Discover Ha Long Night Market: A Vibrant Coastal Adventure
Hoai Trinh
Explore the lively Ha Long Night Market in Quang Ninh! Discover must-try foods, exciting activities, and the charm of Ha Long Bay with a Local Buddy in 2025.
Nestled in the heart of Quang Ninh Province, Ha Long City is world-renowned for its UNESCO-listed Ha Long Bay, a stunning seascape of emerald waters and limestone karsts. Beyond its natural beauty, Ha Long pulses with vibrant nightlife, and the Ha Long Night Market is a must-visit gem. Located along Bai Chay Beach in the bustling Bai Chay tourist area, this colorful market, open from 6 p.m. to midnight, offers a feast for the senses with its array of street food, souvenirs, and entertainment. As of June 2025, the Ha Long Night Market remains a hotspot for travelers seeking authentic coastal culture.
A Glimpse into Ha Longโs Coastal Charm
Ha Long City, just a 2.5-hour drive from Hanoi (150,000 VND, $6 USD by bus), is Vietnamโs premier coastal destination, famed for Ha Long Bayโs 1,600 islands. The city blends natural splendor with modern tourism, offering everything from kayaking in caves to luxury cruises. The Ha Long Night Market, situated on Ha Long Street near Bai Chay Bridge, is a lively hub where locals and tourists mingle. Spanning over 500 stalls, itโs a treasure trove of Quang Ninhโs flavors and crafts, with prices as low as 20,000 VND ($0.80 USD) for snacks. Open daily, the market buzzes most on weekends, with live music and a refreshing sea breeze (20-28ยฐC, 68-82ยฐF). Visiting the Ha Long Night Market is the perfect way to soak in Ha Longโs vibrant energy after a day exploring the bay.
Ha Long City, just a 2.5-hour drive from Hanoi (150,000 VND, $6 USD by bus), is Vietnamโs premier coastal destination, famed for Ha Long Bayโs 1,600 islands.
Must-Try Foods at Ha Long Night Market
The Ha Long Night Market is a foodieโs paradise, showcasing Quang Ninhโs seafood-rich cuisine and Vietnamese street food classics. Here are the dishes you shouldnโt miss:
Grilled Squid (Muc Nuong): Fresh squid, grilled over charcoal and brushed with chili sauce, is a coastal favorite. Grab a skewer at seafood stalls for 50,000 VND ($2 USD), perfect with a cold Saigon Beer (20,000 VND, $0.80 USD). Fresh squid, grilled over charcoal and brushed with chili sauce, is a coastal favorite.
Banh Cuon Cha Muc: Steamed rice rolls stuffed with minced squid paste, topped with fried shallots and nuoc mam. Try them at Quan Ba Tam stalls in the market for 40,000 VND ($1.60 USD).
Steamed rice rolls stuffed with minced squid paste, topped with fried shallots and nuoc mam.
Bun Hai San: A seafood noodle soup brimming with shrimp, crab, and squid in a tangy broth. Available at central food courts for 60,000 VND ($2.40 USD), itโs a hearty treat. A seafood noodle soup brimming with shrimp, crab, and squid in a tangy broth.
Che Ba Mau: A colorful dessert of mung bean, red bean, and coconut milk, served chilled. Find it at dessert stalls for 20,000 VND ($0.80 USD), ideal for cooling off. A colorful dessert of mung bean, red bean, and coconut milk, served chilled.
Oysters (Hau Nuong): Freshly shucked oysters, grilled with scallions or cheese, are a market highlight. A plate of three costs 30,000 VND ($1.20 USD) at seafood rows.
Freshly shucked oysters, grilled with scallions or cheese, are a market highlight.
These dishes capture the essence of Ha Long Night Marketโs coastal flavors, best enjoyed at communal tables under twinkling lights.
Fun Activities at Ha Long Night Market
Beyond food, the Ha Long Night Market offers a range of entertainment to keep the night lively:
Souvenir Shopping: Browse over 300 stalls for Ha Long specialties like dried squid (100,000 VND, $4 USD/kg), pearl jewelry (200,000 VND, $8 USD), and embroidered bags (50,000 VND, $2 USD). Bargain gently for the best deals.
Live Performances: On weekends, enjoy free traditional music and dance shows near the marketโs central stage, showcasing Quang Ninhโs folk heritage. Arrive by 8 p.m. for the best views. On weekends, enjoy free traditional music and dance shows near the marketโs central stage, showcasing Quang Ninhโs folk heritage.
Street Photography: The marketโs neon signs, colorful stalls, and bay backdrop make it a photographerโs dream. Capture the vibe along the main walkway or near Bai Chay Beach.
Beach Stroll: After exploring, walk along Bai Chay Beach (free) to enjoy the sea breeze and views of illuminated cruise ships. Nearby bars like Coco Beach Bar offer cocktails (100,000 VND, $4 USD).
Games and Rides: Family-friendly stalls offer dart games and mini Ferris wheels for kids (20,000 VND, $0.80 USD per game). The festive atmosphere is perfect for all ages.
Family-friendly stalls offer dart games and mini Ferris wheels for kids
These activities make the Ha Long Night Market a vibrant playground, blending shopping, culture, and seaside fun.
Conclusion
The Ha Long Night Market is a dazzling reflection of Ha Long Cityโs coastal charm, offering a taste of Quang Ninhโs freshest seafood, unique souvenirs, and lively entertainment. From savoring grilled squid to dancing to folk music under the stars, this market captures the heart of Vietnamโs northern coast. Whether youโre strolling through its bustling stalls or soaking in the bayโs glow, the Ha Long Night Market promises an unforgettable evening. To experience it like a local, book a Local Buddy with Tubudd to uncover hidden food gems and cultural insightsโdownload the app now and dive into Ha Longโs vibrant night!
