Located in the Gulf of Tonkin in northern Vietnam, Halong Bay is a world-famous UNESCO World Heritage Site, best known for its breathtaking seascapes of thousands of limestone pillars rising from the emerald seas. The Bay also boasts numerous gorgeous beaches where visitors can bask in the sun and soak up cool waters. Keep reading to find out what Halong Bay’s beaches have to offer travelers.

Location of Halong Bay Beaches

The beaches in Halong Bay are spread over several big islands, with some hidden amid karst cliffs that are difficult to spot. Tuan Chau Island is one of the two main harbors where Halong Bay cruises embark and disembark, and it also has the most developed system of beaches and entertaining facilities. Cat Ba Island, the biggest in the bay, btoass some stunning beac be hes and a national park. Quan Lan is a remote island in the east of Bai Tu Long Bay, but it offers many pristine, long sandy stretches.

Best Beaches in Halong Bay

Tuan Chau Beach 

Situated roughly 8 kilometers from the downtown, Tuan Chau Island is a real tourism hub of Halong City, with Tuan Chau International Passenger Port for day cruise activities and overnight cruises. Its artificial beach, stretching over 3 kilometers, is perfect for enjoying white smooth sand and clear blue water. Apart from swimming, tourists can also take part in sightseeing, entertainment, and sporting activities such as kayaking, jet skiing, banana boating, and parasailing.

Titop Beach

Titop Island (or Titov) is a popular stopover of most Halong Bay cruises’ itinerary. Here you will find Titop Beach, a small sandy shore surrounded by lush plants and rugged cliffs. The water is calm and transparent, perfect for swimming. Adventure seekers can take a short climb to the summit of the island for a spectacular view of Halong Bay.

Soi Sim Beach

Soi Sim Beach is a tiny, isolated beach on Soi Sim Island, not far from Titop. The beach is enclosed by abundant vegetation, giving it a refreshing and natural atmosphere. You can take a dip in the clear water or relax on the white sand beach. For some thrills, you can trek up to the top of the island through a wooden walkway system and take in awe-inspiring views of Halong Bay.

Bai Chay Beach

Bai Chay Beach is a long, sandy coast running along the southern part of Bai Chay Ward, the main tourism center in Halong Town. With its convenient location, the beach attracts both locals and tourists coming to sunbathe, swim, enjoy the chill-out vibes, or participate in water activities including canoeing, windsurfing, and sailing. There is a variety of restaurants, cafés, and hotels on the beach as well.

Ba Trai Dao Beach

Ba Trai Dao is a small, untouched beach in Lan Ha Bay. It’s called Ba Trai Dao because the form of the surrounding islands resembles three peaches. The beach is only accessible several hours during low tide, when the water recedes and exposes the sand. The water is warm and crystal clear, ideal for swimming and wading.

Cat Co Beach

Cat Co is a set of three beaches: Cat Co 1, Cat Co 2, and Cat Co 3 on Cat Ba Island, famous for a diverse ecosystem. The beaches are excellent spots to swim or sunbathe. From Cat Co 1, you can follow a rock trail to Cat Co 3, which offers the best views of Lan Ha Bay. For nature lovers, a visit to Cat Ba National Park is a must to see exotic animals and plants.

Ngoc Vung Beach

Ngoc Vung is a remote island on the eastern side of Halong Bay. Its beach is a long stretch of golden sand, renowned for its natural beauty and serenity. Besides swimming and relaxing on the beach, travelers to Ngoc Vung Island can visit local fishing villages and pearl farms.

Quan Lan Beach

Quan Lan Beach on its eponymous island is well-known for its unspoiled beauty and laid-back ambience. The sea is transparent and emerald green, while the sand is white and smooth. You can indulge in swimming, sunbathing, or exploring the island’s fishing villages and historical sites.

What to Pack for Halong Bay Beach Vacation

- Swimsuit if you want a swim and a sarong or cover-up for extra protection from the sun.

- Towels to dry off after swimming or use it as a blanket to stay warm or a mat to sit on.

- Necessary items to protect yourself from the sun: sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, after-sun lotion, and lip balm.

- Waterproof bag to keep your smartphone or digital camera safe

- Water bottle to keep you hydrated

- Sandals or flip-flops for walking at the beach

- Books and magazines if you want to lounge on the beach

- Toiletries and comfortable clothing to change after swimming

- Beach bags for wet clothing and towels

Best time to Enjoy Halong Bay Beaches

If your beach trip to Halong Bay is for swimming, you can pay a visit in the summer, from May to September, when it’s sunny and hot. But there is a risk of showers and unpredictable storms during this period, so make sure you check the weather forecast before making your trip.

Another great time to enjoy Halong Bay beaches is months from October to April, or the dry season. The weather can be cold in December and January, but the water is calm and clear. This time is also great for Halong Bay cruise tours to discover limestone islands and caves.

Halong Bay is a paradise for beachgoers, with a wide range of options to suit all interests. Whether you visit Halong Bay or Lan Ha Bay, whether you travel in the dry season or rain season, you will certainly have a wonderful experience in this UNESCO-listed heritage.