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Ha Long Bay alternatives

Ha Long Bay alternatives: 8 BEST destinations for nature lovers

09/03/2025 579 views
5/5 - (1 vote)

Ha Long Bay is one of Vietnam’s most famous natural wonders, but its popularity often means large crowds. Fortunately, Vietnam is home to several Ha Long Bay alternatives that offer the same breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural experiences – without the crowds.

1. Bai Tu Long Bay

  • Location: Gulf of Tonkin, Quang Ninh Province
  • Best time to visit: February – May | October – November

Bordering Ha Long Bay to the southwest, Bai Tu Long Bay is a hidden gem that offers a more tranquil experience. If Ha Long Bay is a dazzling beauty, Bai Tu Long Bay is her serene counterpart. The unspoiled landscapes, with limestone karsts and long stretches of sandy beaches, set Bai Tu Long Bay apart. Visitors to this Ha Long Bay alternative can enjoy a wide range of exciting activities, from exploring mysterious caves and cruising through breathtaking seascapes to experiencing the local life in fishing villages. You can also visit Tram Gian Pagoda, Quan Lan Temple, and Van Don Pier to add a cultural touch to your journey.

Vietnam offers numerous alternatives to Ha Long Bay

Vietnam offers numerous alternatives to Ha Long Bay (Source: Collected)

2. Lan Ha Bay

  • Location: South of Ha Long Bay and east of Cat Ba Island
  • Best time to visit: September – November

Lan Ha Bay is another alternative to Ha Long Bay, boasting over 100 small, secluded beaches. In May 2020, the World’s Most Beautiful Bays Club Association recognized it as one of the most stunning bays in the world. Beyond its natural beauty, Lan Ha Bay is also an adventurer’s paradise, offering numerous rock-climbing spots on its islands, mainland cliffs, and the surrounding Cat Ba Island area. The steep rock faces here provide an exciting challenge for climbing enthusiasts. For those who prefer water-based activities, this Ha Long Bay alternative is ideal for swimming and kayaking. Renting a boat or joining a kayak tour allows visitors to immerse themselves in the bay’s spectacular scenery.

These Ha Long Bay alternatives feature emerald waters

These Ha Long Bay alternatives feature emerald waters (Source: Collected)

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3. Cat Ba Island

  • Location: South of Ha Long Bay
  • Best time to visit: September – November | March – May

Cat Ba Island mirrors the beauty of Ha Long Bay with its towering mountains and calm waters, offering a unique blend of lush forests and pristine seascapes. Among the top things to do in Cat Ba is exploring Cai Beo Fishing Village, one of Vietnam’s oldest of its kind, which offers a glimpse into traditional coastal life. Nature enthusiasts can trek through Cat Ba National Park to spot rare wildlife, while photographers will appreciate the panoramic vistas of Lan Ha Bay from the Cannon Fort. For a relaxing escape, Tung Thu Beach provides a peaceful retreat with its soft sands.

Travelers seeking similar destinations to Ha Long Bay have several choices

Travelers seeking similar destinations to Ha Long Bay have several choices (Source: Collected)

Check out how to get to Cat Ba Island for an extended trip!

4. Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve

  • Location: Gia Van Commune, Gia Vien District, Ninh Binh Province
  • Best time to visit: May – Jun | November – April

Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve is a breathtaking protected area, often referred to as the “Ha Long Bay On Land” due to its limestone cliffs and serene waters. Covering 2,643 hectares, this Ha Long Bay alternative is the largest wetland reserve in the Red River Delta and a sanctuary for many endangered species. One of the best ways to explore Van Long is by taking a boat ride led by local fishermen. As you glide through the waters, you will be surrounded by the dramatic limestone cliffs and vibrant aquatic plants. Beyond natural beauty, a visit to Van Long also offers a chance to support the local communities who have lived sustainably in this area for generations.

These Ha Long Bay alternatives bring natural beauty without the crowds

These Ha Long Bay alternatives bring natural beauty without the crowds (Source: Collected)

5. Trang An

  • Location: Truong Yen Commune, Hoa Lu City, Ninh Binh Province
  • Best time to visit: January – March | May – August

Trang An in Ninh Binh is a breathtaking destination known for its majestic mountains, winding rivers, and untouched valleys. Visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must during your Ninh Binh itinerary, as it offers visitors a chance to explore natural beauty through boat tours that navigate a network of caves and historical sites. Visitors can explore the area through three boat tour routes, each lasting 2-3 hours. Route 1 covers 9 caves and temples, Route 2 includes 4 caves and temples, while Route 3 features 3 caves and temples. 

