Bai Tu Long Bay | Ha Long

Bai Tu Long Bay is a breathtakingly beautiful and tranquil part of Ha Long Bay, located in the northeast of Vietnam. While Ha Long Bay is one of the most famous tourist destinations in the country, Bai Tu Long Bay offers a more serene and less crowded alternative. Known for its pristine waters, lush greenery, and limestone karsts, Bai Tu Long Bay is an ideal place for travelers seeking a more peaceful and secluded experience amidst nature.

Geography and Landscape

Bai Tu Long Bay is located to the northeast of Ha Long Bay, in Quang Ninh Province, and it is often considered an extension of Ha Long Bay, though it is a distinct area with its own unique charm. The bay covers an area of over 1,000 square kilometers, and it is dotted with more than 50 islands and islets, most of which remain largely untouched by tourism. The landscape here is similar to Ha Long Bay, with towering limestone peaks that rise dramatically from the sea, but the area is known for being quieter and less commercialized.

The waters of Bai Tu Long Bay are calm and clear, offering excellent opportunities for boating, swimming, and kayaking. The bay's secluded beaches and smaller, more remote islands are perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Key Features and Attractions

1. Vung Vieng Fishing Village

One of the most famous attractions in Bai Tu Long Bay is the Vung Vieng Floating Fishing Village, where visitors can experience the traditional way of life of the local fishermen who live on the water. The village is built on floating houses, and the locals use boats for transportation and fishing. A visit to Vung Vieng provides a unique opportunity to interact with the local community and learn about their lifestyle, customs, and fishing techniques.

The village is surrounded by stunning limestone formations, and visitors can take boat tours around the area to see the floating homes and enjoy the picturesque scenery.

2. Cong Do Island

Cong Do Island is a peaceful and less-visited island in Bai Tu Long Bay that is perfect for nature lovers. The island is known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. The lush greenery of the island is home to various species of wildlife, and the area is often explored by boat or kayak. Cong Do Beach offers a perfect place to relax, swim, and take in the natural beauty of the surroundings.

The island is also home to some mangrove forests and coral reefs, making it a popular spot for eco-tourism and sustainable travel.

3. Co To Island

Located to the east of Bai Tu Long Bay, Co To Island is a larger island that offers visitors a range of activities, including hiking, swimming, and exploring its unspoiled beaches. The island has a vibrant local culture and is well known for its natural beauty, with white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. The island is also home to the Co To Lighthouse, which offers a panoramic view of the island and the surrounding sea.

4. Thien Canh Son Cave

Located on Bai Tu Long Bay's Ban Sen Island, Thien Canh Son Cave is one of the hidden gems of the area. The cave is renowned for its natural beauty, with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Visitors must hike through lush tropical vegetation to reach the entrance of the cave, and once inside, they are rewarded with stunning rock formations and a tranquil atmosphere.

The cave is relatively small, but it is a beautiful stop for nature enthusiasts and those looking to experience Bai Tu Long Bay's unique geological features.

5. Tra Gioi Beach

Tra Gioi Beach is a secluded and pristine beach located on Quy Hau Island in Bai Tu Long Bay. It is known for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy shores, and serene atmosphere. The beach is not crowded, making it an ideal spot for those who want to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature without the usual crowds found in more popular areas of Vietnam. The surrounding area is perfect for swimming, picnicking, and exploring the coastline.

Activities in Bai Tu Long Bay

Bai Tu Long Bay offers a variety of activities that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and tranquility of the region:

Boat Tours and Cruises: Taking a boat tour is one of the best ways to explore Bai Tu Long Bay. Most cruises allow visitors to explore the bay, visit the islands, and see the stunning limestone karsts up close. Many tours also include stops at some of the famous fishing villages, caves, and beaches.

Kayaking: The calm waters of Bai Tu Long Bay are ideal for kayaking. Visitors can paddle through the bay's serene waters, explore hidden caves, and discover isolated beaches and coves. Kayaking is an excellent way to experience the area's natural beauty up close.

Swimming and Snorkeling: Bai Tu Long Bay is known for its clean and clear waters, making it a great place for swimming and snorkeling. The water is warm and inviting, especially during the dry season, and the region’s coral reefs offer a chance to discover underwater life.

Trekking and Hiking: Some islands in Bai Tu Long Bay, such as Co To Island, offer great opportunities for hiking and trekking. Visitors can explore lush forests, climb hills for panoramic views, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Photography: Bai Tu Long Bay is a photographer's paradise, with its stunning landscapes, limestone islands, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant sunsets. Whether you're capturing the bay’s dramatic scenery or the everyday life of the floating villages, the bay offers countless opportunities for beautiful photos.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Bai Tu Long Bay is during the dry season, which runs from October to April. During this period, the weather is cooler and more comfortable, with less rain and clear skies, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as cruising, kayaking, and hiking. The summer months (May to September) are warmer, and there is a higher chance of rain, which may make traveling less enjoyable.

Getting to Bai Tu Long Bay

Bai Tu Long Bay is accessible by boat from Ha Long City or Cam Pha City. It is roughly 50 kilometers (about 31 miles) from Ha Long Bay, and many cruises and tours operate between the two bays. Visitors can take day trips or multi-day cruises to explore Bai Tu Long Bay and its surrounding islands. Some tours also include visits to Cai Bau Temple and other landmarks around Ha Long Bay.

Conclusion

Bai Tu Long Bay is an unspoiled gem in Vietnam, offering travelers the chance to experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Ha Long Bay without the crowds. With its stunning limestone karsts, pristine beaches, and historical sites, Bai Tu Long Bay provides a peaceful and scenic escape. Whether you're interested in kayaking, visiting fishing villages, hiking to viewpoints, or simply relaxing on the beach, Bai Tu Long Bay is an idyllic destination for those seeking a serene experience in one of the most beautiful places in Vietnam.