Located in northern Vietnam and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ha Long Bay is one of the most fascinating natural wonders in the world. With thousands of limestone islets, mysterious caves, emerald green waters, and a mystical atmosphere, this unique bay is an exceptional destination for both nature lovers and those interested in history and culture. In addition to its natural beauty, the region also offers an unforgettable experience with its traditional fishing villages, peaceful beaches, and hidden coves waiting to be explored.
Ha Long Bay is not only a visual feast but also a journey full of discovery. With island tours by boat, cave explorations, kayaking trips, and swimming stops, every visitor can have a unique adventure here. In this list we have prepared for those who want to explore this enchanting region in the best way, you can find the 20 most popular places that must be seen in Ha Long Bay.
1. Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave)
Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave) is one of the largest and most impressive caves in Ha Long Bay. Located on Bo Hon Island, this cave was discovered by the French in 1901 and was named “Grotte des Surprises,” meaning “Cave of Surprises.” To reach the cave, a short forest walk is required, and upon arrival, visitors are greeted with a breathtaking view. The interior consists of three main chambers and dazzles with its width and height. The stalactites hanging from the ceiling and the stalagmites on the floor resemble natural works of art formed over thousands of years.
As one moves deeper into the cave, the space expands and reveals a magnificent view that surprises visitors, which is said to be the reason for its name “Surprise.” Thanks to colorful lighting, the details inside the cave are further highlighted, creating an impressive atmosphere. Some rock formations are likened to figures such as dragons, elephants, or birds, and guides tell legends associated with these shapes. With its natural beauty and mystical ambiance, Sung Sot Cave is one of the must-see spots in Ha Long Bay.
2. Ti Top Island
Ti Top Island is one of the most visited islands in Ha Long Bay, known for its breathtaking views and clean beach. Named in honor of Soviet cosmonaut Gherman Titov’s visit in 1962, the island attracts great interest despite its small size thanks to the opportunities it offers. The white sandy beach along the island’s shore is ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The beach area is very clean and is highly preferred by visitors during the summer months.
The most notable feature of the island is the hiking trail that leads to its summit. After climbing approximately 400 steps, visitors reach the top and are rewarded with a panoramic view of Ha Long Bay, offering an unforgettable viewing experience. Especially during sunrise and sunset, the scenery observed from here reveals the full magnificence of the region’s natural beauty. For those who want to spend time in nature, Ti Top Island is a stop that offers both relaxation and discovery.
3. Thien Cung Cave (Heavenly Palace Cave)
Thien Cung Cave (Heavenly Palace Cave) is one of the most fascinating natural formations in Ha Long Bay and truly lives up to its name, “Heavenly Palace,” with its magnificence. Located near Dau Go Island, this cave has a spacious interior accessed through a narrow passage. Although the entrance is relatively tight, once inside, the cave suddenly opens up, and its high ceiling gives it the feeling of a cathedral. The impressive figures formed by stalactites and stalagmites, together with colorful lighting, turn the cave into a fairytale-like atmosphere.
The rock formations inside the cave attract attention with shapes resembling mythological figures and legends. According to local stories, this cave is believed to be a sacred place where sky gods once lived and has been the subject of many legends. Guides share the stories behind shapes that resemble dragons, lions, and fairies seen on the rock surfaces, offering visitors both a visual and cultural experience. Thien Cung Cave is a must-visit in Ha Long Bay, not only for its natural beauty but also for its mystical atmosphere woven with legends.
4. Dau Go Cave
Dau Go Cave (Wooden Stakes Cave) is one of the most impressive and enchanting caves in Ha Long Bay. Located on Dau Go Island, about 27 meters above sea level, it stands out with its entrance that is 12 meters wide and 17 meters high. With an interior volume of approximately 5,000 m², the cave consists of three main sections: the outer chamber receives natural light, the middle section offers a dramatic atmosphere, and the innermost part contains cool pools. This karst formation, believed to have formed around 2 million years ago, hosts mosses, ferns, and rare plant species developed due to its high humidity, in addition to its stalactite and stalagmite formations.