Many places like Ha Long Bay offer spectacular scenery in Vietnam

Many places like Ha Long Bay offer spectacular scenery in Vietnam (Source: Collected)

6. Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park

  • Location: Bo Trach District and Minh Hoa District, Quang Binh Province
  • Best time to visit: March – September

Inscribed on the World Heritage List in 2003, Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park spans over 123,000 hectares and is home to one of the most remarkable limestone karst ecosystems in the world. With over 300 caves and underground rivers, this stunning Ha Long Bay alternative offers a wealth of natural beauty. Visitors can explore the park through motorbike tours, which offer scenic routes and hidden gems. For an immersive experience, camping excursions and overnight trips allow visitors to discover the national park’s ecosystems under the glow of headlamps. 

Many Ha Long Bay alternatives offer opportunities for kayaking, hiking, and wildlife spotting

Many Ha Long Bay alternatives offer opportunities for kayaking, hiking, and wildlife spotting (Source: Collected)

Explore how to go from Hanoi to Phong Nha!

7. Ba Be Lake

  • Location: Ba Be District, Bac Kan Province
  • Best time to visit: February – April

Ba Be Lake in Ba Be National Park is a natural attraction made up of three interconnected lakes: Pe Lam, Pe Lu, and Pe Leng. Surrounded by limestone mountains, this Ha Long Bay alternative is ideal for kayaking to explore islands and caves, such as the impressive Puong Cave. Recognized by UNESCO as a Ramsar site, Ba Be Lake is home to diverse marine life, including over a hundred species of freshwater fish. Established as a part of the national park in 1992, the lake offers a serene environment, rich biodiversity, and striking geological formations, making it a must-see in Northern Vietnam. 

If you prefer a peaceful getaway, consider these less crowded Ha Long Bay alternatives

If you prefer a peaceful getaway, consider these less crowded Ha Long Bay alternatives (Source: Collected)

8. Sapa

  • Location: Hoang Lien Son Mountain Range, Lao Cai Province
  • Best time to visit: All year 

Sapa is a mountain town nestled among the lush Sapa rice fields and dominated by Fansipan Mountain, the highest peak in the whole Indochina region. This town offers breathtaking views of terraced rice fields, rivers, and mountains. Popular activities in Sapa include summiting Fansipan Mountain via cable car, visiting the colorful Bac Ha ethnic market, trekking through villages like Cat Cat and Ta Phin, staying in mountain lodges, and engaging in outdoor activities like mountain biking. Sapa is a perfect destination for both nature lovers and those seeking cultural immersion.

From tranquil bays to coastal reserves, these Ha Long Bay alternatives are all worth a visit

From tranquil bays to coastal reserves, these Ha Long Bay alternatives are all worth a visit (Source: Collected)

For those looking to explore Vietnam’s landscapes beyond the usual tourist spots, there are plenty of incredible alternatives. From serene waters surrounded by towering limestone cliffs to lush valleys and hidden caves, each destination offers a unique blend of beauty and adventure. With fewer crowds and untouched landscapes, these Ha Long Bay alternatives offer a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

For an unforgettable trip to Ha Long, booking a stay at Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long is an ideal choice. This luxurious resort, located on the private Reu Island, offers stunning panoramic views of the bay, elegant accommodations, and world-class amenities. At Vinpearl, guests can enjoy relaxing by an infinity pool, indulging in rejuvenating spa treatments, or savoring exquisite cuisine at on-site restaurants.

The impressive architecture of Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long

The impressive architecture of Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long

 

Book rooms in Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long

 

Beyond Ha Long, Vietnam is home to numerous breathtaking destinations waiting to be explored. A trip to Hanoi lets you dive into the country’s rich history and vibrant life, while Hoi An enchants with its ancient town and lantern-lit streets. For beach lovers, Nha Trang boasts pristine shores and lively water-based activities, and Phu Quoc offers an island escape with crystal-clear waters.

For those seeking adventure, VinWonders, Vietnam’s top-rated series of entertainment complexes, is a must-visit. With branches in Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Hoi An, etc., VinWonders offers thrilling games, mesmerizing shows, and immersive experiences perfect for both families and solo travelers.

Numerous thrilling games await at VinWonders Phu Quoc

Numerous thrilling games await at VinWonders Phu Quoc

 

Book VinWonders Phu Quoc ticket now

 

Enjoying mesmerizing shows at VinWonders Nha Trang

Enjoying mesmerizing shows at VinWonders Nha Trang

 

Book VinWonders Nha Trang ticket now

 

The River Safari at VinWonders Nam Hoi An

The River Safari at VinWonders Nam Hoi An

 

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No matter where you travel to in Vietnam, staying at the hotels and resorts of Vinpearl guarantees a world-class experience. The properties of Vinpearl combine luxurious accommodations with impeccable services to ensure a memorable stay. Whether you are into relaxing in a beachfront villa, unwinding at an indulgent spa, or enjoying fine dining, Vinpearl offers a perfect blend of comfort and luxury for an extraordinary vacation.

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