Luon Cave is located in the south of Halong Bay, about 14 km south-east of Tuan Chau Island. Situated on Bo Hon Island and only 1 km away from Surprise Cave, this grotto is an open air cave, exposed to the elements, and which can only be accessed by boat. The cave is essentially a group of islands that have joined to form a brackish lake approximately 1 km in circumference.

To enter the cave, visitors pass under a 100 metre long arch that is 3 metres wide, and depending on tidal flows, between 2.5 and 4 metres high. The arch was form by erosion over millions of years.

Once they have passed under the arch, visitors to Luon Cave are met with sheer limestone cliffs plunging into the cool, green lake. Lavender Cruise guests who opt to kayak can paddle at their leisure around the lake, and experience the serenity of the grotto at their own pace.

Those who are not confident kayakers can use the bamboo boat service provided by the locals and enjoy a relaxing, natural experience. The cave is home to a rich and diverse ecology and the lake supports myriad species of fish, shellfish and molluscs including shrimp, squid, crab and cuttlefish.

In a boat or a kayak, visitors may spot cheeky monkeys climbing the cliffs, delicate and fragrant orchids thriving in rocky outcrops, and weeping figs providing solace from the elements. Cycads and ferns dot the cliffs, remnants of an ancient time long past.

The location of Luon Cave

Luon Cave is located in the centre of Halong Bay, Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam, 14 km south-east of Tuan Chau Marina.

Traveller reviews

One of the best place for kayaking!

“Luon” cave owes the name to its exceptional shape. In front of the steep cliff rising from the water is an arched entrance leading to the grotto. You can get through then entrace by kayaking through a quite small and narrow bow-shaped gate. I feel like I’m in an action movie exploring the mysterious land of Halong Bay!

Kunisada Chikafusa – Japan

A beautiful harmony of heaven and earth

After passing by a bow-shaped entrance, you will witness a calm lake with sky blue water, cliffs, ancient trees and blooming orchids. Unlike other places in Halong which is spoilt by tourism, the marine life is diverse and various such as shrimp, fish, crab,…Such vibrant life of species make me feel much closer to the wild.

Kim Lee – Korea

A beauty you can’t miss on Halong Bay

There’s a small part of island where you’re able to swim in the sky blue water. If you’r fit enough and want to excercise a bit then don’t hesitate to clim to the top of the island to get the bird view of the whole island. It’s truly exceptional! From this view you’ll have a clear sight of the enormous number of limstones karst around the Bay which is unbelievable.

Joshua Cortes – Spain

Right time to visit

Luon Cave is a year-round attraction. The first peak season runs from June to July, most of travellers are Vietnamese and Asian. The second peak season runs from December to February, most of travellers come from Europe, America and other countries in frigid and temperate zone. The first off-peak season runs from April to May and the second runs from August to October. If you are considering visiting this cave during the second peak season, you should note that prices are generally higher and availability may be an issue, so book your excursion early to secure the best price and avoid disappointment.

The busiest times are Tết (Vietnamese New Year in Jan/Feb, dates vary), 30th April (Reunification Day), 1st May (International Workers’ Day) and Christmas Day. Independence Day September 2nd is a national public holiday, you may experience a red bay with many Vietnam flags on the way to the cave. Halong Carnaval is an annual event organised for travellers, this street festival taking place at the end of April or/and start of May in Ha Long City..

Opening hours:

Summer: 8h00 – 17h00 | Winter: 8h30 – 16h30

Travel time	Popularity	Hight/Low (Celsius)	Sunshine hours	Humidity
January		20° / 15°	8	60%
February		21° / 15°	9	70%
March		25° / 18°	9	80%
April		30° / 22°	10	70%
May		32° / 24°	10	70%
June		34° / 26°	12	60%
July		34° / 26°	12	60%
August		32° / 24°	10	80%
September		30° / 22°	10	70%
October		27° / 20°	9	70%
November		25° / 18°	8	60%
December		21° / 15°	8	60%

How to visit Luon Cave

Excursion to Luon Cave is available in most of Halong Bay tours, both day trip and overnight boat tour. Check out the first-rate recommendations for overnight cruises and cruise tours, select the best one for your vacation, fully enjoy kayaking or rowing through the cave as well as amazing Halong Bay.

For the time poor traveller, a day cruise will give visitors a delightful experience of Halong Bay and the cave. Options include a half day and full day cruise

Nearby attractions