5 Of The Most Popular Caves In Halong Bay To Explore

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Experience Halong Bay’s surreal landscape in the spectacular caverns that fill its landscape.

Finding the ultimate Halong Bay cave to explore has never been easier with our top 5 picks at your fingertips.

5 Best Halong Bay Caves

On our trip to Vietnam, we escaped the hustle and bustle of Hanoi and made our way to Halong Bay for some much-deserved relaxation.

Here is our experience and the best way of how to get from Hanoi to Halong Bay. This info will help you to get to Halong Bay safely and without a hustle.

Checking out the caves is one of the best things to do in Halong Bay

Here are the best Halong Bay caves that you need to see when visiting Halong Bay.

1. Sung Sot Cave

Visit the Surprising Cave, Halong Bay’s largest cavern, which is named for its startling beauty.

Ascend a winding staircase and enter the spacious grotto, which opens up into 2 caverns. The largest of which is a giant limestone bubble, filled with stalagmites and stalactites.

Sung Sot Cave - Halong Bay Caves

Famous Sung Sot contributions to Halong’s cave legends include a horse and sword placed there to protect Halong.

Take a look around and see if you can spot other notable formations, including:

  • Mammoths
  • Seals
  • Elephants
  • Flowers
  • A general directing his troops

Hop aboard one of the many junk cruises to explore this paradise.


2. Thien Cung Cave

Step inside the Heavenly Palace, and experience the legend of the Dragon King.

With its four monumental pillars, bubbling stream, and the sound of the king’s drums (created by wind blowing through the cavern), the Dragon King’s story comes to life.

Thien Cung Cave Halong Bay Cave

In the spectacular Thien Cung Cave, the Dragon King held his wedding to his beautiful bride, May.

Visitors to the cave can imagine the splendor of the event with the natural light show that plays out on the walls, alongside images of their impressive guests.

The Dragon King’s home is a must-see, as is the spectacular view you are treated to as you exit the cave.


3. Dau Go Cave

Dubbed the Cave of Wonders,  Dau Go is an impressive menagerie filled with a diverse collection of animals and plant life.

Dau Go Cave - Halong Bay Caves

Explore the cave’s three unique areas, the forest of which has a stunning exhibit of stalactites, which features a collection of creatures, including lions, pythons, and fighting cocks.

The second limestone gallery houses a natural picture of the rocky islands, while the third holds groups of formidable stone pillars.

Then, make your way to the hidden freshwater lake, where a poem on the walls captures the whimsical beauty of this cave.


4. Dark and Bright Cave

The Dark and Bright Cave is a stunning sight, a sheltered alcove on a sea-lake. It is only accessible via a rowboat or kayak, adding a splash of adventure to your Halong trip.

Dark and Bright Cave - Ha Long Bay Caves

Paddle through the forested mouth of the cave, entering the tranquil gloom of the cave’s foyer. As you venture further into the cave, sunlight will break through, marking your entrance into Bright Cave.

Monkeys scamper through the cavernous landscape while orchids bloom in technicolor from the ceiling.


5. Tam Cung Cave

In the limestone cliffs of May Den Island lies the Three Palace Cave. Enter this unreal natural museum with stunning artworks carved and chiseled by nature.

Tam Cung Cave - Halong Bay Caves

The first of Tam Cung’s three rooms is filled with stalactites, which bloom like white orchids. The second cavern is home to spectacular rock formations resembling lions, seals, and sea nymphs.

The final room houses three statues, representing prosperity, happiness, and longevity. Then, sit by the spring, which fills the cavern with the sound of fresh, bubbling water.


Best Way to See the Halong Bay Caves

Halong Bay is known for its unique caves and stunning scenery. The best way to check out these caves is by choosing one of the sensational junk boat cruises. And there are many!

Surprise Cave - Halong Bay Caves

To help you choose the best Ha long Bay cruise has to offer that takes you to see the caves. We personally went on an Indochina Sails and we loved it!

Check out our Indochina Sails Halong Bay review. This one might just be the right one for you too.


Final Thoughts

Experience Halong Bay’s unique beauty while you explore the stunning caves filled with stories and incredible natural creations.

Photo of author

Andrzej Ejmont

Andrzej believes life to be a never ending adventure. Originally from Poland, he is a devoted husband and father. Dedicated and enthusiastic to chase all his dreams. Storytelling to entice other families to travel.