Halong Bay is undoubtedly a premier destination in Northern Vietnam you shouldn’t miss. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay is a magnet for tourists from around the globe, drawing them in with its breathtaking natural wonders. When considering where to stay in Halong Bay, visitors have a wealth of choices, ranging from hotels and resorts in Bai Chay, Hon Gai (Halong City), to the isles of Tuan Chau, Reu, and Cat Ba. Alternatively, you can immerse yourself in the scenic beauty by spending the night on one of the numerous cruises sailing across the bay.

Lodge at inland hotels and resorts

A part of Halong Bay with many limestone islands
A part of Halong Bay with many limestone islands

Halong Bay, often highlighted as a must-see Vietnamese destination, offers an extensive array of hotels and resorts, accommodating all budgets and preferences. For those pondering where to stay in Halong Bay and seeking a tranquil retreat, inland accommodations are a prime choice. Spend your days discovering the cultural landmarks of Halong City, like the Quang Ninh Museum and Library, Hon Gai Church, and Long Tien Pagoda, or partake in a day cruise to delve deeper into the beauty of this World Heritage Site. In the evenings, don’t miss out on a leisurely walk through the bustling night market to indulge in the regional culinary delights.

Here is a selection of recommended hotels and resorts to consider for your accommodation in Halong Bay:

Where to Stay in Halong Bay – Vinpearl Resort and Spa Halong 

Where to Stay in Halong Bay - Vinpearl Resort and Spa Halong 
Where to Stay in Halong Bay – Vinpearl Resort and Spa Halong

Vinpearl Resort & Spa Halong, situated on Reu Island within the Halong Bay Complex, is characterized by an immense landscape of stunning natural beauty. Drawing inspiration from the Rennes Opera House in France, its bow-shaped architecture gently encircles the sea, crafting a distinctive allure that is in perfect sync with the surrounding environment. The resort promises a remarkable stay, complete with delightful beachfront leisure and convenient proximity to Halong Bay’s well-known sites.

  • Location: Reu Island, Bai Chay Ward, Halong City, Quang Ninh Province
  • Starting Rate: $80 USD.

Wyndham Legend Ha Long

Wyndham Legend Ha Long
Wyndham Legend Ha Long

Wyndham Legend Halong, recognized as Bai Chay’s first five-star hotel by the international Wyndham Hotel Group, is an exemplary choice for those deliberating where to stay in Halong Bay. Nestled along the most scenic coastline of the bay, guests at the hotel are treated to breathtaking views of the World Natural Heritage Site, the Bai Chay Bridge, and Sun World Park. Embodying modern elegance and ultimate comfort, the Wyndham Legend Halong provides ample meeting areas, a range of dining experiences, exceptional services, and first-class amenities. With 450 well-appointed rooms and suites situated in parallel towers, the hotel sets a world-class standard, serving both business and leisure visitors.

  • Location: No.12 Halong Street, Bai Chay Ward, Halong City, Quang Ninh Province
  • Rates Begin At: $60 USD.

Royal Lotus Halong Resort and Villas

Royal Lotus Halong Resort and Villas
Royal Lotus Halong Resort and Villas

Nestled in the Halong Marina Urban Area, Royal Lotus Halong Resort and Villas offers an ideal location for those pondering where to stay in Halong Bay, situated right at the bustling heart of the region’s most visited areas. Attractions such as Little Vietnam Culture Town, Halong Marine Plaza, Tuan Chau Recreation Complex, and Sun World Halong Park are mere minutes away. Aligned with the international trend of sustainable green living, the hotel is a harmonious blend of luxurious comfort and the breathtaking natural beauty of Halong Bay.

  • Address: Peninsula 2, Hung Thang Urban Area, Hung Thang Ward, Halong City, Quang Ninh Province
  • Rates: Starting from $70 USD.

Novotel Halong Bay

Novotel Halong Bay
Novotel Halong Bay

Since its inauguration in 2008, Novotel Halong Bay has established itself as the premier 4-star international hotel in Halong, renowned for its exceptional service and convenient location. Adjacent to the celebrated Bai Chay Beach and close to the city center’s myriad attractions, the hotel is an excellent choice for both vacationers and business professionals pondering where to stay in Halong Bay. It boasts 225 rooms, each designed with sleek modern aesthetics and an Asian flair, offering visitors both comfort and sophistication.

  • Address: No. 160 Ha Long Road, Bai Chay Ward, Halong City, Quang Ninh Province
  • Rates: Starting from $60 USD.

Halong Plaza Hotel

Halong Plaza Hotel
Halong Plaza Hotel

Perfectly situated in Halong City, Halong Plaza Hotel offers a welcoming atmosphere combined with top-notch services, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers seeking where to stay in Halong Bay. The hotel features 200 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, each equipped with modern luxuries and designed to afford stunning views of Halong Bay and Bai Chay Bridge. Culinary delights await guests with a range of Vietnamese, Japanese, Western, and Thai dishes, expertly prepared by a Thai chef. In addition to gourmet dining, guests can engage in a variety of activities such as working out in the well-equipped fitness center, unwinding in the swimming pool, relaxing with traditional and contemporary massages, or playing billiards with friends.

