You wish to explore the world-famous Halong Bay, but hate the crowds? Have no fear, there are a ton of Halong Bay Alternative destinations that offer the same awe-inspiring beauty without the crowds. From the calm waters of Bai Tu Long Bay to the secret beaches of Lan Ha Bay and the lush surroundings of Cat Ba Island, these spots offer unforgettable adventures. If you’re not a kayaker or fishing village explorer or just love sinking your toes in sand, these others are the perfect solution. Are you ready to finally find the Halong Bay Alternative of your dreams? Let’s dive in!
Picture emerald waters lapping at towering limestone islands, only without the encroaching traffic of tourist boats. That’s Bai Tu Long Bay, a flawless Halong Bay Alternative that few know about. A UNESCO World Heritage, there is a sense of tranquility that trails all over this place, making it the perfect crowd puller for both nature lovers as well as adventurers here.
Why It’s an Alternative: Quiet compared to the busy waters of Halong Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay is a place to relax. Its unspoiled beaches, secret grottoes, and quaint fishing villages appear out of a fairytale. Kayak through emerald waters or visit the beautiful Thien Canh Son Cave, you’re bound to have an adventurous, unforgettable experience in this bay.
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Bai Tu Long Bay (Sours: emperorcruises)
As far as Halong Bay Alternatives go, if it’s impressive landscapes and exciting activities that you are after, you can’t look past Lan Ha Bay. This unknown gem, known for its virgin beaches and emerald water, is ideal for those who have decided to get away from the masses and get deep.
Why It’s an Alternative: While the waters of Halong Bay are crowded and the beaches grimy, Lan Ha Bay offers more than 100 private beaches, serene green islands, and immense blue sea for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. It’s also home to Monkey Island, which is a favorite location for hiking and wildlife sightings.
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Lan Ha Bay (Sours: lanhabaycruises)
For adventure seekers, Cat Ba Island offers the best alternative to Halong Bay. The dense forests, towering mountains, and peaceful beaches make this lush island a nature lover’s paradise. Whether it’s hiking trips through Cat Ba National Park or exploration of ancient caves, plenty is going on here.
Why It’s an Alternative: A one-stop shop for adventure and relaxation, Cat Ba Island. Discover the wild landscapes of Cat Ba National Park, trek to the Cannon Fort lookout, and see the ancient Cai Beo Fishing Village, one of Vietnam’s oldest fishing communities.
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Cat Ba Island (Sours: localvietnam)
If you are looking for a Halong Bay Alternative that combines gorgeous beaches with thrilling attractions and lively entertainment, you have discovered Tuan Chau Island. The “pearl island” of Ha Long has everything from family trips or romantic breaks to exciting beach breaks or the perfect sunbathing spot.
Why It’s an Alternative: Tuan Chau Island isn’t as serene as some of the others in Halong Bay, but it has more to offer in terms of activities. Whether you want to chill on Tuan Chau Beach or catch one of the world-class shows, such as the Dolphin Show or the Water Music Show, Tuan Chau is for you.
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Tuan Chau Island (Sours: traveloka)
For an authentic Halong Bay Alternative experience, visit Vung Vieng Fishing Village, where the pace of life is unhurried and traditional. This delightful village is a floating hodgepodge of rickety wooden houses, welcoming residents, and calm waters, providing a glimpse into the soul of Ha Long.
Why It’s an Alternative: Far removed from the crowded tourism centers found in Halong Bay, Vung Vieng Fishing Village is a tranquil retreat. Here you can see traditional fishing techniques that have been passed down for generations, and observe the daily lives of the local fishermen.
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Vung Vieng Fishing Village (Sours: dragonlegendcruise)
If you’re looking for a magical Halong Bay Alternative that leads you deep into the depths of the earth, then Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave) is one to add to the list. Famous for the glistening stone formations and gigantic grotto, the grotto ranks among the grandest caverns of the bay.
Why It’s an Alternative: Sung Sot Cave has the same stunning formations that the popular caves in Halong Bay do, but minus the foot-traffic-jam if you go early. It’s full of soaring stalactites, huge chambers, and all lit up in a spectrum of colors.
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Sung Sot Cave (Sours: lejourneyhalongcruise)
For the adventurous and beautiful views lovers, Titop Island is one of the Halong Bay alternatives that is not to be missed. This island, with its tall mountain peak and clean beach, makes for the perfect combination of discovery and relaxation.
Why It’s an Alternative: No hordes of beachgoers here, just a peaceful oasis with a sweeping 360-degree view at the peak of Titop Island. And whether you’re a hiker or a beach lover, there’s something here for you.
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Titop Island (Sours: homepaylater)
For those who wish to escape the masses for a more peaceful Halong Bay Alternative, Co To Island is it. With its peaceful beaches, clear sea, and breathtaking sunsets, this is an island made just for those who want to relax.
Why It’s an Alternative: Halong Bay, for all its wonder, is never peaceful; Co To is pure serenity. With its pristine beaches, clear blue water, and beautiful lighthouse, it is an ideal location for relaxation and photography.
