Halong Bay Weather by Month: Full Travel Guide

Located in Northern Vietnam, Halong Bay experiences a blend of four distinct seasons, from cool foggy winters to vibrant tropical summers. Each month holds a different charm, and this guide is your key to choosing the best time to visit Halong Bay based on your travel style, preferences, and weather expectations.

1. Halong Bay Climate Overview (General Facts)

Set along the Gulf of Tonkin, Ha Long Bay reflects a classic coastal climate of northern Vietnam, influenced by both tropical monsoon winds and maritime conditions.

There are two main weather seasons in Halong Bay:

• Dry Season (October to April): Mild, cool, with clearer skies—ideal for scenic cruising.
• Wet Season (May to September): Hotter, more humid, with heavier rainfall and occasional tropical storms.

Rainfall spikes during July and August, reaching up to 250 mm per month, while humidity often exceeds 80% year-round. Sea breezes temper the heat, especially from October to March. Wind speeds range from 11–17 km/h, peaking in December, which can affect small boat movements.

Storm season is concentrated in mid-summer. While typhoons are not constant, they can cause temporary delays or cancellations, especially in August and early September. It’s crucial to check the halong bay weather forecast 14 days in advance and stay informed with trusted sources like Accuweather, Weather.com, and Meteo Halong.

2. Monthly Weather & Travel Experience Breakdown (Core Section)

January – Misty Serenity & Low Crowds

Ha Long Bay weather in January is cool and foggy, creating magical scenery and peaceful cruising conditions.

• Temperature: 14–20°C
• Rainfall: ~15 mm | Humidity: 70%
• Sea Temp: 20°C
• Pros: Low crowds, beautiful misty landscapes
• Cons: Cold water, limited visibility on foggy days
• Best Activities: Scenic cruising, cave visits
• What to Pack: Jacket, scarf, waterproof shoes

February – Cool Breeze & Festive Vibes

Halong Bay weather during Tet is chilly yet charming, perfect for cultural immersion.

• Temperature: 15–21°C
• Rainfall: ~22 mm | Humidity: 75%
• Sea Temp: 19°C
• Pros: Festival season, clearer skies
• Cons: Cold mornings, cruise changes during Tet
• Best Activities: Cultural tours, kayaking
• What to Pack: Warm layers, insect repellent

March – Spring Awakens & Clear Skies

The weather in Ha Long in March is ideal for outdoor fun and sightseeing.

• Temperature: 18–24°C
• Rainfall: ~38 mm | Humidity: 78%
• Sea Temp: 21°C
• Pros: Great visibility, mild climate
• Cons: Rising tourist numbers
• Best Activities: Kayaking, island hopping
• What to Pack: Sunscreen, breathable clothing

April – Ideal Mix of Sun & Adventure

April marks the turning point of bay weather, offering dry skies and lush scenery.

• Temperature: 21–27°C
• Rainfall: ~50 mm | Humidity: 80%
• Sea Temp: 23°C
• Pros: Sunny days, lush views
• Cons: Brief showers possible
• Best Activities: Swimming, trekking
• What to Pack: Light clothes, sun hat, sunscreen

May – Start of Summer, Best for Beach Lovers

May’s halong bay weather is hot and bright—perfect for sun-seekers.

• Temperature: 24–30°C
• Rainfall: ~156 mm | Humidity: 85%
• Sea Temp: 27°C
• Pros: Warm sea, long daylight hours
• Cons: Afternoon rain, rising humidity
• Best Activities: Beach BBQs, snorkeling
• What to Pack: Swimwear, hat, sandals

June – Peak Heat, Tropical Energy

Expect tropical sunshine and vibrant energy. This is the height of Vietnam weather.

• Temperature: 26–32°C
• Rainfall: ~180 mm | Humidity: 88%
• Sea Temp: 29°C
• Pros: Ideal for water lovers
• Cons: Hot and humid, sudden rain
• Best Activities: Swimming, kayaking
• What to Pack: Quick-dry clothes, raincoat

July – Hot & Stormy: Should You Risk It?

July brings storm alerts to the Halong Bay weather forecast. Be flexible.

