Lan Ha Bay sits just south of Ha Long, wrapped around Cat Ba Island, and looks almost identical: the same towering karsts and emerald water. The difference is the experience. Lan Ha has historically seen around 70% fewer tourist boats, less litter, and lower prices, which is exactly why more travellers are choosing it over its famous neighbour.

What exactly is Lan Ha Bay?

Lan Ha is a seascape of more than 300 limestone islands and islets spread across roughly 7,000 hectares in the Gulf of Tonkin. The key detail: it's administered by Hai Phong rather than Quang Ninh Province, which manages Ha Long. That separation, plus Quang Ninh halting new cruise licences, has helped keep Lan Ha quieter.

Why travellers are switching

The scenery is genuinely comparable to Ha Long, so you're not trading down on beauty. What you gain is peace and value: fewer boats crowding the famous spots, cleaner water, and the option to base yourself on Cat Ba and take affordable day trips instead of an expensive overnight cruise.

Things to do in Lan Ha Bay

• Kayaking through quiet lagoons and sea caves into hidden pools.
• Swimming at clean, calm beaches like Ba Trai Dao and Van Boi.
• Visiting floating fishing villages still home to working families.
• Exploring sea caves, including the contrasting Light and Dark caves.
• Rock climbing and deep water soloing on the limestone cliffs.

How to visit

The easiest base is Cat Ba Island. From Ben Beo Harbour you can join a day cruise (about $25 to $35, usually including kayaking, swimming and lunch) or rent a boat to explore at your own pace. Get to Cat Ba first via the bus and ferry combo from Hanoi, then the bay is right on your doorstep.

Choosing Lan Ha over a big Ha Long cruise also treads more lightly on a fragile ecosystem — a small but real way to travel more responsibly.

Experience Lan Ha the quiet way. Our small-group cruises and kayak trips stick to the calm routes. Ask about Lan Ha trips on WhatsApp