Halong Bay Beaches: 10 Hidden Paradise Shores You Must Explore in 2025
Discover Vietnam’s most pristine coastal treasures nestled among the iconic limestone karsts
The Untold Beauty of Halong Bay’s Secret Shores
When travelers think of Halong Bay, the UNESCO World Heritage site’s 1,996 limestone islands usually take center stage. Yet, hidden among the majestic karsts is another treasure often overlooked by tourists. Halong Bay beaches rival any tropical paradise in Southeast Asia. These pristine shorelines perfectly complement the bay’s dramatic scenery. Soft white sands meet crystal-clear emerald waters. Towering limestone formations provide natural shelter and beauty. Some beaches are secluded coves, only accessible by boat. Others are developed spots with full amenities. The diversity of Halong Bay beaches suits every kind of traveler. Adventure seekers, relaxation lovers, and photographers all find joy here. These coastal gems offer unforgettable experiences in one of Vietnam’s most stunning natural settings.
Pro Tip: The ideal months to visit Halong Bay beaches are April-May and September-November when you’ll encounter fewer crowds and favorable weather conditions.
Where to Find the Best Beaches in Halong Bay
The Gulf of Tonkin encompasses three distinct areas—Halong Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay, and Lan Ha Bay—collectively home to nearly 2,000 islands and countless hidden beaches. While some beaches near Bai Chay Wharf (the primary departure point for cruises) are easily accessible, the most breathtaking shores require venturing deeper into the bay.
The most spectacular Halong Bay beaches are found far from the tourist hotspots, where nature remains largely undisturbed by human influence. These remote paradises can typically only be reached via overnight cruises that navigate beyond the day-tripper routes.
For the ultimate beach experience, we recommend choosing a luxury overnight cruise that includes visits to the bay’s more secluded beaches. The 3-Day 5-Star Lan Ha Bay and Halong Bay Cruise offers the perfect balance of comfort and exploration, allowing you to discover hidden gems that most tourists never see.
Finding Solitude Along Halong’s Coastlines
While Vietnam has experienced a tourism boom over the past decade, with Halong Bay beaches becoming increasingly popular, it’s still entirely possible to find your own slice of paradise.
The key is to venture beyond the main bay area. While Halong Bay itself draws substantial crowds, neighboring Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay remain relatively untouched, offering peace and tranquility for those willing to explore further.
The Halong-Lan Ha Bay 5-Star Cruise specializes in taking guests to these less-frequented areas, where you can enjoy pristine beaches without the crowds. These luxury vessels navigate ancient trading routes, bringing you to shores that have remained unchanged for centuries.
10 Most Beautiful Halong Bay Beaches to Visit in 2025
1. Ban Chan Beach: The Hidden Gem
Nestled within the less-explored Bai Tu Long Bay, Ban Chan Beach represents everything that makes Halong Bay beaches special. This secluded paradise remains one of the region’s best-kept secrets, visited only by select overnight cruises.
What makes Ban Chan truly exceptional is the stark contrast between its fine white sand and the towering limestone karsts that frame the beach on both sides. The crystalline waters offer perfect swimming conditions, while the surrounding cliffs provide natural shade during the hottest parts of the day.
For photographers, the interplay of light and shadow on the limestone formations creates ever-changing scenes throughout the day. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse marine life visible in the shallow waters near the shore.
2. Ba Trai Dao Beach: The Beach of Three Peaches
Located 22 km from the tourist wharf in Lan Ha Bay, Ba Trai Dao Beach derives its name (“Three Peaches Beach”) from the distinctive peach-shaped rock formations that surround it. This sheltered cove is steeped in Vietnamese folklore and offers one of the most picturesque settings among all Halong Bay beaches.
The beach’s soft white sand creates a striking contrast against the emerald waters, though visitors should note that high tide can temporarily submerge portions of the beach. Your cruise director will time your visit perfectly to ensure you experience Ba Trai Dao at its most magnificent.
This beach is featured on several luxury itineraries, including the Azalea Cruise, Glory Legend Cruise, Orchid Cruise, Pelican Cruise, and Rosa Cruise.
3. Ti Top Beach: The Iconic Favorite
Perhaps the most famous of all Halong Bay beaches, Ti Top (sometimes spelled Titop) occupies a special place in Vietnamese history. It was named by President Ho Chi Minh after Russian cosmonaut Gherman Stepanovich Titov following his visit in 1962. This crescent-shaped beach has since become an essential stop on many cruise itineraries.
