Lan Ha Bay
Situated in the south of Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay would have been so popular if it is not located adjacent to the "tourist giant" neighbor. This arc-shape bay possesses about 400 large and small islands, creating a majestic and fairy landscapes.
The administrative boundary defines that Lan Ha Bay is territory of Hai Phong province while Halong Bay is belong to Quang Ninh province but with similar landscape formed from islands and islets scattered all over the water surface, locals and tourists mutually acknowledge it as a part of the vast Halong Bay zone.
Hiding in the peaceful gulf, separated from the rest of the world, many small fishing villages show a relaxed pace of life raising their regional specialties such as mussels and oysters. They will be, eventually, turned into fresh, savory, nutritious meals or pearl souvenirs for the guests. The calm and clear waters in some islands such as Sen Island, Cu Island, Khi Island (Monkey Island) offer favorable conditions for diving and coral-sightseeing; you won't be able to do this in the core Halong Bay because the quality of water here is better.
Lan Ha Bay is the home of Cat Ba Island. The bay itself and Cat Ba National Park are included in the biosphere reserve of the world. Therefore, European travelers and American backpackers often hire their own boats for a self adventure, selecting from the bay’s 139 beaches for one pleasant sandy beach to camp overnight. They also enjoy a trip through the Cat Ba National Forest, home of many precious animals, including rare white-headed langur. Overcoming Ngu Lam peak, at the end of the journey, Viet Hai fishing village, the most unspoiled fishing village of Cat Ba Island, is where the visitors can discover many interesting characters of the local people of the island.
