1. Where is Bai Chay? Why it's a must-visit spot when coming to Ha Long in 2026
Bai Chay is located right in the center of Ha Long city, surrounded by Hong Gai and Yet Kieu wards to the east and Hung Thang ward to the west. The special terrain of Bai Chay is a gentle slope of low hills down to the sea, creating a sandy beach up to 1,000 m long and over 100 m wide along Ha Long Bay. This strategic location helps Bai Chay become a natural bridge between major tourist hubs such as Sun World, the marina, and the bustling walking street.
Bai Chay beach is nicknamed the 'ivory beach' of the North with its clear blue waters and fine white sand. This area is regularly cleaned and renovated to maintain the quality of service for tourists. Parallel to the beach, the 903 m long Bai Chay Bridge stands as a symbol of outstanding development. This cable-stayed bridge not only connects Bai Chay with the central Hong Gai area but also becomes an unmissable check-in spot with its impressive architecture both day and night.
The ideal time to visit Bai Chay in 2026 is from April to September, when the weather is sunny and the sea is calm, conducive to swimming and festival activities. The period from September to April next year has a cooler atmosphere, suitable for those who prefer a quiet space and want to take advantage of room rate promotions.
2. How to get to Bai Chay in 2026
2.1. From Hanoi to Bai Chay
To travel from Hanoi to Bai Chay, you have many convenient and comfortable options. Limousine cars are currently the most popular means of transport due to their comfort and speed with prices ranging from 180,000 to 490,000 VND per person and a travel time of 2.5 to 3 hours. If you want to save more, bus services departing from My Dinh station are a reasonable choice with prices ranging from 120,000 to 200,000 VND per trip and a travel time of about 3 to 3.5 hours.
There are many means for tourists to get to Bai Chay, Quang Ninh. (Source: Collected)
Additionally, if you are a railway enthusiast, you can take the Hanoi - Hai Phong train route (takes about 2.5 hours) then switch to a car/taxi to continue to Bai Chay.
Flying to Van Don airport is only suitable if you want to experience flying, but the total time and cost for the entire journey, including the nearly 60 km from the airport to Bai Chay, will be higher than other means.
2.2. From Ho Chi Minh City, the Southern region to Bai Chay
If you are departing from Ho Chi Minh City or the southern provinces, the most effective way to travel is a combination of plane and road vehicle.
You can choose to fly directly to Van Don Airport (Quang Ninh) or Cat Bi Airport (Hai Phong) in about 2 hours. Then, travel by taxi or bus to the Bai Chay area in about 1 to 1.5 hours. Another option is to fly to Noi Bai Airport (Hanoi), then connect by limousine or coach to Ha Long. This method is very suitable for large groups of friends. The total time for the entire journey usually ranges from 4 to 5 hours.
Regarding costs, one-way flight tickets usually range from 1,000,000 to 1,800,000 VND, but may increase slightly during the summer peak season. To optimize costs, book tickets early and follow promotions from airlines.
2.3. Moving around the Bai Chay area
Moving around the Bai Chay area is extremely easy and diverse with many flexible options. If you want to be proactive with your itinerary and find beautiful photo spots, you can rent a motorbike for prices starting from 80,000 to 180,000 VND per day.
Diverse means of transport allow tourists to flexibly enjoy every corner of Bai Chay. (Source: Collected)
For large groups or those needing maximum convenience, taxis are the top choice, operating effectively through both traditional companies (like Mai Linh, Thanh Hung) and ride-hailing apps (Grab, Be, Xanh SM) with prices ranging from approximately 11,000 to 30,000 VND per km.
Another popular and friendly option is electric vehicles, very suitable for families and young groups; vehicles operate on routes around major tourist spots with reasonable prices (around 20,000 to 30,000 VND per person plus fare). Additionally, public buses are also an economical choice for traveling to famous tourist destinations. Depending on the starting point and destination along the route, tourists can choose the most suitable bus route with prices ranging from 5,000 VND to 30,000 VND.
3. Top unmissable experiences in Bai Chay
3.1. Check-in at Bai Chay Beach
Bai Chay Beach boasts a fine white sandy stretch up to 1,000 m long with clear blue seawater, maintained clean all year round. A special feature for 2026 is the expanded secondary beach area to the west, creating a spacious check-in area with many spots for sun umbrellas and modern loungers.
The current space and facilities meet the needs of tourists. (Source: Collected)
Seaside drink stalls are also designed in a novel style, bringing interesting experiences to tourists.
3.2. Bai Chay Bridge
This longest cable-stayed bridge in Vietnam has a length of 903 m, a deck height of 50 m, and two main pylons 137.5 m high. Built with advanced Japanese technology, Bai Chay Bridge is not only a transportation work but also a symbol of Quang Ninh's strong development. The unique architecture of the bridge creates graceful curves, especially impressive when illuminated at night.