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Co To Island (Sours: vietnamdiscovery)
Get prepared for an enchanted underground journey, with Dau Go Cave, an impressive Halong Bay Alternative taking visitors far away into the heart of nature. If not for its large chambers filled with dramatic stalactites and stalagmites, this cave would be worth visiting.
Why It’s an Alternative: Instead of crowded tourist traps, the Dau Go Cave is a peaceful, enigmatic world of aged rock eclipses. Its three remarkable chambers are a tale of time and nature’s art.
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Dau Go Cave (Sours: paradisevietnam)
For a genuinely peaceful Halong Bay Alternative, the Hon Co Island, also known as Grass Island, is a heaven of white sandy beaches, clear blue water, and pure natural beauty. Ideal for couples, families, or solo travelers who enjoy tranquility, the island is a hidden treasure.
Why It’s an Alternative: Whereas Halong Bay is a scenic powerhouse, Hon Co Island is a more intimate and peaceful experience. Its beaches are isolated, and the water is pretty tranquil, so it’s perfect for anyone who wants to get away from it all.
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Hon Co Island (Grass Island) (Sours: vietnamdiscovery)
These weapons of Halong Bay Alternative places are just as stunning, but without the throngs. All these places, including Bai Tu Long Bay with emerald water, Lan Ha Bay with secluded beaches, Cat Ba Island with trekking paths, and Vung Vieng Fishing Village with local culture and people. All set for an extraordinary adventure? Discover these beauty spots and experience the top Halong Bay activities without the crowds.
We went on a private trip to Vietnam and Cambodia, the whole trip plan was organized for us by the Impress Travel Company from Vietnam, the company did an amazing job, the whole trip was organized in a wonderful way with an amazing match between the various parties, their choices were correct and the quality of the hotels chosen were very high quality and it is important to note that the price was low in comparison To other agencies, thanks to Impress Travel and especially to Daniel who was tolerant and open to changes and organized the route for us.
Impress travel were amazing. Did my bookings with Daniel for our tour of Vietnam and I must say Daniel was very professional and prompt with his services. All the arrangement, plans, pick-up & drop-off services, hotels, vehicles, sightseeing tours and guides were spot on and excellent. Did 4 nights Hanoi, 1 night Hà Long Bay cruise, 3 nights Hoian, 4 nights Saigon and 1 night in Can Tho. It was totally awesome. Every part of the journey was superbly arranged and planned. I will highly recommend Impress Travel for anyone interested in visiting Vietnam. Very organized and reliable!
I booked with Impress Travel in July. My contact person was Tommy Thang. He is an amazing person. He was very helpful. He changed my program twice for me. Very accommodating!
We started our holiday in the north (Sapa)of Vietnam and travelled down to HCMC.
The tour was fantastic, Tommy's arrangements were to the"T".
I will always use them if I have to visit the area again and recommend them to one and all.
Thank you once again Mr.Tommy and the Impress Team.
Sulaiman Pochee
Great value for money with 4 stars hotel accommodation for 4 couples. The tour guide has been very helpful and brought us to amazing places in Sapa. We want to thanks Thuy the tour guide and especially Mark from Impress Travel for his great service and assurance throughout our trip. We’ll definitely use his service for other tour packages in other parts of Vietnam.
This is the second time we travel to Vietnam with IMPRESS Travel. First time, we booked our holiday to Hanoi, Halong Bay & Sapa during Dec 2018 with Impress.
Second time, we travel to Hoi An, Hue & Danang (Central Vietnam) during Jan 2019.
My friends & I are very glad & happy with all the hotels stay in Central Vietnam, the meals provided are delicious. We are greatly appreciated with all the tour arrangement by Tommy & his team (tour guide).
Especially, Mr. NHAT C.V. He is helpful, cheerful, knowledgeable and very professional. He always volunteer to take a nice pictures for six of us (group) .
We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel. We will definitely come back to Vietnam again with Impress
Tour from Hanoi to Halong bay is one of the most amazing package tour in the North Vietnam. Our tours bring you to explore the seascape of Ha Long Bay is synonymous with Vietnam. Cruises sail emerald green waters among thousands of rugged islands and islets, stopping at spectacular caves through which visitors can wander, viewing impressive, centuries-old formations.
You will take an experience of stunning scenery, sumptuous sea food and excellent service with 6 hours cruise tour among the bay that is also a great option for travelers to discover the nature wonder. We ensure you will have memorable trip to visit one of seven World nature wonder.
Tour explores the most magnificent beauty of nature in the world ( Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay). You will not only see many fantastically shaped islands, beautiful beaches, and great natural caves, but you will also learn more about its history and local people and join to ocean activities.
This tour is 3 days and 2 nights staying on cruises. To explore further paths to hidden corner of Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay or Halong Bay & Bai Tu Long Bay. To take part in marine activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, rock climbing or swimming at the pristine and untouched beaches.
This tour with 4 days/3 nights on boat/cruises to explore Halong Bay & Bai Tu Long bay off the beaten track where is not touristic area, the feeling so tranquil of the fresh atmosphere. And discover the local people where you can see and learn about negative fishermen and floating fishing village around Tonkin Gulf.
