Are you planning a spring getaway to Vietnam? Let this Halong Bay in April guide be your compass. We’ve packed it with all the essential information you need, from weather forecasts to culinary adventures, to help you create the perfect itinerary.
Halong Bay weather in April
April marks the true arrival of spring in Halong Bay, bringing with it some of the year’s most pleasant weather conditions. Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect:
The average temperature in April settles at a comfortable 23°C (73°F), signaling the warm embrace of spring. Early mornings are refreshingly cool, typically around 20°C (68°F), perfect for enjoying a cup of coffee on your balcony as you watch the bay come to life. As the day progresses, temperatures climb steadily, reaching a pleasant 26°C (79°F) by mid-afternoon.
April sees humidity levels rising, averaging between 75-80%. While this is an increase from the drier winter months, it’s still relatively comfortable compared to the peak summer humidity.
Rainfall in April remains low, with the bay typically receiving about 40–50mm of precipitation. This usually comes in short-lived showers spread over 10-12 days throughout the month. These brief rain spells often occur late afternoon or evening and rarely disrupt daytime activities.
April brings a noticeable increase in sunshine, with the bay basking in an average of 6-7 hours of bright sunlight daily. The sun typically rises around 5:30 AM and sets close to 6:30 PM, providing ample daylight for activities.
The waters of Halong Bay warm up considerably in April, reaching an inviting 23°C (73°F). This temperature is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities.
April sees a transition in wind patterns as the northeast monsoon winds down. Wind speeds typically average 6-10 km/h, resulting in calm waters throughout much of the bay. However, occasional stronger breezes can still occur, especially in the early part of the month, adding a refreshing touch to warm afternoons.
The combination of these weather elements makes April a prime time to visit Halong Bay. The comfortable temperatures, low rainfall, abundant sunshine, and calm waters create perfect conditions for all types of activities, from relaxed cruising to adventurous exploration.
>>> Maybe you want to find our more about Halong Bay weather: How is Vietnam Halong Bay weather in different seasons?
What to Do in Halong Bay in April
Take an overnight cruise
April in Halong Bay offers a perfect blend of warm weather and calm seas, creating ideal conditions for a wide range of activities. Cruising is a must-do experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the bay’s stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters.
In April, the comfortable temperatures make spending time on deck especially enjoyable. You can choose from day trips to multi-night luxury cruises, each offering a unique perspective on the bay’s beauty.
Explore the caves
Cave exploration is another highlight of an April visit to Halong Bay. The dry weather makes it easy and safe to visit the area’s famous caves. Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave) and Thien Cung Cave are must-see attractions, showcasing impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations.
The cool temperatures in April make the climb to these caves much more comfortable than in the hotter months.
Swimming
April offers ideal conditions for swimming in Halong Bay. The water temperature is comfortably warm, making it perfect for a refreshing dip. Many cruises include swimming as part of their itinerary, often at scenic spots like the beaches of Ti Top Island or in secluded lagoons.
The calm waters in April provide safe swimming conditions, but always follow your guide’s instructions and swim only in designated areas. While enjoying the emerald waters, you might spot small, harmless jellyfish – they add to the magical underwater experience.
Sunrise Tai Chi
Many cruises offer early morning Tai Chi sessions on deck. In April, the crisp morning air and the soft light of dawn create a magical atmosphere for this peaceful practice. You can start your day with gentle exercises while watching the bay come to life around you.
Squid fishing
As the waters warm up in April, squid becomes more active. Join a nighttime squid fishing expedition from your cruise ship. The clear April skies often provide a stunning backdrop of stars as you try your hand at this traditional fishing method.
Trekking on Cat Ba Island
The cooler temperatures of early April are ideal for exploring the trails of Cat Ba National Park. You can hike through lush forests, spot rare wildlife, and enjoy panoramic views of the bay from various viewpoints.
Cost and Crowd: April’s Peak Season
April marks the height of peak season in Halong Bay, bringing both advantages and challenges for visitors. The month’s popularity is largely due to its ideal weather conditions, which create perfect scenarios for exploring the bay’s wonders. However, this attractiveness comes with considerations regarding costs and crowds.
Cost
During April, travelers should expect to encounter peak season pricing across all aspects of their Halong Bay experience:
- Cruise prices: April sees the highest rates for cruises of all types, from budget to luxury options. Expect to pay premium prices for your floating accommodation.
- Activities and tours: While food prices generally remain stable year-round, additional activities and tours often carry peak season surcharges.
Despite the higher costs, many travelers find the expense worthwhile due to April’s optimal weather conditions. The key is to book well in advance, as early reservations might come with slight discounts or at least ensure you secure your preferred options before they fill up.
Crowd
April’s fantastic weather doesn’t just attract higher prices – it also draws in the crowds. Here’s what to expect:
- Overall visitor numbers: Halong Bay buzzes with activity in April. The bay welcomes a high influx of travelers, creating a lively but busy atmosphere.
