Halong Bay what to eat what to do where to stay? 

1. Halong Bay what to eat? Unlocking a culinary map that captivates millions

Stepping into Halong Bay, your taste buds will be immediately conquered by the richness of the sea. This place is not only a treasure trove of fresh seafood but also a repository of unique culinary secrets, creating signature dishes that delight any diner. Let's explore the "stars" of Halong's culinary scene that you definitely must try:

• Halong grilled squid sausage (Cha Muc) - The quintessence of seafood cuisine: Mentioning Halong Bay is inseparable from its famous grilled squid sausage. The uniqueness here lies in the freshness of the freshly caught cuttlefish, meticulously hand-pounded to retain its characteristic crispiness. When fried, the sausage turns a golden brown, emitting an irresistible aroma. Enjoying hot "cha muc" with a touch of chili sauce, you'll savor the natural sweetness of the squid blending with its addictive chewiness.
  • Suggested addresses:
    • Cha Muc Thoan: 33 Tran Quoc Nghien Street, Hong Ha Ward, Halong City (Reference Price: VND 300,000 - 400,000/kg). Long-standing reputation, trusted by locals and tourists alike.
    • Cha Muc Ba Ngan: Zone 4, Bai Chay Ward, Halong City (Reference Price: VND 350,000 - 450,000/kg). Hand-pounded squid sausage, guaranteed quality.
• Horseshoe crab (Sam Bien) - unique "Sea Treasure": Horseshoe crabs are a seafood with a distinctive appearance and offer a uniquely delicious flavor. In Halong Bay, they are prepared into many appealing dishes such as horseshoe crab salad, stir-fried sweet and sour horseshoe crab, grilled horseshoe crab with scallion oil, and fried horseshoe crab eggs. Each dish has its own flavor, but they all share the commonality of freshness and nutritional value.
  • Suggested adresses:
    • Sam Bien Quang Yen restaurant: Quang Yen market area (Reference Price: Depending on the dish, ranging from VND 150,000 - 300,000/dish). Famous for fresh horseshoe crab dishes.
    • Seafood restaurants along Bai Chay beach also often have horseshoe crab on their menu.
• Sipunculus nudus (Ngan) - A flavor that "Intoxicates" hearts: "Ngan" is a mollusk with a shape somewhat similar to a clam but larger and possesses a distinctive flavor, both sweet and rich. "Ngan" can be prepared into many dishes such as steamed "ngan" with lemongrass, grilled "ngan" with scallion oil, "ngan" porridge, and especially "ngan" wine - a wine with a very unique taste.
  • Suggested addresses:
    • Seafood eateries along Hon Gai beach: Often have fresh "ngan" (Reference Price: Depending on the dish, ranging from VND 80,000 - 150,000/dish).
    • Some large seafood restaurants also serve this dish.
• Geoduck (Tu Hai) - the "Queen Snail" of the sea: Geoduck is a rare and precious sea snail with sweet, chewy, and very nutritious white meat. Geoduck is often simply prepared such as grilled with scallion oil, steamed, or in salads to preserve its natural fresh flavor.
  • Suggested addresses:
    • Seafood restaurants in the Cai Rong area (Van Don): Where quality geoduck is sourced (Reference Price: Depending on the dish, relatively high).
    • Some high-end restaurants in Halong also have geoduck on their menu.
• Steamed rice rolls with grilled squid sausage (Banh Cuon Cha Muc) - A unique combination: This is an interesting "hybrid" between traditional steamed rice rolls and Halong's specialty, grilled squid sausage. Hot, soft steamed rice rolls served with crispy, chewy, fragrant grilled squid sausage create a unique and unmistakable flavor.
  • Suggested addresses:
    • Steamed rice roll stalls with grilled squid sausage in the Halong market area: (Reference Price: VND 30,000 - 50,000/serving). Many delicious and affordable small eateries.
• Mantis shrimp noodles (Bun Be Be/Bun Tom) - The taste of the sea in a bowl of noodles: Mantis shrimp noodles are a rustic dish that carries the strong flavor of the sea. Fresh, firm, sweet mantis shrimp are skillfully prepared and served with vermicelli noodles, fresh vegetables, and a rich broth, creating an irresistibly appealing dish.
• Suggested addresses:
  • Noodle stalls in the Le Thanh Tong street area: (Reference Price: VND 30,000 - 50,000/bowl).
  • Ask locals to find hidden delicious spots.

