Halong Bay in November offers the perfect balance of cool weather, clear skies, and peaceful waters. It’s one of the best times to explore the bay’s beauty without crowds, storms, or intense summer heat.
Where is Halong Bay?
Halong Bay is located in the northeastern region of Vietnam, in Quang Ninh Province. It stretches over 1,500 square kilometers in the Gulf of Tonkin and is filled with nearly 2,000 limestone islands and islets, many covered in lush greenery. Just a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Hanoi, it’s one of the most convenient and iconic destinations in all of Vietnam.
Many travelers are drawn to Halong Bay in November because it’s one of the most pleasant times to visit. The weather is cooler and drier, the skies are usually clear, and the sea is calm, perfect for cruising and sightseeing. It’s also a great time for photography, kayaking, and watching sunsets without worrying about storms or heavy rain.
What Is The Weather Like In Halong Bay in November?
November in Halong Bay brings a noticeable change in the atmosphere; the air turns cooler, the skies open up, and the rain almost disappears. With daytime Halong Bay temperature in November around the mid-20s Celsius, it is quite refreshing and pleasant for sightseeing, cruising, and moderate outdoor activities. Evenings and mornings can be cool, but in general, it is mild and manageable.
Rainfall is quite minimal in November, with most days being either sunny or lightly cloudy. Fog can appear at dawn, offering a dramatic appearance to the limestone peaks, but it generally lasts no longer than breakfast time. The sea is very gentle, with storms being rare at this time of year. For travelers, it’s a well-balanced month, perfect for light adventures and classic things to do in Halong Bay.
Weather Details Summary
| Weather Aspect | Details |
| Temperature | Daytime highs: 24–26 °C (75–79 °F)
Morning/evening lows: 18–20 °C (64–68 °F) |
| Humidity | Average 70–75%, generally comfortable |
| Rainfall | Around 30–40 mm total across 4–5 days |
| Cloud Cover | Mostly clear with occasional overcast mornings |
| Weather Pattern | Stable conditions with low rainfall and mild fog in the early hours |
What To See And Do In Halong Bay In November
November in Halong Bay feels like a peaceful escape. It’s the perfect time to explore at your own pace and truly connect with nature.
Overnight Cruise Enjoyment
Halong Bay in November is within the dry season as the weather is characterized by low humidity, calmness on the beaches, and golden sunshine. You can enjoy the sun on the sundeck all through the day, morning sightseeing, and stargazing at night without feeling hot, just like summer. This is one of the most advisable months for night cruises. In the vast majority of cruises, there is kayaking, caves, and food. Prices vary between 3,500,000 to 6,000,000 VND, considering the type of boat.
Kayaking Through Charming Islets
In November, the temperature of the sea waters in Halong Bay remains 24-25°C, and these conditions are ideal for kayaking. Most cruises will also have small kayaking trips around Luon cave or Ba Hang, where you have a chance to kayak into limestone arches or small caves. These are peaceful spots where you can take beginners and come closer to cliffs and rock formations. Mid-range and high-end cruise packages normally contain kayaks.
Swimming in Cool Turquoise Waters
November marks the beginning of winter in Vietnam, but at the beginning of the month, the sea is still warm enough to swim in. The water temperatures are around 24 -25°C, and you still might get a chance to have a short swim break. Swimming is usually present on day cruises or included in overnight trips to Titop Island or tiny beaches nearby Soi Sim. The best swimming time comes early in the afternoon when the sun is soft and still warm.
Visit Floating Villages like Cua Van Or Vung Vieng
During November, when the waters are very calm and the weather is very mild, it is easy to tour around the floating fishing villages in Halong. Cua Van and Vung Vieng are some of the most accessible, where you can take a bamboo boat piloted by a local or pedal your kayak around the floating houses. The villages are somehow an example of how traditional fishing life was. Most overnight cruises have a village visit, or you can join a half-day tour from the mainland.
Take A Day Trip To Bai Tu Long Bay
Bai Tu Long Bay is on the northeastern side of the major Halong Bay region. It is much quieter, yet equally as gorgeous. You will observe virgin limestone islands, minor caves, and uninhabited beaches. As the bay is not so busy, it means that it is not difficult to find scenic places to take photos of or enjoy the view. Day trips normally start either on Hon Gai or Ha Long International Port, and they charge between 1,000,000 to 1,500,000 VND/person, inclusive of activities and lunch.
Stargazing on the Sundeck at Night
Halong Bay weather in November is usually clear, with low humidity and light cloud cover. It is one of the good stargazing seasons. It is one of the good stargazing seasons. You will find constellations shining over the limestone mountains with no distractions from the light of the city and few tourists. Although this is not an official agenda in every cruise advertised, the fine weather makes it simple to do it yourself.
