Halong Bay Weather December: Best Activities and Temperature Guide

Halong Bay December Weather & Temperature

December is quite good for traveling to Halong Bay. It is wintertime, but not as freezing as you may think.

• Temperature: The Halong Bay weather in December is still better than in many other parts of the globe featuring an average temperature of around 19°C, which is cool for people living in cold areas.
• Sunlight: With sunlight hours per day of up to 8 hours, Halong this month allows active travelers to enjoy diverse aquatic activities.
• Humidity: December has one of the lowest levels of humidity during the whole year with an average humidity of about 66%.
• Rainfall: The average rainfall is 22 mm, which is much drier than in the summertime, making it much more enjoyable to do exercise and outdoor activities as compared to the muggy summer months.

Halong Bay weather December

Pros & Cons of Traveling Halong Bay in December

When planning your trip to Halong Bay in the winter, it's important to consider the benefits and challenges that come with visiting during this time.

The weather is generally mild, with low humidity and clear skies, making it ideal for outdoor activities and cruising. However, temperatures can drop to around 15°C, so warm clothing is essential, and occasional fog or drizzle may affect visibility. Additionally, holiday festivities like Christmas and New Year's celebrations can attract more tourists and raise prices.

What to Do in Halong Bay in December

Relaxing on a cruise

• Best for: Rejuvenators

For relaxation lovers, relaxing on board and admiring the stunning beauty of Halong Bay nature is a perfect choice. Even if it is foggy in the early morning or late afternoon, you can see a mystic bay which people can never have that view on sunny days.

Mysterious islands are hidden under thin fog when the boat is cruising slowly, passing towering limestone pillars and revealing breathtaking scenery. Moreover, Halong Bay Cruise is among the best choices for special occasions like Christmas & New Year's Day.

Relax on the cruise and take in the stunning views of Halong Bay

Kayaking

• Best for: Active travelers

If you are looking for some interesting outdoor activities to explore the Halong Bay landscapes thoroughly, kayaking through the hidden caves is a perfect choice for you.

After a few movements, you will get warm and get used to the water. The humidity level this month is quite low, so you can ease your mind due to the less possibility of rain affecting your activity.

To participate in this activity, consider booking our best Halong Bay cruise 1 night in December.

Explore the beauty of emerald waters by kayaking

Beach Sunbathing

• Best for: Chill-out retreaters

Halong Bay weather in December is suitable for chill-out retreaters to join a lot of chilling activities, especially beach relaxation.

Have an enjoyable beach holiday in Halong Bay

You can just relax on the pristine white sand and admire the unspoiled landscape if there is a low chance of rain, the weather is dry with lots of sunshine.

There are several cruises ideal for a wonderful beach vacation you can consider:

Visit Fishing Villages in Ha Long

• Best for: Travelers looking for an authentic cultural experience.

Exploring traditional fishing villages like Cua Van and Ba Hang offers an immersive look into the daily lives of local fishermen. You'll see floating houses, fishing boats, and even get a chance to interact with the villagers, which allows you to learn about their customs and traditions. In December, the cooler weather makes exploration through the villages more comfortable, allowing you to engage with local culture and interact with residents. 

Discover the daily local life of fishing villages

Try Rock Climbing

• Best for: Adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts

Halong Bay is famous for its stunning limestone cliffs, which make it an ideal spot for rock climbing. The best climbing areas are around Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island, featuring a range of routes suitable for beginners and advanced climbers alike. The cooler temperatures in December enhance the climbing experience, allowing for more comfortable and enjoyable ascents amidst the breathtaking scenery.

Conquer the towering limestone cliffs in Halong Bay

Discover the Natural Caves  

• Best for: Nature lovers and explorers

Halong Bay is home to some incredible caves like Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave) and Thien Cung Cave, where various stunning stalactites and stalagmites will blow your mind. December offers clearer views inside the caves due to the dry conditions, making it the perfect time to capture breathtaking photos of these natural wonders.

Unveil the hidden beauty of natural caves

Go Swimming

• Best for: Relaxation lovers and water enthusiasts

While swimming is possible year-round, Halong Bay December is less ideal for these activities due to cooler water temperatures, averaging around 20°C. However, if you're eager to experience the bay’s waters, Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay are great options. These areas feature beautiful beaches and calm waters, providing a picturesque setting for a swim.

