Ha Long Bay is an extraordinary seascape where limestone karsts rise from the ocean, appearing like towering waves frozen in time. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994, it stands as Vietnam’s most celebrated natural wonder and a top destination for visitors worldwide. Stretching across 1,500 square kilometers, the bay lies along the Vietnamese coast just below the Chinese border, dotted with thousands of uninhabited islands, floating fishing villages, and cave systems rich in fossils, intricate rock formations, legends, and mysteries.

## Dive into HaLong Bay’s Vibrant Coral Reefs

While many guides emphasize the stunning views above the water, [Ha Long](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/H%E1%BA%A1_Long#:~:text=H%E1%BA%A1%20Long%20(Vietnamese%3A%20%5Bh%C3%A2%CB%90%CB%80,Ch%C3%A1y%2C%20the%20main%20tourist%20area.) Bay also offers a thriving marine world below. The bay hosts over 140 coral species, some of which are rare. These coral reefs, covering between 30 to 60 percent of the waters around islands like Cong Do, are safeguarded by strict regulations and geographic seclusion, protecting them from boat traffic, pollution, and human interference.

[image-1|halong-bay-coral-reef|Vibrant coral reef in Ha Long Bay|A close-up underwater photograph showcasing the colorful coral reef in Ha Long Bay. The image should highlight the diversity of coral species and marine life, with clear, blue water in the background.]

Embark on a dive trip to see the vivid coral reefs and encounter starfish, sea horses, and sea turtles in the crystal-clear water. Divers can also explore submerged grottoes and intricate caves that host unique ecosystems. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced diver, you can join a diving school or simply hop on a boat to reach deeper waters and enjoy snorkeling in this underwater paradise.

## Discover Ha Long Bay by Cruise

The best way to immerse yourself in Ha Long Bay’s beauty is by boat. Choose from various cruise options, from traditional junk boats that leisurely sail through the bay to speedier yachts that whisk you between islands. Half-day and full-day cruises offer a taste of the bay’s splendor, but booking a multi-day trip is ideal. A two- or three-day cruise provides a chance to relax fully, with meals, drinks, and activities arranged so you can unwind and enjoy the stunning surroundings.

Spend a few nights on a yacht, cruising by day and sleeping aboard at night. Drifting off to the gentle rock of the waves is luxurious, and stargazing from the boat’s deck is an experience unlike any other. Many cruises offer a range of activities, including buffet meals, cooking demonstrations, or guided trips to secluded beaches and fishing villages. Tailor your adventure to suit your style—opt for a “spa cruise” with yoga at sunrise and deep-tissue massages, or embark on a more active itinerary with deep-sea diving and nighttime squid fishing.

[image-2|halong-bay-cruise-sunset|Sunset over Ha Long Bay from a cruise ship|A panoramic photograph capturing the beauty of Ha Long Bay at sunset, taken from the deck of a cruise ship. The image should showcase the limestone karsts silhouetted against the vibrant colors of the setting sun, with calm waters in the foreground.]

Whatever your travel preference, be sure to hop off the cruise to kayak around the bay’s striking karsts. Kayaking lets you approach the limestone formations closely, navigating the tranquil waters to explore islands, caves, and floating villages. Take a refreshing swim in the bay before heading back to the yacht for sunset cocktails and a memorable dinner on the water.

## Trek to Hidden Caves on Cat Ba Island

Cat Ba Island, the largest island in the Cat Ba archipelago, is nearly covered in lush rainforest, and its national park is home to diverse native wildlife, including the critically endangered white-headed langur monkeys. Hiking trails weave through the park, offering guided tours that reveal the rich flora, fauna, and history of the island.

[image-3|cat-ba-island-cave-entrance|Entrance to a hidden cave on Cat Ba Island| A photograph showcasing the entrance to a cave hidden within the lush rainforest of Cat Ba Island. The image should highlight the contrast between the dark cave mouth and the surrounding vibrant greenery, with sunlight filtering through the foliage.]