Ti Top Beach isn’t particularly large. However, it compensates with extraordinary beauty and excellent facilities. The powdery sand and clear turquoise waters make it perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The vantage point atop the island’s central hill offers panoramic views that have become iconic representations of Halong Bay.
For the most comprehensive Ti Top experience, combine beach time with the short but rewarding hike to the island’s summit. The views of the surrounding karst landscape are simply unforgettable.
4. Quan Lan Beach: The Wild Paradise
For travelers seeking a more immersive beach experience, Quan Lan Beach offers something truly special. Located 55 km from Halong City on Quan Lan Island in Bai Tu Long Bay, this expansive shoreline exemplifies the untamed beauty that makes Halong Bay beaches so remarkable.
The fine white sand stretches for kilometers along the island’s coast, bordered by dense casuarina forests that provide natural shade and hiking opportunities. Unlike more developed beaches, Quan Lan has maintained its pristine condition and offers overnight accommodation options ranging from hotels to a small camping area directly on the beach.
Swimming here is exceptional due to the gentle slope of the seabed and the crystal-clear waters. For the ultimate experience, arrange an overnight stay to witness both sunset and sunrise over the bay—moments of transcendent beauty that few visitors get to experience.
5. Minh Chau Beach: The No-Footprints Wonder
Often called the “No Footprints Beach” due to its unique powdery sand that doesn’t stick to your feet, Minh Chau Beach is located approximately 15 km from Quan Lan Beach. This natural wonder is among the most pristine Halong Bay beaches and offers an unparalleled sense of tranquility.
The beach’s white sand literally sparkles in the sunlight, creating a magical atmosphere that photographers will adore. The shallow, calm waters make Minh Chau especially suitable for families with children, while the surrounding landscape provides excellent hiking opportunities.
For the ultimate experience, consider camping overnight on Minh Chau Beach. Falling asleep to the gentle sound of waves and waking to a magnificent sunrise is an experience that epitomizes the natural beauty of Halong Bay.
6. Tuan Chau Beach: The Accessible Paradise
For travelers with limited time or those seeking more developed facilities, Tuan Chau Beach offers the perfect introduction to Halong Bay beaches. This 3-kilometer artificial beach is located near the main tourist wharf and provides a range of amenities not found on more remote shores.
Beyond swimming, visitors can enjoy various water sports, climbing activities, wave surfing, and camping in the designated eco-tourism zone. The backdrop of pine forests creates a picturesque setting that’s particularly popular with Vietnamese tourists during summer weekends.
Accommodation at the Tuan Chau Island Resort allows visitors to extend their beach experience beyond a single day. While it lacks the secluded feel of more distant beaches, Tuan Chau compensates with convenient access and excellent facilities.
7. Soi Sim Beach: The Elevated Escape
Named after the Soi Sim plants that grow abundantly on the island, this 8.7-hectare paradise offers one of the most diverse experiences among Halong Bay beaches. The island rises to heights of 200 meters, creating a dramatic backdrop for the beach below.
Soi Sim Beach stands out for its exceptionally clear emerald waters, making it ideal for snorkeling enthusiasts wanting to explore the vibrant marine life. The beach itself remains relatively undeveloped, preserving its wild character and natural beauty.
For the ultimate Soi Sim experience, combine beach time with a hike to the island’s highest peak. From this vantage point, you’ll enjoy panoramic views across Halong Bay that provide perfect context for the magnificent landscape you’re exploring.
8. Ngoc Vung Beach: The Gem Island Retreat
Known locally as the “Gem Island,” Ngoc Vung Beach stretches for three kilometers along the southern shore of Ngoc Vung Island in Halong Bay’s Van Don district. The beach’s name perfectly captures its appeal—like a precious gem, it shines with natural beauty unspoiled by excessive development.
The white sand sparkles in the sunlight, creating a magnificent contrast with the azure waters. Beyond sunbathing and swimming, visitors can explore the island by bicycle, discovering local fishing villages and lush interior landscapes.
Ngoc Vung retains its pristine character primarily because it’s less accessible than other Halong Bay beaches, requiring a longer journey from the mainland. This extra effort rewards visitors with a more authentic experience away from the tourist crowds.
9. Tra Co Beach: The Kayaker’s Dream
Some of Halong Bay’s most beautiful beaches are accessible only by small watercraft, making kayaking one of the best ways to discover hidden shores. Tra Co Beach exemplifies these secluded treasures, reachable only through narrow channels between limestone islands.
