Vietnam in March presents a perfect window for travelers, especially those seeking the magical world of Halong Bay. The bay awakens from its winter slumber, offering travelers a glimpse of natural beauty and stunning landscape with perfect weather. This travel blog will show you about weather, cost and crowd, best things to do, tips to choose the best cruise, travel tips and the perfect itinerary to visit Halong Bay in March.
Table of Contents:
- Halong Bay weather in March
- Cost and Crowd
- Best things to do when visiting Halong Bay in March
- Halong Bay cruise in March
- Travel tips to visit
- Combine Hanoi – Halong Bay – Ninh Binh for the best Northern Delta Discovery
Halong Bay weather in March
March is actually one of the best months to visit Halong Bay. This month marks a transitional period in Halong Bay between the cooler winter months and the upcoming humid summer season with temperatures gradually warming up.
The average temperature ranges from 18°C to 23°C (64°F to 73°F), making it a comfortable time to visit. Morning temperatures typically start around 16°C (61°F), rising to a pleasant 25°C (77°F) by afternoon.
The month sees a slight increase in rainfall compared to February. Expect around 40-50mm of precipitation spread over 6-8 days throughout the month. Light rain showers are possible, but they rarely last all day and typically clear up quickly.
The humidity begins to rise, ranging from 70-75%, which adds moisture to the air but doesn’t feel uncomfortably sticky. Light rain showers are possible, but they rarely last all day and typically clear up quickly.
March brings increasingly longer days, with sunshine lasting 5-6 hours daily. The sun rises around 5:45 AM and sets near 6:15 PM, providing ample daylight for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Clear skies become more frequent, offering excellent visibility of the bay’s iconic landscape.
Sea temperatures start to warm up, reaching about 22°C (72°F). While still slightly cool, the water becomes more inviting for swimming and water activities.
The northeast winds begin to calm down, with wind speeds typically ranging from 8 to 15 km/h, creating more stable sailing conditions.
Cost and Crowd
Cost
March represents a significant investment for travelers visiting Halong Bay. Prices surge during this prime tourism month, with cruise packages, accommodations, and tour experiences reaching their peak rates. Travelers can expect to pay premium prices for the most sought-after experiences.
The combination of ideal weather and growing tourist interest drives prices up, making early booking and careful planning essential for those looking to manage their travel budget.
Crowd
March transforms Halong Bay into a bustling tourist destination. The bay becomes a magnet for both international and domestic travelers, creating a vibrant but crowded atmosphere. Popular cruise routes fill quickly, with boats often reaching near-maximum capacity.
Tourist sites like Luon Cave and Ti Top Island experience significant foot traffic. The increased crowd doesn’t necessarily detract from the experience but requires strategic planning and patience.
Crowd-Beating Tips
- Book tours and accommodations at least 2-3 months in advance
- Choose mid-week travel dates
- Visit Bai Tu Long Bay for fewer tourists around
- Consider less popular cruise operators
- Start tours early in the morning
- Select cruises with alternative itineraries
- Use local travel agents for insider booking strategies
- Travel with smaller group sizes
Best things to do when visiting Halong Bay in March
Kayaking Through Limestone Karsts
Kayaking in Halong Bay offers an intimate exploration of the region’s most breathtaking landscapes. Paddlers glide through clear waters, surrounded by towering limestone formations that seem to rise directly from the sea. March’s mild temperatures and calm waters create perfect conditions for both novice and experienced kayakers.
Travelers can expect to spend two to three hours navigating the intricate waterways, with professional guides ensuring safety and providing insights into the bay’s geological and ecological wonders.
Caves Exploration
Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave): The cave spans over 10,000 square meters, featuring multiple chambers that gradually reveal themselves to visitors. As travelers ascend through the cave’s entrance, they encounter massive rock formations that create an almost otherworldly landscape.
Dark and Bright Cave: This unique cave system offers a remarkable contrast of experiences. The journey begins with a kayaking adventure through a narrow, dark tunnel that seemingly leads to nowhere. The “bright” section reveals a peaceful interior lake, with sunlight filtering through openings in the rock formations.
Thien Cung Cave (Heavenly Palace Cave): The cave extends approximately 130 meters into the limestone mountain, featuring intricate rock formations that seem to tell stories of mythical creatures and ancient landscapes. Massive stalactites and stalagmites create complex patterns, with natural light creating dramatic shadows and highlights.
Squid Fishing Experience
Night squid fishing represents a unique cultural and recreational activity in Halong Bay. Travelers join local fishermen using traditional techniques to catch squids under the moonlight.
Special lights attract these marine creatures, creating an engaging and interactive experience. Participants learn traditional fishing methods, understand marine ecology, and potentially cook their catch.
March’s calm waters and comfortable evening temperatures enhance the experience. The activity offers more than just fishing—it provides a genuine connection to the local maritime culture and a memorable night adventure.
Hiking at Cat Ba National Park
Cat Ba National Park offers a diverse hiking experience through tropical forests and rocky terrain. March’s moderate temperatures make it an ideal time for outdoor exploration.
Hikers traverse multiple trails ranging from easy walks to challenging routes, encountering unique wildlife and spectacular views. The park hosts diverse ecosystems, including limestone forests, marine environments, and tropical landscapes.
Guided tours provide insights into local flora and fauna, with opportunities to spot rare species like the Cat Ba langur. The hiking experience combines physical challenge, natural beauty, and ecological education.
Visiting Floating Fishing Villages
Floating fishing villages represent the heart of Halong Bay’s cultural landscape. These unique communities have existed for generations, with families living their entire lives on wooden boats and small floating platforms.
