Discover Ha Long, Malaysia: A Local's Guide
Going to Ha Long? This is your guide to navigate the area like a pro! Learn about the different vibes and choose the perfect spot for your trip.
Planning a trip to Ha Long and unsure about where to stay, what to do, or where to eat? Save this guide to truly understand Ha Long from A to Z!
You can plan your whole trip with this!
Ha Long's Three Main Areas
Ha Long City has three main areas, each with its unique charm:
1. Bãi Cháy: The Heart of the Action
Vibe: The most lively and tourist-centric area.
Why Bãi Cháy? It's home to many entertainment venues, artificial beaches, and fancy hotels.
Must-See Spots:
- Dragon Park, Water Park, Queen Cable Car (all part of Sunworld)
- Bãi Cháy Beach (3km long), right next to Sunworld
- Sun Carnival Square: Water music shows (evenings, weekends often have performances)
- Sunworld Old Town (night market)
- Marina Bay Beach: BIM area, about 6km from Sunworld
- Instagrammable spots: Western-style streets, ceramic walls, Mediterranean-style streets...
Top Hotels in Bãi Cháy:
- 5-Star: InterContinental Halong Bay Resort, Vinpearl Resort & Spa Halong (Rều Island), Hotel Soleil Halong by Wyndham, Oakwood Ha Long, A La Carte Halong Bay, Premier Village Halong Bay Resort, Citadines Marina Halong, The Watson Premium Halong Hotel, Muong Thanh Luxury, FLC Grand Hotel Halong, Royal Lotus Resort & Villas.
- 4-Star: Ramada Encore Halong, Novotel Halong Bay, Halong Palace Hotel, Paradise Suites, Royal Lotus Halong, Halong Plaza, Mithrin Hotel, Saigon Halong Hotel.
2. Hòn Gai: The Quieter Side
Vibe: Across the Bãi Cháy Bridge, a more peaceful atmosphere.
Why Hòn Gai? Close to the administrative center, offers bay views, suitable for those seeking tranquility and local experiences.
Points of Interest:
- Quảng Ninh Museum, Dolphin Palace
- Bài Thơ Mountain, Bãi Cháy Bridge (beautiful at night)
- 35 billion VND gold-plated clock tower
- Cột 8 Beach: New, spacious, and airy
- Coastal road: Many delicious and reasonably priced seafood restaurants
Top Hotels in Hòn Gai:
- 5-Star: Sapphire Halong, FLC Halong Golf Club
- 4-Star: Halios Hotel & Apartment, The Confetti Hotel, City Bay Hotel Halong, Grand Halong Hotel
3. Tuần Châu: Secluded Island Escape
Vibe: A private area, near the docks for bay tours.
Why Tuần Châu? Quiet resort area, convenient for visiting the bay, perfect for relaxation and families.
Attractions:
- Tuần Châu Harbor (for bay tours, overnight cruises)
- Kong reality park, flying lizards...
- Tuần Châu Dolphin Show
Top Hotels in Tuần Châu:
- 5-Star: Paradise Suites Tuần Châu
- 4-Star: La Paz Resort Tuần Châu, Tuần Châu Holiday Villa, Royal Lotus Villas Tuần Châu
Choosing Your Perfect Vibe
Each area has its unique vibe. Here's a quick guide to help you choose:
- Bãi Cháy: Lots to do, great for photos, close to Sunworld
- Hòn Gai: Quiet, near the museum, local atmosphere
- Tuần Châu: Secluded, near the sea, convenient for bay tours
Save this for your trip, and share with your friends!
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