This beach combines smooth white sand with exceptionally clear emerald waters, creating perfect conditions for swimming after your kayaking journey. The surrounding landscape offers additional adventures, with jungle-covered mountains providing excellent hiking and rock climbing opportunities.
After a day of exploration, visitors can enjoy fresh seafood prepared by local fishermen—a culinary experience that perfectly complements the natural beauty of this remote paradise.
10. Bai Chay Beach: The Entertainment Hub
Rounding out our list of Halong Bay beaches is Bai Chay, which offers the widest range of entertainment options and activities. This developed beach area features numerous restaurants, bars, traditional theaters, and the popular Hoang Gia Park.
Water sports enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy here, including water skiing, jet skiing, snorkeling, and scuba diving. The area surrounding the beach is dotted with hotels and villas nestled among pine trees, creating a resort-like atmosphere unique among Halong Bay’s coastal offerings.
While Bai Chay lacks the unspoiled charm of more remote beaches, it compensates with convenience and amenities that make it perfect for travelers seeking both relaxation and entertainment.
Experience Halong Bay Beaches with Luxury Cruises
The ideal way to explore the diverse Halong Bay beaches is undoubtedly aboard a luxury cruise that navigates beyond the day-tripper routes. These vessels combine comfortable accommodations with expert guidance, ensuring you experience the best beaches at optimal times.
The 3-Day 5-Star Lan Ha Bay and Halong Bay Cruise offers the most comprehensive beach experience, visiting multiple shores while providing luxurious amenities between stops. Panoramic cabins with private balconies allow you to enjoy the scenery even when sailing between destinations.
For those with less time, the Halong-Lan Ha Bay 5-Star Cruise offers a condensed but equally impressive itinerary that includes stops at key beaches.
What Makes Halong Bay Beaches Unique
What truly distinguishes Halong Bay beaches from other coastal destinations is their geological context. These shores exist in perfect harmony with the surrounding limestone karsts, creating scenes of extraordinary natural beauty that combine multiple elements:
- Geological Drama: The juxtaposition of soft sand beaches against towering limestone formations creates visual contrasts found nowhere else on Earth.
- Pristine Waters: Protected by the bay’s unique geography, many beaches feature exceptionally clear waters with minimal wave action.
- Biodiversity: The marine ecosystems surrounding these beaches support diverse aquatic life, making snorkeling particularly rewarding.
- Seclusion: Many beaches remain accessible only by boat, preserving their natural character and limiting visitor numbers.
- Cultural Context: The bay’s beaches exist within a landscape rich in Vietnamese folklore and history, adding depth to the physical beauty.
Planning Your Halong Bay Beach Adventure
Best Time to Visit Halong Bay Beaches
For optimal beach experiences, visit Halong Bay beaches during these periods:
- April to May: Spring brings warm temperatures and minimal rainfall, with smaller crowds than summer months.
- September to November: Fall offers pleasant temperatures, clear skies, and the calmest waters for swimming and kayaking.
Avoid June to August (peak domestic tourism season) and December to March (cooler temperatures and occasional drizzle).
What to Pack for Halong Bay Beaches
Beyond standard beach essentials, consider these specialized items:
- Water shoes: Some beaches have coral fragments that make water shoes beneficial
- Biodegradable sunscreen: Protect marine ecosystems while protecting your skin
- Lightweight hiking shoes: For exploring viewpoints above beaches
- Dry bag: Essential for kayaking expeditions to remote beaches
- Insect repellent: Particularly important for beaches bordered by forest
Responsible Beach Tourism
When visiting Halong Bay beaches, practice these sustainable tourism principles:
- Leave no trace: Carry all trash with you when departing beaches
- Respect marine life: Avoid touching coral when swimming or snorkeling
- Support local communities: Purchase souvenirs and refreshments from local vendors when available
- Conserve water: Many islands have limited freshwater resources
- Follow designated paths: Stick to established routes when hiking to viewpoints
Book Your Halong Bay Beach Paradise Experience Today
Ready to discover the magnificent Halong Bay beaches for yourself? The highly-rated Ha Long Bay Lux Cruises offers expertly crafted itineraries that include visits to the most stunning beaches while providing five-star accommodations and service.
Contact us to book your perfect Halong Bay beach adventure:
- Hotline | WhatsApp: +84.978.358.422
- Phone | WhatsApp: +84.962.261.687
- Email: halongbayluxcruises@gmail.com or vietnammarveltravel@gmail.com
Don’t just dream about paradise—experience it firsthand on the breathtaking Halong Bay beaches that have captured travelers’ imaginations for generations.
