Halong Bay Weather: When is the Best Time to Visit Halong Bay?
Halong Bay, renowned for its stunning natural beauty, is one of Vietnam's best travel destinations, a stop that cannot be missed by anyone visiting the country. Although the breathtaking scenery of the bay does not change through any season, Halong Bay weather can influence your experience, thus the time of your arrival can be the deciding factor.
Here we are going to help you understand the weather throughout the year, also share tips on the best time to visit, and help you in planning your Halong Bay tour when traveling to Vietnam.
Where is Halong Bay Located in Vietnam? Overview of Halong Bay Weather Features
The Best Time to Visit Halong Bay: March to May & September to November
December to February Weather of Halong Bay, Low Visibility but Fewer Tourists
Try to Avoid the Hot Season from June to August, with Humidity and Heavy Rainfall
Where is Halong Bay Located in Vietnam? Overview of Halong Bay Weather Features
Halong Bay situated in Quang Ninh Province, northern Vietnam, around 170 kilometers from the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi, can be easily reached by car or bus.
The climate of Halong Bay is influenced by its location in northern Vietnam, with a tropical Vietnam humid monsoon climate that brings clear dry seasons and wet, rainy seasons.
Halong Bay location map of Vietnam.
The dry season runs from November to April, bringing pleasant weather that is ideal for sightseeing. The rainy season in Vietnam, from May to October, brings hot, humid weather with frequent rain and occasional heavy downpours.
Now with the features of Halong Bay weather in mind, read on to discover the best time to visit this wonderful place.
The Best Time to Visit Halong Bay: March to May & September to November
Yes, the best times to visit Halong Bay are months from March to May and September to November. These months have the best climate conditions, which is ideal for Halong Bay trips and has many activities like cruises and adventures.
The best times to visit Halong Bay are months from March to May and September to November.
The spring in Vietnam is from March to May, with mild temperatures between 20°C and 25°C with low humidity, which is neither too hot nor too cold. Spring is also when the area is at its peak, with islands carpeted in greenery and skies mostly clear, ideal for photos and exploration. And because this is a low tourist season, Halong Bay can be enjoyed in peace and comfort, away from the crowds. If you're looking for the best time to visit, March to May is definitely the way to go.
Month |
Avg. Max Temp (°C) |
Avg. Min Temp (°C) |
Avg. Sunshine Hours |
Rainy Days |
Avg. Rainfall (mm) |
Avg. Humidity (%) |
March |
23 |
18.5 |
1.5 |
14 |
40 |
81.5 |
April |
26.1 |
21.1 |
3 |
12 |
90 |
83.4 |
May |
29.9 |
24.6 |
6 |
11 |
170 |
83.4 |
Autumn in Halong Bay lasts from September to November. Weather during this period is similar to that in spring—cool and pleasant. Average daytime temperatures are between 24°C and 28°C, and rainfall is minimal. Autumn also brings clear skies, a calm sea, and refreshed air like spring, which is why this is considered a perfect time for taking a Halong Bay cruise, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere, and indulging in the beautiful autumn scenery.
Month |
Avg. Max Temp (°C) |
Avg. Min Temp (°C) |
Avg. Sunshine Hours |
Rainy Days |
Avg. Rainfall (mm) |
Avg. Humidity (%) |
September |
30.4 |
24.8 |
10.8 |
16 |
166.6 |
78.5 |
October |
28 |
21.8 |
11 |
11 |
77.8 |
75.1 |
November |
25 |
18 |
10 |
7 |
35 |
72 |
In general, the best time to visit Halong Bay is during these two sets of the period when there is no extremely dry, rainy, cold, or hot weather.
December to February Weather of Halong Bay, Low Visibility but Fewer Tourists
Although not as favorable as spring and autumn, winter in Halong Bay (from December to February) has its own charm.
The weather in the winter months can be cool, about 15-20ºC, especially at night when the temperature can be lower. Halong Bay in winter, because of its cold and heavy wet climate, is often foggy with low visibility, especially on water, which can make it hard to capture clear views. For anyone visiting Vietnam during winter, be sure to prepare yourself beforehand and expect cloudy, foggy days.
Despite the lower temperatures and foggy weather, winter also has some advantages. This kind of weather makes Halong Bay look very mysterious and dreamy, adding another beauty. What's more, you'll encounter fewer tourists, making it a perfect time to visit without the crowds. Hotel and tour prices are also lower compared to peak season, making Vietnam winter an affordable option for travelers.
