Kayaking in Halong Bay: Best Spots & Safety Tips

Look for an active adventure amidst breathtaking scenery? Look no further than kayaking in Halong Bay. More than just a relaxing paddle, Halong Bay makes your kayaking trip phenomenal with an array of landscapes and rich local experiences. Whether you're a cave explorer, beach enthusiast, or culture lover, Halong Bay promises unforgettable kayaking ever. Let's dive deep into the best kayaking spots as well as safety tips you will need for your next Halong adventure.

Why should you try kayaking in Halong Bay?

Among abundant activities on Halong Bay, kayaking is a must-do for every traveler. Here are the reasons:

Unparalleled sightseeing & exploration

Cruising generally provides a pleasant view of Halong Bay, but kayaking provides a far more thrilling experience. Get closer to the limestone karsts, glide through stunning caves and have the most vivid and realistic view of the magic karst formation and secluded corners. Kakaying is the most unique scenic experience in the heritage site.

Safe and fun activity

Thanks to unique geology, thousands of limestone islands dotting the bay acts as natural barriers, creating plenty of exceptionally calm and safe areas for kayaking. This makes the activity more relaxing and enjoyable than ever, at all age groups or all skill levels.

Access to hidden gems from nature to culture

Offering access to remote natural sandy beaches, fishing villages, pearl farms or towering rocky islands, kayaking allows visitors to discover hidden gems of Halong Bay, enriching the overall experience.

Top kayaking spots in Halong Bay

Each area in the natural wonder offers distinct kayaking experiences. Paddle to local pearl farms, visit fishing villages or explore tranquil caves in Halong Bay. Immerse yourself in the pristine nature of Dark-Light Cave, hidden lagoons, and picturesque Ba Trai Dao area in Lan Ha Bay. Or enjoy the utmost serenity at remote islands and authentic fishing villages in Bai Tu Long Bay. No matter which you choose, these experiences promise an unforgettable memory for your journey.

Halong Bay

Luon Cave

Unique formation of Luon Cave (Photo: oriental sails)

While popular caves like Sung Sot or Thien Cung Cave boast spectacular stalactites and stalagmites, Luon Cave stands out with its unique half-submerged formation and serene kayaking experience.

The cave invites you to paddle through an arch-shaped entrance and glide along its 60-meter length while admiring stunning stalactites above. This journey opens a peaceful lagoon where you can hear birds singing, see fish swimming, and sometimes monkeys climbing on the branches. Despite normally being crowded, the kayaking experience at Luon Cave is truly worthwhile.

Cua Van Fishing Village

Small floating houses nestled against giant cliffs (Photo: paradisecruise)

Kayak through Cua Van, one of the most ancient floating villages in Halong Bay. Far away from the mainland, this village is a tranquil sanctuary filled with fresh air, captivating karst mountains, and rich cultural identity. Paddling your kayak across unique houses connected by floating buoys, witness colorful fishing boats, and get a chance to talk with locals and know more about their daily life and culture.

Though most families have relocated, some remain to fish, preserving their traditional way to earn a living while preserving culture and promoting tourism.

Trinh Nu Cave

Stunning view from the entrance of Trinh Nu Cave (Photo: baithojunk)

Become a true explorer kayaking through narrow crevices of karst mountains and discover Trinh Nu Cave. Located on Bo Hon Island in a remote area, Trinh Nu Cave allures you with ultimate quietness thanks to minimum engine noise from travel boats. Gently paddle around the island, stop to discover the unspoiled cave where stalactites and stalagmites are adorned by ample natural light. Don't miss the unique stone formation inside the cave, said to resemble a girl with long hair, forever waiting for her husband in a local legend.

Tung Sau Area

Tung Sau Pearl Farm (Photo: govntravel)

Relax amidst limestone islands and discover the North's largest pearl farm - Tung Sau. Here you'll find incredible calmness and peace when kayaking around the water area protected by towering mountains. It is also a perfect chance to explore the intricate process of pearl cultivation, from growing, harvesting, and processing raw materials to amazing final pearls. Whether finding your perfect pearl or simply admiring the meticulous craftsmanship, it's definitely a wonderful highlight in your kayaking trip.

