Want the best experience? Skip the big boat.
Large cruises follow the same route. A local guide can take you on a small boat or private cruise to quieter spots—perfect for photos, swimming, and peaceful moments away from the crowds.
Private & personalized tours - just for you!
Uncover the best of Halong Bay the local Way
The best stories aren’t found in guidebooks. Skip the crowds and unlock the hidden gems of Halong Bay with a private, personalized experience led by a local.
+8locals
Real People. Real Stories.
Really Good Travel.
Feel like a local, not a tourist
Always private. It’s just you and your local host. No strangers, no groups.
More you, less checklist
Let your local host tailor the experience completely to your wishes.
Travel that feels good
Our tours are designed with people, places, and the planet in mind.
Top thing to do in Halong Bay
4.9 665 reviews
City Escape: Halong Bay Day Trip
12 hours | day trips | Hanoi
Travelers love our locals
Reviews from guests about our tours and locals
- 5.0
A trip to Ha Long Bay
"We had a wonderful day with Ruby in Ha Long Bay. She organized everything perfectly according to our wishes. Along the way, we were able to visit a pearl farm before taking a boat trip through Ha Long Bay and visiting a cave."
- 5.0
Great Halong Bay Experience with Loan !
"Our day with Loan exploring Halong Bay was nothing short of magical. From start to finish, Loan went above and beyond to make our experience special. The breathtaking views, the seamless organization, and the unique touch of having fresh fish delivered by a local fisherman for our lunch made this an adventure to remember. Loan’s warmth, knowledge, and passion truly set the bar high. If you’re looking for an authentic and unforgettable experience, she is the perfect guide. We feel like we’ve made a new local friend!"
- 5.0
A great 3 hours with a cool local
"We were a large group of people and had a great tour with Sebastian, he was very accommodating and friendly, made sure we had everything and shared his knowledge with us along the way. We got to some local places that were very nice to see. Very very nice tour with a very very nice guy."
Explore Hanoi with our incredible locals
Learn about their personal stories and find out how you can explore Hanoi with locals
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Things to do in Hanoi
Our locals will give you the best experiences that Hanoi has to offer
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City Escape: Halong Bay Day Trip
4.9 665 reviews12 hours • day tripsfrom €131 per person
Local Tips u0026 Halong Bay Highlights
Halong Bay is more than postcard views. From secret caves to floating fishing villages, here’s how locals help you unlock the real magic of the bay—without the crowds.
Yes, you can kayak in hidden lagoons.
Kayaking in Halong Bay is unforgettable—especially when your guide takes you through caves into secret coves and still lagoons. It’s where the bay feels most magical.
The seafood? As fresh as it gets.
Halong Bay is home to floating seafood farms. Your guide can arrange a lunch of just-caught fish or shrimp, served right on the boat or at a local restaurant with a view.
There are real floating villages here.
Families still live and work on the bay. A local guide can take you through their villages respectfully, sharing how they fish, farm, and live with the tides.
You can do a day trip—or stay overnight.
Not sure which to pick? A local host can help you decide if a day tour or an overnight cruise fits your vibe best. Each offers a different way to experience the bay’s mood.
The legends are just as wild as the views.
Ever wonder why it’s called Halong Bay? Your guide will tell you the dragon story—and other myths tied to the caves and islands you’ll see up close.
Want great photos? Ask your guide.
Locals know the best times and angles to snap that iconic shot. Golden hour between the karsts? A floating dock with no tourists? They’ve got you covered.
There’s more than one bay to explore.
Halong has quieter neighbors like Bai Tu Long or Lan Ha Bay. With a local guide, you can choose routes that skip the busy channels and show you the same jaw-dropping scenery.
Claustrophobic? Pick your caves wisely.
Halong Bay has many caves—but not all are tourist-friendly. A local guide will steer you toward the most beautiful ones without tight crowds or slippery stairs.
The weather can shift fast—locals plan around it.
Foggy morning or sunny afternoon? Your guide tracks the local weather and adjusts your plan for the best views and smoothest ride. It’s all part of the flow here.
Why is Withlocals the best place to buy a tour?
Private & Personal
Your tour is just for you. No strangers, no groups.
You’ll experience the city one-on-one (or with your own travel group) in a relaxed, personal way. No rushing, no scripted group tours.
Tailored to your wishes
From highlights to hidden gems, your host adjusts everything to fit you.
Want to skip a museum, add a food stop, or focus on street art? Just ask. Every experience is shaped around your pace, preferences and interests.
Chat before you book
Message your host directly to customize your experience.
Ask questions, get local tips, or make special requests. Our hosts are real people, ready to make your day unforgettable.
Travel that supports locals
Every booking supports independent locals and their communities.
We believe tourism should benefit the people who live there. Your host earns directly and often invests it right back into their neighborhood.
Feel good about where your money goes
You’re choosing meaningful travel, not mass tourism.
Withlocals is built on fair pay, human connections and travel that leaves a positive mark for both you and the places you visit.
Trusted by millions
Loved by over 1,000,000 travelers all around the world.
Withlocals hosts consistently earn 5-star reviews for their kindness, knowledge and the personal stories they share.
Secure & flexible booking
Book with peace of mind: safe payments and easy changes.
Your plans can shift and that’s okay. We offer flexible cancellation and real support when you need it.
Private & Personal
Your tour is just for you. No strangers, no groups.
You’ll experience the city one-on-one (or with your own travel group) in a relaxed, personal way. No rushing, no scripted group tours.
Tailored to your wishes
From highlights to hidden gems, your host adjusts everything to fit you.
Want to skip a museum, add a food stop, or focus on street art? Just ask. Every experience is shaped around your pace, preferences and interests.
Chat before you book
Message your host directly to customize your experience.
Ask questions, get local tips, or make special requests. Our hosts are real people, ready to make your day unforgettable.
Travel that supports locals
Every booking supports independent locals and their communities.
We believe tourism should benefit the people who live there. Your host earns directly and often invests it right back into their neighborhood.
Feel good about where your money goes
You’re choosing meaningful travel, not mass tourism.
Withlocals is built on fair pay, human connections and travel that leaves a positive mark for both you and the places you visit.
Trusted by millions
Loved by over 1,000,000 travelers all around the world.
Withlocals hosts consistently earn 5-star reviews for their kindness, knowledge and the personal stories they share.
Secure & flexible booking
Book with peace of mind: safe payments and easy changes.
Your plans can shift and that’s okay. We offer flexible cancellation and real support when you need it.
Private Halong Bay Tours with Local Guides
Cruise through Halong Bay’s iconic karsts on a private tour. Go beyond the usual route with a local guide who can personalize your day with kayaking, cave exploring, quiet beaches, and authentic flavors.