Month |
Avg. Max Temp (°C) |
Avg. Min Temp (°C) |
Avg. Sunshine Hours |
Rainy Days |
Avg. Rainfall (mm) |
Avg. Humidity (%) |
December |
20.5 |
14.8 |
6.5 |
7 |
18.3 |
72.5 |
January |
19.1 |
14.1 |
4 |
5 |
38.9 |
78.9 |
February |
20.4 |
15.7 |
5 |
6 |
27.3 |
78.7 |
Try to Avoid the Hot Season from June to August, with Humidity and Heavy Rainfall
When planning a visit to Halong Bay, it is recommended to avoid the hot season between June and August. In the summers of Vietnam, the heat can be intense, between 28°C and 35°C. The humidity is also ranked very high, often up to 80%, making the heat feel more intense. That can be uncomfortable, particularly for those who don't live in tropical climates.
Summer in Halong Bay is also the rainy season, with heavy rainfall and frequent storms, especially in July and August. This can disrupt outdoor activities and make water adventures, like kayaking, less enjoyable.
Another downside of summer would be the large crowds of tourists. During school holidays and long weekends, Halong receives a high number of tourists because it is the high tourist season in Vietnam. Hotels, cruise ships, and Halong Bay restaurants are often at full capacity, and prices are typically much higher than during the off-season.
Because of this, summer is generally proven not to be the best time to visit Halong Bay. The heat and humidity, with occasional rains, could spoil the pleasure of many tourists.
Month |
Avg. Max Temp (°C) |
Avg. Min Temp (°C) |
Avg. Sunshine Hours |
Rainy Days |
Avg. Rainfall (mm) |
Avg. Humidity (%) |
June |
31.2 |
26.3 |
12.5 |
21 |
243.4 |
81.1 |
July |
31.1 |
26.2 |
12.5 |
21 |
234.4 |
81 |
August |
31 |
25 |
6 |
18 |
265 |
83 |
More Insider Tips for the Halong Bay Tour
Planning a trip to Halong Bay? To get the most out of the experience, here are a few tips:
Book in advance: Halong Bay is crowded with tourists, especially during the high tourist season. It is recommended that tourists book the cruise and accommodation in Halong Bay early with the right dates and options.
Pack Properly: Bring light clothing when visiting in the spring and autumn. When traveling in the winter, wear extra layers because it can get cold at night.
Choose a Two-Day Cruise: Halong Bay is vast, and one day may not be enough to see it all. If possible, a two-day Vietnam tour with a Halong Bay cruise will allow you to visit more islands and take part in more activities, including kayaking, swimming, and trekking.
Check the Weather Forecast: While this is the best time of year to visit, it is still a good idea to check the weather forecast a few days before the trip. This helps adjust plans and stay prepared for any unexpected weather changes.
Other Activities: If visiting during a local festival, don't miss the Halong Carnival (usually in April). With lively events featuring colorful parades and exciting cultural performances, it's one of the best ways to experience local culture.
Conclusion
Halong Bay is one of the most beautiful and iconic destinations in Vietnam. The best time to visit is from March to May and September to November, when the weather is mild, the sky is clear, and the sea is calm. Winter (December to February) has fewer tourists, but lower temperatures and less visibility. The least recommended period is summer (from June to August), when humidity is high, rain falls frequently, and there are lots of tourists.
Regardless of when you decide to visit Halong Bay, planning ahead and checking the weather ensures the best experience. So pack your bags and prepare to have an amazing Vietnam trip in one of the most iconic spots!
More Related Vietnam Travel Planning Articles
Most Popular Vietnam Tour Packages
-
4 Days Hanoi Tour with Halong Bay Cruise
Hanoi - Halong Bay Cruise - Hanoi
This 4-day classic tour begins in Hanoi, where you'll visit top attractions like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Temple of ...
-
7 Days Northern Vietnam Historical & Natural Tour Package
Hanoi – Sapa - Halong Bay - Ninh Binh - Hanoi
Start in Hanoi, a city rich in history and culture. Explore the beautiful Sapa rice fields, the peaceful countryside of Ninh ...
-
8 Days Best of Vietnam Tour Package
Hanoi - Halong Bay - Hoi An - Saigon - Mekong Delta – Saigon
Explore Vietnam's fascinating charm on an exciting journey through its famous cities and beautiful landscapes. This carefull ...
-
14 Days Highlights of Vietnam from North to South
Hanoi – Sapa - Halong Bay – Hue – Hoi An – Saigon – Can Tho – Phu Quoc
Find the very best of Vietnam from North to South. From the vibrant streets of Hanoi to the terraced beauty of Sapa and Halon ...
Ask Us A Question For Free