1. Location and Accessibility
Halong Bay is located about 2.5 hours east of Hanoi and is one of Vietnam’s most famous natural wonders. It’s part of Quang Ninh Province and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Most tours depart from Tuan Chau Harbor in Halong City.
Halong Bay
Lan Ha Bay, meanwhile, lies to the south of Halong Bay and technically belongs to Hai Phong Province, though it's most easily accessed via Cat Ba Island. From Hanoi, you can reach Cat Ba by bus and ferry or by a direct transfer.
Lan Ha Bay
Local tips: Halong Bay is easier to reach directly from Hanoi, but Lan Ha Bay offers a more off-the-beaten-path journey via Cat Ba Island.
2. Scenery and Crowds
At first glance, Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay look quite similar, with towering limestone cliffs rising from jade-green waters. But there’s a difference in the atmosphere.
Halong Bay is undeniably stunning, but it can feel crowded, especially during peak seasons. It attracts thousands of visitors daily, and multiple cruise boats often sail in close proximity.
Lan Ha Bay offers a similar dramatic seascape, but with far fewer boats. It feels quieter, more pristine, and more peaceful, especially ideal for those craving a sense of seclusion.
Admire Halong Bay from above
Prefer iconic views and don’t mind a bit of bustle? Choose Halong Bay. Want serenity? Lan Ha Bay wins.
3. Activities and Experiences
Halong Bay cruises often include:
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Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave exploration
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Ti Top Island hike and beach time
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Bamboo boat or kayak ride in Luon Cave
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Onboard cooking classes and Tai Chi
Halong Bay’s cruise
Lan Ha Bay cruises, meanwhile, tend to be more adventurous:
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Kayaking around remote fishing villages
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Swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters
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Cycling on Cat Ba Island (especially Viet Hai Village)
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Exploring hidden lagoons like Ao Ech
Lan Ha Bay’s cruise
For travelers comparing Halong Bay vs Lan Ha Bay based on experiences, Halong is better for classic sightseeing, while Lan Ha suits adventure seekers.
4. Cruise Options and Costs
Both bays offer a wide range of cruise types, from budget to ultra-luxury. However, because Halong Bay is more developed for tourism, you'll find more operators, competitive deals, and larger boats.
Lan Ha Bay cruises are generally newer, smaller in size, and slightly more expensive due to fewer crowds and more exclusive routes.
Tai Chi morning on cruise
Our opinion: Halong Bay may be more budget-friendly with diverse choices; Lan Ha Bay offers a more boutique experience.
5. Who Should Choose Which?
Still undecided? Here’s a quick guide based on travel style:
Choose Halong Bay if you:
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Are visiting Vietnam for the first time
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Want to see iconic sights and tick off a UNESCO site
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Prefer group tours or classic-style cruising
Choose Lan Ha Bay if you:
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Prefer a quieter, less touristy vibe
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Love active adventures like kayaking or biking
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Want to explore Cat Ba Island alongside your cruise
So, Halong Bay vs Lan Ha Bay, which is better? The truth is, you can’t go wrong with either. Halong Bay is timeless and iconic. Lan Ha Bay is peaceful and refreshing. Your best choice depends on your travel style and priorities.
No matter your choice, the karst-studded waters of northern Vietnam will leave you speechless.
Explore Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay with New Asia Tours
Planning your bay cruise? New Asia Tours offers handpicked Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay itineraries, from day trips to luxury overnight cruises. Let us help you craft the perfect Vietnam tour with ease, comfort, and local expertise.
