Where to Stay in Ha Long? Mainland, Cruises or Islands

Just like other big tourist spots, Halong Bay has tons of places to stay. If you're new to Halong, the massive list of hostels and hotels with different prices, quality levels, and locations might confuse you. Here's all the info you need to find the best places to stay in Halong Bay!

1. Staying in Ha Long Mainland

Mainland stays give you the most convenient vacation when deciding where to stay in Halong with nearby attractions, easy transportation, plenty of restaurants, shopping centers, and medical services all within reach - plus, mainland hotels cost much less than cruises or island options, perfect for travelers wanting comfort and more spending money for activities!

1.1. 5 Best Luxury Hotel In Ha Long

Bai Chay area in Halong offers many fancy hotels - from local Vietnamese brands to big international hotel chains that everyone knows. Check out some top picks below!

1.2. 5 Best Budget Hotels in Ha Long

Tight on cash? No problem! Even though Halong City can be pricey, you can still find cheap hostels to keep your wallet happy. Here are some great budget options:

2. Staying Overnight On A Cruise

In addition to staying in the mainland, visitors seeking a deeper connection with Ha Long Bay's scenic beauty can consider a cruise vacation. If you're wondering where to stay in Ha Long beyond traditional hotels, a cruise offers a unique way to experience the bay’s breathtaking landscapes. Below are some renowned cruise options operating in the bay:

2.1. Halong Bay Cruise – Lively and Well-Suited

The most common way to see the bay is on a Halong Bay Overnight Cruise. These boats follow the main route through the bay's famous spots like:

• Ti Top Island
• Sung Sot Cave
• Thien Cung Cave
• Bat Cave
• Cua Van Floating Village

While the newest and fanciest boats aren't found in Halong Bay itself, you still have tons of options. There are hundreds of 3-star to 5-star cruises to pick from.

Want luxury without the huge price tag? An overnight cruise in Halong Bay is smart! A night on a 5-star boat here costs around $185 per person or even less.

This classic route gives you the full Halong experience that made this place famous worldwide.

Ha Long Bay Cruise offer a magical night among limestone cliffs - Image Source: Collected

2.2. Bai Tu Long Bay Cruise - Peaceful and Ideal for Relaxed

Looking for a truly relaxing trip? Book a cruise from Halong Bay to Bai Tu Long Bay - a peaceful little spot in the area.

Not many tourists know about Bai Tu Long, which makes it a true gem in the Gulf of Tonkin. You get the same stunning World Natural Heritage views but without all the noise and crowds.

The only downside? Not many cruise boats to pick from, especially if you want fancy ones.

The good news is that prices are fair. You can get:

• A night on a 3-star boat starting at just $120 per person
• Several nice 4-star options if you want more comfort

If you must have top-end luxury, your choices are very limited. The few 5-star options include:

• Signature Royal
• Victory Star
• Dragon Legend
• Emperor

These fancy boats cost between $165 and $345 per person, depending on how much luxury you want.

Cruise tour from Halong Bay to Bai Tu Long Bay - a peaceful little spot in the area - Image Source: Collected

2.3. Lan Ha Bay – Tranquil Yet Perfect for Adventurous Travelers

As Halong Bay gets packed with tourists, smart travelers are switching to Lan Ha Bay. While more people are finding out about it, Lan Ha still keeps its calm feeling.

This bay is where you'll find the very best cruises in the whole Halong area. You can pick from many different boats with:

• Various quality levels
• Different price points
• Unique travel routes

Lan Ha really shines when it comes to fancy boats. It's paradise for 4-star and 5-star cruises that offer super luxurious experiences and top-notch service.

Some great luxury options include:

• Mon Cheri
• Heritage Line
• Orchid
• Scarlet Pearl
• Era
• Peony

A cabin on these fancy Lan Ha Bay cruises costs between $150 and $520 per person, depending on how much luxury you're after.

