Frequently asked questions
Ha Long: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is October-April. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Ha Long: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +35.0°C, during the day — up to +32.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Ha Long: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +14.0°C, during the day — up to +20.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Ha Long: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +29.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Ha Long: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on May-October. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Ha Long: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "sand" surface, white sand, moderate water. The most popular beaches: Bai Chay. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Ha Long: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as low — you can swim and enjoy water sports without worry. Lifeguards are on duty on the beaches.
Ha Long: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: jellyfish. Ha Long is a safe destination. The main potential risks are jellyfish in the summer season. The water on cruise routes is calm, with no dangerous currents.. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Ha Long: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $71.00 (≈ 5 958 ₽ · ≈ 1 739 500 VND) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the
trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Ha Long: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $10.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $35.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $65.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $130.00 per night, an apartment — $55.00 per night, a villa — $110.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Ha Long: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $8.00, dinner at a restaurant — $25.00, a cup of cappuccino — $2.50, a 0.5L beer — $2.80, a 1.5L bottle of water — $0.70. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Ha Long: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $20.00, a single public transport ticket — $1.00, a short taxi ride — $5.00, car rental — $40.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Ha Long: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Ha Long Bay — A UNESCO World Heritage Site with thousands of limestone islands. The main attraction of Vietnam.; Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave) — The largest and most impressive cave in Ha Long Bay. Huge halls with stalactites and stalagmites.; Ti Top Island — A small island with a beach and a viewpoint at the top. It offers a panoramic view of the bay.; Luon Cave — A picturesque cave with a lake inside. Accessible by kayak or boat.; Cat Ba Island — The largest island in the bay with a national park, beaches and villages. A great place for trekking.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Ha Long: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Cha muc (squid cakes) — Ha Long's signature dish — crispy fried squid cakes. Served with sauce.; Sea worms — A delicacy served in Ha Long restaurants. Fried or in soup.; Horseshoe crab — An unusual crab dish that can only be tasted in some regions of Vietnam.; Stir-fried snails with spicy sauce — A popular snack served in coastal restaurants.; Dried squid — Ha Long is famous for its dried squid, which can be bought at the market.; Bun cha — Noodles with grilled pork and herbs. Popular in Ha Long.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Ha Long: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Bai Chay Area — The main tourist area with hotels, restaurants and a beach. Cruises to the bay depart from here.; Hon Gai Area — A quieter area with local markets and an authentic atmosphere. Good for getting to know local life.; Cat Ba Island — For those seeking nature and solitude. National park, wild beaches and hiking trails.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Ha Long: is a visa required?
Visa: not required (up to 45 days). Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Ha Long: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Вандон Международный Аэропорт (code VDO). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $20.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Ha Long: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — VND. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $71.00 (≈ 5 958 ₽ · ≈ 1 739 500 VND). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Ha Long: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Ha Long: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as low. There is not much nightlife, but the basics are available.
Ha Long: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Haiphong — A large port city an hour's drive from Ha Long. Known for its French architecture.; Hanoi — The capital of Vietnam, 2.5 hours away. Old Quarter, lakes and rich culture.; Ninh Binh — A region with limestone mountains and rice fields, known as 'Ha Long on land'.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.
