Halong Bay Travel
With towering limestone karsts, emerald waters, and dreamy seascapes, Halong Bay is one of Vietnam’s most iconic destinations and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in Quang Ninh province, just a short drive from the FLC Ha Long Golf Club, Halong Bay makes for the perfect post-golf getaway or day excursion for travelers seeking stunning natural beauty and cultural discovery.
Getting There: From Fairway to Bay
FLC Ha Long Golf Club sits just above Halong City, providing panoramic views of the bay below. Whether you're based at the FLC resort or nearby accommodations, most Halong Bay cruise piers are only a 10–15 minute drive away.
To reach Halong Bay from Hanoi, the drive takes about 2.5 to 3 hours on the new expressway. You can book combo golf and sightseeing packages through Expedia, or find accommodations and shuttle-inclusive tours through Hotels.com and Orbitz.
Why Visit Halong Bay?
Named “Descending Dragon Bay,” Halong Bay is home to over 1,600 limestone islands and islets scattered across the Gulf of Tonkin. These formations create a surreal seascape that is both majestic and peaceful—perfect for photography, relaxation, and exploration. The area also hosts floating fishing villages, hidden caves, and serene beaches that add depth to the experience.
Best Cruise Options Near FLC Ha Long Golf Club
1. Half-Day Sightseeing Cruises
Ideal for golfers with limited time, these 4–5 hour cruises offer a compact but fulfilling experience. You'll visit famous landmarks like Thien Cung Cave, Dog Islet, and pass by Fighting Cocks Islet. Many include lunch and kayaking.
2. Full-Day Cruises
These allow for deeper exploration, often stopping at fishing villages like Ba Hang or Cua Van, and offer onboard activities such as cooking classes, bamboo boat rides, and beach stops at Ti Top Island.
3. Overnight Cruises
Experience sunrise and sunset in the bay’s tranquility aboard a traditional wooden junk or modern luxury vessel. Enjoy gourmet meals, tai chi on deck, and stargazing from your private balcony.
Recommended Cruise Operators
- Paradise Cruises – Premium overnight and day trips
- Indochina Sails – Luxury boats with boutique cabins
- V’Spirit – Popular with mid-range travelers for 1- or 2-day cruises
Note: Book ahead during peak seasons (November–April). You can secure packages through Expedia or Orbitz to bundle tours with your stay.
What to See in Halong Bay
Thien Cung Cave (Heavenly Palace Cave)
A spectacular cavern adorned with stalactites and stalagmites, this natural wonder is accessible via a short climb and offers dramatic lighting and spacious chambers for visitors to explore.
Ti Top Island
Famous for its white sandy beach and 400-step lookout point that offers one of the best panoramic views of Halong Bay. Ideal for a post-cruise swim or hike.
Luon Cave
Accessible by kayak or small boat, this low cave tunnel opens into a hidden lagoon surrounded by cliffs—an oasis of stillness within the bay.
Floating Villages
Villages like Cua Van provide a glimpse into the lives of locals who have lived on the bay for generations. Tours often include interactions with fishermen and school visits.
Pairing Golf & Halong Bay
- Morning: Play 9 or 18 holes at FLC Ha Long Golf Club
- Afternoon: Join a half-day cruise with lunch and cave visits
- Evening: Return for sunset at the golf resort or overnight cruise
Best Time to Visit
The best months for clear skies and calm waters are from October to April. May to September is warmer but includes higher rainfall and the occasional storm. Shoulder months (March and October) offer a good balance of weather and fewer crowds.
What to Pack
- Camera or phone with wide-angle lens
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Comfortable footwear for cave visits and deck walking
- Light jacket for cooler evenings on the water
Dining on the Bay
Most cruises offer onboard meals prepared with fresh seafood, Vietnamese specialties, and international options. If dining ashore, consider:
- 1958 Restaurant: Upscale Vietnamese cuisine in Halong City
- Co Ngu Restaurant: Known for seafood and local decor
- Nhà Hàng Linh Dan: A favorite among international visitors for its range of Asian and Western dishes
Where to Stay
Stay near FLC Ha Long Golf Club or in Halong City for easy access to the piers. Recommended booking options include:
Conclusion
Halong Bay is not only one of Vietnam’s most photographed landmarks—it’s also one of the most accessible wonders for golfers staying near FLC Ha Long Golf Club. With serene seascapes, floating villages, and limestone cliffs, a Halong Bay cruise transforms your golf holiday into a complete cultural and natural adventure. Whether you’re cruising at sunset after a morning tee time or spending the night aboard a luxury junk, Halong Bay offers unforgettable moments just minutes from the green.
Explore more Places of Interest in Vietnam and complete your golf journey with scenery and soul.
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Resources: Golf Travel, Golf Tips, and Gear Reviews
Discover our top picks for golf travel guides, golf equipment reviews, and professional golf instruction. These recommended sites provide high-quality resources and expert advice to support your golfing journey across Asia and beyond.
Golf Travel Destinations
- Asia Golf Trips – Offers curated golf holiday packages across Asia’s top golf destinations including Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia.
- Golf Digest – Travel – Features expert rankings, reviews, and editorials about the world’s top golf courses and resorts.
Golf Instruction and Activities
- PGA Tour – Instruction – Offers golf lessons, swing tips, training videos, and coaching advice from PGA Tour professionals.
Golf Gear and Equipment Reviews
- Golf.com – Gear – Reviews and recommendations on golf clubs, bags, balls, and accessories, helping golfers choose the best equipment.
