Top Scenic Spots in Ha Long 2025

The Most Breathtaking Scenery in Ha Long Everyone Dreams of Seeing at Least Once

Ha Long is not only a renowned destination but also a place that captures the hearts of travelers at first sight. Towering limestone formations rising from emerald waters, majestic islands appearing and disappearing in the morning mist, and brilliant sunsets casting golden reflections on the sea—all come together to create a natural masterpiece unlike any other.

Beyond its ethereal beauty, Ha Long boasts a wealth of scenic spots that leave visitors in awe, with countless photo-worthy moments. This article introduces the most stunning sights in Ha Long, offering you a wide array of options to explore on your next trip to this extraordinary city.

The Enchanting Beauty of Ha Long Bay: A Natural World Heritage Site

Located in Quang Ninh Province, Ha Long Bay has long been a symbol of Vietnam’s tourism on the global stage. Its breathtaking beauty has earned it dual recognition from UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage Site—first in 1994, and again in 2000.

This international acclaim, including high praise from UNESCO experts and representatives, affirms that Ha Long Bay is not only a treasured national asset but also a shared heritage of humanity. As a result, the bay continues to shine on global travel platforms, attracting millions of visitors annually and playing a key role in Vietnam’s tourism economy.

Ha Long Bay is renowned for its approximately 1,969 limestone islets, over 980 of which have been named. These towering rocks rise from the sea in a stunningly surreal landscape that resembles an enormous ink-wash painting, where mountains, water, and sky harmonize seamlessly.

A Majestic and Singular Karst Seascape

A “Geological Museum” Beneath the Sky

Ha Long Bay is not only visually striking; it is also a unique geological treasure. Formed over millions of years, its intricate terrain is considered a rare example of marine karst evolution and has been recognized by UNESCO for its geological value—something not commonly found in other natural wonders.

The bay’s thousands of limestone towers take on various forms, shaped by centuries of weathering and erosion. It is one of the few places on Earth where the effects of marine erosion on karst topography are so clearly visible.

From above, the bay appears as a living natural artwork—towering rocks emerge from deep green waters, mingling with drifting clouds. The sea shifts in color depending on depth and weather—sometimes jade-green and crystal-clear, sometimes a deep sapphire blue. It’s a landscape both grand and mystical, leaving an indelible mark on every visitor.

Ha Long Bay is home to a one-of-a-kind “geological museum in the open sea,” unmatched anywhere else in the world.

Iconic Rock Formations of Ha Long Bay

Among the countless islets, several rock formations have become iconic symbols of the bay:

• Fighting Cocks Islet (Hòn Trống Mái): Two rocks, each about 12 meters tall, face one another like a rooster and hen in a timeless courtship dance—a metaphor for eternal love weathering all storms.
• Incense Burner Islet (Hòn Đỉnh Hương): A solitary rock resembling a giant ceremonial censer, it stands solemnly amid the vast sea and sky, symbolizing reverence and spirituality.
• Toad Islet (Hòn Con Cóc): This formation resembles a large toad gazing quietly out to sea.
• Monk Islet (Hòn Ông Sư): A rock shaped like a meditating monk, hands clasped in prayer amidst the waves.

These formations, sculpted by nature over millennia, captivate the imagination and lend the bay its mysterious, memorable charm.

Exploring Ha Long’s Magnificent Cave System

Hidden within the limestone islands lies another world entirely—a diverse and fascinating system of karst caves. Each cave offers a unique experience, from its size and shape to the stunning stalactites and stalagmites that leave visitors in awe.

Here are some of the most famous caves in Ha Long Bay:

Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave)

Located on Bo Hon Island, Sung Sot Cave is one of the largest and most impressive in the bay, part of Route 2 in the official tourist map. Its entrance winds through forest and up stone steps, leading to:

• Chamber 1: A natural amphitheater filled with stalactites resembling elephants, seals, flowers, and more.
• Chamber 2: Accessible through a narrow passage, this massive space can hold thousands. Here, visitors encounter formations linked to the legend of Saint Giong—his stone horse, sword, and footprints around tranquil ponds.

The cave ends at a “heavenly garden,” complete with ancient banyan trees and a serene lake, evoking a mythical paradise.

The Landscape Inside Sung Sot Cave

Thien Cung Cave (Heavenly Palace)

Situated on Dau Go Island in the southwest of the bay, Thien Cung Cave lies 25 meters above sea level. Its interior gleams like an underground palace, filled with intricate rock formations. When lit, the cave glows with golden hues, leaving visitors enchanted by its dreamlike beauty.

The Landscape Inside Thien Cung Cave

Dau Go Cave (Wooden Stakes Cave)

Also located on Dau Go Island, this cave is among the largest in Ha Long, with a geological history dating back nearly 2 million years. Its 17-meter-high, 12-meter-wide entrance leads to a quiet, mysterious interior filled with colorful stalactites that change with the light.

The Landscape Inside Dau Go Cave

Thien Canh Son Cave

Found in the Cong Do conservation area—where Ha Long Bay meets Bai Tu Long Bay—this cave retains a pristine, tranquil atmosphere. Less commercialized than others, it’s perfect for those seeking a more peaceful nature experience.

