Halong Bay Weather & Best Time to Visit 2026

Wondering when is the best time to visit Halong Bay? The answer depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for — sunshine and swimming, quiet landscapes, or a cool breeze and misty limestone peaks. In this guide, Vietnam Paradise Travel shares everything you need to know about Halong Bay weather throughout the year, with practical tips for planning the perfect Halong Bay tour.

Whether you’re visiting for a 2-day cruise, a day trip from Hanoi, or a honeymoon getaway, knowing the weather by season will help you enjoy your trip to the fullest.

For a complete overview of attractions, cruise options, travel tips, and how to plan your stay, visit our comprehensive Halong Bay Travel Guide. It’s the perfect starting point if you’re planning your first trip to this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Overview of Halong Bay Weather

Ha Long Bay

Halong Bay is located in northern Vietnam, about 165 km from Hanoi. The bay has a tropical monsoon climate with four distinct seasons: a warm, humid summer and a cool, dry winter. The weather changes noticeably through the year, which affects visibility, activities, and prices.

If you’re planning your trip from Hanoi, you might also want to see our detailed Hanoi to Ha Long Bay guide. It explains the best transfer routes, travel times, and transport options from the capital — helping you plan your visit according to the weather and season.

Temperatures range between 15°C in winter and 32°C in summer. Rainfall peaks from June to August, while December to February are the driest months.

Weather data based on 10-year averages from Vietnam National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting and Climate-Data.org.

Halong Bay Weather by Season

Spring (March to May)

Surprising Cave – Halong Bay

• Climate: Mild and comfortable, temperatures range from 21–28°C with low rainfall. Clear skies and calm seas make it one of the most pleasant times to visit.
• Best Activities: Cruising, cave exploration, visiting floating villages, and landscape photography.
• Best for: Couples and families who enjoy mild weather, scenic views, and smooth sailing conditions.

Summer (June to August)

• Climate: Hot, humid, and sunny with average temperatures of 30–33°C. Afternoon showers are common, and occasional tropical storms may occur.
• Best Activities: Swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, beach games, and enjoying the sunshine on deck. Good time for short cruises if you can be flexible with dates.
• Best for: Young travelers, adventure seekers, and families looking for an energetic summer holiday on the water.

Autumn (September to November)

Floating life thrives in Cua Van, one of fishing villages in Vietnam

• Climate: Clear, dry, and comfortable — temperatures between 22–28°C. Calm seas and blue skies make this the most stable weather of the year.
• Best Activities: Overnight cruises, photography, kayaking through caves, and visiting small islands or fishing villages.
• Best for: Photographers, couples, and international travelers who prefer ideal weather and smooth cruising.

Winter (December to February)

Luxury cruise in Halong Bay.

• Climate: Cool and sometimes foggy, temperatures around 15–20°C. Low humidity, calm waters, and fewer rainy days.
• Best Activities: Sightseeing from the deck, enjoying the quiet atmosphere, visiting caves, and sunset photography.
• Best for: Travelers seeking a peaceful experience, honeymooners, and those who prefer cooler weather and fewer tourists.

Best Time to Visit Halong Bay

The best time to visit Halong Bay is from March to May and September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, the sea is calm, and visibility is excellent — perfect for cruising among the limestone islands.

Kayaking in Halong Bay

If you want fewer tourists and better deals, consider December to February. For beach lovers and adventure seekers, June and July bring sunny skies but higher humidity and possible rain.

When booking your trip, check our recommended Halong Bay Tours or contact us to create your own Vietnam holiday.

Halong Bay Monthly Weather

• January: Cool, foggy mornings, calm sea – quiet season.
• February: Still cool but sunnier; great for budget travelers.
• March: Clear skies and warm sunshine – one of the best months.
• April: Perfect balance between comfort and activity.
• May: Hotter days, start of summer – ideal for swimming.
• June–July: Peak summer, vibrant but watch out for storms.
• August: Rainiest month – still possible to travel with caution.
• September: Rain decreases, air clearer, sunsets stunning.
• October: Golden month for cruises, great for photography.
• November: Dry, comfortable, and fewer crowds.
• December: Cold mornings, magical mist – great atmosphere for photos.

Halong Bay Rainy and Dry Seasons

The rainy season lasts from May to September. Short tropical showers are common, but most days still have sunshine. Cruises usually operate as normal unless there’s a strong storm warning.

The dry season from October to April is ideal for cruising and photography. You’ll enjoy comfortable weather, calm waters, and fewer cancellations.

Travel Tips for Every Season

• Book cruises in advance during peak months (March–May, Oct–Nov).
• Bring light clothing for summer and a jacket for winter nights.
• Always check weather forecasts during the rainy season.
• If you’re prone to seasickness, choose a larger cruise ship for stability.
• For flexible travelers, shoulder months (Feb–Mar and Sep–Oct) offer perfect balance between price and weather.

For those exploring other parts of the country, you can also check our Best Vietnam Tours to combine Halong Bay with Hanoi, Ninh Binh, or Sapa for a complete northern Vietnam experience.

If you’d like to plan a longer journey that includes Halong Bay along with other destinations in Vietnam, check out our customized Vietnam tour options.