Lan Ha Bay, which means “elegant orchid,” is a stunning aquatic paradise filled with numerous weathered limestone karsts. It is an integral part of the Cat Ba Archipelago, which was recently added to UNESCO’s declaration of Ha Long Bay as a World Heritage area. The author, Anthony Dennis, had an incredible experience during a two-day trip to Lan Ha Bay. One of the highlights of his visit was exploring Viet Hai, a small and secluded fishing village nestled in the picturesque valley of Lan Ha Bay.
During his time there, the writer also ventured into the Trung Trang Caves and hiked through the lush jungles of Cat Ba National Park, a designated biosphere reserve known for its diverse plant and animal species.
The travel website also suggests that tourists should take the opportunity to learn about traditional Vietnamese herbal teas and their health benefits while sailing in Lan Ha Bay. Kayaking is also highly recommended, especially through the bay’s caves.
For those looking for a more secluded experience, the author suggests swimming at a secluded beach away from the tourist crowds.
Lan Ha Bay is located east of Cat Ba Island in the northern port city of Hai Phong. Its unique beauty has made it a popular tourist destination. The bay is characterized by its green mountains, blue sea, and abundant marine life. It spans over 7,000 hectares and is home to Cat Ba National Park, which manages 5,400 hectares of the area. In addition to its beautiful beaches, Lan Ha Bay is known for its limestone mountain ranges, which divide the bay into smaller bays, as well as its unexplored lagoons and caves.
Thrillist names Lan Ha Bay top place to visit
Thrillist, the New York-based travel site, has named Lan Ha Bay near the northern coastal city of Hai Phong as one of the best places to visit in Southeast Asia.