Choosing the right accommodation in Halong Bay is essential to fully enjoy all the beauty and excitement that’s on offer. From luxurious hotels to mid-range resorts and even unique overnight cruises, there are many accomodation options available. Each option offers a unique experience that will suit different tastes and preferences. We’ll explore the different types of accommodation available in Halong Bay. We’ll also cover the factors to consider when choosing the right place to stay.
Best hotels in Halong Bay: top picks
How Long Should You Stay In Halong Bay?
The length of stay in Halong Bay will depend on your preferences and the activities you want to participate in. If you are just looking to relax and enjoy the scenery, a day trip might be sufficient. Many tour companies offer full-day or half-day cruises that allow you to explore the bay, visit caves, and possibly even enjoy some kayaking. However, if you want to fully experience everything Halong Bay has to offer, it is recommended to spend at least one or two nights there. This will give you more time to explore the different islands, beaches, and caves in the area. You can also take part in activities such as swimming, hiking, or fishing, which are often included in multi-day tours. Staying overnight will allow you to witness the stunning sunset and sunrise over the bay, which are truly magical experiences. So, depending on your interests and schedule, plan your stay in Halong Bay accordingly to make the most of your time there.
Options for the best places to stay in Halong Bay
Mainland Stay
If you want to keep it simple, and have easy access to all the amenities, then staying on the mainland in Halong City (also called Bai Chay) would be a good shout.
Overnight Cruise
If you want to fully immerse yourself and see everything Halong Bay has to offer, then go for an overnight cruise.
Island Trip
For a secluded beach experience, head to Quan Lan Island and enjoy a local experience. Cai Long is also an option with some of the best hotels in Halong Bay on the beach.
Where to stay in Halong Bay for first-time visitors: Halong City
For first-time visitors to Halong Bay, Halong City is a great place to stay. Located on the coastline, Halong City offers a convenient base to explore the stunning natural wonders of the bay. The city is well-developed with a wide range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Visitors can choose from luxury hotels, resorts, and boutique accommodations, all offering comfortable and convenient amenities. Halong City also has a vibrant local food scene, with numerous seafood restaurants and street food stalls serving up delicious and fresh seafood dishes. In addition to the local food, there are also plenty of international cuisine options available.
For those interested in a bit of shopping or nightlife, Halong City has a bustling market and several bars and clubs to enjoy. Halong City is the perfect base to set sail to explore Halong Bay’s limestone formations or head to the secluded Bai Tu Long Bay. Staying in Halong City provides first-time visitors with easy access to all the attractions and activities in Halong Bay, making it a perfect choice for a memorable stay.
Things to do in Halong City
- Take a sunset cruise
- Head to the Halong Night Market for some yummy street food
- Get a traditional Vietnamese massage
- Visit the Quang Ninh Museum
Best Hotels in Halong City
1. Vinpearl Resort & Spa Halong Bay
Price: ££
Hotel rating: 8.5
Stars: 5
Vinpearl Resort & Spa Halong Bay is a luxurious 5-star resort located on Reu Island, a private island in Halong Bay. The resort has stunning panoramic views of the bay, along with a range of facilities to ensure a comfortable stay.
The site includes 3 private beaches, beautiful green premises and an outdoor swimming pool.
The rooms and suites are elegantly designed and feature private balconies overlooking the bay. They exude luxury with french influences.
The resort also offers a variety of dining options, including Vietnamese and international cuisine. They have a spa and fitness center on site. Enjoy a range of activities, such as kayaking, snorkeling, and island hopping, or simply relax and take in the beautiful scenery of Halong Bay.
The hotel food court features 5 restaurants and bars, to meet the diverse needs of their guests.
2. DeLaSea Ha Long Hotel
DeLaSea Ha Long Hotel is a modern and stylish 5-star hotel located in Bai Chay, the main tourist area of Halong Bay. The hotel offers guests comfortable and spacious rooms with stunning views of the bay.
The hotel’s facilities include a restaurant, a rooftop bar, an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and a spa. The prime location makes it easy for guests to explore nearby attractions. We recommend the Halong Night Market, Sun World Halong Park, and Halong Marine Plaza.
Explore the resort with complimentary bicycles, and enjoy the amazing views of the bay.
Price: £
Hotel rating: 8.6
Stars: 5
3. Wyndham Legend Halong
Wyndham Legend Halong is a luxurious 5-star hotel located in Bai Chay, the main tourist area of Halong Bay. It features 217 elegantly designed rooms with modern amenities and breathtaking views of the bay. Rooms include private mini bars, TVs, deep bathtubs and complimentary toiletries.