Lan Ha Bay Cruise Tour: Tranquil Yet Perfect for Adventurous Travelers - Image Source: Collected

3. Staying On An Island

If you're wondering Ha Long Bay where to stay, travelers can consider the following islands for a memorable getaway in Ha Long:

3.1. Cat Ba Island

Cat Ba is the biggest island in Halong Bay. With thousands of islands around, Cat Ba has the best tourist stuff. You can find places to stay for any budget - cheap hostels or fancy resorts.

Even though lots of tourists visit Cat Ba, you can still pick what kind of trip you want - fun and busy or quiet and calm.

Most visitors stay in Cat Ba town center. Here you get:

• Good prices on places to stay
• Close to shops and food
• Near other tourist things

A bed in a shared room costs about $6.50. A private room in a nice 3-star hotel starts at just $22.

The fancy hotels and resorts sit far from town. These places are:

• Surrounded by sea and trees
• Much more private
• Very peaceful

But you'll pay at least $90 per night for these luxury spots - a lot more than staying in town.

The clear, cool blue water on Cat Ba island - Photo source: Cat Ba Tourism Fanpage 

3.2. Monkey Island

Not far from Cat Ba sits a small place called Monkey Island (also known as Cat Dua). As the name suggests, monkeys live here like they own the place!

You won't find many tourist services - just one 3-star spot called Monkey Island Resort.

This island is perfect if you want a quiet getaway. Your days will be filled with:

• Warm sunshine
• Soft sandy beaches
• Clear blue water
• Playful monkey neighbors

But watch out! These clever monkeys have sticky fingers. Keep a close eye on your:

• Snacks
• Wallet
• Phone
• Any small items

Once a monkey grabs something, you can kiss it goodbye forever!

Monkey Island charms with its secluded beach, lush greenery, and panoramic views of Lan Ha Bay - Image Source: Collected

3.3. Co To Island

Co To Island is still a secret spot you should see before everyone else finds out. You'll fall in love with:

• Snow-white beaches
• Clear blue-green water
• Rough, dramatic cliffs
• Tasty seafood that won't break your bank

You can jump into fun water sports or just take a slow, hand-in-hand walk through the cute little streets.

Since not many tourists know about Co To yet, it's perfect if you want something fresh and special. But heads up - the island doesn't have fancy hotels or high-end stuff. If you need luxury rooms and special treatment, you might feel let down.

Go now before the crowds find this hidden treasure!

Co To Island boasts clear blue waters, lush greenery, and a peaceful harbor dotted with fishing boats - Image Source: Collected

3.4. Quan Lan Island

If you love the outdoors, Quan Lan Island will grab your heart! The wild, untouched beauty here is something special.

Imagine yourself stretched out on sand, cool sea breeze on your skin, just soaking in all the amazing things nature made here.

The food is a big draw too! Try the fresh catch like:

• Juicy shrimp
• Unusual worm tails
• Tender sea cucumber

This spot is just right for:

• Taking a cool swim
• Paddling around in kayaks
• Simply doing nothing at all in the fresh air

It's the perfect escape for anyone needing a break from busy life!

Panoramic view of Angsana Quan Lan resort  - Photo source: Fanpage Angsana Quan Lan, Ha Long Bay 

3.5. Ti Top Island

One look at the photo and you can see why Titop Island is the star of Halong Bay and why so many visitors love it.

Once called Cat Nang Island, it got a new name after Russian space traveler Gherman Titov met President Ho Chi Minh here back in 1962.

Don't let its tiny size fool you! Titop packs in lots of fun stuff to do like:

• Swimming in clear waters
• Sunning on the beach
• Paddling in kayaks
• Exploring underwater with snorkels
• Hiking up for amazing views

The island has great tourist setup with bars, food spots, and places to shop.

Fair warning - you won't have this place to yourself! It gets busy with other travelers, but trust us, Titop is crowded for a good reason!

Ti Top Island offers a sandy beach, clear waters, and stunning bay views from its hilltop lookout - Image Source: Collected

We hope this guide provides helpful insights into the best resort islands in Ha Long for your next adventure. If you're still deciding where to stay in Ha Long, let us help you find the perfect spot. For a more comfortable and seamless trip, consider booking a Joytime Day Tour in Ha Long. From hotel selection to itinerary planning, we take care of every detail for your journey.