  • Address: No.8 Halong Road, Bai Chay Ward, Halong City, Quang Ninh Province
  • Rates: Starting from $50 USD

>>> You may also like: 5 star hotels in Halong Bay

Overnight on island

Choosing to spend the night on one of Halong Bay’s islands could provide an intriguing experience, particularly suited for those who appreciate nature and adventure. Known for its staggering collection of over 1,600 islands, Halong Bay has only a select few that offer overnight stays. For those wondering where to stay in Halong Bay, these islands are perfect for an impromptu swim, trekking adventures, and savoring the inexpensive yet delectable local seafood. Additionally, the islands are well-furnished with facilities to enhance your stay, offering a variety of activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, camping, and trekking.

Cat Ba Island

Swimming pools and sundeck areas from above at Hôtel Perle d’Orient Cat Ba – Mgallery

Cat Ba Island, the largest and most visited island in Halong Bay, is a magnet for tourists looking to immerse themselves in the stunning natural landscape of sea and island. For those considering where to stay in Halong Bay, Cat Ba offers an escape just a 10-minute stroll southeast from Cat Ba Town, where you’ll find the trio of Cat Co cove beaches. These shores are celebrated for their soft yellow sands, crystal-clear waters, shimmering waves, and invigorating breezes. For the more intrepid, renting a motorboat or kayak to navigate to tiny islets, trekking through the national park, or cycling around the island are exhilarating options.

Here are some accommodations to consider on Cat Ba Island:

  • Hôtel Perle d’Orient Cat Ba – Mgallery (5-star)
  • Cat Ba Sunrise Resort (4-star)
  • Cat Ba Island Resort & Spa
  • Cat Ba Sandy Beach Resort

Co To Island

Co To Island remains a hidden gem among travelers
Co To Island remains a hidden gem among travelers

Co To Island remains a hidden gem among travelers, with its allure rooted in the azure waters, pristine sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, lush forests, and sumptuous fresh seafood. For those pondering where to stay in Halong Bay and seeking a serene getaway, this island offers the perfect opportunity to explore a less trodden path.

In recent years, the accommodation options on Co To Island have expanded, with a range of hotels, hostels, and homestays popping up around the port and within Co To Town. Room rates are quite reasonable, ranging from $15 to $40 per room. A notable recommendation is Co To Eco Lodge, known for its 12 quaint rooms and situated just a mere 150 meters from the tranquil Hong Van Beach.

>>> Read more: Top 11 Hotels in Halong Bay: Great Prices in the Most Beautiful Locations

Overnight on cruise

An overnight cruise on Halong Bay
An overnight cruise on Halong Bay

Opting for a modern, comfortable hotel on land is a favored choice among many travelers. Yet, in Halong Bay, you can elevate the experience by indulging in an overnight cruise amidst the iconic World Heritage Site, surrounded by a myriad of limestone karsts. This immersive approach truly epitomizes the essence of “travel and enjoy” in Halong Bay. Unlike a day cruise, an overnight stay on a cruise allows you to witness the magnificent sunset and sunrise over the bay, partake in nocturnal squid fishing, and engage in morning Tai Chi on the sundeck, among other captivating activities around the bay like kayaking, cave explorations, visiting fishing villages, or simply relaxing on the sundeck with a wine or cocktail, soaking in the fresh air and stunning views.

Cruise options range from 3-star to 5-star and even top-tier luxury vessels, each boasting distinct designs from traditional wooden junks to sizable modern steel ships, all well-appointed with amenities such as air conditioning, en-suite bathrooms, comfortable bedding, and additional luxuries like spas, massages, and bars. There are typically two itinerary options for overnight cruises: a 2-day, 1-night stay, or a more leisurely 3-day, 2-night voyage, both offering similar experiences but the latter affords more time for relaxation and exploration. Costs for a Halong Bay overnight cruise start around $120 per person per night and can exceed $300 for the more luxurious selections. This rate tends to be higher than hotel or island stays as it includes comprehensive services such as transportation, meals, attraction fees, and an English-speaking tour guide.

Furthermore, when deciding where to stay in Halong Bay, consider which part of the bay you wish to explore, as there are three distinct cruising routes: Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay, and Bai Tu Long Bay, each with its unique offerings:

  • Halong Bay is the classic and most famous route, ideal for those eager to see all the renowned sites like Sung Sot Cave, Titop Island, and Cua Van floating market. This route is bustling and at night resembles a luminous floating city.
  • Bai Tu Long Bay offers a less traveled path, perfect for those seeking a peaceful journey away from the crowds. It shares the scenic beauty of Halong Bay but is more serene and pristine.
  • Lan Ha Bay presents a tranquil alternative, suited for a relaxed, unhurried experience away from the busier waters of Halong Bay.

Regardless of your choice of accommodation in Halong Bay, a memorable experience is assured. Should you find yourself still undecided and seeking direction on where to stay in Halong Bay, feel free to contact us. Our dedicated team of travel consultants is ready to provide you with insightful advice to aid in your decision-making process!

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