cánh and the tails of the Dragons become Bach Long Vi Island (White Dragon) nowadays.
Nature of Halong Cất cánh
Halong Cất cánh Culture
Northern Vietnam, Quang Ninh ProvinceApproximately 300,000 (2018)VietnameseVietnam Dong (VND)Mountainous area (North and Northeast)Beaches and islands (South) 
In general, people in Halong Cất cánh are enthusiastic, hospitable, friendly, civilized and polite. They always have the awareness of preserving and popularizing the gift the Mother Nature gives to their home country. Tourists all over the world are always welcome to Halong Cất cánh by the smile and respectful attitudes. In addition, 15 ethnic groups living in the area creates the linguistic and cultural diversity in Halong Cất cánh. 
Legends tell Vietnam was invaded by foreign invaders. Ngoc Hoang (King of Heaven) sent Mother Dragon and her baby Dragons to help the Vietnamese fight against the enemy. Enemy’s boats just reaching to the shore were immediately burned by the fire from the Dragons. They also built the huge stones wall to block the attack of invaders. After the war, seeing the peaceful landscape with hard-working people, Mother Dragon and her baby Dragon did not return to heaven but stayed in Vietnam to protect the Vietnamese forever. The place Mother Dragon landed is Halong Cất cánh and the one her children landed is Bai Tu Long Cất cánh and the tails of the Dragons become Bach Long Vi Island (White Dragon) nowadays. 
Halong Cất cánh covers an area of about 1,500 km² including nearly 2000 large and small islands, most of which are limestone islands together with countless towers, limestone islands, mysterious caves, and smooth sand stretching along the turquoise waters. The history of the limestone karst in Halong Cất cánh has been around 500 million years with different geologic circumstances; and full karst evolution over the past 20 million years with a combination of thick limestone, hot and humid climate, and a slow progression of tectonics. Besides, the melting pot of environment, geology, and geomorphology have made Halong Cất cánh a convergence of biodiversity including ecosystems of tropical rainforests, coast, and sea. 17 endemic plants and about 60 endemic animals have been discovered among thousands of floras and faunas in Halong Cất cánh. 
People lived in Halong about 20,000 years ago with a lot of civilizations together with remarkable ups and downs throughout the history. Their cultural characteristics create a mysterious and impressive Halong Cất cánh. Fishing activities happened a long time ago together with handicrafts such as ceramic and jewelry producing as well as spinning and weaving. Their development led to the foundation of traditional fishing villages and vibrant markets. After a day of working, the locals often gathered on boats and sang together the folk music. Nowadays, you can enjoy this traditional art through the excellent performances of outstanding artisans. Halong Cất cánh is recognized by UNESCO as the World Heritage Site for its unique nature and long-established culture which can be seen in islands, caves, and daily activities of the locals.
Halong Cất cánh Travel Guides
How to Get to Halong Cất cánh
Bus
Departure: My Dinh Station
Arrival: Bai Chay Station (From here, you can get to Halong Cất cánh by taxi)
Operation time: From 6 am to 17 pm
Travel time: About 4 hours
Ticket price: Around 100,000 VND to 200,000 VND (about $5 to $10)
Private Coach
Fully utilized luxury Limousine Luxury Van manufactured in 2017 and 2018 with the standard of 9 seats in spacious, luxurious amenities.
Pick up passengers at everywhere on request
Travel time: Around 2h45
Ticket price: 250,000 VND (about $10)
Tel: 1900 1112
Seaplane
Tourists from Hanoi to Halong Cất cánh also have the new choice with the modern and luxury seaplane of Hai Au Aviation.
Transportations in Halong Cất cánh
Cruise & Boat
Cruises and boats are absolutely the main transportations to discover Halong Cất cánh at its best. Besides, the bus system is also available for traveling to destinations in Halong (around 15,000 VND for a single ticket). You can also choose a taxi for convenient movement or hire a motorbike (ask the hotel’s staff for the store of motorbike hire) for the new experience in Halong Cất cánh.
