Lan Ha Bay has become one of the attractive destinations that domestic and foreign tourists cannot miss. Located between two famous tourist symbols, Ha Long Bay and Cat Ba Island, Lan Ha Bay not only has a charming wild beauty but is also a land rich in culture and history. From clear blue beaches, golden sunshine, and exciting activities like scuba diving and trekking, to unique cultural experiences, it all captures the essence of a hidden gem. In this article, let’s explore this magical beauty with Karst Plateau, where nature blends with human life in a perfect and memorable way.
1. Overview of Lan Ha Bay
When mentioning Lan Ha Bay, people think of the charming natural landscape and the richness of the ecosystem here. The bay is located east of Cat Ba Island and south of Ha Long Bay, creating a large and poetic space. With a total area of ​​more than 7,000 hectares, it owns over 400 islands of different sizes, with beaches that have not been exploited much. The attraction of Lan Ha Bay is its wild beauty and unmatched quiet space, which makes it very suitable as a destination for those who want to find a new space to relax.
Besides, with rich flora, this place is home to many species of birds and marine creatures. That’s why Lan Ha Bay is often compared to other wonders such as Ha Long Bay or brilliant beaches in the Central region. But the uniqueness of this place is that its natural beauty is still wild and has not been exploited and commercialized as much as other places. Visitors coming here can feel the closeness and familiarity with nature, like finding a small corner of themselves forgotten in the hustle and bustle world out there.
2. The best time to Lan Ha Bay
Lan Ha Bay is not only lucky to possess a wild beauty that has not been affected by too much human impact, but it also has a cool climate all year round, each season has its own poetic and charming beauty. Therefore, you can come here at any time of the year depending on your schedule and preferences.
However, if you love the bustling, vibrant atmosphere, then come here from April to June. This is the time when Lan Ha Bay welcomes the most visitors of the year. The climate is fresh, the sky is sunny, there is little rain and the beach is also green, clear, and has rippling waves. This is the ideal time for you to participate in outdoor recreational activities such as swimming and boating on the bay.
In addition, if you do not like the hustle and bustle, then go to Lan Ha Bay from September onwards. At this time, the bay is relatively peaceful, suitable for you to rest and relax with relatives and friends.
3. Super Interesting Places to Visit in Lan Ha Bay
3.1 Floating Market on Lan Ha Bay
Lan Ha Bay floating market is not simply a seafood market but also a symbol of local culture. Here, small boats are anchored next to floating rafts, creating a vivid picture in the middle of the sea. Surrounded by images of people diligently packing and processing seafood right on the boat, there is still a fresh flavor that visitors will certainly never forget.
The floating market also contains many unique products from the sea, helping you choose gifts for your loved ones. Considered a place for exchanges between fishermen, the floating market is not only a place to shop but also a place for you to learn more about the culture and daily life of the people here. Stopping at a boat to enjoy those delicious seafood dishes in the fresh air of the sea is an unforgettable experience for anyone who has set foot in Lan Ha Bay.
3.2 Explore Nam Cat Island
Nam Cat Island is located about 15 minutes by boat from Lan Ha Bay, promising to bring visitors a peaceful space, with a blue sea, white sand, and beautiful pristine beaches. Those who love nature and the feeling of discovery will not be able to miss this place. Stepping onto the island, you will feel like you are lost in a peaceful world, where there are only the sounds of ocean waves and birds singing.
At Nam Cat Island, you can participate in many useful and interesting activities such as:
- Swimming: Clear blue sea water, whispering waves on the soft golden sand beach.
- Coral diving: Explore the underwater world with the amazing beauty of coral and diverse marine life.
- Trekking: Walking on trails, admiring the majestic scenery of mountains and nature.
In addition, the island also has a team of experienced guides, always ready to accompany you, bringing interesting stories about their lives as well as the ecosystem here.
3.3 Explore Luon Cave
One of the most attractive destinations in Lan Ha Bay is Luon Cave. Formed over millions of years, this cave is a work of art that nature has dedicated to this land. Stepping into the cave, visitors feel lost in a mysterious space, where stalactites take on all shapes in the shimmering light of the water. The special thing about Luon Cave is that visitors need to row a boat to reach it, bringing a close and new experience. Amidst the clear, quiet water, the peaceful space here brings a feeling of absolute relaxation.
When participating in the journey to explore Luon Cave, you will experience:
- Rowing: The feeling of gliding gently and the calm water will make you forget all your worries and immerse yourself in nature.
- Admiring stalactites: Unique stalactites with strange shapes will make you admire their endless beauty.
- Learn about the ecosystem: At the same time, you can also learn about the plants and animals that live in this cave environment.
Luon Cave is not simply a tourist destination but also a place for you to truly relax and enjoy the magical beauty of nature and the human soul.
