Ba Trai Dao Beach, Halong Bay 2025 – A Hidden Gem You Can’t Miss!

When you think of Halong Bay, towering limestone cliffs and luxurious cruises might come to mind. But tucked quietly among its many islands lies a tiny slice of untouched paradise Ba Trai Dao Beach.

This spot isnt famous like Titop or Sung Sot, and thats exactly what makes it magical. Accessible only during low tide and hidden away between islands, Ba Trai Dao feels like a secret known only to a lucky few. Its the kind of place where time slows down, your phone becomes irrelevant, and you just exist soaking in the raw beauty of nature.

So, if youre planning a trip to Vietnam in 2025, make sure Ba Trai Dao is on your radar. It may only appear for a few hours a day, but the memories you make here will last forever.

Lets dive into everything you need to know to explore Ba Trai Dao Beach in Vietnam from how to get there to what makes it so special, along with a bonus travel guide to Hoa Binh in Vietnam, another lesser-known but equally incredible destination.

?? What is Ba Trai Dao Beach?

Ba Trai Dao translates to Three Peaches in English, named after the three small, peach-shaped limestone islets that surround the beach. Legend says a fairy created the beach by dropping three peaches into the sea hence the name.

What makes this beach unique isnt just the folklore its the fact that it only appears for 24 hours a day, depending on the tides. During high tide, the entire beach disappears under water, making it feel like a mythical, vanishing paradise.

? Where is Ba Trai Dao Located?

Ba Trai Dao Beach is located in the southern part of Halong Bay, about 22 kilometers from Bai Chay Port. Its accessible only by boat or cruise, which adds to the feeling of exclusivity.

It's not part of the typical Halong Bay tourist circuit, so make sure your cruise includes it as a stop or request a custom tour.

? How to Reach Ba Trai Dao Beach in Vietnam

There are three main ways to reach the beach:

?? 1. Luxury Cruises (2D1N or 3D2N)

Many premium and mid-range Halong Bay cruises offer itineraries that include Ba Trai Dao as a stop. This is the most comfortable and scenic way to visit.

? 2. Private Boat Charter

If youre staying in Halong City, you can rent a private speedboat or traditional wooden junk. It gives you full control over timing crucial for hitting low tide.

? 3. Day Trips from Cat Ba or Tuan Chau

Some day tours include Ba Trai Dao along with kayaking or snorkeling activities.

Important Tip:
Check the tide timings before you go. The beach is only visible when the tide is low usually early morning or late afternoon.

? Best Time to Visit Ba Trai Dao

The beach is best visited from March to September, during the dry season when the sea is calm and skies are clear.

Avoid visiting during monsoon (July to August) as tide levels and storm alerts may disrupt your plan.

? Things to Do at Ba Trai Dao Beach

Despite being small and hidden, theres plenty to do at this magical beach:

? 1. Swimming in Crystal-Clear Water

The shallow, calm waters are perfect for swimming. Its safe, even for non-swimmers.

? 2. Kayaking Around the Limestone Islets

Paddle around the iconic limestone formations for a 360 view of this secluded cove.

?? 3. Sunbathing and Relaxing

Spread a towel, sip some juice, and just enjoy the moment. There are no shops here its just you and nature.

? 4. Snorkeling (if water is clear)

You may spot some small fishes and corals near the rocks. Bring your own gear if interested.

? What to Carry

Since Ba Trai Dao is a hidden beach with zero infrastructure, heres what you must carry:

• Sunscreen and sunglasses

• Swimsuit and towel

• Waterproof dry bag

• Snacks and drinking water

• Portable charger

• Waterproof footwear (like aqua shoes)

And please, leave no trash behind help keep this pristine gem clean.

? Local Legend: The Three Peaches

According to Vietnamese folklore, a fairy fell in love with a poor fisherman and wanted to make him immortal. She stole three peaches from heaven to give to him. But before she could return, the Jade Emperor turned the peaches into the three islands we see today forming Ba Trai Dao.

Sweet and tragic, right? You can almost feel the romance in the air while walking the sands of this mystical beach.

? Bonus Destination: Hoa Binh in Vietnam A Nature Lovers Escape

If you're in the mood to explore more hidden gems beyond Halong Bay, head towards the northwest of Hanoi and discover Hoa Binh in Vietnam.

Far from the usual tourist trail, Hoa Binh is all about lakes, waterfalls, caves, and authentic ethnic culture.

Heres why you should add it to your Vietnam itinerary:

? What to Explore in Hoa Binh

?? Hoa Binh Lake

Also known as the "Inland Ha Long Bay," this massive reservoir is dotted with small islets, making it perfect for boat rides and kayaking.

?? Mai Chau Valley

Just 1.5 hours from Hoa Binh city, this peaceful valley is home to stilt houses, green rice fields, and Thai ethnic communities.

?? Thac Bo Cave & Temple

A blend of spiritual and natural beauty boat across the lake, visit the cave, and light incense at the mountaintop shrine.

? Go Lao Waterfall

A beautiful waterfall surrounded by dense greenery. Great for quick dips and photographs.

? Where to Stay in Hoa Binh

From cozy homestays to scenic resorts, Hoa Binh has grown its hospitality scene.

• Mai Chau Ecolodge Luxury amidst rice paddies

• Bakhan Village Resort Lakeview retreat

• Local homestays in Lac or Pom Coong villages For an authentic ethnic experience

? What to Eat in Hoa Binh

• Com lam (bamboo-tube rice)

• Grilled mountain pork (heo nuong)

• Xoi ngu sac (five-colored sticky rice)

• Banana flower salad

The food is simple, healthy, and filled with local flavors.

? How to Get to Hoa Binh

From Hanoi, its a 2 to 3-hour drive (80120 km) depending on where in Hoa Binh you're heading. You can book a bus, private car, or bike your way if you're adventurous.

? Travel Tips for Offbeat Vietnam

• Learn a few local phrases even a simple Xin cho goes a long way

• Always carry cash; remote areas dont always support cards

• Be respectful of ethnic customs, especially in rural homes

• Travel with biodegradable toiletries and reusable water bottles

? Final Thoughts

Ba Trai Dao Beach in Vietnam is not just a place it's a feeling. A fleeting, dreamy moment of calm in the middle of a vast, wild bay. Its what travel dreams are made of secret, sacred, and soul-filling.

Pair that with the charm of Hoa Binh in Vietnam, and youve got a travel itinerary that takes you off the map and into the heart of nature, culture, and unforgettable experiences.

So when you plan your trip to Vietnam in 2025, go beyond the typical. Sail to a beach that vanishes. Trek through valleys few have heard of. And come back not just with photos but with stories that stay with you for life.