Considered one of the 7 wonders of nature in the world, Halong Bay captivates people everywhere. These limestone formations rising from the sea with their unique shapes have made this legendary bay a major tourism hub. Victim of its own success, it sees up to 500 boats crossing its waters each day! While the scenery is breathtaking, the volume of tourists is less so. To discover these natural jewels away from the crowds, explore two alternatives: Bai Tu Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay.

Bai Tu Long Bay

Nicknamed the Bay of Little Dragons, Bai Tu Long Bay lies about thirty kilometers from Halong Bay. Covering an area of 1,000 square kilometers, it is an extension of Halong Bay that you can discover to the northeast of the site. Smaller than its famous neighbor but far less well-known, this bay—home to nearly 600 islands and rocky islets—is ideal for those who want to explore Halong Bay away from tourists.

Indeed, only a few companies offer cruises through these karst islets, which are every bit as stunning as those in Halong Bay. And better yet, you'll find the same types of activities, such as cave exploration, kayaking tours, swimming breaks on white sand beaches, and visits to floating villages. In fact, Bai Tu Long Bay is home to many fishing communities that you can meet during a cruise and learn more about fish farming. During your excursion, you might even catch a glimpse of Cua Ong Temple, an important spiritual site and renowned historical landmark in Vietnam!

As you can see, Bai Tu Long Bay has everything to take your breath away. But since visits here are far less frequent, cruise and excursion prices are consequently higher! To experience this natural gem almost entirely to yourself, it's worth the investment, don't you think?

Lan Ha Bay

Here's another extension of Halong Bay: Lan Ha Bay. Located south of Halong Bay, it is the most remote and therefore the least accessible bay. To explore it, you'll need to head to the small island of Cat Ba. In total, Lan Ha Bay encompasses 400 islets.

What makes it special? The numerous limestone formations here are noticeably greener than those in the neighboring bays! And for good reason—the vegetation is far more lush! To top it off, Lan Ha Bay (unlike Halong Bay, which has very few) boasts the advantage of having 139 secluded beaches with scenery that will leave you speechless.

Of course, you'll also find the famous traditional fishing villages and seafood farming operations. A cruise through Lan Ha Bay also allows you to make a stop on Cat Ba Island and discover its landscapes. While the town center is nothing exceptional, the surrounding nature is spectacular, with mangroves, villages and fishing ports, a national park and its many monkeys… Don't miss the Cannon Fort, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the bay!

Florine Dergelet