Kayaking in Halong Bay: Ultimate Guide for First-Time Travelers [2025 UPDATED]

Why Is Kayaking in Halong Bay a Must-Do?

Halong Bay has been voted as one of the world's most exciting kayaking destinations by National Geographic Adventures magazine in 2000, making it an ideal spot for active travelers. In addition to its breathtaking scenery, the bay's calm waters provide a safe and enriching environment for kayakers of all skill levels, while the opportunity to paddle among dazzling rock formations and local fishing villages adds to the adventure.

Halong Bay kayaking is, in fact, one of the best ways for visitors to explore the stunning beauty of this World Heritage site. What's more wonderful than precious moments of watching the bay on the deck, immersing in the clear water while rowing through such magnificent cave systems?

Floating villages are ideal for kayaking due to their stunning sceneries and vibrant lifestyles

Kayaking in Halong Bay offers a unique opportunity to explore the lives of local fishing communities. As you paddle through calm waters, you’ll encounter fishing villages like Cong Dam, known for its unspoiled beauty, and Vung Vieng, which provides an intimate glimpse into local daily life on the water.

Cua Van, the largest floating village, features a fascinating mix of floating homes and wooden boats, while Ba Hang offers a quieter experience near stunning caves. This journey allows you to connect with both the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Ha Long Bay.

Top 8 Best Locations for Kayaking in Halong Bay

Kayak in Dark and Light Cave

The first spot is the Dark and Light Cave, located in the area bordering Lan Ha Bay and Halong Bay. Dark and Light Cave is an ideal area for those passionate about kayaking, fond of discovering nature with their own muscles and ingenuity when traveling to Halong.

The Dark Cave is regarded as an underwater cave due to its special formation deep in the water. In the geological activity, there are 3 types of caves in Halong Bay formed from the impact of water on karst terrain.

The Dark Cave belongs to the cleft form with the cave floor located deep in the seawater, while the top is on the water's surface. With a kayak, visitors can get closer to the cave; discover the beauty of nature, the excitement of water erosion at the foot of the limestone mountain, as well as the bravery of plants here when surviving under this rocky terrain.

Kayaking in the Dark and Light Cave offers a thrilling and immersive experience in nature

Moreover, visitors can creep into the cave, feel the stone stalactites on the ceiling with their bare hands, and capture some beautiful photos while reaching the top of the cave.

Passing through the cave, tourists will encounter a valley lying on the sea, surrounded by incredibly high mountains. Drifting the kayak and slowly looking at the surrounding scenery, breathing in the fresh air, and enjoying the beautiful sky will surely be a wish you have been searching for for so long in the midst of bustling life.

Let's book Lan Ha Bay Cruises to enjoy kayaking in Dark & Light Cave!

Find outLan Ha Bay Kayaking: Complete Guide

Kayak in Luon Cave

Luon Cave is among the top search areas for kayaking. The cave is shaped like a tunnel with a submerged background. Deep in the cave, there is a small lake, and the cave is the intersection between the sea and the lake. Belong to the Halong Bay route, you can enjoy kayaking excursions by choosing cruises like Hermes Cruise and Phoenix Cruise.

Visiting on high tide days, visitors will experience the exciting feeling of having to crouch on the boat through the flooded cave floor to enter the lake.

Luon Cave boasts a unique beauty that can be discovered by kayaking

Luon Cave is also the habitat of the golden monkey, with hundreds of individuals divided into groups. The bustle of monkeys catches the attention and curiosity of visitors.

At present, the Luon Cave has become a popular destination for tourists with golden monkeys. Visitors may catch sight of these monkeys climbing and playing on the rocks.

Kayak in Dragon Eye Island

With a natural landscape, emerald green sea, white sand beach, and a lush green forest, Dragon Eye Island is on the list of "the best areas for kayaking in Halong Bay". This island's special highlight is the beautiful, clear blue lake lying among the Limestone Mountains and primeval forests.

This is why it is called the Island of the Dragon Eye. This lake is the eye and the place that owns the unique natural ecosystem in the Gulf of Tonkin. Don't forget to explore the primeval forest, take some photos, and soak in the cool sea here.

Dragon Eye Island offers a peaceful, and private kayaking experience

Kayak in the Cong Do Area

Located in the southeast of Ha Long, the Cong Do area still retains the primitive nature of the ecosystem, coral reefs, and beautiful landscapes. Located within Bai Tu Long Bay, the area is often included in cruise itineraries to this bay with popular options like Swan Cruise and Signature Cruise.

Visitors will feel like being immersed in the majestic beauty of the evergreen flora and rocky island. Cong Do is really a paradise for relaxing, one of the best areas for kayaking, and for visitors who love to experience new things.

Kayaking in Cong Do delivers a unique adventure amidst untouched natural beauty

Kayak in Vung Vieng Fishing Village

From Bai Chay pier, kayak to the northeast about 30km, visitors will arrive at Vung Vieng fishing village. There is a cultural center for community activities, displaying pictures of Ha Long Bay through which visitors will have the opportunity to understand the locals' lives through generations better.

Other fun activities include: rowing bamboo sticks, participating in fishing trips, pulling, and removing fish from the nets like an actual fisher. Sightseeing around the bay, weaving through Vung Vieng Cave, stopping by the pristine beaches, and enjoying delicious seafood is worth trying.

