How big is halong bay | Description, Location, & Facts

When it comes to the most famous destinations in Vietnam, it’s impossible not to mention Ha Long Bay—one of the New Seven Natural Wonders of the World. But just how big is Halong Bay? With thousands of islands and islets, a vast area, and a unique ecosystem, this destination not only amazes visitors with its breathtaking beauty but also serves as an ideal spot for luxury cruise experiences.

Ha Long Bay – A Natural Wonder of the World

Ha Long Bay is one of the world’s natural wonders. It is not only famous for its majestic beauty but also rich in historical and cultural significance.

Geographical Location

HaLong Bay is located in Quang Ninh Province, in the northeastern region of Vietnam.
Covering a total area of approximately 1,553 square kilometers, the bay features thousands of limestone islands and islets scattered across its emerald waters.
It borders Bai Tu Long Bay to the northeast and Cat Ba Island to the southwest, forming a uniquely interconnected landscape.
Thanks to its favorable geographical location and ideal natural conditions, HaLong Bay consistently ranks among the most beloved travel destinations in both Asia and the world.

Historical Milestones

The history of Ha Long Bay is closely linked to the development of Vietnamese culture and the defense of the nation.
According to records from the French colonial period, the name “Ha Long” first appeared in the late 19th century when the French conducted their initial surveys of the area.
Over the centuries, the bay has served as an anchoring spot for fishermen and played a vital role in maritime strategies and the protection of national sovereignty.
In 1994, Ha Long Bay was recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage Site for its breathtaking natural beauty.
In 2000, UNESCO listed the bay a second time for its unique geological and geomorphological values.

The history of Ha Long Bay is closely linked to the development of Vietnamese culture and the defense of the nation.According to records from the French colonial period, the name "Ha Long" first appeared in the late 19th century when the French conducted their initial surveys of the area. — Historical Milestones

People & Culture

The area surrounding Ha Long Bay is home to many fishing communities whose lives are deeply connected to the sea.
Famous floating villages such as Cua Van, Ba Hang, and Vung Vieng have become popular community-based tourism destinations, where visitors can experience local life and feel the warmth and simplicity of the people.
The rich maritime culture here adds a unique charm to HaLong tourism, found nowhere else.

How Big Is HaLong Bay?

Famous for its magnificent beauty, Ha Long Bay also impresses visitors with its vast scale. But just how big is HaLong Bay?

Water Surface Area and Number of Islands

Ha Long Bay covers an area of approximately 1,553 square kilometers.
The bay is home to 1,969 islands and islets, around 980 of which have been named.
Most of these islands are limestone formations, creating a breathtaking natural landscape.

Comparison With Other Famous Bays

Compared to the nearby Bai Tu Long Bay, Ha Long Bay is slightly smaller in size but features a much denser concentration of limestone islands. This difference gives each bay its own unique charm.
Lan Ha Bay, located to the south of HaLong Bay, is even smaller, around 7,000 square meters, but still boasts about 400 islands and islets. Lan Ha is known for its more pristine and peaceful beauty compared to the bustling Ha Long Bay.
When compared to other famous bays around the world, Ha Long Bay stands out with its vast number of limestone islands and unique scenery. It has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage Site.
Ha Long Bay holds outstanding global value in terms of both landscape and geological significance.

Why Ha Long Bay Is the Ideal Travel Destination

A masterpiece of nature, Ha Long Bay is a source of pride for the Vietnamese people and a dream destination that draws travelers from all over the world. But what exactly makes Ha Long Bay so irresistibly captivating?

A Unique Natural Beauty

Ha Long Bay presents a stunning view. Thousands of limestone islands emerge from the emerald sea. It resembles a vast, living ink wash artwork.
Mysterious caves hold stalactites and stalagmites. They vary in shapes and sizes. A vibrant marine ecosystem adds to the bay’s charm. This creates an enchanting, almost unreal atmosphere.

Geological Value and Biodiversity

Ha Long Bay is an open-air geological museum, marking the Earth’s evolution over millions of years.
Its diverse terrain, from towering limestone karsts to deep caves, has earned it recognition by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage site.

A Wide Range of Travel Experiences

Visitors to Ha Long Bay can enjoy a variety of exciting activities, including scenic cruises, kayaking through caves, swimming at untouched beaches, and savoring fresh, delicious seafood.
Ha Long Bay, together with the Cat Ba Archipelago, forms a rare dual World Natural Heritage site.

Some Must-Visit Attractions in HaLong Bay

Ha Long Bay is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Vietnam, known for its breathtaking natural scenery and mysterious caves. Each spot within the bay offers its own unique beauty and story.

Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave)

This is one of the largest and most stunning caves in HaLong Bay, featuring magnificent stalactites and stalagmites.
The cave is divided into two chambers, each with its own distinct charm.

Thien Cung Cave (Heavenly Palace Cave)

Located near Dau Go Cave, Thien Cung is considered one of the most beautiful caves in Ha Long.
Covering nearly 10,000 square meters, it boasts a complex structure with multiple levels, high ceilings, and towering walls.

Dau Go Cave (Wooden Stakes Cave)

Dau Go Cave has an ancient, serene beauty, filled with uniquely shaped stalactites and stalagmites that captivate visitors.

Ti Top Island

Ti Top Island is famous for its scenic beach and panoramic view of Ha Long Bay from the mountain peak.
Visitors can hike to the top for a breathtaking view over the entire bay.

Trong Mai Islet (Fighting Cock Islet)

A symbol of Ha Long Bay, this islet features two rocks shaped like a pair of roosters affectionately facing each other.

Tuan Chau Island

Tuan Chau Island is an entertainment complex offering various attractions such as a water park, dolphin shows, musical fountains, and more.

Bai Tu Long Bay

Located to the northeast of HaLong Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay is known for its untouched, tranquil beauty with limestone islands and quiet beaches.

Cua Van Floating Village

Cua Van is a well-known floating fishing village where visitors can explore the traditional lifestyle of local fishermen.

Bai Tho Mountain

Bai Tho Mountain offers a perfect viewpoint to admire the full panorama of Ha Long City and its iconic bay.

Important Notes When Traveling to Ha Long Bay

When preparing for your trip to Ha Long Bay, there are several important things to keep in mind to ensure a safe and fulfilling journey.

The Best Time To Visit Ha Long Bay

The most ideal time to visit Ha Long Bay is from March to May and from September to November.
These months offer cool weather. Rain is minimal, and skies are clear. This is perfect for outdoor fun. Relaxing cruises are also ideal.
However, July and August bring storms. Heavy rain is common then. Check the forecast carefully. Avoid travel in those months. This ensures the best experience.

Fun Activities in Ha Long Bay

A trip to Ha Long Bay isn’t just about sightseeing and relaxing—it’s also a great opportunity to take part in exciting activities.
Kayaking is one of the most popular experiences, allowing you to get closer to nature as you paddle through the islands on your own.
If you’re traveling with a group or company team, onboard BBQ parties, campfires, or traditional Vietnamese cooking classes can create a fun and bonding atmosphere.

A trip to Ha Long Bay isn’t just about sightseeing and relaxing—it’s also a great opportunity to take part in exciting activities. — Fun Activities in Ha Long Bay

Local Cuisine

The food in Ha Long is one of the most unforgettable highlights for any traveler.
The most famous dish is Ha Long squid cake (chả mực), made from freshly hand-pounded squid and typically served with sticky rice or vermicelli noodles.
On luxury cruises, you can also request customized menus based on your preferences or dietary restrictions, ensuring meals are not only delicious but also suitable for your health and taste.

Explore Ha Long Bay on a Cruise

Exploring Ha Long Bay on a cruise is a truly remarkable experience, offering you the chance to witness the breathtaking beauty of one of the world’s natural wonders. Here’s what you can expect when you join a cruise with Ha Long Bay Lux Cruises.

Ha Long Bay Lux Cruises

Luxury Amenities

Our premium cruises are equipped with five-star hotel-style facilities. Including cozy bedrooms, a restaurant, a bar, a spa, and a spacious sundeck for sightseeing.

Flexible Itineraries

You can choose from a variety of cruise tours, ranging from a few hours to several days, depending on your schedule and preferences.

A Wide Range of Activities

Sightseeing Around The Bay: The cruise will take you through majestic limestone islands, mysterious caves, and picturesque fishing villages.
Cave Exploration: You’ll have the chance to visit famous caves such as Sung Sot Cave, Thien Cung Cave, and Dau Go Cave and marvel at the enchanting beauty of stalactites and stalagmites.
Kayaking: Kayaking is an exciting activity that lets you explore hidden corners of the bay and enjoy the feeling of being immersed in nature.
Swimming and Beach Time: You can relax on untouched beaches or swim in the cool, emerald waters of the bay.
Night Squid and Fish Fishing: This is a popular activity among visitors, especially those who want to experience the local way of life.
Local Cuisine Experience: Most cruises offer delicious Vietnamese dishes, with a highlight on freshly caught seafood.

Conclusion

After exploring how big is Halong Bay, we realize that its scale is not just about the area of over 1,500 km² or nearly 2,000 islands but also about the depth of its historical, geological, and travel experiences.

If you’re planning a trip to Ha Long but aren’t sure where to start, contact us today for a detailed consultation and pricing.