Symbol of Ha Long city, Bai Chay bridge. (Photo source: Collected)
The two most beautiful check-in spots are both ends of the bridge, from the Sun World side or the Hong Gai side, especially at sunset when the sunlight creates brilliant shades of orange and yellow. At night, the Bai Chay bridge lights up with colorful LEDs, creating a shimmering landscape reflected on the bay's water.
For the best view, you can choose rooftop restaurants or waterfront parks near the bridge intersection, where there are no obstructions and offer an ideal panoramic photo opportunity.
3.3. Major Festivals and Events in Bai Chay 2026
Ha Long Carnival 2026 took place at Bai Chay Square and the Sun World coastal area in April and May, with ticket prices ranging from 250,000 to 750,000 VND depending on the category. This event gathered many domestic and international artists, along with spectacular light and water music shows. Additionally, outdoor music festivals and street art festivals are also regularly organized on weekends.
Spectacular sound and light art performance programs. (Photo source: Quang Ninh Newspaper)
When attending major events, visitors must strictly adhere to security instructions and bring thin raincoats to cope with unexpected weather. New regulations on fire prevention and control and outdoor event safety are strictly applied, especially during the festival season, to ensure the safety of thousands of participants.
Featured Marine Sports Games
Parasailing offers a feeling of floating with panoramic views of Ha Long Bay, with prices ranging from 650,000 to 900,000 VND per turn. Jet skiing is a popular activity with prices from 250,000 to 300,000 VND for half an hour of speed experience on the water. Kayaking and paddle boarding are suitable for those who love peace, with prices ranging from 40,000 to 400,000 VND per turn.
Explore Walking Streets, Night Markets, and Entertainment Spots in Ha Long
Bai Chay Walking Street opens from 6 PM with a vibrant atmosphere of lights and many spontaneous street music shows. The night market gathers hundreds of food and souvenir stalls, creating a lively atmosphere for tourists who enjoy exploring local culture. Street food dishes such as grilled skewers, fried fermented pork rolls, and pearl yogurt tea always attract a large number of diners.
Bai Chay Night Market attracts tourists and creates a highlight for Ha Long. (Image source: Collected)
Sun World, Queen Cable Car, and sea entertainment activity complexes offer combo tickets promotion in 2026 with prices ranging from 350,000 to 1,500,000 VND per person depending on the service package. You can refer to detailed information at the Sun World counter or the official website of Sun World Ha Long to choose the most suitable combo. This area particularly attracts families with young children and groups of young friends who want to experience a variety of entertainment activities in one day.
4. Suggestions for hotels, resorts, homestays in Bai Chay 2026
4.1. Top 5-star hotels/resorts with excellent sea views
Below is detailed information about some of the most outstanding 5-star hotels and resorts in Bai Chay along with accompanying services and prices:
Vinpearl Resort is located right on the central beach with an infinity pool overlooking the sea, a high-class spa area, and a restaurant serving fresh seafood. Room prices range from 2,500,000 to 5,500,000 VND per night, along with a 3-day 2-night resort package offer including Sun World tickets for guests.
Wyndham Legend is located opposite Bai Chay Bridge, stands out with a rooftop bar offering 360-degree views and a modern gym, room prices range from 2,000,000 to 4,000,000 VND per night.
FLC Grand Hotel Ha Long owns separate villa areas and a private beach, providing maximum privacy for guests with prices ranging from 3,000,000 to 7,000,000 VND per night. This hotel also offers free airport shuttle service and personal butler for VIP rooms.
Muong Thanh Luxury has a convenient location near the night market, a unique bridge-view swimming pool, and reasonable prices from 1,500,000 to 2,800,000 VND per night, along with free early check-in service.
FLC Grand Hotel Ha Long is one of the hotels that offers the most memorable stays. (Image source: Collected)
4.2. Good value homestays and hostels near the beach for groups and backpackers
Besides luxurious resorts, near Bai Chay there are also high-quality homestays at extremely affordable prices.
Halong Beach Homestay offers whole house rentals suitable for large groups, near the walking street with prices ranging from 400,000 to 550,000 VND per double room.
Sunny Bay Homestay is highly rated for its cleanliness and the owner's enthusiasm, with prices from 250,000 to 400,000 VND and many positive reviews on travel forums.
Not only are they located just 500m away from the beach and entertainment areas, saving you significant travel time and costs, these homestays also offer package services from detailed itinerary consultation to motorbike rental and tour booking assistance at special discounted prices.
5. Bai Chay Cuisine and Recommended Delicious Eateries
5.1. Delicious Dishes to Try in Bai Chay
Fresh seafood is a highlight you cannot miss when visiting Bai Chay. First, enjoy the fragrant grilled oysters with scallion oil, hand-pounded squid cakes rich in the taste of the sea, and the crispy, sweet horseshoe crabs, characteristic of the Quang Ninh region.