Join A Morning Wellness Session On The Cruise
With the cooler weather and slight winds in the month of November, working on wellness, such as yoga, meditation, or a spa treatment on the cruise deck, is more pleasant. Most luxury cruises have yoga events in the morning with the sun rising over the bay or mild stretching routines at sunset. These classes are usually held on the sun deck, where there is a very scenic view of the limestone cliffs.
Explore Thien Cung or Dau Go Caves
The two caves are among the most popular caves in Halong Bay, and November is one of the finest months to visit them. Under dry conditions and cooler air, the pathways are easier to walk on, in particular those inside the staircases. Thien Cung is dramatic with its stalactite illuminated by bright lights, whereas Dau Go has an ancient and mysterious feel. These caves are often featured in day cruises as well as overnight schedules, and instructions take between 30 and 45 minutes.
Ride A Bicycle Around Tuan Chau Island Or Cat Ba
November weather is cool and dry, such that it is calm enough to ride by cycling. There are paved roads where you could explore the pine trees and beaches around Tuan Chau Island along the Bay. To prolong the adventure, go to Cat Ba Island, where it is possible to rent a bicycle and travel through the green hills of the Cat Ba National Park. The bikes can be rented anywhere between 100,000VND and 150,000VND a day.
Join A Seafood Tasting Tour
Halong Bay in November offers delicious seafood that is caught fresh. The early-season specialties of the sea, such as squid, clams, and oysters, abound. There is an opportunity to visit floating villages and have a humble meal with a fisherman on some local tours. You will have a chance to enjoy the local food, such as steamed mantis shrimp, grilled scallops with spring onions, or squid hotpot. Such experiences can be part and parcel of luxury cruise packages or options.
What To Pack For Halong Bay In November
When packing for Halong Bay in November, what counts is comprised of flexibility and comfort. The most important things to list are stated below, in groupings that are easier to plan.
Clothing for Changing Temperatures
Days are warm enough in November, yet the sea air and lower night temperatures require some additional clothes. A thin jacket or sweater, lightweight trousers, and a long-sleeved top will not put you in too much heat. A scarf or a shawl might also be useful to keep you warmer on evening cruises.
Swimwear and Quick-Dry Options
While the sea does start to become cool in November, there is still plenty of time to swim or stay under the summer sun. Ensure you have a swimsuit, should you choose to visit during a beach trip or go kayaking. Some fellow cruises have had warm towels when getting out of the swimming pool, but it is much easier and convenient to have plenty of dry clothes to change into.
Footwear for Comfort and Stability
You want to select a reasonable pair of walking or sports shoes that have a good grip. Some of the trails to the islands and the cave floors can be hard to walk on as they are uneven and/or slippery. A second pair of sandals or soft shoes is good for lounging on deck or walking around the boat.
Personal Comfort and Practical Items
Another good pack to take onboard is a small day pack or similar day bag that will carry water, snacks, and other items. It may also be very useful to carry a refillable water bottle, as many boats now are encouraging environmentally friendly habits. Give some thought to any other personal items of comfort or medications, including motion sickness pills, just in case.
Travel Tips For Visiting Halong Bay In October
November brings calm waters and cool air to Halong Bay, creating a peaceful atmosphere that many travelers enjoy. Still, knowing how to time your activities and prepare for seasonal changes will help you experience the bay more comfortably.
- Fog can be notorious for settling on the water below 8 AM on certain days, so book your photography and sightseeing trips for late morning or early afternoons.
- You might find local seafood menus shifting a little in November because of seasonal catch variations, and checking with your cruise operator will help you set some expectations.
- November brings far less humidity, which can cause dry lips and skin, especially if you are going to be outside on deck for long hours.
- Night squid fishing will continue for most cruises, although the success rate at night usually decreases as the waters cool. So be prepared for it to be more about the experience and less about the catch.
- Floating villages like Cua Van and Vung Vieng will have fewer visitors in November and, as a result, allow for more private conversations with locals and less congested sampan rides.
- Tour guides will vary and adjust patterns to shifting weather. Being flexible allows you to navigate the day more easily than being rigid.
- Some of the hiking spots (i.e., Titop Island) will have much more clarity in November with no haze from monsoons, making it the ideal time to get panoramic views.
- Travelers who are prone to chills may want to avoid cabins located at the front of the boat, where night winds are often stronger and constant.
- Power cuts can occur during overnight docking on smaller cruises, so bringing a fully charged power bank will keep your phone or camera ready for the morning light.
Final Thoughts: Is November A Good Time To Visit Halong Bay?
If you prefer cooler air, calm water, and a slower rhythm, November is one of the most rewarding months to explore Halong Bay. You won’t find extreme weather or long queues. What you will find is space to breathe, plus the best time to visit Halong Bay without the crowds. For more practical advice or updated cruise suggestions this season, check out Seni World. The tips are local, honest, and written by travelers who know the bay well.
Related articles