• Temperature: 26–32°C
• Rainfall: ~200 mm | Humidity: 90%
• Sea Temp: 29°C
• Pros: Fewer international tourists
• Cons: Possible cruise cancellations
• Best Activities: Indoor experiences, spa onboard
• What to Pack: Waterproof gear, travel insurance

August – Typhoon Watch & Low Prices

August’s wetter Ha Long Bay season continues. Expect hot days and high rainfall.

• Temperature: 25–32°C
• Rainfall: ~260 mm | Humidity: 92%
• Sea Temp: 29°C
• Pros: Budget deals, lush green views
• Cons: Frequent storms
• Best Activities: Onboard cooking classes, short tours
• What to Pack: Umbrella, sealed bags

September – End of Rainy Season, Transition to Fall

This is the transition from rainy season to golden autumn skies.

• Temperature: 24–31°C
• Rainfall: ~190 mm | Humidity: 85%
• Sea Temp: 28°C
• Pros: Cooler nights, fewer crowds
• Cons: Intermittent rain
• Best Activities: Light hiking, kayaking
• What to Pack: Layers, insect repellent

October – Golden Weather & Perfect Photos

October offers Ha Long Bay's best weather conditions: clear skies and calm seas.

• Temperature: 22–28°C
• Rainfall: ~60 mm | Humidity: 75%
• Sea Temp: 26°C
• Pros: Crisp mornings, photo-perfect light
• Cons: Start of high season
• Best Activities: Photography, all-day cruising
• What to Pack: Sunglasses, camera gear

November – Dry, Cool & Picture-Perfect

November is one of the best months in the ha long bay weather forecast 14 days.

• Temperature: 19–26°C
• Rainfall: ~20 mm | Humidity: 70%
• Sea Temp: 24°C
• Pros: Dry air, calm waters
• Cons: Tour demand increases
• Best Activities: Cave tours, Tai Chi, beach walks
• What to Pack: Light sweater, comfortable shoes

December – Crisp, Calm & Holiday-Friendly

End the year with stunning Halong Bay weather under clear blue skies.

• Temperature: 15–22°C
• Rainfall: ~15 mm | Humidity: 68%
• Sea Temp: 22°C
• Pros: Holiday atmosphere, peaceful cruising
• Cons: Cooler nights
• Best Activities: Relaxing cruises, sunset decks
• What to Pack: Jacket, long pants, festive spirit

3. Best Time to Visit Halong Bay (Contextual Advice)

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to picking the best time to visit Halong Bay—it depends on your interests and travel expectations. Here’s how the seasons match different traveler types:

• Families: March–April and October are perfect for school holidays with pleasant halong bay weather and calmer seas.
• Photographers: November and March bring blue skies, dramatic sunrise light, and magical mist.
• Swimmers/Divers: May to July offers warm water, clear visibility, and great bay weather—but pack that insect repellent!
• Luxury Cruise Lovers: Late October to early December promises the best balance of sun, calm seas, and premium experiences.
• Budget Travelers: August and September are low season due to wetter Ha Long Bay conditions, but great deals abound.

4. Weather-Related Cruise Cancellations: What to Know

Cruise delays due to Halong Bay weather are not uncommon during storm-prone months. Here’s what to expect and how to prepare:

• Storms, fog, and strong winds can disrupt cruise departures, especially in July and August.
• All cancellations are made by local maritime authorities, not individual cruise lines. Even on a sunny morning, boats may be grounded if conditions offshore are risky.
• Reliable cruise companies offer full or partial refunds or reschedule options. Always check cancellation terms when booking.
• If your cruise is delayed, explore mainland attractions in Ha Long City or reschedule via your operator’s hotline.

Before boarding, always verify with the halong bay weather forecast, or even check same-day updates through local travel agencies and harbormaster notifications.

5. Final Thoughts

From misty winter mornings to sun-drenched summer islands, halong bay weather weaves the soul of your journey. Whether you dream of quiet bays in January, cultural festivals in February, or sunlit seascapes in October—every season in Halong holds its own allure. Rather than chasing the “perfect” forecast, align your travel with what inspires you most—scenery, sunshine, solitude, or adventure. Check your 14 day weather forecast, prepare wisely, and set sail with flexibility and joy.