1 Pinpointing the exact location of Hòn Gai
Located in Hạ Long City, Hòn Gai is a quiet note in the hurried, bustling melody of life, in contrast to the vibrant, modern pace across the city. Yet this small island is closely tied to the formation and development of the lively Hạ Long City we know today.
Read more: Proud of Hạ Long Bay – Where the dragon descended upon Vietnam
Back in the 19th century, Hòn Gai was an important economic and trading hub in the mining region. The small island was also home to many of the city's key government offices. But as the years went by, while the other side of the city acquired a more vibrant and dazzling new look, Hòn Gai remained much the same: a peaceful coastal town with a slow, simple pace of life.
That is not to say, however, that this island has nothing interesting to offer. On the contrary, Hòn Gai has reinvented itself with a host of exciting attractions. Perhaps that is why, despite the many famous destinations in the mining region, such as Cô Tô Island and Bái Tử Long Bay, with their breathtaking scenery, Hòn Gai remains a beloved destination for so many.
A peaceful scene in a coastal fishing village in Hòn Gai as the sun sets. Photo: @yurakiliyan
2 Transportation options for getting to Hòn Gai
Located about 5km southeast of Bãi Cháy, Hòn Gai is easy to reach by car or motorbike. If you are traveling by motorbike, you can take this route: National Highway 18 – Bãi Cháy Bridge. From the bridge, continue a short distance and you will reach Hòn Gai.
3 Fun spots in Hòn Gai you shouldn’t miss
3.1 Sun Wheel Quảng Ninh amusement park in Hòn Gai
Address: Yết Kiêu, Hòn Gai, Hạ Long, Quảng Ninh
Opening hours:
- Monday to Friday: 14:00 to 22:00
- Saturday and Sunday: 9:00 to 22:00
Ticket prices:
- Adults: 350.000 VNĐ / person
- Children: 250.000 VNĐ / person
Sun Wheel, also known as the Sun Wheel, is an architectural landmark in the Sun World entertainment complex. This distinctive Ferris wheel stands apart on Ba Đèo Hill. To get there, you will need to take the Queen Cable Car.
Situated 215m above sea level, it offers a sweeping view of beautiful Hạ Long Bay from the very top—a thrilling experience, isn’t it?
The best time to visit Sun Wheel is at sunset. The wheel lights up with thousands of sparkling LED lights against the night sky. If you happen to pass along the road leading to Sun Wheel as dusk falls during your Hạ Long adventure, you can already see the brilliant glow of this distinctive Ferris wheel from afar. From inside the Sun Wheel cabins, you can see the city lights come alive as homes, shops, and hotels illuminate the skyline, while farther away, tiny lights flicker aboard the boats and ships, creating a wonderfully romantic scene.
Sun Wheel—one of the most exciting destinations in Hòn Gai. Photo: @van.p01
3.2 Quảng Ninh Museum
Address: Trần Quốc Nghiễn, Tuần Châu, Hạ Long, Quảng Ninh
Opening hours: Every day except Monday. Morning: 8:00 to 11:30; afternoon: 13:30 to 17:00
Ticket prices:
- Adults: 30.000 VNĐ / person
- Students: 15.000 VNĐ / person
- Children: 10.000 VNĐ / person
Nestled along Trần Quốc Nghiễn Street, Quảng Ninh Museum is a distinctive architectural landmark, an impressive art space, and a home to many valuable artifacts in Hòn Gai.
In stark contrast to other museums, Quảng Ninh Museum makes an immediate impression with its striking exterior. Its sleek black glass façade gives it a mysterious and powerful look.
The museum is divided into two main exhibition areas: indoors and outdoors. Its displays are varied, rich, and distinctive, showcasing the beauty and stories of the history, lives, culture, and daily customs of people in the mining region. From large-scale artifacts and natural resources to the farming and fishing tools used by local fishing communities, the exhibits offer a deeper understanding of the people and life here.
Quảng Ninh Museum also regularly hosts a variety of themed exhibitions throughout the year. Check ahead so you can visit, explore, and take it all in.
Quảng Ninh Museum and its exceptionally cool exterior. Photo: @_linh.pan_
3.3 Enjoy a day out at Hạ Long Park
Address: Lê Thánh Tông, Bạch Đằng, Hạ Long, Quảng Ninh
Opening hours: 24/24, every day of the week
Free admission
Hạ Long Park is one of the most exciting stops on your Hòn Gai adventure. Wake up early and take a stroll through the park by the bay to enjoy the fresh air and catch the first rays of the day. Then take some time to admire the scenery, visit the wildlife exhibits, see a flower exhibition, or simply take part in indoor sports or outdoor recreational activities.
3.4 Vincom Plaza Hạ Long shopping mall
Address: Clock Tower area, Hạ Long, Quảng Ninh
Opening hours: Every day of the week, from 9:30 to 22:00
Free admission
Vincom Plaza Hạ Long is a popular destination in Hòn Gai. This shopping mall offers a wide range of products, along with plenty of fun dining and entertainment options. Shop at high-end stores or explore a variety of cuisines, from Vietnamese to Chinese, Thai, and more. If a blockbuster is opening in Hạ Long during your visit, head straight to the CGV cinemas and catch it while it’s still new! There’s even an exciting ice-skating rink in the mall.
Vincom Plaza Hạ Long shopping mall, home to the impressive CGV cinema complex. Photo: @maikhanhnehihi
3.5 Hạ Long Seafood Market
Address: Bạch Đằng Ward, Hòn Gai
As the largest wholesale market in Hạ Long, it sells a wide range of goods, from clothes, shoes, and household items to food stalls, fresh seafood, and various agricultural products. If you want to find out how a fisher’s day begins, visit the market in the morning.
After hours of fishing, boats return laden with fresh catches. The lively sounds of conversation and vendors calling out prices fill the air, bringing the whole market to life. You can buy fresh seafood here at low prices to enjoy yourself or take home as a gift.
A peaceful scene with fishing boats in Hòn Gai. Photo: @vickyvan97
3.6 Bãi Cháy Bridge
A symbol of Hạ Long City, Bãi Cháy Bridge connects Hòn Gai and Bãi Cháy, leading into the city center. It is a single-plane cable-stayed bridge with a main span measuring 435m. More than just a link between two parts of the mining city, Bãi Cháy Bridge adds to the beauty of Hạ Long.
Bãi Cháy Bridge glowing brightly after nightfall
3.7 Bài Thơ Mountain Cultural Site
For generations, Bài Thơ Mountain has been a symbol and a source of pride for the people of the mining region. The mountain is home to a diverse ecosystem, including orchids and si trees. From its summit, you can enjoy a panoramic view overlooking Hạ Long Bay. Unfortunately, however, you currently need permission from the local authorities to climb the mountain.
At the foot of the mountain stands a temple dedicated to Đại vương Trần Quốc Nghiễn, as well as the sacred Long Tiên Pagoda. Although close to the city center, Bài Thơ Mountain retains its inherent peace and tranquility.
A wonderfully expansive panoramic view of Hạ Long Bay from Bài Thơ Mountain. Photo: @shadow_vanessa
If the fast pace of city life ever leaves you feeling exhausted, Hòn Gai is the perfect place to escape. In this small coastal town, all the energy and bustle of the city seem to fall away, leaving only the fresh air, quiet, and simple charm of the place. If one day you feel like ‘escaping’ from the world, come to Hòn Gai with MIA.vn!
