Are you looking for a special place in Halong Bay? Then you shouldn’t miss Luon Cave, a beautiful spot that shows you the best of Vietnam’s famous bay. This travel blog covers everything you need to know before you visit – how to get there, what to do, the charm of this cave, and helpful tips that will help you plan a perfect trip to one of the best caves in Halong Bay.
Get to know about Luon Cave
Luon Cave sits on Bo Hon Island, about 14 kilometers from Bai Chay City’s mainland. This cave is part of what makes Bo Hon Island special – locals call it “the island of amazing things,” and it’s easy to see why.
The area around Luon Cave is full of interesting places. Right in front of it, you’ll see Turtle Island, and if you look to the right, there’s the Heaven Gate. The famous Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave) is nearby too, along with Tien Cave and Trinh Nu Cave.
Here are what can you expect in Luon Cave:
- A natural tunnel formed by limestone mountains
- Clear, blue-green water perfect for kayaking
- A hidden lake behind the cave
- Wild monkeys living in the area
- Beautiful orchids growing on the limestone walls
- Crystal clear water where you can see fish swimming
- Amazing photo spots at every turn
History of Luon Cave
Luon Cave tells an interesting story that goes back millions of years. Sea waves and wind shaped the cave we see today over a very long time. The water hitting the limestone mountain slowly created the big tunnel we can visit now.
When you look at the cave walls, you’ll see something fascinating – old seashells, snail shells, and crab shells stuck in the rock. These are like nature’s history books, showing us that this whole area was once underwater. The sea level used to be much higher, and Luon Cave was completely underwater before it became the tunnel we see today.
Is it worth visiting Luon Cave?
Yes, Luon Cave is definitely worth your time! Think of it as a special doorway that leads to a hidden world in Halong Bay. Once you pass through the cave, you’ll find yourself in a peaceful place that feels far away from everything else.
The amazing cave structure: The cave itself is like a tunnel – 100 meters long, 4 meters wide, and 3 meters high. While it’s not the biggest cave in Halong Bay, it’s special because you have to go through it by boat to reach a beautiful lake on the other side.
The hidden lake: Behind the cave, you’ll find a large lake (about 1 square kilometer) surrounded by high mountains. These mountains keep the lake water calm and still, like a mirror that reflects everything around it. Looking down into the water, you can see the sky, clouds, and mountains reflected on the surface.
The natural beauty: The mountains around the lake are covered with green plants and colorful flowers. Old trees grow right out of the rock walls, and if you look carefully, you might spot some wild orchids. All of this makes a perfect picture that looks like it belongs in a travel magazine.
What to do in Luon Cave?
Explore the cave
The cave entrance creates a natural frame that shows off Halong Bay’s most beautiful views. As you pass through the tunnel, you’ll enter a different world where clear blue-green water meets high limestone cliffs. The walls hold ancient fossil shells, telling the story of how this place formed millions of years ago.
Green plants grow from the rocks, and the lake’s surface creates mirror-like reflections that make stunning photos. Photographers love coming in the early morning when the first sunlight hits the water, making the whole scene glow.
Kayaking in the hidden lake
The cave’s low ceiling means big cruise ships can’t enter, making kayaking the perfect way to explore. When your cruise ship reaches Bo Hon Island’s dock, you can rent a kayak for about 50,000 VND. The real fun begins as you paddle through the cave tunnel into the hidden lake.
The water stays amazingly clear here – you can often see fish swimming below your kayak. Local guides say Luon Cave offers the best kayaking spot in all of Halong Bay because the surrounding mountains keep the water calm and peaceful.
Take a traditional bamboo boat ride
For those who prefer a more relaxed way to see the cave, local guides offer bamboo boat rides. These traditional boats move slowly through the water, giving you time to really look at everything around you. The guides know all the best spots and often share interesting stories about the cave’s history. This option works well for families with small children or anyone who wants to sit back and enjoy the scenery without paddling.
Watch the wild monkeys
The limestone mountains around Luon Cave are home to a group of wild monkeys that add life to the quiet landscape. These playful animals often appear in the early morning or late afternoon, especially on sunny days.
You might catch them jumping between rocks or playing in the trees. Their sudden movements and calls break the lake’s silence for a moment before peace returns. Remember to keep your distance – these are wild animals that need their space.
Visit nearby caves
Bo Hon Island offers more than just Luon Cave. The star attraction nearby is Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave), the largest cave in Halong Bay. Its huge chambers and interesting rock formations make it a must-see.
You’ll also find Trinh Nu Cave, Trong Cave, and Dong Tien Cave close by. Each has its own special features, from unusual rock shapes to hidden pools. Most cruise tours include visits to some of these caves, but Sung Sot Cave should be at the top of your list if time is short.
How to get to Luon Cave?
Getting to Luon Cave is straightforward since it sits on one of Halong Bay’s most visited islands. From the mainland, you have two main options to reach the cave.
Take a day boat
The first option starts at the center of Halong City – take a short 10-minute drive along Highway 18 to reach Bai Chay ferry wharf. Here, you’ll find boats heading to Luon Cave throughout the day.
The bay welcomes visitors from 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM, so make sure to check your return time carefully to avoid any issues getting back to the mainland.
Take a cruise
Your second option, which most travelers choose, is booking a cruise through a Vietnam tour company. Taking a cruise offers the most comfortable way to visit Luon Cave. These boats provide everything you need – from proper equipment to experienced guides who know the area well.
Most cruises include Luon Cave as part of their route through Halong Bay, along with visits to other famous spots nearby. These tours handle everything from pickup to drop-off, making your trip much easier.
Remember that due to the cave’s low ceiling, the main cruise ships can’t enter the cave itself. When you reach the cave entrance, you’ll need to switch to either a kayak or a small rowboat. You can rent a kayak for about 50,000 VND per person, or join a local-guided boat tour for a different experience.
Below, you’ll find some popular cruise options that stop at Luon Cave:
Please keep in mind these are just some suggestions to help you start planning. For the most current options and best deals, you can contact us via email at [email protected] or by filling out this form, our travel experts can help match you with the perfect cruise for your needs and budget.
>>> Maybe you want to read more: Halong Bay Cruise – A complete 2 days 1 night itinerary & Insider tips
What you need to know before visiting
The best time to visit
Best months: February to June and September to October
Best weather: Sunny days with temperatures above 30°C (86°F)
Avoid: July to August (rainy season) and December to January (cold weather)
How much does it cost?
- Cruise prices: $80-300 per person (depending on the cruise type)
- Kayak rental: 50,000 VND (about $2) per person
- Local boat ride: 100,000 VND (about $4) per boat
Insider tips for your visit
What to Pack:
- Light, quick-dry clothes
- Water shoes or sandals
- Waterproof phone case
- Sunscreen and hat
- Light snacks and water
- Small backpack
- Camera
Local Tips:
- Book your cruise at least 2 weeks ahead in high season
- Go early in the morning to avoid crowds
- Choose kayaking over the rowboat for a better experience
- Bring cash for small purchases
- Check the weather forecast before booking
- Stay hydrated – the sun can be strong
- Listen to your guide’s safety instructions
- Keep your belongings in a waterproof bag
Luon Cave gives you a special look at Halong Bay’s beauty. With its hidden lake, playful monkeys, and clear waters, it’s a place that shows you why Halong Bay is so famous. Remember to plan your visit during the right season, bring the right gear, and take your time to enjoy everything this amazing place has to offer.
Mo Nguyen – From Vietnam Travel Online Team!
