Lan Ha Bay: The Quieter Side of Halong Bay – Guide for Muslim Travellers (2026)
Is Lan Ha Bay better than Halong Bay? For many travellers, yes. Lan Ha Bay lies south-east of Cat Ba Island in Hai Phong, next to Halong Bay, and shares the same limestone scenery with fewer boats, small sandy beaches and calm lagoons for kayaking. Since 2023 it has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage site “Ha Long Bay – Cat Ba Archipelago”. It is the bay where our preferred halal-kitchen cruise operates, which makes it an excellent choice for Muslim families.
Why Choose Lan Ha Bay
- Quieter than central Halong Bay, with more secluded beaches and lagoons.
- Part of the UNESCO site since 2023 and next to Cat Ba National Park.
- Ideal for kayaking, swimming and village visits.
- Reached by expressway and the Tan Vu–Lach Huyen bridge, about 2–2.5 hours from Hanoi.
Lan Ha Bay at a Glance
| Location | South-east of Cat Ba Island, Hai Phong; part of the Ha Long Bay – Cat Ba Archipelago World Heritage site |
| Size | Over 7,000 ha with around 360 islands and islets |
| Piers | Got pier (Cat Hai), Beo pier on Cat Ba; some cruises leave from Tuan Chau |
| Bay fee (2026) | About 120,000 VND per adult for a day visit; overnight fees from about 400,000 VND, usually included in cruise prices |
| Cat Ba National Park | Separate ticket, about 160,000 VND per adult |
| Time needed | 1–2 nights on a cruise |
| Best months | April–June and September–November |
Top Things to Do in Lan Ha Bay
1. Kayaking through Sang–Toi Caves
Paddle through the “light” and “dark” caves into sheltered lagoons surrounded by cliffs.
2. Ba Trai Dao Beach
Three small beaches linked by legend to three peach-blossom fairies; good for swimming in calm water.
3. Viet Hai Village
A traditional village inside Cat Ba National Park reached by a quiet path between rice fields and limestone peaks, by bicycle or electric car.
4. Cat Ba National Park
Home to the critically endangered Cat Ba langur, found nowhere else in the world. Short forest trails lead to viewpoints.
5. Floating Fishing Villages
Villages such as Cai Beo show how fishing families live on the water.
Lan Ha Bay vs Halong Bay
Both are part of the same UNESCO site and look similar. Halong Bay has the famous big caves and more facilities; Lan Ha has fewer boats, more beaches and a more relaxed feel. On a two-night cruise you can often see both.
Tips for Muslim Travellers
- Book a cruise with a halal kitchen in advance; Mon Chéri Cruises states it holds a halal certificate from the Halal Vietnam Association. See Halong Bay Halal Cruises.
- Cat Ba town has very limited halal food; eat on board or bring snacks.
- Pray in your cabin; there is no mosque in Hai Phong’s islands.
- Bring a light, quick-drying outfit for kayaking that you are comfortable in.
Plan Your Visit with Hanoi Muslim Tours
Every Hanoi Muslim Tours itinerary is private and planned around prayer times, with halal meals booked in advance and an English-speaking guide who knows which sights suit Muslim families. See our Halong Bay travel guide for Muslim travellers, browse Halong Bay Muslim Tour 3 Days 2 Nights, Halong Bay Halal Cruises, or Contact Hanoi Muslim Tours Team for a free custom itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions about Lan Ha Bay
1. Where is Lan Ha Bay?
South-east of Cat Ba Island in Hai Phong, next to Halong Bay.
2. Is Lan Ha Bay part of the UNESCO site?
Yes, since the 2023 extension that created the Ha Long Bay – Cat Ba Archipelago World Heritage site.
3. Is Lan Ha Bay less crowded than Halong Bay?
Generally yes, with fewer boats and more secluded beaches.
4. How do I get to Lan Ha Bay from Hanoi?
About 2–2.5 hours by road to Got pier, or 2.5–3 hours to Tuan Chau for some cruises.
5. What is the entrance fee?
About 120,000 VND per adult for a day visit in 2026; overnight fees are usually included in cruise prices.
6. Is there halal food in Lan Ha Bay?
On halal-kitchen cruises such as Mon Chéri, yes; on land in Cat Ba, options are very limited.
7. What is the Cat Ba langur?
A critically endangered primate that lives only in the Cat Ba archipelago.
8. How many nights should I spend?
One night is enough to see the highlights; two nights allow Viet Hai village and more kayaking.