The name of the cave is associated with the wooden stakes placed by Tran Hung Dao in the 13th century to sink enemy ships in the Bach Dang River during the Mongol invasion. According to some legends, part of these stakes was hidden in the cave, and over time, the name became established. Other legends suggest that the shape of the cave resembles a large log and that it served as a shelter where wood was left for protection from storms. With its natural formations, mystical atmosphere, and a poem inscription inside, the cave offers visitors both a visual feast and a historical tale.
5. Cat Ba Island
Cat Ba Island is located in the south of Ha Long Bay and is the largest island in the area. It stands out with its large surface area, rich biodiversity, and natural beauty. A significant portion of the island is covered by Cat Ba National Park, which is home to endemic species as well as many types of plants and animals. It offers an ideal environment for nature activities such as mountain hiking, cycling tours, cave explorations, and bird watching. For nature lovers, Cat Ba is a destination that offers both peace and adventure.
One of the features that make the island attractive is its unique coves and quiet beaches. Especially the beaches Cat Co 1, Cat Co 2, and Cat Co 3 are favorites among holidaymakers with their clean sea and impressive scenery. Boat tours around the coves also provide a perfect opportunity to explore the quiet and untouched beauty of Lan Ha Bay. In Cat Ba town, there are seafood restaurants, cafés, and accommodation facilities, making the island suitable for both day trips and extended stays. Cat Ba Island, where nature, the sea, and local culture intertwine, is one of the essential stops on a Ha Long Bay trip.
6. Bai Tu Long Bay
Bai Tu Long Bay is located to the east of Ha Long Bay and is known for its similar natural features, but it is a much quieter and more untouched area. It is an ideal alternative for travelers seeking a peaceful atmosphere away from the crowds. The bay is surrounded by limestone cliffs, hidden coves, pristine beaches, and emerald-colored waters. Bai Tu Long, which is also protected by UNESCO, attracts nature lovers with its natural ecosystem and biological diversity.
The islands and caves around the bay can be explored by boat tours. Thien Canh Son Cave is one of the most well-known stops in Bai Tu Long and fascinates visitors with its dramatic rock formations. In addition, the fishing villages in the region offer a chance to closely observe the local lifestyle. For those who want a more authentic Ha Long experience away from the crowds, Bai Tu Long Bay offers an unforgettable route with its tranquility and natural beauty.
7. Cua Van Fishing Village
Cua Van Fishing Village (Cua Van Floating Village) is one of the largest and most authentic floating villages in Ha Long Bay. Located in the Hung Thang area, between Ha Long and Lan Ha Bays, the village was formed by the merging of the old Giang Vong and Truc Vong villages. Home to approximately 700–800 people in about 176–300 households, this community continues to preserve traditional fishing and maritime culture. In 2012, it was listed among the “16 most beautiful ancient villages in the world” and has largely maintained its peaceful and natural character.
The village is known for its calm waters accessible by boat, colorful floating houses, and its natural setting surrounded by limestone cliffs. Visitors can take a tour by kayak or bamboo boat, observe the floating houses up close, participate in nighttime squid fishing, or listen to the fishermen’s traditional songs. Additionally, by visiting the floating Cultural Center, one can learn about traditional fishing tools and objects representing the local lifestyle. Cua Van is one of the most captivating stops on a Ha Long Bay tour for travelers seeking a culturally rich experience away from the crowds.
8. Luon Cave
Luon Cave is one of the natural wonders of Ha Long Bay, standing out for both its beauty and tranquility. Located near Bo Hon Island, this cave is notable not for large cavern halls but for its low, arch-shaped structure. It can only be accessed by small boats, bamboo rafts, or kayaks, offering visitors a quieter and more peaceful experience. The entrance is only a few meters high and very close to the water level, requiring visitors to bend down while passing through.
Passing through Luon Cave leads to a small lagoon. This lagoon is surrounded by high limestone cliffs and appears almost completely isolated from the outside world. Inside, wild monkeys, birds, and aquatic plants can be observed, making the cave rich not only in visual appeal but also in natural life. The silence, calm waters, and immersion in nature make this one of the most special spots in Ha Long Bay for those seeking a peaceful connection with the environment.
