Things To Do
in Bai Chay
Bai Chay is a coastal town just across Ha Long Bay, famed for its broad waterfront and easy access to one of Vietnam's most iconic seascapes. The area blends a lively promenade with nearby limestone karst scenery, making day trips to Ha Long Bay straightforward. By day you can stroll along the quay, visit viewpoints, and savor fresh seafood, while by night the promenade comes alive with lights and markets.
Overall, Bai Chay serves as a relaxed gateway to Ha Long Bay with comfortable lodging and a maritime atmosphere.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing swim at Bai Chay Beach, where the soft white sand meets the clear blue waters. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, sampling local dishes such as banh mi and fresh fruit. Engage in some beach activities like volleyball or just soak in the sun while sipping coconut water.
After lunch at a beachfront restaurant, take a stroll along the promenade to enjoy the picturesque views of Ha Long Bay. Consider renting a kayak and exploring the nearby islands for a more adventurous way to see the bay. Relax under an umbrella with a good book, listening to the soothing sounds of the waves.
As the sun sets, head to the Bai Chay Night Market for an array of local handicrafts and street food options. Settle down at a charming seafood restaurant for a delightful dinner while watching the nightly performances along the beach. Conclude your day with a walk along the waterfront, reveling in the cool breeze and vibrant atmosphere.
Begin your day with an early breakfast before boarding a boat for a breathtaking cruise around Ha Long Bay's stunning limestone formations. Keep your camera handy as you pass by some of the most picturesque spots, including Sung Sot Cave and Ti Top Island. Savor the tranquility of the bay while learning about its rich natural history from your guide.
Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch served on board while taking in the scenic view from the deck. Participate in activities like swimming, kayaking, or visiting a fishing village to experience the local lifestyle. After the excursions, relax on the deck as the boat meanders through the enchanting landscape.
Upon returning to Bai Chay, unwind at a local restaurant and share tales of your day's adventures over fresh seafood. Activity options include visiting local bars or cafes where you can enjoy live music and mingle with travelers. As night falls, take a scenic night cruise in Ha Long Bay to witness the illuminated beauty of the bay.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🍽Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi or rideshare (short trip) | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Gateway to Ha Long Bay with easy access to boat trips
- Strong seafood cuisine and fresh ingredients
- Relatively affordable lodging and dining compared to larger cities
- Vibrant waterfront atmosphere with promenades and markets
- Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons
- Certain areas rely on seasonal weather for sea-based activities
- Some streets and sidewalks can be congested with traffic
- Limited high-end nightlife compared to major cities
- "Xin chào" - Hello
- "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
- "Xin lỗi" - Sorry
- "Bạn có nói tiếng Anh không?" - Do you speak English?
- "Bao nhiêu tiền?" - How much is it?
- "Ở đây có món chay không?" - Do you have vegetarian dishes?
Places to Visit in Bai Chay
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic crossing with silhouettes of the bridge and the bay; dramatic reflections during golden hour.
Long stretch of shore with limestone silhouettes in the distance and colorful boats at the waterline.
Industrial yet photogenic harbor with early morning light on fishing boats and cranes.
Elevated vantage points around the island offering sweeping views of Ha Long Bay.
Cable car stations and observation decks provide panoramic city and bay horizons.
Food in Bai Chay
Bai Chay Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Ha Long squid cake fried to a crisp exterior with tender interior, usually served with greens and dipping sauce.
Must-Try!
Salt-crusted crab or crab with garlic, pepper, and herbs—simple, bright, and flavorful.
Scallops sautéed in garlic butter, a popular seafood dish along the promenade.
Oyster porridge, comforting and popular in cooler evenings.
Seafood noodle soup featuring shrimp, squid, and fresh herbs in a light broth.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Main market area with stalls selling fresh seafood, produce, and quick bites along the waterfront.
Evening vendors offering grilled seafood skewers, banh mi, and fresh fruit.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees; remove hats and shoes where required, and behave respectfully in temples and pagodas.
Avoid loud conversations in public spaces and on public transport; use polite language and greetings.
Using two hands is polite when giving or receiving items, especially gifts or money.
Safety
Tipping in Bai Chay
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service in tourist areas; small tips to guides or staff are common, with rounding up at casual restaurants.
Cash in Vietnamese dong is widely accepted; many larger restaurants and resorts accept credit cards; mobile wallets are becoming more common in tourist areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming scenery; tranquil seas make for comfortable sightseeing and outdoor walks.
Hot and humid with a higher chance of rain and tropical storms. Stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and choose shaded activities or early morning excursions.
Pleasant weather with clearer seas and lower humidity; ideal for boat trips and photography.
Cool to mild, with occasional strong winds. Sea conditions can be choppier; seafood abundance remains high.
Bai Chay at Night
Hiking in Bai Chay
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Several jungle trails on Cat Ba Island offering lush scenery and wildlife; note transport required to reach the island.
Steep path to a historic fortress with panoramic views of Ha Long Bay and surrounding islands.
Airports
How to reach Bai Chay by plane.
New airport serving Ha Long; connects domestic routes and some international flights; transfer to Bai Chay by car or bus in about 50-60 km.
Located near Hai Phong; roughly 60-70 km from Bai Chay; transfer options include car or coach services.
About 150-180 km away; multiple ground transport options to Bai Chay, including private car, bus, or rail connections via Hanoi.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The vast majority of residents are ethnic Vietnamese, with various local communities in the wider Quang Ninh region. The area also hosts a steady influx of domestic and international visitors due to Ha Long Bay.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely watched and played; many parks and schools host matches; a common weekend activity.
Popular in Ha Long Bay and around Cat Ba for exploring karsts, caves, and lagoons.
Traditional activity and ongoing presence in local livelihoods; often experienced during boat tours.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bai Chay.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Options exist, but menus are seafood-focused. Look for stir-fried greens, tofu dishes, and noodle soups; ask for sauces without fish sauce (không nước mắm) and communicate clearly when ordering.