Ha Long Bay is a mesmerizing seascape in Vietnam, where emerald waters stretch out beneath towering limestone islands cloaked in mist. Located in the Gulf of Tonkin, Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a destination that feels pulled from a dream, with over 1,600 islands and islets rising dramatically from the sea.

According to legend, the bay was formed by dragons sent from the heavens to protect Vietnam from invaders. As they descended, the dragons’ tails carved out valleys, cliffs, and deep caves, which then filled with emerald water. This mythical story of “Ha Long,” which translates to “descending dragon,” adds an air of enchantment to the already magical scenery.

Exploring Ha Long Bay by boat is like floating through a fantasy world. Traditional junk boats or kayaks glide past towering karst formations, with some islands housing hidden lagoons, while others reveal ancient caves like the Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave, filled with striking stalactites and stalagmites. For the adventurous, Cat Ba Island offers hiking through lush rainforests with panoramic views of the bay’s mystical landscape.

Each turn in Ha Long Bay reveals a new vista—a secluded cove, a picturesque floating village, or a cliffside shrouded in fog. Whether you’re captivated by its natural beauty, its mythical lore, or the serenity of gliding across jade-green waters, Ha Long Bay is an unforgettable journey into one of nature’s true masterpieces.