Enjoy the aromatic signature dishes at Bai Chay. (Source: Collected)
Besides that, grilled lobster with cheese and other fresh and delicious sea scallops always win the hearts of all diners.
Next, don't forget to try seafood noodle soup Bai Chay with a sweet and clear broth from fish bones, combined with fresh shrimp and crab and local herbs. Additionally, Ha Long fermented pork roll with a crispy shell, a harmonious sweet and sour meat filling, and the uniquely shaped 'gat gu' cake are indispensable specialties in any meal at Bai Chay .
In summary, these dishes strongly represent the cuisine of the northern islands, perfect for enjoying with cold draft beer in the refreshing sea air.
5.2. Addresses of famous seafood restaurants and snack bars
If you are looking for quality dining spots, refer to the following suggestions. First, Cua Vang restaurant at 32 Phan Chu Trinh is famous for its homemade squid cake and delicately prepared clam dishes, the restaurant has a spacious sea view with an average price of 250,000 to 550,000 VND per person.
Besides that, Hai San Oc Kim Quy eatery located in the night market area of Bai Chay , attracts many local customers with reasonable prices and a youthful atmosphere, it is recommended to visit between 6 PM and 9 PM to avoid running out of dishes.
Finally, Phuong Nam restaurant near the Bai Chay bridge specializes in grilled grouper and tamarind-stir-fried sea crab, with professional service staff and a luxurious ambiance.
For the best experience, you should book a table in advance on weekends, negotiate prices by weight, and choose eateries with clearly listed prices to avoid unnecessary inconvenience.
5.3. Suggestions for culinary experiences combined with exploring the night street of Bai Chay
Night food tours are becoming a popular trend in Bai Chay , starting with a stroll around the walking street and enjoying snacks like grilled skewers, and crispy fried fermented pork rolls.
Additionally, you can try Tuan Lien yogurt, Ha Long coconut island ice cream, dishes that many tourists seek when visiting Ha Long.
Yogurt with tapioca pearls, famous in Ha Long, is loved by young people. (Image source: Collected)
This way of enjoying helps tourists explore the diverse local cuisine while feeling the vibrant nightlife of Bai Chay. Many restaurants also organize live music and folk dance programs, creating a cheerful and unique atmosphere for the meal.
6. Complete 3N2Đ Bai Chay Travel Itinerary for 2026
Day 1: Explore Bai Chay and the vibrant night street
Early morning: Start the trip by checking into the hotel and then enjoy breakfast at the local market to experience the casual cuisine.
Noon: Spend time resting in the room to prepare for an active afternoon.
Afternoon: Don't forget to check in at Bai Chay beach and experience exciting water sports such as parasailing or jet skiing.
Evening: End the first day by strolling around the Walking Street and enjoying countless delicious dishes at the vibrant night market.
Day 2: Cruise Ha Long Bay and watch the sunset
All day: Spend the whole time exploring Ha Long Bay by cruise. You will swim at Reu Island with its crystal clear water and admire the beautiful natural scenery.
Noon: Enjoy lunch right on the cruise or at seafood restaurants specializing in fresh seafood.
Afternoon: Take souvenir photos at Bai Chay Bridge or at major festival events (if coinciding).
Evening: Enjoy a light show or special music concerts (if organized) to conclude the second day.
Day 3: Entertainment at Sun World and souvenir shopping
Morning: Explore the Sun World entertainment complex with its modern water park and experience the Nu Hoang (Queen) Cable Car to admire the panoramic view of Ha Long Bay from above.
Noon: Enjoy lunch with a variety of dishes at the Sun World food court.
Afternoon: Spend free time shopping for meaningful souvenirs, rest, and complete hotel check-out procedures before departing for the starting point.
7. Useful Tips for Traveling to Bai Chay in 2026
Times to avoid: You should avoid traveling to Bai Chay from December to February due to strong northeast monsoon winds, causing cold weather and rough seas. Therefore, always check the weather forecast carefully before going and regularly update marine weather warnings to proactively plan your itinerary.
Necessary items: Remember to bring windbreakers and hats to cope with sudden weather changes, especially when participating in outdoor activities.
Prioritize safety: Always strictly follow the instructions of the rescue team when participating in activities and events. For water sports services, choose reputable providers with full licenses and insurance.
Tips for beautiful photos: Choose sunrise or sunset for photos, at this time, natural light creates ideal golden-orange hues. Additionally, take advantage of angles from the coastal road or on Bai Chay Bridge for an impressive panoramic view.
Traveling to Bai Chay promises to bring you complete experiences with its clear blue beach, vibrant atmosphere, and many attractive entertainment activities. With these tips, you can fully enjoy a comfortable and memorable trip. Bai Chay will surely be an ideal stop on your journey to explore Ha Long.