Lan Ha Bay

Dark - Bright Cave

Bright Cave is full of natural light (Photo: mia.vn)

Situated in the pristine Lan Ha Bay, Dark - Bright Cave is a premier kayaking spot for every cruise. Like Luon Cave in Halong Bay, Bright Cave is also half-submerged and bathed in natural light. However, the cave offers a longer waterway (approx. 100 meters) with more captivating stalactites and leads to a bigger lagoon.

On the other hand, Dark Cave is narrow, with a lower ceiling and so dark that a torch is always needed. Although the Dark Cave is currently closed for safety reasons, Bright Cave still makes this area an ideal kayaking space to enjoy serenity and explore the rich ecosystem, especially coral, fish, jellyfish, or even monkeys and squirrels.

Ba Trai Dao Area

Ba Trai Dao - A true haven for kayaking and swimming (Photo: vietnamairlines)

Nestled deeper in Lan Ha Bay, Ba Trai Dao Area is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and pristine natural beaches. Kayaking among its rocky islands and relaxing on the white sands promise a dream escape from the hustle and bustle for everyone. Imagine no other boats around, just you with amazing natural sounds like birds singing and gentle waves kissing the shore. Note that the Ba Trai Dao area is highly affected by the weather, especially the tides. So be prepared for any possible change in your schedule. 

Bai Tu Long Bay

Vung Vieng Fishing Village

Experience the poetic charm of Vung Vieng fishing village (Photo: indochina-junk)

Those who crave the unspoiled beauty of Bai Tu Long Bay cannot miss the kayaking activity at Vung Vieng Fishing Village. This village used to be home to hundreds of families, who lived on fishing and growing seafood. Although there are just a few left nowadays, the stunning view of fishing boats, simple floating houses, and the tranquil surroundings always melts the hearts of any traveler. Kayaking at Vung Vieng Fishing Village is an authentic experience to connect with Halong's rich culture.

Cap La Area

Cap La Island is renowned for clear water and rich biodiversity (Photo: paradisevietnam)

Located in the Cong Do island range, Cap La Island is a thrilling kayaking area thanks to its stunning coastline, crystal-clear waters, and rich biodiversity. Imagine gliding through calm waters surrounded by forested mountains, lush greenery and vast blue sky.

As an ideal shelter for local fishermen, Cap La also offers a rustic landscape of floating houses and fishing boats, allowing you to not only enjoy natural splendor but also see daily life and learn about the local community. Cap La Island is featured on some Bai Tu Long Bay cruises, including Dragon Legend Cruise, Swan Cruise, Renea Cruise, or Dragon Pearl Cruise.

Tips for safe and enjoyable kayaking

Best time for kayaking 

Although kayaking is offered year-round, the best time to join is Spring (March - May) and Autumn (October - November). Kayaking during this time is more convenient and enjoyable thanks to mild temperatures, clear skies, gentle sunshine, calm sea, low rainfall, and low chance of storms.

July to September is the storm season and October to April is the peak season in Halong Bay. Avoid this time if you do not like crowds or the higher chance of a plan change.

Who can kayak?

Kayaking in Halong Bay is suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to professionals. Besides, while there isn't a strict age policy, children should be at least 4-5 years old to join this activity. Make sure your kids are always accompanied by adults and pay close attention to them during the activity.

What to bring?

• Short or swimwear for comfortable movement and ready to get wet.
• Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen for sunny days
• Light raincoat or waterproof jacket for rainy days
• Dry bag for camera or phone

Important notes

• Always wear a life vest. It's a mandatory safety requirement by the management board.
• Follow the route and time as your tour guide's instructions.
• Stay updated on weather conditions (especially storms, wind, and tides) for a smooth plan.