• Luxury seafood restaurants: For those who want to enjoy a sophisticated ambiance, excellent service quality, and savor fresh seafood prepared with finesse. Seafood restaurants along Bai Chay beach or on high-end cruises are often ideal choices.
• Affordable local eateries: If you want to experience the authentic flavors of Halong cuisine at a reasonable price, seek out small eateries along the roadsides or in residential areas.
• Halong night market food area: A street food paradise with countless tempting dishes, from grilled seafood and skewers to typical Northern snacks. This is an ideal place to "attack" the culinary scene on a budget.
• Cafes with delicious food: Besides fragrant cups of coffee, many cafes in Halong also serve delicious light meals, lunch, or dinner with beautiful settings and great sea views.

• Budget-friendly: Local eateries, night market food area are top choices.
• Mid-range: Small to medium-sized seafood restaurants, branded specialty eateries.
• High-end: Luxurious restaurants in 4-5 star hotels, restaurants on high-end cruises.

2. Halong Bay what to do? Unveiling the coordinates for unforgettable fun

• Halong Bay - The heart of the wonder: Little needs to be said about the legendary beauty of Halong Bay. Unmissable experiences here include:
  • Taking a boat trip to visit magnificent caves: Explore the splendid and magical beauty of famous caves like Thien Cung, Dau Go, Sung Sot... Each cave has its own unique beauty, sculpted by the talented hands of nature. Experience: Choose tours with a guide to better understand the history and geological beauty of each cave.
  • Kayaking/SUPing through the islands: Explore the pristine beauty up close with nature and feel the tranquility of the bay. Experience: Choose early morning or late afternoon to avoid the harsh sun and enjoy the fresh air.
  • Sightseeing the bay from a cruise: Relax on the sundeck, admiring the panoramic view of the bay with thousands of limestone islands bobbing on the blue water. Especially, watching the sunset or sunrise over the bay is a wonderful experience. Experience: There are many types of cruises with different amenities and itineraries, choose the one that suits your time and budget.
• Ti top island - a "Million-dollar view" of Halong Bay: This island named after the Soviet cosmonaut Gherman Titov not only has a smooth white sandy beach for swimming but also a high mountain peak with a stunning 360-degree view of the entire Halong Bay. Experience: Take the time to climb to the top of the mountain to admire the majestic scenery, especially at sunset.

• Sun world Ha Long park - A vibrant entertainment world: This world-class entertainment complex will bring you relaxing and exhilarating moments:
  • Dragon park: With modern thrill rides and family-friendly play areas. Experience: Consider buying combo tickets to experience more rides.
  • Typhoon water park: Cool off in the summer with challenging water slides and large swimming pools. Experience: Bring comfortable swimwear and sunscreen.
  • Queen cable car and sun wheel: Admire Halong Bay from above with unique cable car cabins and enjoy the panoramic view of Halong City sparkling at night on the giant Ferris wheel.
  • Experience: Go in the evening for a fantastic night view experience.
  • Kid kingdom indoor play area: Dedicated to young children with many safe and fun games.
• Quang Ninh museum - a journey to discover local history and culture: This museum showcases the unique historical and cultural artifacts of Quang Ninh province, helping you better understand the land and its people. Experience: Spend about 2-3 hours to visit all the exhibition areas.
• Cua Van floating village (or other floating villages) - touching the simple life: Experience the life of local people closely tied to the sea, explore unique floating houses, and learn about aquaculture. Experience: Go in the early morning to better feel the rhythm of the fishing village.
• Halong night market - a shopping and street food paradise: After a long day of exploring, the night market is an ideal place to buy souvenirs and enjoy delicious street food at affordable prices. Experience: Bargain when shopping and be mindful of your personal belongings.

