Escape the Crowds: Discovering Halong Bay’s Hidden Gems!

Hạ Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of Vietnam’s most iconic travel destinations, known for its emerald waters and towering limestone karsts. While popular attractions like Sung Sot Cave, Ti Top Island, and the floating village of Cua Van draw thousands of visitors, there are many lesser-known wonders waiting to be explored. For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Hạ Long Bay hides a wealth of undiscovered beauty in its quieter corners.

This article unveils some of hidden gems of Halong Bay, including secluded caves, untouched islands, and cultural encounters that most travelers overlook.

1. Lan Ha Bay: Hạ Long’s Serene Twin

Often overshadowed by its famous neighbor, Lan Ha Bay offers a similar breathtaking landscape with fewer crowds. Located just south of Hạ Long Bay, Lan Ha boasts over 300 karst islands and islets covered in lush greenery. Its pristine waters and quiet beaches make it a perfect destination for kayaking, swimming, and rock climbing. Unlike Hạ Long Bay, many of the islands here have sandy shores, making it easier for travelers to explore and relax.

For those looking to stay overnight, Cat Ba Island, the largest island in the bay, offers a mix of budget-friendly homestays and luxury resorts. The island is also a gateway to Cat Ba National Park, home to the endangered Cat Ba langur and a variety of trekking routes that provide stunning views of the bay.

2. Thien Canh Son Cave: A Hidden Treasure

Thien Canh Son Cave: A Hidden Treasure

While Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave) is the most famous in Hạ Long Bay, Thien Canh Son Cave remains a lesser-known yet equally mesmerizing wonder. Nestled on Bai Tu Long Bay’s Cong Do Island, this cave features stunning stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over thousands of years. The journey to the cave requires a short but scenic trek through a forested path, rewarding visitors with panoramic views of the bay from the entrance.

Inside, the cave is divided into three chambers, each adorned with natural rock formations resembling lotus flowers, seals, and other fascinating shapes. Because it sees fewer visitors, Thien Canh Son offers a more intimate and serene experience compared to the more crowded caves of Hạ Long Bay.

3. Vung Vieng Fishing Village: A Glimpse into Traditional Life

Vung Vieng Fishing Village – One of Hidden Gems of Halong Bay

Floating fishing villages are an integral part of Hạ Long Bay’s heritage, yet many travelers only visit the more commercialized ones. Vung Vieng Fishing Village, located in Bai Tu Long Bay, is a peaceful alternative where visitors can experience the traditional way of life without the large tourist crowds.

A visit to Vung Vieng offers the chance to see floating houses, fish farms, and pearl farming activities. The villagers, primarily fishermen and pearl cultivators, welcome visitors with open arms, offering boat rides on traditional bamboo sampans. This village provides a unique cultural immersion, allowing travelers to learn about sustainable fishing practices and the daily lives of those who have called the bay home for generations.

4. Ban Chan Beach: A Secluded Paradise

Ban Chan Beach: A Secluded Paradise

For travelers seeking tranquility, Ban Chan Beach is a pristine and uncrowded retreat. Located in Bai Tu Long Bay, this beach features soft white sand and crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing. Surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, Ban Chan Beach feels like a private haven away from the hustle and bustle of Hạ Long’s more commercialized beaches.

Unlike the often-visited Ti Top Beach, Ban Chan remains largely undiscovered, ensuring a peaceful escape. Kayaking around the nearby islands or simply soaking in the natural beauty makes for an unforgettable experience.

5. Cong Dam Area: A Kayaker’s Dream

Cong Dam Area: A Kayaker’s Dream

For adventure enthusiasts, the Cong Dam area in Bai Tu Long Bay is a must-visit destination. Known for its crystal-clear waters and dramatic limestone formations, Cong Dam offers some of the best kayaking experiences in the region. Exploring its labyrinth of caves, hidden lagoons, and secluded beaches by kayak provides an up-close encounter with Hạ Long Bay’s raw beauty.

One of the highlights of the area is Tra Gioi Beach, a remote stretch of sand accessible only by boat. The isolation and unspoiled landscape make it an ideal location for a private picnic or a quiet moment to admire nature.

6. Tuan Chau Island’s Hidden Corners

Ferry from Tuan Chau Island to Cat Ba Island

Tuan Chau Island is often associated with its luxurious resorts and entertainment complexes, but it also hides some lesser-known spots worth exploring. Beyond the main tourist hub, the island offers tranquil hiking trails, small fishing villages, and quiet coves that provide a more authentic experience.

For those interested in local cuisine, Tuan Chau’s seafood markets serve some of the freshest catches, including grilled squid, steamed clams, and the famous Hạ Long-style fried sea snails. A visit here is a treat for food lovers looking to savor the region’s culinary delights.

7. Ba Ham Lake: A Secret Lagoon

Ba Ham Lake: A Secret Lagoon

Ba Ham Lake, hidden within the limestone cliffs of Dau Be Island, is one of Hạ Long Bay’s most enchanting hidden gems. This secluded lagoon can only be accessed by kayak or small boat through a series of cave tunnels, adding to its sense of mystery and adventure.

The lake is surrounded by towering cliffs and dense jungle, creating a serene atmosphere that feels worlds away from the more touristy parts of the bay. The water here is exceptionally clear, making it an ideal spot for swimming and spotting marine life. Because of its challenging access, Ba Ham Lake remains relatively untouched, making it a perfect destination for those looking to explore Hạ Long Bay’s untouched beauty.

8. Cai Tai Island: A Quiet Escape

Cai Tai Island: A Quiet Escape

For those looking for an authentic island experience, Cai Tai Island is an excellent choice. Unlike the more developed islands, Cai Tai retains its untouched charm, with lush forests, hidden caves, and scenic coastal trails. The island is also home to a small fishing community, where visitors can interact with locals and learn about their way of life.

One of the island’s highlights is its panoramic viewpoints, offering stunning vistas of the bay’s emerald waters and limestone formations. Trekking through the island’s rugged terrain provides an opportunity to see Hạ Long Bay from a completely different perspective.

Conclusion for Hidden Gems of Halong Bay

Hạ Long Bay’s beauty extends far beyond its popular tourist spots. For those willing to venture off the beaten path, the bay offers countless hidden gems, from secluded caves and tranquil beaches to floating fishing villages and secret lagoons. Exploring these lesser-known destinations not only provides a more intimate experience but also supports local communities and helps preserve the bay’s natural and cultural heritage.

Whether kayaking through Cong Dam, swimming in Ba Ham Lake, or visiting the peaceful Vung Vieng Fishing Village, these hidden treasures ensure a deeper and more enriching journey through one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking landscapes.

Vu Hoang Anh

I love traveling and have been working in tourism industry since 1996. Vietnam is my homeland so I would like to share with you my experience to discover this destination best!