Halong Bay Weather in December: A Good Time to Visit?

Halong Bay is located in northern Vietnam and is one of Vietnam’s most famous natural wonders. Going to Halong Bay at different times will give you different scenery and experiences.

Halong Bay has cool weather and a pleasant climate in December, which will make you feel very comfortable. This season is very suitable for traveling to Halong Bay. Moreover, in December, Halong Bay will be very lively with the arrival of Christmas and New Year, and you can have a different holiday experience.

Here we will take you to an overview of the weather conditions in Halong Bay in December, the pros and cons of visiting at this time, and tips to make your trip enjoyable.

What's the Weather like in Halong Bay in December?

The weather in Halong Bay in December is generally cool, with an average temperature of around 19°C, a maximum temperature of 22°C, and a minimum temperature of around 15°C, which is very suitable for outdoor activities.

At the same time, Halong Bay is in the dry season in Vietnam December, with less rainfall, low humidity, clear skies, and high visibility - occasionally there will be some mist in the morning, which makes the bay look a different kind of hazy beauty.

Therefore, December is very suitable for traveling to Halong Bay with a pleasant climate, and it is very suitable for a winter vacation in Vietnam!

Beautiful Halong Bay and cruise at sunset.

Is December a Great Time for Halong Bay Tour ? Pros and Cons

December is a good time to visit Halong Bay for tourists who like cool weather, festive atmosphere and unique beautiful scenery. Before planning a December trip to Halong Bay, let's take a look at the pros and cons of choosing a December trip to Halong Bay.

Pros:

First, comfortable climate
Halong Bay has a pleasant climate in December, with mostly sunny days, plenty of sunshine, temperatures between 15°C and 22°C, and less precipitation. This climate is very suitable for outdoor travel (such as kayaking, trekking or Vietnam boating trip), allowing everyone to explore the different beauty of Halong Bay more comfortably.

Second, unique beauty
The reason why Halong Bay is a famous travel destination has a lot to do with the beautiful local natural scenery. Halong Bay in December is in the dry season, with clear skies and high visibility, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of limestone islands and sea water more clearly, and experience a different Halong Bay shrouded in morning mist.

Third, holiday experience
Many cruise ships offer special holiday parties and dinners on December 24 and 31, and hold Christmas and New Year celebrations.

Cons:

First, peak season
Since December is a popular time for international tourists, surcharges may apply during Christmas and New Year festival in Vietnam, and hotel and transportation fares may be higher, and there will be more tourists and more crowded.

Second, water activities limited
Since the temperature is relatively low, some activities (such as swimming) may not be very suitable. If you want to experience water activities, you may want to consider going in warmer months.

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Top Highlights of a Halong Bay Tour in December

There are many highlights to visit Halong Bay in December, and we will introduce the things to do in Halong Bay below:

Exploring Caves:

December is a great time to explore caves, as the weather is not hot and the air is less humid. You can visit famous caves such as Sung Sot Cave (one of the largest caves in Halong Bay) or Thien Cung Cave.

Visit Cat Ba Island:

If you have more time, take a boat trip to Cat Ba Island (the largest island in Halong Bay) just off the coast. The weather in December is perfect for exploring the island's landscape on foot.

Kayaking Adventures:

The calm waters in December are perfect for kayaking. While the weather isn't ideal for swimming, kayaking is still a great way to explore the bay.

Cruise the Bay:

Cruising Halong Bay is one of the most popular ways to visit the area. You can take a day trip or overnight cruise in Halong Bay in December and leisurely explore the bay's islands, caves, and more.

Cultural Experience:

Halong Bay also has many cultural activities and performances, and nightlife is also rich. You can personally participate in these activities and experience Vietnamese culture up close.

Enjoy Fresh Seafood:

Halong Bay in December has an abundance of seafood, such as squid, shrimp, and crabs, and you can enjoy delicious dishes at local seafood restaurants in Halong Bay or even on cruises.

Enjoy delicious food and beautiful views on the deck of the Halong Bay cruise.

What to Wear for Visiting Halong Bay in December?

When traveling to Halong Bay in December, packing properly is crucial for your comfort. Here are some clothing tips:

Appropriate Clothing:

Wear casual clothes. As the temperature changes from morning to night, you should also prepare a thick coat to adjust according to the temperature changes.

Comfortable Shoes:

If you want to trek in Vietnam around the islands and caves, comfortable shoes are essential, such as sneakers or trekking shoes.

Sun Protection Items:

Although the weather is cold, there is plenty of sunshine in December. It is recommended to wear sunglasses and a sun hat to protect yourself from the sun.

Rain Gear:

Although there is little rainfall in Halong Bay in December, it is best to carry a light raincoat or umbrella with you just in case.

Take a boat trip to explore caves and other sights in Halong Bay.

More Insider Tips for Halong Bay Tour in December

To get a better travel experience, before going to Halong Bay in December, in addition to understanding the local climate in Vietnam, here are some insider tips to make your trip smoother.

Book in advance:

December is a popular tourist month in Vietnam, so it is best to book flights or tickets to Halong Bay and cruises in advance.

Plan wisely:

While December is generally dry, the weather can still be unpredictable. Check the weather forecast, plan your trip and pack your luggage according to weather conditions in advance to get the best experience.

Buy a regular cruise ticket:

If you are considering taking a cruise, it is important to buy a regular ticket and confirm what is included in the ticket price to avoid some hidden expenses. Here we offer a trusted local travel service in Vietnam, dedicated to providing private tour services, tailored to your budget and preferences at the best local prices.

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Conclusion

Weather in Halong Bay December is a great time to visit, with favorable weather. To enjoy the beauty of Halong Bay, you need to have an advance plan: book a hotel, get tickets for traveling beforehand, prepare appropriate clothes, care for the sun.

You will have a satisfying trip to Halong Bay in December whether you are kayaking on the water or trekking along the trails. Shine those walking shoes and take a Vietnam trip!