Halong Bay

Halong Bay lies in Quang Ninh Province in northeastern Vietnam, bordering the Gulf of Tonkin. More than 1,600 limestone islands and pillars rise from emerald-green water, creating a maze of caves, arches, and sheltered lagoons. Local legends say dragons dropped jewels that became the islands, giving the bay the name meaning “descending dragon.” UNESCO recognizes the bay as a World Heritage Site for its beauty and scientific value.

The bay formed as rainwater and waves dissolved thick limestone over millions of years, leaving steep karst towers. Famous caves include Sung Sot (Surprise), Thien Cung (Heavenly Palace), and Dau Go, each filled with stalagmites and stalactites shaped like animals and boats. Floating villages such as Cua Van and Vung Vieng rest on rafts anchored near the islands, where families farm fish, raise oysters, and teach visitors about life on the water.

Halong Bay supports mangroves, seagrass beds, coral reefs, and rare wildlife such as the Cat Ba langur, hawksbill turtles, and seahorses. Cat Ba National Park protects forests on the largest island and connects to nearby Lan Ha Bay. Rangers patrol for illegal fishing, monitor coral health, and collect plastic trash that washes in from shipping lanes. Scientists study how rising sea levels and stronger storms may affect the fragile karst pillars.

Tourism is a major part of the local economy. Traditional wooden junk boats and modern cruise ships offer overnight trips with kayaking, swimming, cooking classes, and sunrise tai chi on deck. Day visitors climb to viewpoints like Ti Top Island, explore pearl farms, or paddle through low caves at low tide. Guides explain safety rules, provide life jackets, and advise tourists to respect no-go zones around sensitive habitats.

Recent projects aim to keep Halong Bay clean and sustainable. Ports now require boats to use cleaner fuel, sort waste, and limit loudspeakers at night. Education campaigns encourage schools to organize beach cleanups and to teach students about karst geology and marine conservation. By balancing tourism, community traditions, and science, Vietnam works to protect Halong Bay for future generations of visitors and residents.