On the water

Lan Ha Bay Kayaking

Lan Ha Bay is the quieter neighbour of Ha Long, hundreds of karst islands and hidden lagoons with a fraction of the boats. It is one of the best places in northern Vietnam to get in a kayak and actually paddle.

Where and what

Lan Ha sits just south of Ha Long Bay, off Cat Ba Island. The water is calmer and cleaner, the scenery just as dramatic, and the crowds far thinner. Perfect for kayaking into lagoons, through low caves, and onto hidden beaches.

The kayaking

We keep groups small and the pace flexible. You paddle the quiet routes a local guide knows, stop to swim, and reach spots the big cruise boats cannot. No experience needed, just a willingness to get on the water.

When to go

Kayaking is good much of the year. The quiet winter months are calm and uncrowded; warmer months are better for swimming. Either way, mornings are usually the stillest.