- Popular attractions: Major sites such as Sung Sot Cave, Ti Top Island, and the floating villages experience their highest foot traffic during this month. Be prepared for queues and factor in extra time for visits.
- Cruise occupancy: Most cruises operate at or near full capacity. While this creates a vibrant atmosphere onboard, it may not be ideal for those seeking a more secluded experience.
To mitigate the impact of crowds, consider booking a cruise that explores less-frequented areas of the bay, such as Bai Tu Long Bay or Lan Ha Bay. While these areas also see increased visitor numbers in April, they tend to be less crowded than the main Halong Bay area.
Halong Bay cruise in April – The best time for cruising
Cruise Duration and Itineraries
When you visit Halong Bay, you have several cruise options to choose from. Each option offers a different experience, allowing you to see the bay in a way that suits your schedule and preferences:
Day Cruise: an excellent choice for travelers who are short on time but still want to see the highlights of Halong Bay. These cruises typically last between 4 to 8 hours, and you will visit some of the main attractions in Halong Bay. Most day cruises include a stop at Sung Sot Cave or Ti Top Island to climb to a viewpoint for panoramic views of the bay or relax on the small beach.
2 Day, 1 Night Cruise: the most popular option. This cruise gives you a more comprehensive experience of the bay without requiring too much time. You will see many of Halong Bay’s highlights. Your cruise will likely include activities such as kayaking through hidden lagoons and exploring mysterious caves. Many cruises also offer cooking classes, where you can learn to make traditional Vietnamese dishes. One of the best parts of an overnight cruise is the chance to see both sunset and sunrise over the bay.
3 Day, 2 Night Cruise: perfect for those who want the most complete Halong Bay experience, allows you to see more of the bay and venture into less-visited areas. The extra time also allows for more activities. You might have the chance to bike on Cat Ba Island and cycle through local villages and lush national parks. Another unique experience on longer cruises is visiting floating villages.
Here is a typical 2-day, 1-night itinerary:
Day 1:
- Morning: Depart from Halong City, enjoy a welcome drink and briefing
- Noon: Lunch onboard while cruising through stunning limestone karsts
- Afternoon: Visit Sung Sot Cave, kayak in a hidden lagoon like Luon Cave
- Evening: Cooking demonstration, dinner onboard, squid fishing
Day 2:
- Early morning: Tai Chi session on deck (optional)
- Morning: Visit Ti Top Island for swimming and panoramic views
- Late morning: Brunch while cruising back to port
- Noon: Disembark and return to Hanoi or your next destination
Let’s take a look at the best cruises to explore this natural wonder:
| Cruise | Type | Itinerary | Price from |
| Orchid Classic Cruise | Luxury Cruise | Halong Bay – Dark&Bright Cave – Ba Trai Dai Islets – Viet Hai Village – Ba Men Temple – Trung Trang Cave | $231 |
| Indochine Premium Halong Bay Cruise | Luxury Cruise | Halong Bay – Titop Island – Sung Sot Cave | $172 |
| Peony Cruise | Deluxe Cruise | Halong Bay – Lan Ha Bay – Cat Ba Island | $136 |
| Doris Cruise | Deluxe Cruise | Halong Bay – Lan Ha Bay – Ba Trai Dao Islet – Dark & Bright Cave | $154 |
| Sena Cruise | Budget Cruise | Halong Bay – Lan Ha Bay – Dark&Bright Cave – Viet Hai Village – Tra Bau Area | $116 |
| Renea Cruise Halong | Budget Cruise | Bai Tu Long Bay – Cap La Island – Thien Canh Son Cave – Vung Vieng Village | $128 |
Special dishes in Halong Bay in April
April’s mild weather and abundant seafood make it a perfect time to sample Halong Bay’s culinary delights. Here are some must-try dishes:
Cha Muc
This local specialty showcases the bay’s famous squid. Fresh squid is pounded into a paste, mixed with spices, formed into small cakes, and then fried to golden perfection. The result is a crispy exterior with a tender, flavorful inside. Enjoy these as a snack or part of a larger meal, often served with a tangy dipping sauce.
Sa Sung (Peanut Worms)
Don’t let the name put you off – this delicacy is a true taste of Halong Bay. Sa sung are small marine worms found in the sandy areas of the bay. They’re typically dried and then used to add a rich, umami flavor to dishes. In April, you might find them in soups, stir-fries, or as a savory topping for rice dishes. The texture is unique, and the flavor is surprisingly mild and pleasant.
Sam (Horseshoe Crab)
April is an excellent time to try sam, as the horseshoe crabs are particularly flavorful this time of year. The roe is the most prized part, often made into a salad with fresh herbs and a tangy dressing. You might also find the meat used in hot pots or stir-fries. It’s a unique delicacy that offers a true taste of the bay.
As you can see, April in Halong Bay offers a unique blend of comfortable weather, stunning scenery, and rich experiences. We hope this guide has inspired you to take your own springtime journey. What are you waiting for? Start planning your Halong Bay adventure today!
Mo Nguyen – from Halong Junk Cruise