9. Soi Sim Island
Soi Sim Island is located in the western part of Ha Long Bay and is characterized by its tranquil natural beauty over an area of approximately 8.7 hectares. The island has two hills reaching heights of about 100–200 meters, and its rich tropical forest, which covers the surface, reflects thousands of years of history. The name “Sim” comes from a local plant called tomentose rose myrtle (Rhodomyrtus tomentosa), which was once widely found on the island. When viewed from above, the island offers stunning panoramic views with white sandy coves surrounded by emerald green waters.
Visitors usually reach the island by boat, and upon arrival, a variety of nature and adventure activities begin. Swimming in the clear sea, kayaking in calm coves, and relaxing on small beaches are very popular. It is also possible to hike to the top of the island in about 30 minutes—along this route, rare plants can be observed in the forest, and the magnificent view of Ha Long Bay’s islets can be seen from above. In recent years, Soi Sim has been further developed within the scope of sustainable tourism with eco-friendly hiking trails and nature observation areas, making it increasingly popular.
10. Hon Ga Choi (Fighting Cocks Islet)
Hon Ga Choi Island (Fighting Cocks Islet) is one of the most iconic rock formations in Ha Long Bay. Known in English as “Fighting Cocks Island,” these two adjacent limestone rocks resemble a rooster and a hen when viewed from a distance. Each islet is about 10–12 meters high and appears to perform a dance on the water. Because of this appearance, it is a favorite spot for photographers and travelers, often described as “It looks like a cockfight is posing face to face.”
The mystical aura of the islets makes them one of the main stops included in tourist tours. The natural light during early morning or around sunset casts dramatic silhouettes of the stones, providing the perfect setting for extraordinary photos. Additionally, these rocks refer to the history and legends of Ha Long Bay: besides the famous dragon legend, the rooster and hen figures that gave the islet its name and the related local folktales add both natural beauty and cultural depth to the area.
11. Tuan Chau Island
Tuan Chau Island is located in the southwest of Ha Long Bay, just two kilometers from the coast, and is the only land-based island in the region. Covering an area of approximately 2.2–2.3 km², it stands out with its lush palm forests, hills, and crystal-clear beaches. It has held strategic importance throughout history, dating back 3,000–5,000 years, and was even chosen by Ho Chi Minh as a retreat in the 1960s. Today, the island is home to a modern port (Tuan Chau Marina) and hosts many cruise services, making it a major starting point for Ha Long tourism.
In terms of tourism, Tuan Chau offers more than just a port; it provides a wide range of activities for families, couples, and nature lovers. The island features artificial beaches, water parks, sea lion and dolphin shows, and theme parks. It is also possible to spend time in nature through trekking, climbing small peaks, and camping opportunities. Boat tours departing from the marina offer short trips to Ha Long and Lan Ha Bays, combined with activities such as water sports, kayaking, and swimming, providing unforgettable full-day or multi-day experiences.
12. Vung Vieng Fishing Village
Vung Vieng Fishing Village is one of the most authentic and peaceful floating settlements in Ha Long Bay, located in Bai Tu Long Bay, about 24–25 kilometers from the mainland. Founded in the 19th century, this floating village was once a bustling trade port; today, it is home to a small community of around 50 families, totaling 200–300 people. The colorful floating houses and fish cages, harmoniously surrounded by limestone cliffs, create a visually captivating scene in perfect unity with nature.
When visitors arrive at the entrance of the village by large boats, they switch to bamboo boats or kayaks to explore the central homes. Here, one can learn about the local maritime culture and have the chance to try traditional activities such as net weaving or squid fishing. It is also possible to visit pearl farming facilities to observe local production closely and purchase items. For travelers who want to experience a rhythm of life immersed in silence and nature’s cycle, Vung Vieng is one of the most unforgettable cultural and ecological stops on a Ha Long Bay tour.
13. Ba Trai Dao Beach
Ba Trai Dao Beach (Three Peaches Beach) is located in Lan Ha Bay, in the southeastern part of Ha Long Bay, and reveals its sandy stretch only during favorable tidal hours. It is surrounded by a curved, white sandy beach nestled between three small limestone islets that resemble peaches. The water is crystal clear, the sand is soft, and the scenery is dramatic—making it increasingly popular among swimming and photography enthusiasts.
