1. A brief introduction to Hon Gai Beach
1.1. Location
Hon Gai Beach was officially opened to the public in 2021. It is located at the corner of Tran Quoc Nghien Street in Ha Long. This beach is part of a road expansion project that extends from Bai Tho Bridge to the coastal road connecting Ha Long and Cam Pha. From the city center, tourists only need to travel about 11 kilometers to reach the beach.
Hon Gai is an artificial beach that stretches 900 meters in length and 160 meters in width, with an additional 28-meter-wide sidewalk. The beach area includes shaded trees, landscaped gardens, shower facilities, and parking zones. It is well-equipped with directional signs, observation towers, lifeguard stations, and a comprehensive waste collection system to ensure cleanliness.
1.2. Meaning of the name Hon Gai Beach
The name of Hon Gai Beach evokes the memories of a heroic era of the area in its early days. This name is also associated with a familiar verse of the locals: “Who brought me to this place. Bai Chay on one side, Hon Gai on the other.” Besides, the naming process took place during the 66th anniversary of the liberation of the mining region (April 25, 1955-2021). This timing inspired pride in the ongoing growth and transformation of the former Hon Gai Town and the modern Ha Long City.
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2. Unmissable experiences at Hon Gai Beach
2.1. Sunbathe and swim
Hon Gai Beach is one of the largest and most developed artificial beaches in northern Vietnam. It offers a spacious environment with scenic views, featuring a long stretch of white sand and clear water. The gentle waves make it suitable for swimming, especially for children. Tourists are welcome to bring their own food and beverages. You can swim or sunbathe in designated areas, which are fully equipped with comfortable lounges and shaded umbrellas.
2.2. Capture memorable moments
Hon Gai Beach enchants tourists not only with its clear water and white sand but also with dramatic views of limestone karsts rising from the sea. The area has been thoughtfully developed with a modern landscape that leaves a lasting impression. Today, it ranks among the top beaches in Ha Long Bay and remains a beloved spot for photography lovers and those in search of tranquility.
To truly embrace the beauty of Hon Gai Beach, try catching the sunrise around 5 am or the sunset around 6 pm. These golden moments are perfect for soaking in the atmosphere and capturing heartfelt memories with your loved ones.
2.3. Explore attractions near the beach
During a visit to Hon Gai Beach, tourists are encouraged to explore nearby attractions to experience the essence of Ha Long.
- The Dolphin Palace (3.1 kilometers away), with its creative design, serves as a venue for cultural exchanges, trade fairs, and business promotion events.
- October 30th Square (3.5 kilometers away) stands out with its lush greenery and sweeping views of the majestic bay.
- Quang Ninh Museum (3.7 kilometers away) is a spectacular architectural work and home to an extensive collection of exhibits.
- Ha Long Market (5.4 kilometers away) is the city's largest marketplace, offering a vibrant selection of goods and an abundance of fresh seafood.
- Hon Gai Church (6.0 kilometers away) is among the largest churches in Ha Long, admired for its distinctive architectural charm.
3. Frequently asked questions about Hon Gai Beach
3.1. How to get to the beach?
From Bai Chay, the center of Ha Long, make your way to National Road 18, head east, and cross Bai Chay Bridge. Continue on National Road 18 until you reach a large crossroad, turn right onto Tran Hung Dao Street, pass through a roundabout, then turn left onto Tran Quoc Nghien Street. Follow Tran Quoc Nghien Street straight for about 5 kilometers and you will arrive at Hon Gai Beach.
To reach the beach, tourists can rent a motorbike, hail a taxi, or hop on a bus. The route to the beach is very scenic, so take the time to enjoy the views along the way. For a more comfortable experience, tourists can use the service of Xanh SM - Vietnam’s first electric taxi company. Xanh SM offers modern vehicles, professional drivers, and a strong commitment to environmental protection.
3.2. When is the best time to visit Hon Gai Beach?
Ha Long features four distinct seasons. Summer lasts from April to September, marked by clear skies and temperatures often exceeding 30°C. Winter, from December to February, brings cooler temperatures, drizzles, and fog. As the weather varies significantly throughout the year, each season offers a unique experience.
For beach activities, and water sports, the best time to visit Hon Gai Beach is summer, especially from June to August. This is also the peak tourist season, as many Vietnamese families take advantage of the school break for their vacations.
3.3. What to eat at Hon Gai Beach?
In addition to exploring natural landscapes, tourists to Hon Gai Beach can also enjoy a variety of local specialties. Here are some recommended restaurants:
- Hong Hanh 8 Restaurant (126 Tran Quoc Nghien Street) specializes in seafood, offering a wide variety of dishes such as shrimp, crab, squid, and mantis shrimp.
- Bun Hai San Van Don (51 Dien Bien Phu Street) offers squid cakes, squid eggs, grouper soup, salted fried shrimp, and the best-selling seafood noodle soup.
- Pho Ga Ha Long (38 Le Thanh Nghi Street) has chicken pho, beef pho, stir-fried chicken with mushrooms, beef in red wine sauce, braised fish, braised beef, and more.
- Quynh Trang Restaurant (Tran Quoc Nghien Street) features seafood, savory snacks, hot pots, and a special selection of dishes made with buffalo meat.
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3.4. What to note?
To ensure an enjoyable visit to Hon Gai Beach, follow these safety tips:
- Check the weather forecast before heading out. Avoid swimming during storms or rough sea conditions.
- Avoid swimming right after eating or if you still feel too full.
- Do not swim when feeling unwell. Warm up thoroughly before entering the water.
- Follow all warning signs and safety instructions posted at the beach.
- Avoid swimming alone to reduce the risk of accidents, especially due to rip currents.
- Stay away from rocky cliffs, piers, or underwater structures to prevent injury.
- Leave the water immediately if you start to feel tired or uncomfortable.
- Swim before 9 am or after 3 pm to avoid strong sun exposure.
- Bring essentials like sunscreen, goggles, hats, and towels.
- If you plan to snorkel or dive, use proper equipment such as life jackets and goggles, and always follow safety instructions.
- Keep the beach clean by maintaining personal hygiene and disposing of waste properly.
Hon Gai Beach provides a peaceful escape from the city bustle. Golden sands stretch along the shore, mirrored by blue waters and the gentle shade of swaying coconut trees, together creating a picturesque setting that captivates every tourist. A visit here promises to be a highlight of your journey in Ha Long, leaving you with unforgettable memories.
Just 15 kilometers away from Hon Gai Beach, Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long stands as a perfect retreat for those seeking total relaxation. At Vinpearl, guests can unwind in luxurious rooms with full amenities, relax at the spa, chill out at the bar, and savor exquisite dishes at the restaurant.
