Hidden Gems of Ha Long – Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations

Ha Long is famous for its majestic bay, Sung Sot Cave, and Bai Chay Beach, but beyond these well-known attractions, there are numerous hidden and pristine destinations waiting to be explored. If you prefer avoiding the crowds and discovering new, untouched places, check out this list of Ha Long’s best-kept secrets!

1. Cat Ba Island – A Pristine Gem Near Ha Long

📍 Location: 25 km from Ha Long, part of the Cat Ba Archipelago
🚤 How to get there: Take a ferry from Tuan Chau or a speedboat from Ha Long.

Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island are located right next to Ha Long Bay but receive fewer tourists, offering a peaceful and untouched atmosphere.

🌟 Highlights:

Beautiful beaches like Cat Co 1, Cat Co 2, and Cat Co 3.

Exciting activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, and rock climbing.

Cat Ba National Park – home to rare wildlife species and lush forests.

👉 Tip: If you enjoy eco-tourism and nature exploration, this is the perfect destination!

2. Cua Van Fishing Village – A Floating Community Experience

📍 Location: Deep inside Ha Long Bay, about 20 km from the mainland
🚤 How to get there: Join a cruise tour or rent a boat from Tuan Chau Pier.

Cua Van Fishing Village is one of the most beautiful floating villages in the world, where locals live entirely on fishing in their floating houses.

🌟 Highlights:

Experience rowing bamboo boats and fishing with local fishermen.

Visit the Fishing Village Cultural Center to learn about the local heritage.

Enjoy fresh seafood right at floating fish farms.

👉 Tip: This is a great place to explore Vietnam’s traditional fishing culture.

3. Ba Trai Dao Beach – A Hidden Paradise for Swimming

📍 Location: Near Cat Ba Island, within Lan Ha Bay
🚤 How to get there: Take a cruise or private boat from Tuan Chau Pier.

Ba Trai Dao Beach consists of three small islands shaped like peach fruits, offering white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters.

🌟 Highlights:

A secluded beach, ideal for relaxing away from the crowds.

The clear water is so transparent that you can see the seabed.

Perfect for snorkeling and kayaking.

👉 Note: The tide recedes only at certain hours, so check with a tour guide for the best time to visit.

4. Dragon Eye Island – The “Maldives” of Ha Long

📍 Location: South of Ha Long Bay, about 20 km from Bai Chay
🚤 How to get there: Rent a boat or speedboat from Bai Chay Pier.

Dragon Eye Island is one of the most untouched beaches in Ha Long, with crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand.

🌟 Highlights:

A natural lake in the middle of the island, perfect for swimming.

A secluded beach with a pristine, untouched landscape.

A quiet and peaceful getaway far from the crowds.

👉 Tip: If you’re looking for a completely tranquil escape, this is the perfect spot!

5. Tien Ong Cave – A Hidden Underground Wonderland

📍 Location: Southwest of Ha Long Bay, near Cong Do Island
🚤 How to get there: Take a boat from Tuan Chau Pier.

Tien Ong Cave is one of Ha Long’s lesser-known caves, featuring breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites that form unique, natural sculptures.

🌟 Highlights:

A spacious and mystical cave with stunning rock formations.

Archaeological remains from prehistoric human civilizations.

Less touristy, ideal for adventurers and cave explorers.

👉 Note: The cave is quite deep, so bring a flashlight or join a guided tour.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve already visited Ha Long Bay’s famous spots like Sung Sot Cave or Ti Top Island, it’s time to venture beyond the usual tourist trails and explore these hidden gems. Each of these destinations offers a unique experience, from pristine beaches and quiet fishing villages to mysterious caves and unspoiled islands.

🔥 Are you ready to explore Ha Long in a whole new way? Start planning your trip today and share your experience with us!