The Landscape Inside Thien Canh Son Cave

Unmissable Islands and Beaches in Ha Long

Titop Island

One of the most beloved destinations in Ha Long Bay, Titop Island is known for its crescent-shaped beach and clear, calm waters. Visitors can climb to a panoramic viewpoint for a sweeping vista of the bay. The island is named after Soviet astronaut Gherman Titov, who visited in 1962.

The Natural Scenery of Ti Top Island

Tuan Chau Island

Located at the southwestern gateway of Ha Long Bay, Tuan Chau Island spans approximately 3 square kilometers and is one of the few islands with a stable residential population. Thanks to its direct road connection to the mainland, Tuan Chau has rapidly developed into a major hub for tourism and entertainment in Ha Long.

The island stands out for housing Vietnam’s largest man-made marina, alongside a modern complex of hotels, restaurants, beaches, and amusement parks. It also serves as the primary departure point for bay cruises and scenic seaplane tours.

A Panoramic View of Tuan Chau Island

Ngoc Vung Island

Located in Van Don District, Ngoc Vung Island is approximately 34 km from Ha Long’s ferry port. Covering an area of 12 square kilometers, the island boasts pristine and tranquil beauty, highlighted by its long stretches of white sandy beaches and the 182-meter-high Van Xuan Mountain.

Beyond its natural landscape, the island holds archaeological significance, being the site where numerous relics of the Ha Long culture have been discovered. According to legend, the island once glowed with luminous pearls that lit up the sea each night, giving rise to the name “Ngoc Vung.” Today, locals continue to cultivate pearl farming alongside traditional fishing practices.

The Landscape of Ngoc Vung Island

Bai Chay Area

Stretching along the bay’s shoreline, Bai Chay is one of the liveliest tourist areas in Ha Long. It is renowned for its nearly 1,000-meter-long artificial beach, featuring fine white sand and crystal-clear waters—ideal for swimming, beach sports, and leisurely strolls.

This area offers a wide array of exciting entertainment options, including Sun World Ha Long Park with the Queen Cable Car, the Sun Wheel Ferris wheel, the Bazaar night market, and a historic quarter modeled after Hoi An and Hanoi. The 30/1 Square hosts numerous community events, complemented by a vibrant collection of hotels, restaurants, and bars.

Notably, Bai Chay Bridge—the city’s architectural symbol—becomes especially dazzling at night thanks to its artistic lighting system, connecting this area with the central Hon Gai district.

Bai Chay Beach

Hon Gai Area

Located on the opposite side of Bai Chay Bridge, Hon Gai serves as the administrative, political, and cultural center of Ha Long city. While more urbanized, this area still boasts several notable attractions, including:

• Quang Ninh Museum and Library, featuring a modern black-block architectural design by the bay, preserving the province’s historical, cultural, and natural heritage.
• Bai Tho Mountain, approximately 200 meters high, which is not only an ideal viewpoint but also bears historical significance with a 15th-century poem by King Le Thanh Tong inscribed on its rock face.
• The newly opened Tran Quoc Nghien Coastal Road is a perfect spot for strolling, sightseeing, and experiencing local life.

Ha Long Bay Marina at Hon Gai

Unmissable Experiences in Ha Long

To fully appreciate the beauty and allure of Ha Long Bay, visitors can engage in a diverse range of activities and experiences, including:

Bay Exploration Cruises

Cruising is the most popular way to admire the stunning limestone islands and mystical caves scattered throughout the bay. Tour options range from day trips (4–6 hours) to 1–2 day cruises, allowing guests to enjoy the peaceful nighttime atmosphere—stargazing and marveling at the islands illuminated by lights after dark. Some luxury cruises even offer mini golf facilities on deck.

Kayaking

Kayaking is ideal for exploring calm waters, narrow caves, and areas beneath limestone cliffs inaccessible to larger boats. You can paddle yourself or ride in a traditional bamboo boat rowed by locals. This activity is often included in cruise itineraries but can also be rented independently for more freedom within a designated area.

Swimming and Water Activities

Ha Long Bay boasts many beautiful natural beaches, such as Ti Top Beach with its fine white sand and clear blue waters. Nearby Lan Ha Bay is also famed for its pristine beaches and is a popular destination for snorkeling among coral reefs.

Additionally, Bai Chay’s artificial beach offers spacious facilities and full services. Overnight visitors can also enjoy night squid fishing excursions with the crew.

Aerial Sightseeing

For breathtaking panoramic views of Ha Long Bay, seaplane tours provide a unique perspective. Flights typically last about 25 minutes, departing from Tuan Chau Port, offering stunning aerial views of thousands of limestone islands.

Alternatively, the Sun Wheel at Sun World Bai Chay or observation decks atop Ti Top Island or Bai Tho Mountain (conditions permitting) provide impressive vantage points.

Exploring Local Culture

Beyond natural wonders, Ha Long offers culturally and historically significant destinations. Visitors can explore floating fishing villages to learn about the lives of bay fishermen. Notably, Tung Sau Pearl Village offers firsthand insight into pearl farming and craftsmanship.

Moreover, the Quang Ninh Museum provides extensive exhibits on the province’s history, geology, ethnic cultures, and coal industry—an economic hallmark of the region.

Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, Ha Long never fails to leave a lasting impression. From majestic natural wonders to unique travel experiences, every moment here becomes an unforgettable memory.

If you’re planning your next trip, don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the full splendor of Ha Long—where nature, culture, and emotion converge. This journey promises to be a cherished experience for you and your loved ones!