The hotel offers a range of dining options, including a rooftop bar, a poolside bar, and a restaurant serving Vietnamese and international cuisine. The hotel’s facilities include a fitness center, a spa, an outdoor infinity pool, and a children’s pool.
Price: £
Hotel rating: 8.3
Stars: 5
4. Premier Village Halong Bay Resort
Premier Village Ha Long Bay Resort is a 5-star resort located on the hillside overlooking Ha Long Bay. The resort offers 228 modern and spacious villas, each with its own private pool and stunning views of the bay. The villas are equipped with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
The resort features a variety of dining options, including a restaurant a bar, and a beach club. The resort’s facilities include a fitness center, a spa, and an outdoor swimming pool. The resort also offers a complimentary shuttle service to nearby attractions such as the Halong Night Market and Sun World Halong Park.
Price: ££
Hotel rating: 8.8
Stars: 5
5. Halong Plaza Hotel
Halong Plaza Hotel is a 4-star hotel located in Bai Chay, the main tourist area of Halong Bay. The hotel features 200 rooms and suites with modern amenities and large windows with stunning views of the bay or the city.
The hotel offers a variety of dining options, including a restaurant, a bar, and a coffee shop. The hotel’s facilities include a fitness center, an outdoor swimming pool, and a spa.
Price: £
Hotel rating: 8.3
Stars: 4
6. Novotel Halong Bay
Novotel Ha Long Bay Hotel is a 4-star hotel located in Bai Chay, the main tourist area of Halong Bay. There are 225 spacious and contemporary rooms with modern amenities and large windows with either a city or a bay view.
The hotel features a variety of dining options, including a restaurant, a bar, and a poolside bar. The hotel’s facilities include a fitness center, an outdoor swimming pool, a spa, and a children’s play area.
Price: £
Hotel rating: 7.5
Stars: 4
7. Muong Thanh Grand Halong Hotel
Muong Thanh Grand Ha Long Hotel is a 4-star hotel located in Bai Chay, the main tourist area of Halong Bay. The hotel features 508 spacious and modern rooms and suites with panoramic views of the bay or the city.
The hotel offers a variety of dining options, including a restaurant, a rooftop bar, and a coffee shop. The hotel’s facilities include a fitness center, a spa, an indoor swimming pool, and an outdoor swimming pool.
Price: £
Hotel rating: 7.2
Stars: 4
Where to stay in Halong Bay on an island: Cat Ba Island
When planning a trip to Halong Bay, if you want to stay on an island then one of the best places to consider is Cat Ba Island. Located in the southern part of the bay, Cat Ba Island offers a wide range of accommodation options for visitors. From budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts, there is something to suit every traveler’s needs.
One of the advantages of staying on Cat Ba Island is its convenient location, as it is close to various attractions in Halong Bay. Visitors can easily explore the famous Lan Ha Bay, which is known for its pristine beaches and limestone karsts. In addition, there are numerous hiking trails on the island that lead to stunning viewpoints overlooking the bay. For those who want to experience the local culture, Cat Ba Town offers a charming atmosphere with bustling markets and delicious street food stalls.
Things to do on Cat Ba Island
- Hike through Cat Ba National Park and enjoy the views
- Relax on the beach and soak up the sun
- Take a boat tour to nearby caves and islands
- Rent a bicycle and explore the idyllic villages, forests and markets on the island
Best hotels on Cat Ba Island
1. Eden Hotel Cat Ba
This 3 star accommodation is in the Xuan Dam area on Cat Ba island, facing the beach. It has an outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre and garden. There’s also a restaurant on site, and a snack bar with an Asian style breakfast available every morning. The rooms are relatively modern, and the outdoor infinity pool has a stunning view of the lush mountains.
2. Cat Ba Papillon Bungalow & Resort
With a lovely outdoor pool, Cat Ba Papillon is a new homestay 2km from Xuan Dam beach. It has stunning mountain views which can be enjoyed on the sun terrace or your own private balcony. They offer both American and Asian breakfast, which you can choose to enjoy in your room. There’s also a restaurant on site which is open from lunch time, and you can rent a bike from reception.
3. JoyStay
For an authentic island experience, head to JoyStay. You’ll get your own cute bungalow in a quiet location, with a shared kitchen, bar, garden and terrace. Each bungalow has it’s own private bathroom with a shower.
4. Quiri Hotel
This modern hotel is located in front of a lake and in a quiet area, with everything you’d need to enjoy a stay on Cat Ba. There’s a restaurant, bar, lounge and garden with air conditioned rooms and private bathrooms.
