Halong Bay is a year-round destination in Vietnam, but May holds a special charm. This travel blog is packed with weather, cost, and crowds, the best things to do, and how to plan a perfect Halong Bay cruise in May. Let’s dive into what makes Halong Bay in May so special!
Halong Bay weather in May
May brings the start of summer to Halong Bay, with warm temperatures and increased humidity. Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect from the weather during this month.
The average temperature in May rises to a warm 27°C (81°F). Early mornings are pleasantly warm, typically around 24°C (75°F). As the day goes on, temperatures climb steadily. By mid-afternoon, the mercury will reach around 30°C (86°F). These warm temperatures make May an excellent time for swimming and water activities.
May sees humidity levels increase significantly, averaging between 80-85%. This higher humidity is a noticeable change from the drier spring months. The air feels warm and moist, which can make the heat feel more intense. However, the sea breeze often provides some relief, especially when you’re out on the water.
Rainfall in May starts to increase as the summer monsoon season approaches. The bay typically receives about 150-180mm of precipitation during this month. This rain usually comes in the form of short, heavy showers. You can expect rain on about 14-16 days throughout the month. These rain spells often occur in the late afternoon or evening and generally don’t last long.
May brings plenty of sunshine to Halong Bay. The bay basks in an average of 7-8 hours of bright sunlight daily. The sun typically rises early, around 5:15 AM, and sets later, close to 6:45 PM. This provides ample daylight for sightseeing and activities.
The waters of Halong Bay warm up significantly in May, reaching a very comfortable 26°C (79°F). This temperature is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and other water activities. You can comfortably spend extended periods in the water without feeling cold.
May sees a transition in wind patterns as the summer monsoon begins to take effect. Wind speeds are generally low, averaging 5-8 km/h. However, as May progresses, you might experience occasional stronger breezes, especially in the afternoons.
What to do when visiting Halong Bay in May
Swimming
With the warm water and air temperatures, May is perfect for swimming. You can swim right off your cruise boat or at some of the beautiful beaches in the bay. Ti Top Island has a lovely beach where you can swim and enjoy the view of the limestone cliffs around you.
Kayaking
Kayaking is one of the best ways to explore Halong Bay. In May, the water is usually calm, making it easy and safe to paddle around. You can kayak through small caves and into hidden lagoons. Many cruise tours include kayaking trips where you can see beautiful spots like Luon Cave or Cong Dam area.
Stand-up paddleboarding
If you want to try something a bit different, give stand-up paddleboarding a go. It’s becoming more popular in Halong Bay. The calm waters in May make it easier to balance and paddle around. You’ll get a great view of the limestone cliffs from your board.
Snorkeling and diving
May is a great time for snorkeling and diving in Halong Bay. The water is clear, and you can see many colorful fish and coral reefs. Some popular spots for snorkeling are around Cong Do Island and Tra San Beach. If you’re into diving, you can explore deeper waters around Me Cung cave or Cong Do island.
Boat trips to floating villages
While not exactly a water sport, visiting the floating villages is a must-do activity in Halong Bay. In May, the calm waters make for a smooth boat ride. You can visit villages like Cua Van or Vung Vieng and see how local people live on the water.
Fishing
Many cruises offer fishing trips in the evening. In May, you might catch squid, mackerel, or even some bigger fish. It’s a fun way to spend an evening and learn about local fishing methods.
Cost and crowd
May is a popular time to visit Halong Bay, and this popularity affects both costs and crowd levels.
Cost
In May, you can expect prices to be on the higher side. This is considered peak season for Halong Bay, and prices reflect the high demand. Here’s what you should know:
- Cruise prices: Expect to pay premium rates for cruises of all types. Prices can be 20-30% higher than in the low season.
- Hotel accommodations: If you’re staying in Halong City, hotel prices also tend to be higher in May.
- Activities and tours: While food prices remain relatively stable year-round, additional activities and tours often carry peak season surcharges.
Despite the higher costs, many travelers find the expense worthwhile due to the excellent weather conditions in May. To get the best deals, book your trip well in advance. Early reservations might come with slight discounts or at least ensure you secure your preferred options before they fill up.
Crowd
May bring more visitors to Halong Bay, creating a lively atmosphere. Here’s what to expect:
- Popular attractions: Major sites like Sung Sot Cave, Ti Top Island, and the floating villages experience high foot traffic. 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.
- Beaches and swimming areas: Popular spots for water activities can get crowded, especially during the warmest parts of the day.
To avoid the worst of the 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 May, they tend to be less crowded than the main Halong Bay area.
