Choosing between Lan Ha Bay or Bai Tu Long can be tricky, especially for travelers seeking a quieter, more natural experience than the popular Halong Bay. Both bays offer stunning landscapes and are known for their tranquility compared to the tourist-heavy Ha Long, but each has distinct features that cater to different travel preferences. Pioneer Sail Travel is here to help you make an informed decision based on 10 essential factors that compare these two hidden gems.
Location and Geography: How Accessible Are Lan Ha Bay or Bai Tu Long?
Lan Ha Bay: Convenient Access from Cat Ba Island
Lan Ha Bay is located to the south of Halong Bay, with its waters stretching around the eastern coast of Cat Ba Island. The bay is a part of the Cat Ba Archipelago, a region comprising 367 islands, many of which are uninhabited and covered with lush, green forests. Most travelers reach Lan Ha Bay via Hai Phong, which is about 160 km from Hanoi. The journey to Hai Phong typically takes 2 hours by car or bus, followed by a 45-minute ferry ride from Binh Port to Cat Ba Island.
Once on Cat Ba Island, travelers can take a taxi (around 10 minutes from the town center) to Ben Beo Port, where they can board a boat to explore Lan Ha Bay. The bay spans over 7,000 hectares and features more than 400 islets. This makes Lan Ha Bay ideal for those who want to combine both sea and land activities, as you can also explore Cat Ba National Park, trek to hidden caves, or relax on quiet beaches like Cat Co Beach.
| Lan Ha Bay Travel Details | Information |
| Distance from Hanoi | ~160 km (~2.5 hours by bus/car) |
| Access Routes | Bus/car to Hai Phong, ferry to Cat Ba |
| Best Season to Visit | April – June, September – November |
Bai Tu Long Bay: Remote and Untouched
Bai Tu Long Bay lies northeast of Halong Bay and is often considered the quiet counterpart of its famous neighbor. While geographically similar, Bai Tu Long is more remote and less visited, offering a more pristine environment. The bay stretches over a wide area and is dotted with hundreds of limestone islands, but it’s less developed for tourism than Lan Ha Bay.
To reach Bai Tu Long Bay, travelers depart from Hon Gai harbor in Ha Long City. The trip from Hanoi to Hon Gai takes approximately 3.5 hours by car or bus. From Hon Gai Harbor, you’ll board a boat or cruise that takes you deep into the bay’s remote waters, offering breathtaking views without the crowds of Halong Bay.
| Bai Tu Long Travel Details | Information |
| Distance from Hanoi | ~170 km (~3.5 hours by car) |
| Access Routes | Bus/car to Ha Long City, boat to bay |
| Best Season to Visit | April – October |
Comparison of Accessibility
While both bays require a combination of road and boat travel, Lan Ha Bay is easier to reach, especially if you want to combine your visit with Cat Ba Island. Bai Tu Long Bay, being more remote, is ideal for travelers seeking isolation and a truly off-the-beaten-path experience.
| Comparison | Lan Ha Bay | Bai Tu Long Bay |
| Total Travel Time (from Hanoi) | 2.5-3 hours | 3.5-4 hours |
| Accessibility | Easier, via Cat Ba Island | More remote |
| Tourist Crowds | Low to moderate | Very low |
Scenic Landscapes: Which Bay Offers the Most Stunning Views?
Lan Ha Bay: Hidden Beaches and Limestone Cliffs
Lan Ha Bay is home to over 400 islands, many of which are uninhabited. This gives the bay a unique, almost untouched feel. Unlike Halong Bay, where some areas are filled with tourist boats, Lan Ha Bay offers visitors a more secluded experience with hidden beaches, such as Van Boi Beach and Monkey Island. The bay’s calm waters and towering limestone cliffs make it perfect for kayaking and swimming in peaceful lagoons.
Some of the must-see spots in Lan Ha Bay include Cai Beo Floating Village, one of the oldest fishing villages in Vietnam, where you can interact with the local fishermen and witness traditional fishing techniques. The area is also famous for its coral reefs, which can be explored via snorkeling in its crystal-clear waters.
Bai Tu Long Bay: Pristine and Serene
Bai Tu Long Bay offers a more remote experience with similar landscapes to Halong Bay, but without the crowds. The bay’s scenic beauty comes from its towering limestone islands and its untouched environment. Some areas of Bai Tu Long Bay form part of the Bai Tu Long National Park, known for its biodiversity and rich marine life.
A key feature of Bai Tu Long is its hidden caves and beaches. Thien Canh Son Cave is a popular spot to explore, with its vast limestone formations, while Cong Do Island and Vung Vieng Fishing Village provide tranquil places for kayaking or boat tours. The bay’s remoteness makes it ideal for those looking to experience Vietnam’s natural beauty without the noise and crowds.
| Comparison of Landscapes | Lan Ha Bay | Bai Tu Long Bay |
| Number of Islands | Over 400 | Hundreds of islands |
| Key Scenic Spots | Hidden beaches, floating villages, coral reefs | Limestone islands, caves, fishing villages |
| Tourist Crowds | Moderate | Low to very low |
Adventure and Activities: What Can You Do in Lan Ha Bay or Bai Tu Long?
Lan Ha Bay: Perfect for Kayaking and Island Hopping
One of the key attractions of Lan Ha Bay is its wide range of activities, making it ideal for adventurers. Kayaking is one of the most popular things to do, as you can paddle through the calm waters, explore hidden lagoons, and go under natural limestone arches. Dark and Bright Cave is a must-visit for kayakers, where you can glide through caves and reach hidden, tranquil bays.