Tuan Chau International Port (Tel: +84 203 384 2134)
Hon Gai Vinashin Port (Tel: +84 333 628 234)
Taxi
Some of Taxi brands in Halong Cất cánh: Halong Taxi: (Tel: +84 33 362 62 62)
Mai Linh Taxi (Tel: +84 33 3628 628)
Mobile and Internet Access in Halong Cất cánh
Mobile connection is available in Halong Cất cánh. The only thing you should care about is the registration with Vietnamese mobile operators for international roaming service, SIM purchase and others. Names of recommendation include Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone with dozens of their stores around Halong Cất cánh.
Internet Access and Wi-Fi in Halong Cất cánh is generally good at cruises, hotels, restaurants, and other public places. However, on islands and caves, the accessibility is unavailable.
Useful Things to Remember on a Halong Tour
For your safety, always wear a life jacket in water-based activities
You should try squid sausage, horseshoe crab, and seafood noodles in Halong. They are so yummy!
Seafood and delicious dishes are available in Halong market and Halong night market. Remember to ask for the price before ordering if you want to pay the higher price after the meal.
Test the quality of the cruise carefully before booking unless you will travel in aging and out-of-date ones.
Hire a tour guide to go with your Halong Cất cánh. He (she) will give you the interesting information about Halong Cất cánh and take you to interesting places that you may not know.
Winter in Halong is chill so carry enough warm clothes. Be careful in caves as the stones may hurt you if wiping out.
On kayaking tour, despite being very interesting, you mostly see the silver of water. For more experience, you should take a cruise tour including kayaking stop.
Do not go for the cheapest option in Halong. Cheapness does not usually go with quality.
Be an early bird. Get up to see the dawn in Halong Cất cánh. How wonderful it is!
My Dinh StationBai Chay Station (From here, you can get to Halong Cất cánh by taxi)From 6 am to 17 pmAbout 4 hoursAround 100,000 VND to 200,000 VND (about $5 to $10)Fully utilized luxury Limousine Luxury Van manufactured in 2017 and 2018 with the standard of 9 seats in spacious, luxurious amenities.Pick up passengers at everywhere on requestAround 2h45250,000 VND (about $10)1900 1112Tourists from Hanoi to Halong Cất cánh also have the new choice with the modern and luxury seaplane of Hai Au Aviation.Cruises and boats are absolutely the main transportations to discover Halong Cất cánh at its best. Besides, the bus system is also available for traveling to destinations in Halong (around 15,000 VND for a single ticket). You can also choose a taxi for convenient movement or hire a motorbike (ask the hotel’s staff for the store of motorbike hire) for the new experience in Halong Cất cánh. 
You can hire a boat to visit Ha Long Cất cánh at the two ports:(Tel: +84 203 384 2134)(Tel: +84 333 628 234)Some of Taxi brands in Halong Cất cánh:: (Tel: +84 33 362 62 62)(Tel: +84 33 3628 628)Mobile connection is available in Halong Cất cánh. The only thing you should care about is the registration with Vietnamese mobile operators for international roaming service, SIM purchase and others. Names of recommendation include Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone with dozens of their stores around Halong Cất cánh.Internet Access and Wi-Fi in Halong Cất cánh is generally good at cruises, hotels, restaurants, and other public places. However, on islands and caves, the accessibility is unavailable.For your safety, always wear aYou should try, andin Halong. They are so yummy!Seafood and delicious dishes are available inand. Remember to ask for the price before ordering if you want to pay the higher price after the meal.of the cruise carefully before booking unless you will travel in aging and out-of-date ones.to go with your Halong Cất cánh. He (she) will give you the interesting information about Halong Cất cánh and take you to interesting places that you may not know.Winter in Halong isso carry enough warm clothes.in caves as the stones may hurt you if wiping out.On kayaking tour, despite being very interesting, you mostly see the silver of water. For more experience, you shouldDo not go forin Halong. Cheapness does not usually go with quality.. Get up to see the dawn in Halong Cất cánh. How wonderful it is!