This beach is ideal for those seeking a peaceful escape away from the crowds. Visitors usually arrive by boat and engage in limited-time swimming (about 2–3 hours per day) and canoeing or kayaking trips. The beach also has a romantic legend: its original name, “Three Peaches,” comes from a young fairy who wanted to gift three peaches to her mortal lover to make him immortal. The price of this wish was the transformation of the peaches into stone, forming the islets. With its natural beauty, fairytale legend, and serene atmosphere, Ba Trai Dao is an unforgettable stop during a visit to Ha Long Bay.
14. Me Cung Cave
Me Cung Cave (Maze Cave) is one of the most unusual caves in Ha Long Bay. It is located on Lom Bo Island, about 2 km southwest of Ti Top Island and 25 meters above sea level. Although the entrance is narrow and only allows one person at a time, stepping inside reveals long corridors resembling a maze, small chambers, and impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations that fascinate visitors. The name “Me Cung” comes precisely from these maze-like features—meaning “maze cave.”
At the end of the cave lies Me Cung Lake, a natural saltwater lake. It connects to the bay through a narrow opening in the cave, allowing its water level to fluctuate with the tides. Surrounded by steep limestone cliffs and home to a unique ecosystem, the lake offers nature lovers a peaceful and striking landscape. Additionally, archaeological excavations have uncovered shell fossils and human-made stone tools dating back 7,000–10,000 years, making it a place of great cultural and historical value in addition to its natural significance.
In summary, Me Cung Cave—or Maze Cave—is a perfect choice for those wishing to step into nature’s mysterious labyrinth. With its distinct sections, stalactite “curtains,” ancient lake, and rock formations, it offers a unique exploration, while its discovery story and ancient relics provide a visually and intellectually enriching experience.
15. Cong Do Island
Cong Do Island is one of the hidden gems of Bai Tu Long Bay in the southeastern part of Ha Long Bay. Covering an area of approximately 23 km² and reaching a height of 172 meters, the island features mountain peaks covered with tropical forests. It is home to five natural saltwater lakes—referred to as “rubies of the sea”—which offer tranquil lagoons surrounded by high limestone cliffs. The island also boasts a pristine coral reef about 700 meters long and 300 meters wide, creating a unique environment for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts thanks to its rich marine ecosystem.
Cong Do is a perfect destination for adventurous travelers: you can go trekking to explore hilltop views, paddle through hidden coves by canoe or kayak, and observe underwater life by snorkeling in an area set to develop into a future diving site. Additionally, archaeological discoveries on the island’s southeastern coast point to its historical significance, as remnants of the ancient Van Don port have been found here. Cong Do is an ideal stop for those who wish to explore Ha Long Bay through its natural beauty, biodiversity, and historical richness.
16. Bo Hon Island
Bo Hon Island is a natural wonder located in the heart of Ha Long Bay and is often referred to as a “mini Ha Long.” Covering an area of approximately 3.8 km², the island offers a landscape of striped vertical cliffs, lush forests, and emerald waters. This striking appearance has made it one of the most popular stops within the UNESCO-protected bay.
The true value of Bo Hon lies in its cave system. Caves such as Sung Sot, Luon, Trinh Nu, Trong, and Dong Tien are natural masterpieces shaped by millions of years of karst processes. These formations have placed the island at the center of many daily tours and exploration routes. In addition, the island is home to a rare natural ecosystem, featuring monkeys, deer, and chamois on its sharp cliffs, as well as diverse orchids, banyan trees, and cycads.
The exploration route typically begins with a boat ride and a climb to Sung Sot Cave, followed by kayaking into the lagoon of Luon Cave and experiencing the legendary tales of Trinh Nu and Trong Caves. Lesser-known caves such as Bo Nau and Ho Dong Tien can also be included in the itinerary. For adventure seekers, the island offers opportunities for rock climbing and kayaking, providing a physically and visually rewarding experience in nature.
In conclusion, Bo Hon Island, with its caves, ecosystem, and panoramic waterscapes, is one of the most outstanding islands in Ha Long Bay. It is an essential stop that captivates both nature enthusiasts and photographers with its unforgettable exploration routes.
