Experience Halong Bay Weather in November: A Complete Guide [2024 UPDATED]

Halong Bay Weather in November: Temperature and Rainfall Insights

November falls within the dry season in Halong Bay, featuring generally pleasant weather with comfortable temperatures and low humidity:

Average Temperature

November is the beginning of wintertime, but it is still warm enough for outdoor activities, with an average temperature of 22°C. The average sea temperature in November is 28°C, which is quite warm, and you can enjoy swimming in the clear emerald water.

Halong Bay weather in November experiences a significant temperature variation between day and night:

• Daytime temperatures typically fluctuate between 23°C and 28°C (73.4°F - 82.4°F)
• Nighttime may fall from 17°C to 20°C (62.6°F - 68°F)

This temperature difference makes for pleasant daytime weather, but nights can be quite chilly, particularly when engaging in outdoor activities such as squid fishing.

The average temperature in Halong Bay over the past 10 years

Humidity Levels

With a humidity level of 77% this month, there's no need to worry about dry or cracked skin. This level is comfortable in Vietnam, providing a natural moisture balance that helps keep skin hydrated and healthy.   

Rainfall

The rainfall significantly drops from 54 mm in October to 12 mm. Moreover, the average number of rainy days is 8 days, making November the driest month of the year.

Compared to summertime, November has a more pleasant atmosphere and a low chance of storms, making this month worth visiting, especially for international travelers.

The rainfall in Halong Bay over the last decade

Sunlight Hours

The sunshine duration in December is about 8 hours per day, ideal for a lovely and sunny holiday. In fact, the sun often rises in the early morning, around 05:30 to 06:30, and sets in the late afternoon, between 17:30 and 18:30.

Pros & Cons of Visiting Halong Bay in November

Here are the highlights of Halong Bay weather in November, including both the advantages and disadvantages you might encounter.

Pros

• November in Ha Long Bay has a pleasantly mild climate, with mostly sunny days and little rain.  
• Temperatures are mild, neither too hot nor too cold, so you will not need to pack lots of warm clothes.
• Low humidity makes outdoor exploration and activities more convenient.
• Rainfall is significantly reduced compared to previous months, with clear blue skies and sunshine being common.
• November is a perfect time to visit caves and islands, thanks to the pleasant mild weather with clear blue skies, abundant sunshine, and comfortable temperatures.

Cons

• November is also the peak season, so there may be a lot of international tourists traveling to Halong this month.
• You can experience some chilly days as it is the beginning of winter.

Is November a good time to visit Halong Bay?

Yes, if you cannot stand the heat and prefer cooler climates, November is the best choice after taking the pros and cons into account.

November is considered the onset of winter in Halong Bay. For a detailed comparison of what the weather is like during the winter months (October to December), please refer to the table below:

All things considered, November is one of the most suitable times to visit Ha Long Bay, as the weather is mild and pleasant.

5+ Must-Do Activities in Halong Bay This November

Cruising overnight

• Best for: Nature & relaxation lovers

Halong Bay attracts many tourists with its most popular activity - cruising. Traveling in November, you should take a dip in the hot tubs while still feeling the fresh sea, which will help you unwind and put your mind at ease.

Massage service is also recommended, which is always available on overnight cruises. Enjoying the massage from professional experts on board will be an unforgettable experience.

Have a cocktail on board while enjoying Halong scenery

You can just admire the bay’s breathtaking natural beauty on the private balcony of your cabin or relax on the sundeck among significant landscapes while savoring a cold drink.

Tasting Vietnamese lotus tea/ coffee 

You may know that coffee in Vietnam is among the best coffee in the world. When on a cruise on chilly days in November, enjoy a cup of hot coffee on the cruise’s sundeck, watch the sunrise and sunset, and feel the peace in life.

Besides coffee, do not miss your chance to taste Vietnamese Lotus Tea. You can try it on some luxury Halong cruises such as Nostalgia Cruise and Sena Cruise.

Delicious tea ceremony on the Capella Cruise

Visiting floating villages

• Best for: Culture seeker

Another exciting place to explore in Halong Bay weather in November is the fishing villages. You will be welcomed warmly by the kind and hospitable residents here.

If you are a cultural traveler, you would have a chance to learn more about the unique culture of the local people here while still admiring the bay's beautiful nature.

