Where to stay in Ha Long: cruise, Bai Chay or Cat Ba
Updated 1 November 2026 · 4 min read
In short
For Ha Long Bay, most travellers sleep on board an overnight cruise: it is the best way to see the bay at sunrise. On land, Bai Chay has most of Ha Long city's hotels, and Tuan Chau island is home to the cruise port. Cat Ba island is the best base for the less crowded Lan Ha Bay.
The options at a glance
| Option | Best for | Strengths | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| On board a cruise | First stay, couples | The bay at sunset and sunrise, kayaking, meals included | Cabin size varies by boat |
| Bai Chay (Ha Long city) | Families, budget | Plenty of hotels, cable car, amusement park, promenade | Modern city, without the bay's charm |
| Tuan Chau island | Early cruise departure | Cruise port on site, resorts | Little going on in the evening |
| Cat Ba island | Lan Ha Bay, adventure | Access to Lan Ha, national park, beaches | Longer to reach from Hanoi |
Our advice
- 1 night, first stay: a 2-day / 1-night cruise, transfer from Hanoi included.
- Fewer crowds: a cruise or a hotel on Cat Ba, to explore Lan Ha Bay.
- Families: a hotel in Bai Chay with a day boat trip.
See also the top-rated hotels in Ha Long, a one- or two-night cruise and Ha Long, Lan Ha or Bai Tu Long.
Frequently asked questions
Where to stay to visit Ha Long Bay?
On board an overnight cruise for most travellers. On land, Bai Chay has most of the hotels, and Cat Ba island is the best base for Lan Ha Bay.
Should you stay in Ha Long the night before your cruise?
Usually not: most cruises include the transfer from Hanoi on the same morning. A night there is only useful for a very early departure.
Bai Chay or Cat Ba?
Bai Chay for a practical city base with family activities, Cat Ba for Lan Ha Bay, kayaking and the national park.