Some trails climb towards mountain peaks, others lead to serene beaches, and a few guide you into secluded caves and grottos. Hoa Cuong Cave, though small, sparkles under the light like a hidden treasure, while larger caves such as Thien Long and Trung Trang reveal dramatic stalactites and stalagmites, sculpted over millennia. Stepping into these ancient underground spaces feels like entering a mysterious world carved by time.

One of Cat Ba’s most unique caves is Hospital Cave, a refuge for soldiers during the American War. Now open to visitors, it preserves its medical rooms and original equipment, offering a fascinating glimpse into the island’s wartime history.

## Explore the Stunning Caves of Sung Sot, Me Cung, and Thien Cung

Beyond Cat Ba Island, Ha Long Bay boasts dozens of caves, each a testament to the bay’s geological evolution over millions of years. Among these, Sung Sot, Me Cung, and Thien Cung stand out as some of the most captivating.

Sung Sot Cave is renowned for its impressive size, with a vast 10,000-square-meter system adorned with unusual stalactites and stalagmites. Accessible only by hiking a steep path, the journey rewards visitors with a breathtaking view upon entry. The cave opens into a second chamber filled with natural formations that, under the flickering light, resemble elephants, mammoths, and even military scenes.

While Sung Sot is the largest and most famous, Me Cung Cave holds the title of the oldest and narrowest. Archaeologists have found fossils of periwinkles over 10,000 years old near the entrance. Once inside, narrow passageways lead through chambers filled with fossils and naturally sculpted formations.

Completing the trio, Thien Cung Cave is celebrated for its mythical beauty. According to legend, it was the residence of the Dragon King and his bride, May, who were married in the cave with a celestial audience of gods and dragons. Now, colorful lights enhance its natural beauty, casting enchanting shadows and breathing life into the legends. The ceiling openings allow heavenly beams to illuminate the space, and as you exit, a panoramic view of Ha Long Bay awaits—a scene fit for a Dragon King.

### Discover Monkey Island

Located just a short kilometer from Cat Ba town, Monkey Island is accessible only by boat, offering a secluded escape for visitors. Originally known as Cat Dua Island, or Pineapple Island, due to its wild-growing pineapples along the coast, it’s now more popularly called Monkey Island, named after the playful monkeys that roam its beaches and interact with visitors.

[image-4|monkey-island-beach|Monkeys playing on the beach of Monkey Island|A photograph showcasing a group of monkeys playing on the sandy beach of Monkey Island, with the turquoise waters of Ha Long Bay in the background. The image should capture the playful nature of the monkeys and the serene beauty of the island.]

Monkey Island’s beautiful shoreline caters to both relaxation and adventure. Visitors can sunbathe on the soft, white sand, swim or snorkel in the clear water, or explore the surroundings by kayaking or trekking along one of the scenic trails, making it an ideal spot to enjoy nature from both land and sea.

### Visit Hon Ga Choi (Fighting Cock Islet)

In the heart of Ha Long Bay, two towering rock formations rise over 12 meters above the water, leaning toward each other in what some see as a standoff and others as a gentle embrace. Known as Fighting Cock Island or Cock and Hen Island (Hon Ga Choi or Hon Trong Mai), this iconic landmark is one of the bay’s most recognizable sights. The formations are most captivating at sunrise and sunset, when the changing light casts dramatic silhouettes against the sky.

The rock formations of Ha Long Bay have slowly taken shape over hundreds of millions of years, molded by the powerful forces of the ocean. This process is a reminder that time and water are true artists, sculpting the landscapes we admire today. It’s no wonder that Ha Long Bay, with its natural sculptures, has inspired countless artists to capture its beauty.

**Some interesting things in Vietnam:**

* [Ha Giang’s cuisine](https://vntraveladvise.com/travel/ha-giangs-cuisine/)
* [Thac Ba Lake](https://vntraveladvise.com/hotel/thac-ba-lake-a-hidden-gem-in-yen-bai-vietnam/)
* [National Parks in Vietnam](https://vntraveladvise.com/travel/7-national-parks-in-vietnam-you-cant-miss/)