Discover the peaceful Viet Hai Fishing Village

Vung Vieng and Viet Hai Village are among the most famous fishing villages in Halong Bay, which are included in the itinerary of several cruises below:

• Mon Cheri Cruise - From US $175 /pax
• Peony Cruise - From US $159 /pax
• Swan Cruises - From US $147 /pax
• Heritage Cruise Binh Chuan - From US $208 /pax

Exploring Caves and Grottoes

• Best for: Nature lovers

Exploring the caves in Halong Bay in November is an exciting activity, as you will have the opportunity to feel the coolness inside the caves and admire the beautiful stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over thousands of years.

The bay is renowned for its stunning caves, including Sung Sot Cave, Dark and Bright Cave, Thien Cung Cave, and many more.

Uncover the irresistible beauty of Halong Bay caves

Hiking to Mountaintop

• Best for: Adventure seeker

Upon reaching the summit, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of Halong Bay. The weather in this month is generally appropriate for a hike, but remember to avoid rainy days for safety reasons.

There is no need to worry about heatstroke as you would in the summer when hiking through dense forests or climbing mountain peaks. You will be treated to stunning views of the bay all around with some of the best hiking trails like Bai Tho Mountain, Titop Island, and Ngu Lam Mountain in Cat Ba National Park.

Climb to the top of Titop Island for stunning views of Halong Bay

Touring Halong Bay's Museums

• Best for: Culture & history lovers

If you want to avoid the crowds of tourists, you can opt for an alternative by visiting local museums in the city center. Suggested locations include the Quang Ninh Museum, located on Tran Quang Khai Street, open from 08:00 to 11:30 and 13:30 to 17:00. 

On the other hand, for those who are keen on 3D art, there is an interactive 3D art exhibition called 3D Fun Art Museum. Located in Marine Plaza, it showcases a collection of big, unique, and vivid 3D works taking inspiration from wildlife.

Admire the artifacts on display at Quang Ninh Museum

Local Tips for Traveling to Halong Bay in November

Besides the normal things you need for your holiday trip, you may need some more information about traveling to Halong Bay in November.

What to Wear for Halong Bay Weather in November

After getting to know the top activities to try in Halong Bay weather in November, it is time to consider what to pack for a hassle-free trip. You can find a suggestion list below from BestPrice Travel for each activity.

Here are a few extra items to think about considering the weather in Halong Bay in November:

• The sea temperature is warm enough for swimming, so bring your swimsuits if you want to soak in the emerald water.
• If you easily get cold, bring a sweater, a jacket, and a scarf for a chilly day.
• No matter whether it is hot or cold in Halong Bay, do not forget to bring sun protection with you, as UV radiation can still be quite strong.

A light sweater or jacket should be included in your bag

Booking tips

• Book in advance to avoid room unavailability is always better than last-minute booking because November is the peak season for Halong Bay.
• Book a cruise in the summertime for the cruise departing in winter through a travel agency to get better deals.

FAQs

Should I visit Halong Bay in November or December?

Both November and December are fantastic months to visit Halong Bay, but the weather in November is usually a bit better. The temperatures are comfortable, making it perfect for exploring the outdoors in breathable clothing.

Is Halong Bay too cold in November?

No, the average temperature in November is around 23°C, which is quite cool. It might get a bit chilly at night, but it is still pleasant. This enjoyable climate is good for outdoor activities and water sports.

What items should I pack for a trip to Halong Bay in November?

Temperatures are dropping, so in addition to lightweight clothing, you should bring along a few sweaters and long pants. Although the sun is not too harsh, you still need to protect your skin from the sun. A pair of sneakers and a camera are also essential items.

Is November a peak season or an offseason in Halong Bay?

November is peak season, so it is best to book your cruise and other services 2 - 3 months ahead of time to secure your spot and avoid higher prices.

Does Halong Bay experience a lot of rainfall in November?

No, the amount of rainfall in Ha Long Bay in November is very low, only about 12mm on average over 11 days. Therefore, you are likely to enjoy dry and sunny weather, with little to no rain interrupting your trip.

Can you swim in Halong Bay in November?

Yes, but you should pay attention to the weather and seasonal winds, as temperatures can drop easily, which may affect your health. After swimming, you should keep your body warm and away from the early winter wind.

Conclusion

All in all, Halong Bay weather in November is ideal for a holiday due to many reasons, including mild weather, minimal rain, and fewer tourists. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the bay in its entirety and participate in a range of outdoor activities. However, it is necessary to prepare suitable clothing to ensure comfort both day and night, as the temperature difference is huge. 

Check availability today to book Halong Bay cruises with BestPrice Travel.