Where to stay in Halong that isn’t touristy: Co To Island
If you’re looking for a less touristy place to stay in Halong, look no further than Co To Island. Located about 80 km away from the city, Co To Island offers a peaceful and serene environment away from the crowds and is a true hidden gem. The island is known for its untouched beaches with crystal clear waters, making it a perfect destination for beach lovers.
There are several accommodation options available on the island, ranging from cozy guesthouses to luxury resorts. The island also boasts a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy, such as snorkeling, fishing, and exploring the local fishing village. The locals are friendly and welcoming, providing an authentic experience of Vietnamese hospitality. So, if you’re seeking a tranquil and non-touristy place to stay in Halong, Co To Island should definitely be on your list.
Things to do on Co To Island
- Visit Co To Lighthouse which has panoramic views of the island and sea
- Take a boat tour to nearby islands where you can snorkel and enjoy fresh and local seafood
- Visit local restaurants and enjoy specialities like banh cuon, banh da and grilled squid
- Hike up to the island’s peak for beautiful views
Best hotels on Co To Island
1. Coto Center Homestay
Right by Van Chay Beach and Tinh Yeu Beach, this homestay has a restaurant on site and a sun terrace. Guests rave about the friendliness of the owner who will go above and beyond to ensure you enjoy your stay.
There’s a small coffee shop and they serve and Asian breakfast every morning.
2. Coto Island Beach Village Homestay
Beachfront accommodation with beautiful sea views, the location of this hotel can’t get much better. It’s in a prime location in Nam Cap.
Where to stay in Halong Bay on an overnight cruise
For a unique way to experience Halong Bay, you can opt for an overnight cruise. These offer a chance to explore the bay while staying onboard a luxurious vessel equipped with all the necessary amenities.
Whilst on board, you’ll have the chance to enjoy activities such as kayaking, swimming, and exploring caves while enjoying the scenic views of the bay.
Things to do on an overnight cruise
- Get to know your fellow passengers
- Enjoy morning yoga on the rooftop
- Visit caves, floating villages and islands
- Go squid fishing at night
- Enjoy the amazing views of the bay from your own cabin
- Explore halong bay on a kayak
1. Genesis Luxury Regal Cruises
Genesis Luxury Regal Cruises is a luxury cruise ship operating in Halong Bay. The ship features 12 spacious and elegant cabins, each with its own private balcony and panoramic views of the bay.
The ship offers a variety of activities, including kayaking, and swimming. You’ll stop and visit caves and floating villages.
The ship’s facilities include a restaurant, a bar, and a sun deck. The ship makes it easy for guests to explore the many stunning islands and islets of Halong Bay.
2. Paradise Luxury Cruise
Paradise Luxury Sails Cruise is a luxury cruise ship operating in Halong Bay. The ship features 17 cabins and suites, each with its own private balcony and stunning views of the bay. T
The ship offers a range of activities, including kayaking, swimming, and visiting caves and floating villages. The ship’s facilities include a restaurant , a bar, a spa, and a sun deck.
What To Consider When Choosing Where To Stay In Halong Bay
When choosing where to stay in Halong Bay, there are several factors to consider:
Location
Consider whether you prefer to stay in a more crowded and touristy area close to popular attractions or in a quieter, more secluded location. Do you want to be close to the nightlife and entertainment or would you prefer a more serene and peaceful atmosphere?
Amenities
Think about the amenities that are important to you. Do you want a swimming pool, a spa, a restaurant, or a fitness center? Do you need a 24-hour reception desk or room service? Make sure to choose a place that offers the amenities that are essential to your comfort and enjoyment.
Budget
Consider your budget when choosing where to stay. There are accommodation options available for all budgets, from budget hotels to high-end resorts and luxury cruise ships. Be realistic about what you can afford and plan accordingly.
Duration of stay and activities
Think about how long you will be staying in Halong Bay and the types of activities you plan to do. If you plan to stay for a longer period, a resort or cruise ship may be a better option than a hotel. If you plan to spend most of your time exploring the attractions, a hotel in a central location may be more suitable. Consider the activities you want to do and choose a place that offers easy access to those activities.
Where to stay in Halong Bay FAQs
It is worth it to stay in Halong Bay if you want more time to explore this UNESCO World Heritage destination. It has a unique beauty with its towering limestone cliffs, making it a really interesting and exciting place to visit and stay
Most people will spend 2-3 days in Halong Bay either in a hotel or on a cruise.
The best month to visit Halong Bay is October to December. This is due to the pleasant weather and low chance of rain.
Some of the best beaches in Vietnam are in Halong Bay. We would recommend visiting Ba Trai Dao beach, Titop beach, Cat Co beach and Soi Sim beach.