3.4 Van Boi Beach
Van Boi Beach is located in the heart of Lan Ha Bay, considered a rough pearl in the middle of the sea. This place stands out with clear blue sea water, long stretches of fine white sand and a rare quiet, peaceful atmosphere. Coming here, you will have the opportunity to splash around in the cool water as well as participate in super interesting beachside entertainment activities, such as boating, swimming, etc.
3.5 Monkey Island
Monkey Island, also known as Cat Dua Island, is not only home to more than 20 monkeys but also possesses wild natural beauty. Abundant ecological resources and the blue sea and white sand scenery have created an ideal location for those who love to explore and be close to nature.
The monkeys here are not just ordinary creatures but have become a part of local culture. You have the opportunity to interact with them comfortably, from feeding them to playing, and creating memorable memories during your journey. This place is also ideal for you to take impressive photos amidst the beautiful beach.
Some interesting activities you can experience at Monkey Island:
- Swimming: The clear, cool waters will help you cool off after hours of exploring wildlife.
- Play with monkeys: Active monkeys will make you excited and like to tell interesting stories about their lives.
- Walk and explore nature: Trails lead to hidden corners, you will see the magical beauty of nature.
Monkey Island is not only an entertainment destination but also a place that brings you back to your childhood, amidst a peaceful atmosphere and wild natural beauty.
3.6 Visit Cua Van Fishing Village
Cua Van fishing village is not only a destination but also a journey to experience the unique culture of the fishermen here. The peaceful space of colorful houses makes visitors feel peaceful and closely connected to nature. When sitting on boats around the fishing village, you will see how simple and sincere the lives of the people here are.
In addition to enjoying the beautiful scenery, visitors also have the opportunity to participate in activities such as boating, fishing, or learning about traditional aquaculture methods. Each experience gives you a deeper insight into the lives of the people here. Coming here, you will feel like you have wandered into another world because of the charming beauty and peaceful atmosphere with the simple lifestyle of the fishermen here. In addition, Cua Van Fishing Village was once honored as one of the 16 most beautiful ancient villages in the world. That alone is enough to clearly portray this ancient fishing village, right?
3.7 Mountain Climbing At Lan Ha Bay
In addition to activities at sea, Lan Ha Bay also attracts tourists who love adventure sports such as mountain climbing. The majestic limestone mountains not only give you the opportunity to exercise but also help you admire the panoramic view of the bay from above. Places where you can participate in climbing activities in Lan Ha Bay include:
- Dau Be Island, after 2 hours by boat from Cat Ba tourist port to arrive.
- Cliff at Beo Wharf (2 km from Cat Ba center)
- Ba Trai Dao Island (22 km south of the tourist port)
- Bo Hon Mountain: One of the most famous climbing destinations with moderate difficulty, suitable for even beginners.
The majestic scenery with small islands and blue water of Lan Ha Bay will be the ideal backdrop for beautiful photos. In particular, relaxing moments at the top of the mountain after the climb will make you feel like you are the king of a private world.
4. What to Eat in Lan Ha Bay?
Every time you come to Lan Ha Bay, besides the captivating beauty of nature, you will not be able to miss the cuisine here. Fresh seafood from the sea is one of the most unique features that visitors cannot refuse. With a variety of dishes, from seafood to local specialties, Lan Ha Bay will definitely satisfy food lovers.
Some outstanding dishes you should not miss when coming here:
- Geoduck: A famous seafood, often prepared with onion fat or grilled. True to legend, geoduck is best when prepared fresh, giving it a unique rich flavor.
- Sam Sea: An unforgettable dish when arriving in Lan Ha Bay. Prices range from 500,000 to 700,000 VND for a pair of samosas, bringing a rich experience to visitors.
- Blue crab: With sweet and firm meat, blue crab is prepared using a variety of methods, from steaming to grilling, each highlighting the flavors of the sea.
- Grilled blood cockle: A popular dish but always popular thanks to its fragrant flavor from charcoal, making anyone fall in love with it.
- Fried shrimp: Another specialty that you should enjoy is fried shrimp, this is an easy-to-prepare dish that brings an unforgettable unique flavor.
With this diversity, Lan Ha Bay is not simply a beautiful scenic destination but also a place for visitors to experience the unique culinary culture of the coastal region.
Lan Ha Bay is not only a tourist destination but also a journey to discover magical natural beauty, where beauty and life blend together perfectly. Coming to Lan Ha Bay, you will have unique experiences, discover the beauty of nature and culture here, and bring back memorable memories. That is why Lan Ha Bay has become one of the unmissable destinations for anyone who loves to travel and explore. Take a trip to Lan Ha Bay to feel and experience the wonderful things that nature has bestowed on this land. For more information and travel tips, please visit the Karst Plateau website.