Overview
Lan Ha Bay is a stunning bay located in the Cat Ba Archipelago, known for its emerald waters and thousands of limestone islands. It's often referred to as a smaller and more serene alternative to Ha Long Bay.
Lan Ha Bay is significant for its biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and as a UNESCO-recognized part of the Cat Ba Archipelago Biosphere Reserve.
Location
Address
Cất Hải, Hải Phòng
Neighborhood: Cát Hải District
Coordinates
20.802100, 106.929600
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
October to December
Best Time of Day
Early morning
calmer waters, fewer tourists
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
warm and pleasant
- • lush greenery
- • clear waters
summer
hot and humid with frequent rain
- • rainy season landscapes
autumn
cooler and drier
- • cool breezes
- • clear skies
winter
cooler with occasional rain
- • cooler temperatures
- • calm waters
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book a tour in advance
- Bring valid ID
- Check weather conditions
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate
- • swimming can be dangerous in some areas
Medical facilities: basic medical facilities available in Cat Ba Town
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit cards
Currency
Vietnamese Dong (VND)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual and comfortable, light clothing, hat, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes or sandals, inappropriate or revealing clothing
Booking Tips
- • 1-2 weeks
- • local tour operators or official websites
- • 48 hours in advance
- • available with pre-booked tours
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Lan Ha Bay Tour Guide
Size: 30 MB
Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Tour booking
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor Center, Some tour boats
Charging Stations: Limited availability on tour boats
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Cat Bi International Airport (HPH)
Distance: 45 km
Travel Time: 1.5 hours
From City Center
Distance: 30 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Lan Ha Bay is a source of livelihood for many locals, providing fishing opportunities and tourism-related jobs. It's a place of natural beauty and cultural significance.
Historical Significance: The area has a rich history of fishing and maritime activities. During the war, it was also used as a hiding spot for boats.
Insider Tips
- The best seafood is often found at the floating restaurants
- Early morning tours often have calmer waters and fewer tourists
- Visit the local markets in Cat Ba Town for authentic souvenirs and experiences
Local Recommendations
- • Try local seafood at a floating restaurant
- • Ask for a local guide who knows the bay well
- • Visit Cat Ba Town for local markets and cultural experiences
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Vietnamese, English, some French
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Floating Village
Best Time: Morning
Tips: Wide-angle shots of the village and surrounding islands
Result: Stunning shots of traditional floating houses against the backdrop of limestone islands
Ba Trai Dao Beach
Best Time: Late afternoon
Tips: Capture the golden sand and clear waters with the islands in the background
Result: Beautiful beach scenes with clear blue waters and dramatic rock formations
Three Peaches Beach
Best Time: Sunset
Tips: Use the setting sun to create dramatic silhouettes of the islands
Result: Breathtaking sunset views with the unique rock formations
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Cat Ba Island
Distance: 5 km
Walking: Not walkable, requires ferry or boat
Type: Island
Cat Ba National Park
Distance: 10 km
Walking: Not walkable, requires transportation
Type: National Park
Hospital Cave
Distance: 5 km
Walking: Not walkable, requires boat or tour
Type: Cave
Reviews
Based on 1,200 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book a multi-day tour for the best experience"
- "Visit in the dry season for calmer waters"
- "Try the local seafood"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
1,665
Rating
4.6 / 5.0
Reviews
1,200
Adult Entry
100,000 VND