17. Dark & Bright Cave
Dark & Bright Cave is one of the most striking natural wonders of Ha Long Bay, especially within Lan Ha Bay. This cave system consists of two parts and gets its name from the contrasting dark “Dark” (Tối) and bright “Bright” (Sáng) sections. Dark Cave is about 100 meters long and fills with water during high tide, allowing passage only at low tide and by small boat or kayak; it is completely dark inside and requires a flashlight. In contrast, Bright Cave is shorter, about 3 meters high and 4 meters wide, and is naturally lit. The rocky ceiling merging with the water surface inside resembles a natural painting, making this part a favorite spot for visitors.
Passing between the two sections by kayak or boat leads to a hidden lagoon—a calm and peaceful body of water surrounded by high limestone cliffs. This area is unique for photography enthusiasts, nature lovers, and visitors seeking a photogenic setting. Additionally, visitors can observe stalactite formations within the cave, view the vegetation-wrapped landscape at the cave’s exit, and even discover underwater life during tidal periods due to the protected water level (such as small fish and shrimp).
18. Trinh Nu Cave
Trinh Nu Cave (Virgin Cave) is a captivating natural wonder located on the eastern side of Bo Hon Island, neighboring Sung Sot and Luon Caves. At the entrance, visitors are greeted by spacious chambers shaped with dramatic stalactites and stalagmites illuminated by lighting; as they move further inside, elevated walkways allow exploration of different levels above sea level. The cave also contains a small pond connected to the bay by a narrow passage, with water levels that change with the tides—offering both visual and ecological richness within the cave.
Trinh Nu Cave is known not only for its natural scenery but also for a legendary love story. According to the tale, the beautiful daughter of a local fisherman fell in love with a poor young man, but she was sent to the island to be taken by a wealthy man. Caught in a storm, she turned to stone and became the cave. Her lover tried to reach her during the storm but also turned to stone, becoming “Trong Cave” directly across from Trinh Nu—thus their love lives on in the landscape. In 2000, stone tools, bones, and ash remains dating back around 4,000 years were discovered in the cave, and in 2010, ceramic fragments from the Tran and Le dynasties were found—making this cave significant not only for its legends but also for its archaeological importance.
Trinh Nu Cave offers a profound experience for those seeking both natural and cultural exploration—it is a must-visit for travelers wishing to see the mystical and scientifically significant sides of Ha Long Bay.
19. Hang Trong Cave
Hang Trong Cave (Drum Cave or Male Cave) is located on the ridge of Bo Hon Island in Ha Long Bay and gets its name from the drum-like echoes created by the stalactites on its ceiling when the wind blows. The entrance holds an emotional connection with the nearby Trinh Nu (Virgin Cave); the two caves are said to represent a pair of human figures gazing at each other from a distance. In this way, the cave offers not only natural beauty but also brings to life the legendary love stories of Ha Long Bay.
Inside the cave, wide chambers, formations highlighted by colorful lighting, and the natural “drum sound” that resonates with the wind create a captivating atmosphere. Visits are typically made by boat or kayak and are often included in tours along with Trinh Nu Cave, making it an appealing combination for travelers seeking both geological wonder and romantic tales.
20. Titov Beach
Titov Beach (Ti Top Beach) is the most famous beach in Ha Long Bay and the only one where swimming is officially permitted. It is named after Soviet cosmonaut Gherman Titov, who visited the island in 1962, and was honored by Ho Chi Minh by giving the island his name. The crescent-shaped stretch of fine sand, approximately 300 meters long, captivates visitors with its crystal-clear waters and surrounding tropical greenery.
The beach appeals to those seeking both relaxation and adventure. You can swim in its calm waters, sunbathe on the sand, explore the surroundings by canoe or snorkel, or even climb to the island’s summit for a panoramic view of Ha Long Bay. The peak, reached by climbing around 400 steps, offers a spectacular viewpoint at 110 meters high. The beach is also equipped with amenities such as sun loungers, showers, and small food and drink stalls.
With its silky sand that seems to touch the clouds, clear sea, and adventurous activity options, Titov Beach is one of the must-visit and unique destinations in Ha Long Bay.