Halong Bay, one of Vietnam’s most iconic destinations, captivates visitors with its emerald waters, limestone formations, and serene vistas. But when is the best time to visit? While each season offers unique experiences, choosing the right time can enhance your trip, depending on your preferences for weather, budget, and crowd levels. Let’s explore each season in detail so you can make the most of your Halong Bay adventure. 

In general, Vietnam as well as Halong Bay has a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by hot and humid weather. 

Halong Bay’s Peak/Off Season Chart

🟡 : Fair Weather/🟢: Good Weather/🔴:Poor Weather

🌩🌩🌩:High Chance Of Storm/🌩:Low Chance Of Storm/☀️☀️: Sunny Months)

Average Temperature: 18°C – 26°C (64°F – 79°F) 

Humidity: Moderate, around 65%-75% (February to April humidity can be higher)

Rainfall: 20-40 mm per month 

Spring is among the best times to visit, offering pleasant, mild temperatures and relatively low humidity. Clear skies make this season ideal for outdoor activities like kayaking, rock climbing, and beach picnics.  

Chance of Storms: Low, with stable weather conditions. 

Public Holidays to Consider: The Vietnamese Lunar New Year (Tet) sometimes falls in early spring (February or March). While it’s a festive time, Tet can be crowded and more expensive due to local travel surges. If you prefer a quieter experience, try to plan your visit after the Tet holiday. 

Average Temperature: 29°C – 37°C (84°F – 98°F) 

Humidity: High, around 80% 

Rainfall: 100-300 mm per month, with July and August being peak rainy months 

Summer in Halong Bay brings warmer temperatures and vibrant colors, making it an excellent time for swimming and water sports. Fewer international tourists visit during summer while this time is high season for domestic tourists. 

Chance of Storms: Summer is the season with the highest risk of tropical storms, especially in July and August. Be prepared for possible rain showers and short-lived storms. Cruise cancellations are more common during this time, so it’s wise to stay updated on weather forecasts. 

Average Temperature: 20°C – 28°C (68°F – 82°F) 

Humidity: Moderate, around 70% 

Rainfall: 40-100 mm per month, tapering off in late autumn 

Autumn is another fantastic season for visiting Halong Bay. The temperatures are comfortable, and the humidity levels decrease as November approaches, creating ideal conditions for sightseeing, outdoor excursions, and photography. You can enjoy the picturesque autumn atmosphere, with clear skies and cooler air. 

Chance of Storms: Moderate in September, with a low chance by November. By October, weather conditions are usually stable. This season is best for travelers looking for mild weather and lower chances of rain, with fewer crowds than spring.   

Average Temperature: 14°C – 20°C (57°F – 68°F) 

Humidity: Low, around 60% 

Rainfall: 10-30 mm per month 

Winter in Halong Bay is a magical time, especially for international tourists flocking in for the festive season. With cool, refreshing weather and serene views of the bay’s limestone islands, it’s no wonder this period around Christmas and New Year is a high season for visitors. While prices may peak due to the festive demand, the special itineraries offered and the unique holiday atmosphere make it all worth it. 

Chance of Storms: Very low. Winter brings calm, predictable weather, making it one of the safest times to enjoy a cruise without worries of sudden cancellations. 

Halong Bay experiences distinct high and low tourism seasons, each offering unique charms and advantages for travelers. The high season, typically from October to April, draws in large numbers of international tourists, especially around the winter holidays like Christmas and New Year.

The weather during these months is pleasantly cool and dry, creating ideal conditions for cruising and sightseeing. While prices can rise with the demand, the lively atmosphere, festive itineraries, and memorable landscapes make it a worthwhile experience. 

In contrast, the low season spans from May to September, which coincides with Vietnam’s summer and monsoon period.

Although the weather can be hot and humid, with occasional rain and storms, the low season offers more budget-friendly rates and a quieter, more relaxed experience of Halong Bay. For those who don’t mind the seasonal rains, summer brings lush green landscapes, fewer crowds, and the chance to enjoy Halong Bay’s attractions at a more leisurely pace. 

Tips: Book Directly from cruise operators as they normally run special promotions during the low seasons !

If your cruise is canceled, don’t worry!  

Get a refund: Most cruise lines will offer a full/partial refund or credit toward a future cruise. Check with your cruise line for their cancellation policies.  

Arrange transportation: The cruise operator will arrange transportation back to Hanoi. If you’re using a travel agent, contact them to make arrangements.  

Consider other options: You can visit Halong Bay from the shore, take a tour of the area, or stay in a hotel in Halong Bay and wait for the next cruise. Storms in Halong Bay are typically short-lived, so you can easily stay overnight in a hotel and continue your cruise the next day. 

Final Tips for Visiting Halong Bay 

1. Monitor the Weather Forecasts: Especially if visiting in summer, check weather reports leading up to your trip.
2. Best Overall Months to Visit: March, April, October, and November strike a perfect balance of pleasant weather, and moderate prices.
3. Plan Around Vietnamese Public Holidays: Major holidays like Tet and Vietnam Independence day bring an influx of local tourists. Plan ahead to avoid crowded spots and potential price hikes.

 By planning your visit with these seasonal insights, you can ensure a more enjoyable and memorable experience in Halong Bay, no matter the time of year! Whether it’s the peaceful winter mist, vibrant summer waters, or mild spring and autumn weather, Halong Bay has something to offer year-round.