Immersed in the emerald waters of Halong Bay

Outstanding Halong Events & Festivals in December

Chrismas & New Year's Eve

• Time: 25th December - 1st January

December, the last month of the year celebrates the world's biggest holidays: Christmas & New Year. If you are on a cruise during this time, there may be an interesting activity on board to celebrate these occasions. The cruise will be decorated with a lot of beautiful lights and ornaments, you can join the BBQ dinner, sing, dance, and drink.

Immerse in joyful activities on board during Christmas

What to wear in December Weather at Halong Bay?

Casual clothes

Typically, you will travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay, so preparing comfortable clothing is essential. Opt for everyday wear like hoodies and casual jeans or pants:

• Waterproof jacket
• Sweater and cardigan
• Hoodies, sweatshirts
• Sneakers and flip-flops

Halong Bay Cruise Clothes

On the cruise, temperatures can drop even more, especially in the evening. In addition to your casual clothes, you should bring these items:

• A lightweight waterproof hooded jacket
• Comfortable indoor footwear like flip-flops
• Boots or sports shoes for exploring caves
• A swimsuit (preferably a one-piece) to stay warm while kayaking  
• A fancy outfit or dress for onboard parties

Insider Tips for Traveling to Halong Bay in December

Booking Tips

• Opt for cruise tours on Christmas and New Year's Eve to save money because the surcharge for hotel accommodation is often higher than a cruise.
• Contact your travel consultant to check carefully before booking due to surcharges for Christmas & New Year's Eve on some cruises.
• If you do not want to pay a surcharge, choose to stay in 3-star hotels or less.
• Book a cruise in advance to avoid disappointment. Though December is not the time when local people travel, the cruises can be fully booked by foreign tourists.

Packing Tips

These are the essential things to pack to visit Halong Bay in winter for the best experience:

• As it can be cold at night, you had better bring warm clothes like a puffer jacket or sweater.
• Prepare a light waterproof jacket in case the weather is foggy.
• Hats, caps, or sunscreen are still necessary for sunny days.  In addition, you may need a pair of athletic shoes for visiting the caves.
• The low humidity level may cause dryness to your skin, so you should bring a moisturizing cream.

FAQs

1. Is December an ideal month for visiting Halong Bay?

Yes, December is a great time to visit Halong Bay due to the dry and cool weather. However, temperatures can drop especially in the mornings and evenings, so it's advisable to dress warmly.

If you're more of a summer-lover person, read more of our guide on What to Expect in Halong Bay on Summer Days.

2. What clothing should I pack for a Halong Bay cruise in December?

You should pack warm, comfortable clothing that allows ease of movement. Don't forget to bring a light jacket, a scarf, and a wool hat to stay warm on colder days. Walking shoes or sneakers are perfect for outdoor activities.

3. Does December fall in the high or low tourist season?

December is generally part of the peak season for foreigners due to the cooler weather. Many travelers seek to escape the heat of summer, and the pleasant temperatures create ideal conditions for outdoor activities such as cruising, hiking, and exploring caves.

Additionally, the festive atmosphere during this month adds to the appeal, with holiday celebrations and events drawing even more tourists.

4. Is it possible to enjoy swimming in Halong Bay during December?

December can be quite chilly, so swimming may not be ideal for everyone. However, some adventurous travelers still take part in these activities despite the lower water temperatures.

5. Is it cold on cruises in December?

Yes, it can feel colder on a cruise due to the sea breeze, especially when compared to onshore activities.

• In the morning, temperatures typically range from 15°C to 18°C, often with fog.
• By the afternoon, the temperature may rise to around 20°C, providing a mild and comfortable climate.
• In the evening and at night, temperatures can drop from 13°C to 16°C. It’s not extremely cold, but you should definitely pack warm clothing just in case.

That's all you need to know about the Halong Bay December weather and how to prepare for the trip like a pro. If you're ready to secure the best cruise deals and get expert travel tips, reach out to BestPrice Travel and begin planning your unforgettable adventure today!