If you prefer to stay on land, Lan Ha Bay is close to Cat Ba Island, where you can hike in Cat Ba National Park and visit the Hospital Cave, a historic underground facility used during the Vietnam War. Rock climbing is also popular on the limestone cliffs of Butterfly Valley.
| Top Activities in Lan Ha Bay | Details |
| Kayaking | Dark and Bright Cave, hidden lagoons |
| Island Hopping | Explore Van Boi Beach, Monkey Island |
| Hiking | Trails in Cat Ba National Park |
| Rock Climbing | Popular on Cat Ba’s limestone cliffs |
Bai Tu Long Bay: Eco-Tourism and Cultural Exploration
Bai Tu Long Bay offers a more tranquil set of activities focused on eco-tourism and cultural experiences. Eco-cruises that focus on sustainability are common in Bai Tu Long, allowing you to explore the area with minimal environmental impact. Activities such as snorkeling in the pristine waters and visiting remote fishing villages like Vung Vieng are highly recommended.
Cai Rong Island, located within Bai Tu Long, is known for its floating markets and vibrant local life. You can also visit Thien Canh Son Cave, which is less crowded compared to caves in Halong Bay, but offers equally spectacular stalactite formations.
| Top Activities in Bai Tu Long Bay | Details |
| Eco-Cruises | Focused on sustainability and low impact |
| Snorkeling | Pristine coral reefs in Cong Do Island |
| Cultural Exploration | Vung Vieng Fishing Village |
| Cave Exploration | Thien Canh Son Cave |
Which Offers More Adventure?
For those seeking more outdoor activities, Lan Ha Bay is ideal with its extensive kayaking, hiking, and rock climbing options. However, for a more relaxed, eco-focused experience, Bai Tu Long Bay offers cultural and natural exploration with less of a focus on adrenaline-pumping activities.
Crowds and Atmosphere: Seeking Solitude or Activity?
Lan Ha Bay: Quiet but Growing in Popularity
Lan Ha Bay is generally less crowded than Halong Bay, but its proximity to Cat Ba Island means it attracts moderate tourism, especially during peak season (April to October). While some popular areas can get busy, especially near Monkey Island and Cai Beo Floating Village, there are still plenty of quiet spots to enjoy.
Bai Tu Long Bay: A True Escape from the Crowds
In contrast, Bai Tu Long Bay offers true solitude. It’s much less visited than both Lan Ha Bay and Halong Bay, making it the perfect destination for those who want to escape the crowds entirely. Even during peak season, you’ll likely find that your boat is one of the few in the bay, allowing for an intimate and peaceful experience.
| Comparison of Crowds | Lan Ha Bay | Bai Tu Long Bay |
| Tourist Volume | Moderate | Low |
| Best for Solitude | Moderate tranquility | High tranquility |
Pricing and Budget: Which Bay Offers Better Value?
When comparing Lan Ha Bay or Bai Tu Long in terms of costs, Lan Ha Bay tends to be slightly more expensive, especially for cruises and accommodation due to its accessibility via Cat Ba Island. However, Lan Ha Bay offers more variety, with both luxury and budget-friendly options.
Bai Tu Long Bay, on the other hand, is generally more affordable due to its remoteness. Cruises and eco-tours are often cheaper, and since the bay is less developed, accommodation and food costs tend to be lower.
| Comparison of Costs (USD) | Lan Ha Bay | Bai Tu Long Bay |
| Day Cruise | $40 – $80 | $30 – $60 |
| Overnight Cruise | $100 – $200 | $90 – $180 |
| Accommodation (per night) | $30 – $150 | $25 – $120 |
Conclusion: Which Bay Should You Choose?
Both Lan Ha Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay offer incredible experiences, but your choice will depend on your travel preferences.
- If you’re looking for a destination that offers a balance of adventure, nature, and the opportunity to explore Cat Ba Island, Lan Ha Bay is perfect.
- If you prefer an untouched, peaceful, and eco-friendly escape, Bai Tu Long Bay is ideal for travelers who want solitude and less commercialized tourism.
No matter which bay you choose, Pioneer Sail Travel can help you create the perfect itinerary that matches your interests and ensures a memorable experience.
FAQs About Lan Ha Bay or Bai Tu Long
Which is better for families, Lan Ha Bay or Bai Tu Long?
For families, Lan Ha Bay offers more diverse activities, such as kayaking, beach visits, and hikes on Cat Ba Island, making it a better fit for family adventures.
Is Bai Tu Long Bay more affordable than Lan Ha Bay?
Generally, yes. Bai Tu Long Bay tends to be more affordable for both cruises and accommodation due to its remoteness and fewer tourists.
What are the main differences between Lan Ha Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay?
Lan Ha Bay offers a mix of island and sea-based activities, with more tourist infrastructure. Bai Tu Long Bay is more remote, offering solitude, eco-tourism, and fewer crowds.
Which bay is better for photography, Lan Ha Bay or Bai Tu Long?
Both bays are incredibly photogenic, but Lan Ha Bay offers more variety in landscapes, from limestone cliffs to floating villages, while Bai Tu Long Bay provides a more tranquil, untouched setting.
Can I visit both Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long in one trip?
Yes, it’s possible to visit both bays, especially if you start with Bai Tu Long and make your way down to Lan Ha Bay via Cat Ba Island, offering a comprehensive experience of northern Vietnam’s coastal beauty.
Tags: lan ha bay or bai tu long, bai tu long or lan ha bay, lan ha bay or bai tu long bay, bai tu long vs lan ha bay, lan ha bay vs bai tu long, best bay in northern vietnam
Recent Comments