• 1-Day itinerary: Morning visit to Halong Bay (caves, kayaking), afternoon swimming at Ti Top Island or enjoying part of Sun World Ha Long Park, evening stroll at the night market.
• 2 Days 1 night itinerary: Day 1 Halong Bay tour (overnight on a cruise), Day 2 explore one of the destinations like Sun World Ha Long Park or Quang Ninh Museum.
• 3 Days 2 nights itinerary: Have more time to explore surrounding areas like Bai Tu Long Bay, Yen Tu Relic Complex, or relax at the beaches.

• Families with young children: Prioritize Sun World Ha Long Park (Dragon Park, Kid Kingdom, Typhoon Water Park), swimming at Bai Chay or Ti Top Island, visiting Quang Ninh Museum.
• Couples: Choose a romantic cruise on Halong Bay, watch the sunset on Ti Top Island, stroll along Bai Chay beach at night.
• Groups of young adventurers: Kayak through pristine caves, try thrilling rides at Dragon Park, climb mountains on Ti Top Island.
• Culture enthusiasts: Visit Quang Ninh Museum, floating villages, Yen Tu Relic Complex (if time permits).

3. Halong Bay where to stay? Suggesting comfortable accommodation options for your exploration

• Diverse style hotels (from budget to luxury): Halong Bay boasts countless hotels with various price ranges and styles, mainly concentrated in the Bai Chay and Hon Gai areas. From cozy boutique hotels to luxurious international hotels with full amenities, you can easily find a place to stay that suits your budget and preferences.
• Beachfront resorts - relaxing getaways: If you desire a relaxing vacation with private space, beautiful beaches, and world-class spa and pool services, the beachfront resorts in the Bai Chay area or on Tuan Chau Island will be excellent choices.
• Homestays/airbnb - experiencing local culture up close: For travelers who want to explore Halong in a more authentic way, homestays and Airbnb offer the opportunity to live with locals, experiencing unique culture and cuisine. The Hon Gai area and nearby islands often have many interesting homestay options.
• Overnight cruises on the Bay - "5-Star hotels" amidst the Wonder: This is a unique and unmissable experience when visiting Halong Bay. Spending the night on a cruise allows you to fully enjoy the magical beauty of the bay at night and the sunrise over the sea. In particular, Athena Luxury Cruise and Athena Royal Cruise are two prominent cruises with luxurious designs, modern amenities, professional service, and unique bay exploration itineraries, promising a high-class overnight stay amidst the World Natural Heritage site.

• Bai Chay: The vibrant tourist center with many hotels, resorts, restaurants, bars, and entertainment activities. Convenient for transportation and accessing amenities.
• Hon Gai: The administrative center of Halong City, quieter than Bai Chay but still has many quality hotels and restaurants. Close to attractions such as the Quang Ninh Museum and the local market.
• Tuan Chau: An artificial island with many high-end resorts, the Sun World Ha Long Park entertainment complex, and the international cruise port. Suitable for those who want a luxurious and convenient vacation.

4. Halong Bay travel tips: your pocket guide to a perfect trip

• Golden times to explore: Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) offer pleasant weather. Summer (June-August) is ideal for water activities. Winter (December-February) has a tranquil beauty, but warm clothes are needed.
• Getting to Halong Bay: From Hanoi: Bus (3-4 hours), train (5-7 hours), limousine (2.5-3 hours), or luxury seaplane. From other provinces: Fly to Van Don Airport, then take a bus or taxi to Halong (approx. 50km).
• Getting around Halong Bay: Motorbike rental (onshore exploration), taxi/ride-hailing apps (city), boat/canoe rental (bay exploration), electric cars (Bai Chay area).
• Essential packing list: Comfortable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, suitable footwear, camera, personal medications, cash and credit cards.
• Safety first: Follow safety regulations on boats and at attractions, avoid swimming in dangerous areas, secure belongings, check weather forecasts, stay hydrated.

• Day 1: Boat trip (caves, island), swimming, sunset viewing, night market, street food.
• Day 2: Sun World Ha Long Park, Queen Cable Car, Sun Wheel, seafood dinner in Bai Chay.
• Day 3: Quang Ninh Museum, floating village visit, souvenir shopping.