Vung Vieng village provides a glimpse into the unique local lifestyle

Let's book Bai Tu Long Bay Cruises to enjoy kayaking in the Cong Do area or Vung Vieng Fishing Village

Kayak in Cap La Island & Cap La Fishing Village

The final perfect place for Halong Bay kayaking is Cap La Area. It offers an ideal setting with stunning landscapes, tranquil atmosphere, and pristine white sand beaches. Cap La Island is a beautiful spot frequently included in cruise itineraries to Bai Tu Long Bay, such as Garden Bay Legend Cruise.

Kayaking on this island is a favorite activity, and tourists will have a chance to pass by Cap La fishing village, where each boat is a separate household. These boats are tied together, and the working fishers' image in these boats is why more tourists come here.

Cap La features both stunning rock formations and local village, perfect for kayaking

Kayak in Ba Hang Fishing Village

Ba Hang Fishing Village, located in the heart of Ha Long Bay, is nestled near the famous Thien Cung Cave. This serene village is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters, offering visitors a peaceful escape from the busier areas of the bay.

What makes Ba Hang special is the opportunity to experience the local fishing culture firsthand while paddling through calm waters. As you kayak along the village, you’ll pass by traditional floating houses and fishing boats, providing a glimpse into the daily lives of the local fishermen.

Ba Hang Village is a hidden gem, perfect for tranquil and private kayaking sessions

The tranquil environment, combined with the impressive limestone formations surrounding the village, creates a perfect backdrop for an unforgettable kayaking experience. Visitors will be amazed by the pristine waters and the natural beauty of the towering karsts that seem to rise straight from the sea.

Kayak in Trinh Nu Cave

Located on the east of Bo Hon Island in Ha Long Bay, Trinh Nu Cave (also known as Virgin Cave) is another must-see spot for kayaking enthusiasts. This cave is not just known for its stunning geological formations but also for the romantic legend associated with it, making it a culturally significant attraction in the bay.

As you kayak around Trinh Nu Cave, you’ll have the chance to explore the imposing cliffs and hidden grottoes that dot the area. The calm waters surrounding the cave bring an ideal paddling experience, allowing you to get up close to the unique rock formations and discover the natural beauty that hides within.

Visitors can glide through the serene waters around Trinh Nu Cave

Top 10 Recommended Cruises with Kayaking Adventures

You can take a Halong Bay cruise and enjoy a multitude of outdoor activities including Halong Bay kayaking. It also is the best way to book a kayaking tour.

Most of the cruise in Halong offers kayaking as an optional service, some of them are included, and some of them you need to pay extra. You should check carefully to avoid any overcharges.

Here are some recommended cruises that include kayaking:

Note:Kayaking duration ranges from 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the kayak location and each cruise's itinerary.

Let’s plan and have a wonderful time with the top things to do in Halong Bay. With BestPrice Travel, each cruise tour comes with clear details on inclusions and exclusions. If you need more information, don’t hesitate to contact our sales team for prompt assistance!

What to bring when kayaking in Halong Bay?

When kayaking in Halong Bay, it's essential to be properly prepared for a comfortable and enjoyable adventure. Be sure to pack the following items to make the most of your trip:

Essentials:

• Water bottles for each person
• Sunscreen is essential
• Insect repellent
• Camera & dry bag storing the camera

Clothing:

• Swimsuits in the summer
• Good, comfortable shoes
• Hat & sunglasses

FAQs about Kayaking in Halong Bay for Beginners

Is kayaking in Halong Bay ideal for novices?

Yes, Halong Bay kayaking is perfect for beginners. The calm, gentle waves of the bay provide an ideal environment for first-timers to explore the stunning limestone islands and clear waters. Children aged 5 to 10 can also join the adventure, as long as they are accompanied by adults, making it a great family experience.

When is the optimal time for kayaking in Halong Bay?

The best time to go kayaking in Halong Bay is between March and June and from October to December. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the scenery is breathtaking.

• March to June offers mild summer conditions, ideal for outdoor activities like kayaking.
• October to December provides cooler temperatures, typically ranging from 10°C to 15°C, perfect for those seeking a quieter experience while still enjoying the excitement of kayaking.

It's best to avoid visiting from July to September, as this period often brings tropical storms and rough seas, which are not suitable for kayaking.

What should you know before kayaking in Halong Bay? 

Before kayaking in Halong Bay, make sure to keep a few key things in mind:

• Check the weather: Always look at the forecast before heading out to avoid heavy rain or strong waves.
• Consider your skills: If you're not confident in your kayaking abilities, it's a good idea to join a guided tour for support.
• Bring the right gear: Be sure to pack a life jacket, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, water, and snacks.
• Be mindful of peak season: November to March is the busiest time, so if you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in off-peak months.
• Respect the environment: Always keep the bay clean by not littering, and be mindful of the marine life.
• Stay safe: Follow your guide’s instructions, don’t paddle too far from shore, and always stay with your group.

What to keep in mind while kayaking in Halong Bay?

When kayaking in Halong Bay, it’s important to be aware of certain factors to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some key things to remember while out on the water:

• Hold the paddle correctly: Keep your hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart, with the curved side of the paddle facing backward.
• Use your strength: Don’t hesitate to put in some effort while paddling, as this will help you move faster and more easily.
• Avoid cave entrances: The water near cave openings can be strong. Stay clear to avoid getting pulled into.
• Keep your distance from other boats: Make sure to maintain a safe distance to avoid unnecessary collisions with other kayaks or boats.

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced adventurer, kayaking in Halong Bay invites you to explore its calm waters to create lasting memories. From the peaceful fishing village of Vung Vieng to the enchanting Luon Cave, every destination offers a unique glimpse into the captivating beauty of Halong Bay.