When visiting Ha Long, there is much more to enjoy on shore beyond a bay cruise. If you have an extra half-day or full day before or after your boat trip, here are some suggestions to make your Ha Long trip more complete.
Sun World Ha Long: Cable Car, Ferris Wheel and Parks
This is the largest entertainment complex in Ha Long, located in the Bai Chay area. Highlights include:
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Queen Cable Car: a cable car line stretching over 2 km across the bay, with spacious cabins offering a panoramic aerial view of Ha Long.
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Sun Wheel: situated atop Ba Deo Hill at approximately 215 m, it is one of the highest observation Ferris wheels in the world.
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Dragon Park: features thrilling rides such as roller coasters.
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Typhoon Water Park: great for families with children during summer.
According to the price list on the Sun World Ha Long website, the Queen Cable Car ticket is 380,000 VND/adult, Dragon Park 300,000 VND, Typhoon Water Park 350,000 VND, with combo tickets also available. Please check prices and opening hours before your visit.
The Sun Wheel overlooking the city and Ha Long Bay. Photo: Saaremees / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Quang Ninh Museum
This distinctive glossy black building by the bay is one of Ha Long's most architecturally striking landmarks. Inside, exhibitions cover the nature, history, and culture of Quang Ninh's mining heritage and coastal islands. It is an excellent choice for a rainy day or a hot sunny afternoon.
Quang Ninh Museum with its distinctive black block architecture. Photo: Hoangkid / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Bai Chay Bridge and an Evening Stroll
Bai Chay Bridge connects the Hon Gai and Bai Chay shores and is beautifully illuminated at night. You can stroll along the Bai Chay waterfront, explore the street food areas, and enjoy seafood and cha muc (grilled squid cake), one of Ha Long's most famous local specialties.
Bai Chay Bridge illuminated in the evening. Photo: Davutru / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0.
Bai Tho Mountain and the Beach
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Bai Tho Mountain: a mountain steeped in historical legends, located right in the city center.
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Bai Chay Beach: an artificial beach near the center, convenient for an afternoon swim.
Suggested Combined Itinerary
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Arrival day: Check-in at a hotel in Bai Chay, take the Queen Cable Car and Sun Wheel in the afternoon, then enjoy an evening stroll and seafood dinner.
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The next day: Board a 1-day or 2-day 1-night cruise from Tuan Chau port.
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Departure day: Visit Quang Ninh Museum before leaving Ha Long.
Spending a night in Ha Long before your cruise also means you won't have to wake up too early to travel from Hanoi, and you'll have more time to enjoy the bay.
Ticket prices and opening hours are subject to change. Please verify before your visit.
Photo Credits
Featured image: "Bai Chay Bridge, Ha Long" – Jrwooley6 / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0. Photos within the article are credited directly below each image.
Frequently asked questions
What is there to do in Ha Long besides a bay cruise?
You can ride the Queen Cable Car, the Sun Wheel, and enjoy the parks at Sun World, visit Quang Ninh Museum, admire Bai Chay Bridge at night, and savor fresh seafood.
How much does the Queen Cable Car ticket cost in Ha Long?
According to the Sun World Ha Long price list, the Queen Cable Car ticket is 380,000 VND/adult and 280,000 VND/child. Prices are subject to change.
How tall is the Sun Wheel?
The Sun Wheel on Ba Deo Hill stands at approximately 215 m, making it one of the highest observation Ferris wheels in the world.
Where should I go on a rainy day in Ha Long?
Quang Ninh Museum is an excellent choice for a rainy day, with exhibitions on Quang Ninh's nature, history, and culture.
Should I stay overnight in Ha Long before my cruise?
Yes, if you have the time. Staying overnight in Ha Long means you won't have to wake up early to travel from Hanoi, you'll gain more time on the bay, and you can make the most of the evening to explore the city.