You gain unprecedented insight into a maritime lifestyle that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. March’s pleasant weather allows for comfortable interactions with local residents, who welcome tourists with genuine warmth and curiosity.
Travelers can observe traditional fishing techniques, learn about sustainable marine practices, and understand the intricate social structures of these floating communities. Photography opportunities abound, capturing the vibrant daily life that unfolds on these remarkable floating settlements.
Pearl Farm Visit
Pearl farms in Halong Bay offer a fascinating glimpse into a sophisticated marine cultivation process. You learn about the intricate techniques of oyster breeding, pearl extraction, and quality assessment.
Guided tours demonstrate each stage of pearl production, from tiny oyster selection to final jewelry creation. March’s mild weather allows for comfortable outdoor exploration of these unique facilities.
Travelers can witness live oyster cultivation, understand the environmental considerations of pearl farming, and even purchase authentic Vietnamese pearls as unique souvenirs. The experience combines education, cultural insight, and hands-on learning about a traditional Vietnamese industry.
Tai Chi on Cruise Deck
Morning tai chi sessions on a cruise deck offer a transformative experience unique to Halong Bay. As the sun rises over limestone karsts, participants engage in gentle movements that synchronize body and environment.
Professional instructors guide travelers through traditional tai chi sequences, helping them connect with the bay’s serene morning atmosphere. The deck provides a panoramic view of misty islands and calm waters, creating a meditative backdrop for this ancient practice.
March’s mild temperatures and soft morning light enhance the experience, making it an ideal time for both beginners and experienced practitioners to explore this centuries-old martial art.
Halong Bay cruise in March
March presents the perfect opportunity for a Halong Bay cruise, offering travelers an extraordinary journey through one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking natural landscapes. Cruises in March provide an exceptional balance between comfortable exploration and stunning natural beauty, allowing travelers to experience the bay’s dramatic limestone karsts, clear waters, and hidden treasures.
Cruise Duration
Day Cruise (4-6 Hours)
A day cruise offers a brief yet memorable introduction to Halong Bay. These shorter trips typically include highlights like cave exploration, kayaking, and photo opportunities.
Ideal for travelers with limited time, day cruises provide a quick glimpse of the bay’s magnificent landscape. Visitors can expect basic amenities, guided tours, and lunch on board.
However, the limited duration means missing out on deeper exploration and overnight experiences.
2 -Day 1-Night Cruise
One-night cruises step up the adventure, allowing travelers to spend more time exploring the bay’s hidden corners. These trips typically include overnight accommodation on the boat, multiple activity options, and a more comprehensive bay experience.
Guests enjoy sunset views, evening activities like squid fishing, and morning tai chi sessions. The cruise covers more ground, visiting multiple islands and less-crowded areas of the bay.
>>> Maybe you wanna read more: Halong Bay Cruise – A complete 2 days 1 night itinerary & Insider tips
3-Day 2-Night Cruise
Considered the sweet spot for bay exploration, Halong Bay two-night cruises offer the most balanced experience. These extended journeys provide ample time to explore Halong Bay and the nearby Lan Ha Bay. Travelers can expect:
- In-depth exploration of multiple locations
- More relaxed pace of travel
- Opportunities for diverse activities
- A comprehensive view of the bay’s ecosystem
- Chance to visit less-touristy areas
Cruise Price Ranges
Budget Cruises: Budget options provide basic accommodation and standard experiences. Prices range from $100-$150 per person.
Deluxe Cruises: Mid-range cruises offer improved comfort and more comprehensive experiences. Pricing typically ranges from $150-$200 per person.
Luxury Cruises: Premium experiences with top-tier amenities and exclusive services. Prices range from $200-$500 per person.
Private and Charter Boats: Perfect for groups or families seeking complete privacy. Prices vary widely based on boat size and amenities, typically starting from $600 per day.
>>> Contact us to choose your best Halong Bay cruise!
Travel tips to visit
- Pack layers for variable March temperatures
- Bring waterproof jacket
- Choose morning tours for the best lighting
- Book activities in advance
- Carry motion sickness medication
- Bring comfortable walking shoes
- Use reef-safe sunscreen
- Carry a reusable water bottle
- Learn basic Vietnamese phrases
- Respect local customs and the environment
Combine Hanoi – Halong Bay – Ninh Binh for the best Northern Delta Discovery
Discover the best of northern Vietnam with a journey via Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Ninh Binh. You will witness a variety of landscapes, including bustling city streets, peaceful bays with limestone islands, and serene rural areas with rice fields and mountains. When you stroll across Hanoi, you’ll see old architecture and traditional cuisine. You will sail between islands in Halong Bay and spend the night on a boat. Bicycles across paddy fields and boat rides via caves can be found in Ninh Binh.
You can truly see how varied northern Vietnam can be on this journey:
Day 1: Hanoi arrival
Day 2: Hanoi full-day city tour
Day 3: Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Hoa Lu – Trang An
Day 4: Ninh Binh – Halong Bay
Day 5: Halong Bay – Hanoi – Departure
See this Best of the Northern Delta Discovery 5 Days for additional information on accommodations and activities. This itinerary is simply suggested to get you started. By sharing your choices with us via this form or email [email protected], you can further customize the trip of your ideals. The holiday that best suits your needs will be planned by our travel experts.
>>> For more choices, check out our Vietnam-inclusive tour packages.
Vietnam Travel Online hopes this travel blog illuminates the magic of Halong Bay in March. For a comprehensive guide to the best times to visit, weather details, and must-do activities, continue exploring our blog Best time to visit Halong Bay – Weather & What To Do.
Mo Nguyen – From Vietnam Travel Online
