Explore the less touristy Bai Tu Long Bay

Last updated - June 10, 2024
Explore the less touristy Bai Tu Long Bay

Located in a remote setting of pristine beauty, Bai Tu Long Bay beckons with its enchanting, unspoiled landscapes and off-the-beaten-path allure. Here, tranquility reigns as you immerse yourself in the serene embrace of nature, surrounded by majestic limestone karsts.

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1. Where is Bai Tu Long Bay?

Bai Tu Long Bay, located in northeastern Vietnam, is a picturesque and lesser-known neighbor to the famous Ha Long Bay. It boasts stunning limestone karsts, crystal-clear waters, and tranquil, less crowded beaches.

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The location of Bai Tu Long Bay

The bay is part of a national park, offering diverse marine life and lush, protected areas for eco-tourism.

Visitors can explore the bay through boat tours, kayaking, and visits to traditional fishing villages, experiencing both natural beauty and cultural heritage.

2. Things to do in Bai Tu Long Bay

 

2.1 Stay overnight on a cruise

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A cabin on a cruise in Bay Tu Long Bay

The best way to explore Bai Tu Long Bay is by taking an overnight cruise, which serves as a mobile floating hotel, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the bay's beauty and partake in various activities.

Throughout Bai Tu Long Bay, giant limestone mountains rise from the tranquil blue waters, creating a breathtaking landscape. Visitors will notice that the limestone karst formations in Bai Tu Long Bay are higher and more densely packed than those in Ha Long Bay.

As a less touristy destination, Bai Tu Long Bay offers a sense of discovery, as if one is exploring an untouched paradise.

2.2 Visit fishing villages in Bai Tu Long Bay

Cong Dam fishing village in Bai Tu Long Bay is a serene and traditional settlement known for its unspoiled natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The village is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters, providing a picturesque backdrop for its floating houses and local fishing activities.

Visitors can experience the daily life of the fishermen, explore the lush mangroves, and enjoy the tranquility away from the more crowded tourist spots.

Vung Vieng fishing village in Bai Tu Long Bay is a charming, floating village that offers a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of local fishermen. Surrounded by majestic limestone karsts and calm, emerald waters, the village is renowned for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning scenery.

Visitors can explore the village by bamboo boat, interact with the friendly residents, and learn about their unique culture and fishing practices.

2.3 Explore Thien Canh Son cave

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The attractive beauty of Thien Canh Son cave

Thien Canh Son cave in Bai Tu Long Bay is a captivating natural wonder known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites. The cave's interior, illuminated by natural light, reveals a stunning array of formations resembling animals and mythical creatures.

Accessible by a short hike, the cave offers visitors panoramic views of the surrounding bay and lush greenery. Exploring Thien Canh Son provides a unique opportunity to experience both the geological beauty and serene landscape of Bai Tu Long Bay.

2.4 Relaxing at beaches

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A pristine beach in Bai Tu Long bay

Bai Tu Long Bay is home to several beautiful beaches that offer serene and picturesque settings. Some notable beaches in Bai Tu Long Bay include:
Ban Chan Beach - Known for its pristine white sand and clear turquoise waters, offering a tranquil retreat.
Quan Lan Beach- Famous for its long stretches of white sand and relatively undeveloped surroundings.
Minh Chau Beach - Renowned for its smooth, fine sand and peaceful atmosphere.
Ngoc Vung Beach- Features crystal-clear waters and a serene environment, perfect for relaxation.
Son Hao Beach - A quiet beach with stunning natural beauty and fewer tourists.

2.5 Enjoy Kayaking in Bai Tu Long Bay

Kayaking in Bai Tu Long Bay offers an immersive way to explore its breathtaking natural beauty and tranquil waters. Paddling through the bay allows visitors to navigate close to the towering limestone karsts, hidden lagoons, and secluded beaches, providing a unique perspective of the landscape.

The calm and clear waters make for an ideal kayaking experience, where adventurers can discover hidden caves and observe diverse marine life. This activity not only provides a sense of adventure but also a peaceful escape, as you drift silently through the serene and picturesque surroundings of Bai Tu Long Bay.

2.6 Night squid fishing in Bai Tu Long Bay

Night squid fishing activity in Bai Tu Long Bay offers tourists a hands-on experience of traditional fishing techniques used by local fishermen. Most of cruises in Bai Tu Long bay offer this activities included in the cruise package.

Clients will enjoy this after the dinner time. The best season for night fishing from May to September.

3. Should we choose Bai Tu Long or Halong Bay?

The natural landscapes of Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay are quite similar, with only minor differences. The overnight cruises in both bays are equally excellent.

However, Halong Bay was developed for tourism earlier, and it is more widely known among tourists. Many limestone islands in Halong Bay have unique shapes, each with its own legend.

Additionally, Halong Bay is home to numerous large and beautiful caves adorned with stunning stalactites, making it a popular choice for many visitors.

In contrast, Bai Tu Long Bay remains more pristine due to fewer tourists. While it lacks the large caves of Halong Bay, it offers its own charm with a peaceful, non-touristy atmosphere.

4. Best time to visit Bai Tu Long Bay

The ideal time to visit Bai Tu Long Bay is between October and April when the weather is mild and dry, offering excellent visibility. This period is the peak tourist season, so the bay can be quite crowded, and prices for tours and accommodations tend to be higher.

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Bai Tu Long Bay in November

From May to September, the weather becomes hotter and more humid, with an increased likelihood of rain. However, the bay is less crowded during this low season and may get promotions from cruise, that making it a great option to enjoy a cruise trip in a peaceful and less touristy place.

5. Recomended cruises in Bai Tu Long bay

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Ama Journey recommends top-quality cruises along the Bai Tu Long Bay route, known for their excellent accommodations and dining services.

La Regina Classic cruise: 22 cabins – price from 100 USD

Signature Royal cruise: 16 cabins - Price from 170 USD.

Renea cruise:  They have 3 cruises – each has 12 cabins – price from 130 USD

Swan cruise: 18 cabins - Price from 130 USD  

Dragon Legend cruise: 24 cabins – Price from 190 USD

Garden Bay Legend cruise: 10 cabins – Price from 130 USD.

Related articles:

Halong Bay? or Bai Tu Long Bay? or Lan Ha Bay?

Top 10 traditional-style Halong Bay cruises

The list of modern-style Halong Bay cruises


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