Visiting Halong Bay in January - What You Should Know

January is a spectacular time to visit Halong Bay, the UNESCO-listed World Natural Heritage in Vietnam due to many reasons. The weather is cool and clear, with a touch of chill in the early morning. It will be a bit too cold for water activities, but overall pleasant for a short stay. However, read on to find out what you should pack to visit Halong Bay in January.

In short:

• January is among the driest months in the year. It’s generally cool and can get cold at night or in the early morning.
• It’ll be great for most outdoor activities. Swimming can be hindered on cold days.
• Take light clothes, jackets and swimsuits with you anyway.

Month	Temperature			Average hours of sunlight	Relative daytime humidity	Days with rain/drizzling
Jan	0	14-20	28	7 hours	85	9 days

I. Halong Bay’s weather in January

The average temperature is around 17°C, the standard ideal temperature for most Westerners. Most outdoor activities are possible in this lovely weather. However, with temperatures reaching its lows at 0°C and highs at 28°C, you’d better bring along both jackets and light clothes.

As one of the driest months of the year, the relative daytime humidity is 85%. 9 days in the month are subject to rain or drizzling. While it can get a bit foggy in the early morning, the vision will be clear during sunshine hours, which is perfect for cruising, kayaking, hiking and trekking.

II. Traveling to Halong Bay in January – Pros and Cons

Pros:

• The weather is extremely pleasant for outdoor activities. There is less direct sunlight than in summer; you’ll be able to enjoy walking around without worrying about sweating like hell or getting sunburnt.
• It’s the perfect time of the year for cruise ships. There are hardly any chances your cruise trip will be canceled due to bad weather.

Cons:

• Halong Bay might get packed with tourists, as January belongs to the peak season here. 
• There might be possible closedown during Tet holiday, which falls in January and early February.
• It can get chilly and uncomfortable for those not accustomed to cold climates.

III. Events in Halong Bay in January

Lunar New Year often falls in the late January and early February, making Halong Bay overcrowded with local tourists. Tet Holiday is a national holiday in Vietnam and typically lasts around 7 days, when a number of shops, restaurants, government agencies, tour operators and even tourists attractions are closed. Make sure you check the lunar calendar before heading to Halong Bay in this period, as Tet holiday might not be a favorable time to travel.

IV. What to Pack when Visiting Halong Bay in January?

The cooler weather conditions will generally allow you to wear your favorite summer skirts and tank tops. Remember to take sunscreens, sunglasses, swimsuits and some light clothing too!

Some other useful stuff to pack include:

• Insect repellent
• First-aid kits 
• Hats, flip-flops and sandals
• Jackets and even some sweaters for cold days

V. What to Do When Visiting Halong Bay in January?

1. Swimming or Kayaking

Swimming is generally suitable for Western swimmers, those who are used to chilly weather. The water is warm on most days of January, allowing you to have a swim for as long as you want. However, avoid going swimming when the temperature is too low (below 15°C). Make sure you warm up your body long enough before jumping into the water and prepare dry clothes to change.

Nothing is better than diving right into a feast of smoky barbecue right after a swim! BBQ on the beach is a sound option for anyone visiting Halong Bay in January. However, when it’s too windy or foggy, outdoor activities like swimming and kayaking in the bay might be postponed. 

2. Cruising

It might get foggy in the early morning, which totally adds up to the pristine beauty of Halong Bay! Taking on a cruise ship journey in January is perfect; the bay is more mystic and charming than ever. Sipping a glass of wine while admiring the limestone karst islands and emerald water is definitely the most significant moment in your trip.

While you don’t have to worry about cancellations, you must in turn book well in advance, as it’s the peak season in Halong Bay. 

3. Squid catching

Squid catching is a special activity during late winter (from December to January) in Halong Bay. Strolling along the beach at night, you’ll see basket boats ready to set sails to catch squids. It’s not as scary as it seems, and you’ll be able to catch fresh squids which are cooked and served on the following day just for you. While learning how to use rods and racquets, you’ll also get a grasp of the rustic nightlife of fishermen in Halong Bay.

VI. Local tips for Visiting Halong Bay in January

While it’s an ideal time to check out Halong Bay, there are still quite a few things you should keep in mind:

• Check the weather forecast frequently. The weather might change year by year.
• Check the Lunar New Year. It can be fun to celebrate the Lunar New Year on a cruise trip, but brace yourself for overcrowded accommodations and closed facilities.
• There can be last minute cruise deals at the end of January. Catch them if you’re traveling strictly on budget.

Generally speaking, January is good for traveling to Halong Bay. The weather is nice and dry, not either too hot or too cold. It is the peak season in Halong Bay, but if you book well in advance, you’ll still be able to enjoy a fulfilling trip.