Halong Bay is one of those rare places where time seems to slow down. Emerald waters dotted with limestone karsts, sails gliding through the mist, and sunsets that blur into watercolor skies. But not every month feels the same here — the weather changes everything, from how clear the views are to what kind of cruise you can take.
So, when is the best time to visit Halong Bay? This guide breaks down each season, what to expect, and how to plan your trip so you catch the bay at its most breathtaking.
Halong Bay weather and seasons overview
Halong Bay lies in northern Vietnam, and knowing its four distinct seasons — a cool winter, a mild spring, a hot and humid summer, and a crisp autumn — is essential to finding the best time to visit Halong Bay.
Spring
March – April
20–28 °C
Calm sea, clear skies, perfect for cruises
Slightly higher prices
Summer
May – August
28–35 °C
Vibrant sunsets, lush greenery, fewer foreign tourists
Rain, storms, cruise cancellations
Autumn
September – November
22–30 °C
Warm, dry weather, golden light
Early typhoon season risk
Winter
December – February
15–20 °C
Quiet atmosphere, low crowds, mystical fog
Cold water, less visibility
In short: if you want sunny skies, calm seas, and smooth sailing, spring (March–April) and autumn (September–November) are the best times to visit Halong Bay.
The Golden Months: Spring and Autumn
Spring (March–April)
Spring marks the start of the high season in Halong Bay. This is often considered part of the best time to visit Halong Bay, with sunnier skies, improving visibility, low rainfall, and pleasant warmth. It’s ideal for cruising among limestone cliffs, kayaking, or light hiking, as the calm sea and gentle weather make every activity enjoyable. More international travelers also begin to arrive during this season.
Autumn (September–November)
Autumn is another highlight of the best time to visit Halong Bay. Early autumn (September) brings cooler air and less rain, while October and November deliver the bay’s most beautiful days — dry, bright, and comfortably warm (around 20–25 °C). The calm seas and clear skies make this period perfect for photography, overnight cruises, and sightseeing. Because it’s peak season, expect higher prices and more visitors.
Other seasons: reasons to go (or skip)
Summer (May–August)
Summer in Halong Bay is hot and humid, with frequent afternoon showers and occasional typhoons. However, this off-peak period can still reward flexible travelers — the scenery is lush, the water warm, and the prices friendlier. For those watching their budget, May and early June are excellent months to experience Halong Bay before the storm season intensifies.
Winter (December–February)
Winter transforms Halong Bay into a calm, poetic landscape. December is dry, cool (around 18 °C), and often clear — an underrated month within the best time to visit Halong Bay. January and February bring colder air and misty mornings, creating a mysterious charm over the limestone towers. While swimming isn’t ideal, winter is perfect for relaxing overnight cruises, seafood dinners, and scenic seaplane flights over the bay.
Booking tips for your Halong Bay trip
Book in advance to secure the perfect cruise, as spots tend to fill up quickly during high season.
Check weather forecasts before departure, especially in summer months. Reliable sites like Windy or AccuWeather provide local updates.
Choose reputable cruise lines that offer flexible policies and professional crews.
Travel insurance is highly recommended during the rainy season, in case cruises are delayed or canceled.
Stay overnight on a cruise rather than a day trip — sunsets and sunrises on the bay are simply unforgettable.
Month-by-month Breakdown
If you’re still wondering when the best time to visit Halong Bay truly is, looking at the weather month by month can help you plan more precisely. Each period offers a different charm — from misty winter mornings to sun-drenched summer days — and knowing what to expect in each month ensures you pick the perfect moment for your Halong Bay cruise.
Month | Weather | Travel Note |
|---|---|---|
January | Cool, misty | Fewer tourists, cheaper tours |
February | Foggy mornings | Great for photos, cold water |
March | Clear skies | Start of the best season |
April | Warm and dry | Ideal for cruises and kayaking |
May | Hotter, pre-rain | Lower prices, early summer sun |
June | Humid, some rain | Good deals, be flexible |
July | Storm risk | Check weather updates |
August | Rainy but lush | Cheapest time to visit |
September | Cooler, clearer | Start of autumn, fewer crowds |
October | Dry and bright | One of the top months overall |
November | Mild, calm seas | Excellent visibility |
December | Cool, foggy | Quiet and romantic vibe |
The best time to visit Halong Bay – a final note
Ultimately, the best time to visit Halong Bay depends on what you seek.
For perfect weather and clear skies — choose March to April or September to November.
For budget travel and local experiences — consider May or early June.
For solitude and misty views — winter months are your secret season.
Halong Bay never truly disappoints; it simply changes its mood with each season. From sunlit limestone towers to fog-wrapped mornings, every visit reveals a different version of Vietnam’s natural wonder.
After cruising through Halong’s dreamlike seascape, take your Vietnam journey one step further inland. In Hanoi’s Old Quarter, you’ll find Tailor Bros, a bespoke tailoring house where craftsmanship meets modern style.
Much like Halong Bay — timeless, refined, and unforgettable — Vietnam’s tailoring heritage is also world-renowned. In Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Tailor Bros continues that tradition with craftsmanship rooted in precision and passion.
Don’t miss the chance to have a beautiful suit made just for you — perfectly fitted, reasonably priced, and infused with the spirit of Vietnam.
