Dark and Bright Cave - Explore a Mysterious Cave by Kayak

1 Overview of Dark and Bright Cave

1.1 Location of Dark and Bright Cave

Dark and Bright Cave (also known as Bright Cave and Dark Cave) is located in Lan Ha Bay in the Cat Ba Archipelago, near the border between Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay. This cave stretches nearly 100m through a mountain, with its floor submerged deep beneath the sea while its ceiling lies above the water. To explore it, visitors must board a kayak and slowly drift along the water, taking in its mysterious beauty.

The area boasts a highly distinctive landscape, where rocky islands meet the sea to form a mysterious cave. Small boats can pass through this space, taking visitors to discover a truly remarkable scene. Dark and Bright Cave is 3m above the water, nearly 100m long, and about 4m wide.

See also: Kayak through Luon Cave, see golden monkeys, and enjoy many other exciting activities

1.2 The cave's magnificent beauty

Passing through the "gateway" in the middle of the open sea, visitors find themselves immersed in a majestic natural setting. Inside is a vast lake surrounded by limestone mountains in a variety of shapes. Drifting along the water by boat and breathing in the fresh air amid scenery so beautiful you may never want to leave is the kind of moment you have long been seeking amid the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Dark and Bright Cave is considered one of the most distinctive caves in the area because, unlike many other caves, it did not form above the water's surface. Instead, it was shaped by numerous islands of different sizes, which gradually formed a uniquely shaped cave over time.

Visitors can easily enter the Bright Cave section, but access to Dark Cave may be affected by tidal levels, so visitors should take note of any special considerations when visiting on certain days. Once inside, a completely different world opens up, leading visitors to a small lake among the rocky islands in the bay.

A few years ago, visitors could still paddle farther inside to explore the cave, admiring schools of wild fish and beautiful coral reefs in the lake. However, due to the effects of the tides, the Lan Ha Bay management board has now banned all sightseeing and entry into Dark Cave to ensure visitor safety.

2 How to get to Dark and Bright Cave

2.1 Experience an overnight cruise

Dark and Bright Cave is now an extremely popular attraction, visited by nearly 99% of overnight cruise tours and day cruises in Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay. Visitors can travel by cruise ship departing from Ha Long Port or Beo Wharf in Cat Ba. The water here is also exceptionally clear, so visitors can swim directly in the bay.

Depending on the cruise itinerary, you can visit Van Boi Fishing Village, one of the floating villages inhabited by residents of Lan Ha Bay. Next, explore Viet Hai Village on Cat Ba Island, where thatched, earthen-walled houses from more than 40 years ago can still be found. You can also enjoy an overnight stay aboard a “floating hotel at sea,” spending the day taking in the full beauty of this heritage site. These experiences are sure to bring a range of emotions and unforgettable memories.

2.2 Explore Dark and Bright Cave by kayak

To explore Dark and Bright Cave, visitors can board a traditional bamboo boat (each carrying around 6 - 8 people) or paddle a kayak themselves (with 2 people per kayak) as they weave between the cliffs. Many visitors choose to explore Dark and Bright Cave by kayak, as it is one of the must-try experiences when visiting Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay.

In a kayak, you can get closer to the foot of the mountains and freely explore the beauty of nature, while admiring the imposing limestone mountain bases right before your eyes. As you make your way into the cave, you will have the chance to appreciate its beauty at your own pace and marvel at a masterpiece created by nature.

After passing through Dark and Bright Cave, you will see a valley on the sea, embraced by towering, majestic mountain ranges. Letting your paddle drift as you immerse yourself in the grand seascape is sure to become a highlight of your Ha Long Bay adventure.

One of the most beautiful destinations near the border between Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay, Dark and Bright Cave is like a gateway that transports visitors to another world. Alongside the many other renowned attractions in the area, Dark and Bright Cave is a must-visit, offering plenty of fun activities and exciting experiences. What are you waiting for? Grab your backpack and set off to discover this unique destination!