Bai Tu Long Bay, named one of the 7 Wonders of Southeast Asia by Condé Nast Traveler, offers a serene alternative to nearby Ha Long Bay. Known for its dramatic landscapes and intimate experiences, it features boutique sailing and eco-tours. Enhanced tourism infrastructure and new itineraries bolster accessibility, promoting year-round visits.
Bai Tu Long Bay in the northern province of Quang Ninh has been named one of the 7 Wonders of Southeast Asia for 2026 by Condé Nast Traveler, highlighting its growing appeal as an alternative to more frequented destinations.
Curated to inspire travel beyond typical itineraries, the list introduces destinations that offer deeper, more personal experiences. Ranked third, Bai Tu Long Bay sits adjacent to the world-renowned Ha Long Bay, yet distinguishes itself through a quieter, more intimate atmosphere. The bay features dramatic limestone islands, karst formations, hidden coves, caves, and floating fishing villages set within largely untouched surroundings.
Rather than large-scale cruises, the destination is known for boutique sailing experiences and smaller boat tours. Visitors can kayak through emerald waters, swim in secluded areas, and join eco-tours exploring the biodiversity of Bai Tu Long National Park. Multi-day journeys also provide opportunities to engage with local communities and observe daily life in fishing villages.
Other destinations featured on the list include Raja Ampat (Indonesia), Doi Inthanon National Park (Thailand), the Bolaven Plateau (Laos), George Town (Malaysia), Phnom Kulen National Park (Cambodia), and Batanes (the Philippines).
With its scenic diversity, Bai Tu Long Bay is considered suitable for year-round tourism. Authorities in Quang Ninh have approved a series of new travel itineraries, including routes within Bai Tu Long Bay and connections to Ha Long Bay, opening access to a wider range of experiences across the region.
These journeys take travelers through various parts of the bay, from pearl farms and swimming beaches to overnight stays on remote islands. Well-known destinations such as Quan Lan and Minh Chau offer relaxed coastal experiences, while lesser-known sites like Phat Co Island reveal hidden natural wonders, including one of the bay’s largest caves.
Activities range from kayaking, swimming, and seaweed cultivation to simply unwinding on quiet beaches and taking in the fresh sea air. Positioned just 100 kilometers from Mong Cai International Border Gate and supported by Quang Ninh’s growing infrastructure of resorts, transport networks, and ports, Bai Tu Long Bay is increasingly accessible to international travelers.
From here, visitors can also explore nearby island destinations such as Co To, Cai Chien, and Tra Co, further expanding the region’s appeal as a diverse coastal destination.
Australian Hospitality Alumni Network Vietnam 