Halong Bay Cruise in May
May is an excellent time to take a Halong Bay cruise. The warm weather and calm seas create perfect conditions for exploring the bay’s stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters.
Types of Cruises
- Luxury Cruises: These top-tier options offer spacious cabins, gourmet dining, and premium amenities like spas and fitness centers. They provide a high-end experience with personalized service and exclusive itineraries.
- Deluxe Cruises: A step down from luxury, deluxe cruises offer comfortable accommodations and good amenities. They provide a balance of quality and value, with well-planned itineraries and good food options.
- Budget Cruises: These cruises offer a more basic experience but still allow you to enjoy the beauty of Halong Bay. Accommodations and amenities are simpler, but they provide good value for budget-conscious travelers.
- Private and Charter Boats: For a more personalized experience, you can hire a private boat or charter a small cruise ship. This option allows for a private service and is ideal for families or groups of friends.
Cruise Duration: 2 Days 1 Night vs. 3 Days 2 Nights
Both 2-day-1-night and 3-day-2-night cruises have their merits:
- 2 Days 1 Night: This option is perfect for travelers with limited time. You’ll see the main highlights of Halong Bay and enjoy key activities like kayaking and cave exploration.
- 3 Days 2 Nights: For most travelers, this longer cruise allows for a more relaxed pace and the chance to explore further into the bay. You’ll have more time for activities and can visit less crowded areas.
For most travelers, the 3-day-2-night option provides a more comprehensive experience. However, if you’re short on time, a 2-day-1-night cruise still offers a great taste of Halong Bay.
When it comes to choosing the best Halong Bay cruise, several factors come into play, including your budget, desired level of luxury, and preferred activities. Here are some top-rated options to consider:
| Cruise | Duration | Highlights | Route | Price from |
| Emperor Cruises | 2 days 1 night, 3 days 2 nights | luxury cruise, style of the 1930s in Vietnam, 8 unique cabins, a rooftop deck, delicious food, outstanding services | Hanoi – Halong Bay – Me Cung Cave – Tung Sau Area – Viet Hai Village – Cat Ba Archipelago – Luon Cave | $207 |
| Orchid Premium Cruise | 2 days 1 night, 3 days 2 nights | luxury cruise, traditional Asian nostalgia with elegant, luxurious French neoclassical style, 5 cabins | Halong Bay – Lan Ha Bay – Trung Trang Cave – Ao Ech Area | $298 |
| Ambassador Cruise | 2 days 1 night, 3 days 2 nights | luxury cruise, elegant design and unique twin sundeck, two luxurious restaurants, 46 cabins | Halong Bay – Tung Sau Pearl Farm – Titov Island – Luon Cave – Ho Dong Tien Cave – Trong Cave – Cua Van Village – Sung Sot Cave | $191 |
| Dragon’s Pearl Junk | 2 days 1 night, 3 days 2 nights | deluxe cruise, traditional style and equipped with modern amenities, 11 cabins and 3 decks | Bai Tu Long Bay –Thien Canh Son – Vung Vieng Fishing Village | $150 |
| Indochine Cruise Lan Ha | 2 days 1 night, 3 days 2 nights | deluxe cruise, Indochine Style, 43 light and fancy rooms | Halong Bay – Lan Ha floating fishing village – Ong Cam Bay | $158 |
| L’Amour Junk Cruise | 2 days 1 night, 3 days 2 nights | private&charter boat, private experience, deluxe one-cabin junk, perfect for couples | Bai Tu Long Bay – Thien Canh Son Cave – Vung Vieng Fishing Village | $529 |
>>> Maybe you want to read more: How many days in Halong Bay? A must-read travel guide
Tips for your May visit to Halong Bay
- Book early: May is a popular time to visit Halong Bay. Book your cruise and activities early to get the best deals.
- Stay hydrated: With the warm weather, it’s important to drink plenty of water, especially when you’re doing water activities.
- Sun protection: The sun can be strong in May. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself.
- Bring quick-dry clothes: It’s good to have clothes that dry quickly with all the water activities.
- Try local seafood: May is a great time for seafood in Halong Bay. Try local dishes like grilled squid or steamed clams.
- Respect the environment: Halong Bay is a beautiful natural area. Make sure to follow guidelines about not touching coral or disturbing wildlife.
Halong Bay in May perfectly blends beautiful weather and exciting activities. Halong Junk Cruise hopes this guide has inspired you to explore this stunning destination. What are you waiting for? Your Halong Bay adventure awaits!
Mo Nguyen – From Halong Junk Cruise Team
