Lan Ha Bay is a part of the larger Halong Bay, but it is located in a different province and has a different administration. Lan Ha Bay covers an area of about 70 square kilometers, and has more than 400 islands and islets, most of which are uninhabited and covered by lush vegetation. Lan Ha Bay also has more than 100 sandy beaches, many of which are secluded and ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Lan Ha Bay is home to a rich and diverse marine life, including dolphins, seals, sea turtles, and coral reefs. Lan Ha Bay also has a fascinating culture and history, as it is inhabited by several fishing and floating villages, where you can experience the local lifestyle and cuisine.
In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to Lan Ha Bay, its attractions, activities, tours, and nearby Cat Ba Island attractions. We will show you why Lan Ha Bay is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature, adventure, and authenticity. So, let’s get started!
What are the Attractions and Activities in Lan Ha Bay?
Lan Ha Bay has a lot to offer to its visitors, from natural wonders, to cultural heritage, to adventurous sports. Here are some of the attractions and activities that you can enjoy in Lan Ha Bay:
1. Kayaking
Kayaking is one of the most popular and enjoyable activities in Lan Ha Bay, as it allows you to explore the bay at your own pace and style, and to access some of the hidden and secluded areas that are not reachable by boat. Kayaking is also a great way to admire the scenery and wildlife of Lan Ha Bay, as you paddle through the calm and clear water, surrounded by the majestic and green limestone karsts. You can also kayak into some of the caves and lagoons that are hidden within the karsts, such as Dark and Bright Cave, Luon Cave, and Ba Ham Lake. You can also kayak to some of the fishing and floating villages, where you can interact with the locals and learn about their culture and lifestyle.
2. Snorkeling and Scuba-Diving
Snorkeling and scuba-diving are another way to enjoy the underwater world of Lan Ha Bay, where you can discover a rich and diverse marine life, including dolphins, seals, sea turtles, and coral reefs. Snorkeling and scuba-diving are also a great way to cool off and refresh yourself after a long day of sightseeing and activities. Snorkeling and scuba-diving are available in several spots in Lan Ha Bay, such as Van Boi Beach, Three Peaches Beach, and Monkey Island.
3. Rock Climbing
Rock climbing is one of the most adventurous and challenging activities in Lan Ha Bay, as it allows you to test your skills and courage by climbing the limestone karsts that rise from the water. Rock climbing is also a great way to enjoy the views and scenery of Lan Ha Bay, as you can see the bay from a different perspective and angle, and admire the panoramic and breathtaking vistas. Rock climbing is available in several spots in Lan Ha Bay, such as Moody Beach, Tiger Beach, and Butterfly Valley.
4. Fishing Villages and Floating Villages
Fishing villages and floating villages are one of the most cultural and historical attractions in Lan Ha Bay, as they showcase the local lifestyle and heritage of the people who live on the water. Fishing villages and floating villages are also a great way to experience the authentic and genuine side of Lan Ha Bay, as you can interact with the locals and learn about their traditions and customs. Fishing villages and floating villages are scattered throughout Lan Ha Bay, such as Cai Beo Village, Viet Hai Village, and Ben Beo Village.
5. Beaches
Beaches are one of the most relaxing and enjoyable attractions in Lan Ha Bay, as they offer a perfect place to unwind and soak up the sun and sea. Beaches are also a great way to admire the natural beauty and diversity of Lan Ha Bay, as you can see the contrast and harmony between the white sand, the green vegetation, and the blue water. Beaches are abundant in Lan Ha Bay, and many of them are secluded and pristine, giving you a sense of privacy and tranquility. Some of the most beautiful and popular beaches in Lan Ha Bay are Van Boi Beach, Three Peaches Beach, Monkey Island Beach, and Tung Thu Beach.
Nearby Cat Ba Island Attractions
While you are in Lan Ha Bay, you should not miss the opportunity to visit some of the nearby attractions on Cat Ba Island, which is the largest island in the bay and the main tourist hub. Cat Ba Island has a lot to offer to its visitors, from natural wonders, to historical sites, to recreational facilities. Here are some of the attractions on Cat Ba Island that are worth visiting:
1. Cannon Fort
Cannon Fort is a historical site that offers stunning views of the island and the bay. Cannon Fort was built by the French in the 1940s, and later used by the Vietnamese during the wars against the French and the Americans. Cannon Fort has several tunnels, bunkers, and cannons that you can explore and learn about the history and significance of the site. Cannon Fort also has a museum, a cafe, and a lookout point, where you can enjoy the panoramic and breathtaking vistas of Cat Ba Island, Lan Ha Bay, and Halong Bay.
2. Cat Ba National Park
Cat Ba National Park is a natural reserve that is home to endangered wildlife and hiking trails. Cat Ba National Park covers about half of Cat Ba Island, and protects a variety of habitats, such as tropical forests, mangroves, wetlands, and coral reefs. Cat Ba National Park is also home to many species of animals and plants, including the rare and endemic Cat Ba langur, which is one of the most endangered primates in the world. Cat Ba National Park has several hiking trails that you can follow to explore the park and see the wildlife, such as the Kim Giao Forest Trail, the Ngu Lam Peak Trail, and the Frog Lake Trail.
3. Hospital Cave
Hospital Cave is a secret underground hospital and bunker that was used during the Vietnam War. Hospital Cave was built in the 1960s, and was hidden under a thick layer of vegetation and camouflage. Hospital Cave has three floors and 17 rooms, and was equipped with operating rooms, recovery rooms, offices, and meeting rooms. Hospital Cave is now open to the public, and you can tour the cave and see the facilities and artifacts that are preserved inside.
4. Cat Co Cove
Cat Co Cove is a series of beaches that offer sand and sea activities. Cat Co Cove has three beaches, namely Cat Co 1, Cat Co 2, and Cat Co 3, which are connected by a coastal walkway. Cat Co Cove has white sand, clear water, and gentle waves, and is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, or playing. Cat Co Cove also has some facilities and services, such as umbrellas, chairs, showers, toilets, and restaurants.
Tips and Recommendations
Here are some tips and recommendations on how to choose and book a tour of Lan Ha Bay:
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Lan Ha Bay is from October to April, when the weather is dry, sunny, and cool, and the water is calm and clear. Avoid visiting Lan Ha Bay from May to September, when the weather is hot, humid, and rainy, and the water is choppy and murky.
Best place to stay
The best place to stay in Lan Ha Bay is Cat Ba Island, which offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from budget hostels and guesthouses, to mid-range hotels and resorts, to luxury villas and bungalows.
Lan Ha Bay is a hidden gem of Vietnam, offering natural beauty, diversity, tranquility, and authenticity. Lan Ha Bay is a less touristic alternative for Halong Bay, where you can enjoy the stunning scenery of limestone karsts and emerald waters, without the crowds and hassle.
We hope that you have found this article useful and informative, and that you have been inspired to visit Lan Ha Bay and discover its beauty and charm for yourself. If you have any questions, feedback, or suggestions, please feel free to contact us or leave a comment below.
