Travel TipsVietnam

Hotel and Lodging Options around Hang Sot (Surprise Cave), Halong Bay

1. What types of accommodation are available around Hang Sot in Halong Bay, Vietnam?


There are a variety of accommodation options available near Hang Sot in Halong Bay, including luxury hotels and resorts, budget hotels and hostels, homestays, and overnight cruise options. Some popular choices include:

1. Luxury Hotels and Resorts: These high-end accommodations offer top-notch amenities such as swimming pools, spas, and gourmet dining options. Some examples include Paradise Suites Hotel, Vinpearl Resort & Spa Halong Bay, and Novotel Ha Long Bay.

2. Budget Hotels and Hostels: Perfect for budget travelers, these accommodations offer comfortable rooms at affordable prices. Some popular options include Banana & Rose Homestay, Ha Long UniQue Hotel, and Ooshi Homestay.

3. Homestays: For a more authentic experience, visitors can stay in local homestays run by families in the surrounding villages. Examples of popular homestays in the area include Tra Co Village Homestay and Nam Phuong Riverside Homestay.

4. Overnight Cruises: One of the most popular ways to experience Halong Bay is through an overnight cruise. These cruises offer a range of accommodation options from budget to luxury for guests to stay on while exploring the bay. Some highly-rated companies offering overnight cruises around Hang Sot include Dragon Legend Cruise, Indochina Junk Cruise, and Bhaya Cruises.

2. Are there any budget hotels or guesthouses near Hang Sot?


Yes, there are several budget hotels and guesthouses near Hang Sot. Some popular options include:

1. Hoa Lu Hotel: This budget hotel offers comfortable rooms and a convenient location, just 5 minutes away from the entrance to Hang Sot.

2. Thuy Duong Hung Homestay: Located in the nearby village of Lan Ha, this homestay offers affordable rooms with beautiful views of the surrounding limestone mountains.

3. Monkey Island Resort: A unique accommodation option located on its own private island, this resort offers budget-friendly bungalows and dorm rooms with easy access to Hang Sot.

4. Nam Cat Island Resort: Another island retreat near Hang Sot, this resort offers basic but comfortable rooms at a budget-friendly price.

5. Ha Noi Hotel Ninh Binh: This hotel is a 10-minute drive from Hang Sot and offers affordable rooms with great amenities such as an outdoor pool and free Wi-Fi.

It’s always recommended to book in advance during high season or holidays as these budget options tend to fill up quickly.

3. Are there any luxury resorts or boutique hotels around the area?

Yes, there are several luxury resorts and boutique hotels in Canggu and the surrounding areas, such as COMO Uma Canggu, The Slow, Theanna Eco Villa and Spa, and The Kirana Hotel. These properties offer high-end amenities and services, as well as a unique and personalized experience for guests.

4. What is the closest hotel to Hang Sot cave entrance?


The closest hotel to Hang Sot cave entrance is Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh, which is located about 3km away from the cave. Other nearby hotels include Tam Coc Garden Resort (4km away) and The Vancouver Hotel (5km away).

5. Is it possible to stay overnight on a boat near Hang Sot?


Yes, it is possible to stay overnight on a boat near Hang Sot. Some tour companies offer overnight cruises in the area, which include accommodation on a traditional junk boat. Alternatively, there are also options to camp on one of the nearby islands or beaches with permission from the national park authorities.

6. Are there any homestay options available near Hang Sot?

Yes, there are a few homestay options available near Hang Sot. Some popular choices include:

1. Pu Luong Treehouse Homestay: This homestay is located about 24 km from Hang Sot and offers cozy treehouse accommodations nestled in the rice terrace fields.

2. Na village Homestay: Located in Ban Cong village, this homestay is about 20 km from Hang Sot and offers traditional stilt houses for a unique cultural experience.

3. Pom Coong Village Homestay: Situated in Mai Chau Valley, this homestay is about 33 km from Hang Sot and offers traditional Thai ethnic-style bungalows for a relaxing stay.

4. Xuan Son Homestay: This homestay is located in Hoa Binh and is about 43 km away from Hang Sot. It offers comfortable rooms with views of the surrounding mountainous landscape.

7. Which accommodations offer the best views of Halong Bay and Hang Sot cave?


The best views of Halong Bay and Hang Sot Cave can be seen from accommodations located on Cat Ba Island or the nearby floating villages. Some popular options with great views include La Pinta Cruise, Dragon Legend Cruise, and Bhaya Classic & Premium Cruises. These accommodations offer cruises around Halong Bay, allowing you to see the stunning scenery from different angles. Another option is to stay at one of the hotels or resorts on Cat Ba Island, such as Cat Ba Sunrise Resort or Cat Ba Beach Resort, which offer rooms with balconies overlooking the bay.

8. How far is the nearest hotel from Cat Ba Island where a lot of cruises depart from?

The nearest hotel from Cat Ba Island is about 1.5 km away, which is approximately a 5-minute drive or a 20-minute walk. However, there are also many hotels and accommodations located on Cat Ba Island itself, within walking distance of the port where cruises depart from.

9. Can I book a private room on a cruise around Halong Bay and still visit Hang Sot cave?


Yes, it is possible to book a private room on a cruise around Halong Bay and still visit Hang Sot cave. Many cruises offer private rooms for guests who prefer more privacy during their trip. You can arrange with your cruise company to include a visit to Hang Sot cave in your itinerary. Alternatively, you can also book a private tour of the cave through a local tour operator. Just make sure to inform them that you will be staying on a cruise and they can arrange transportation for you from the cruise to the cave and back.

10. Are there any all-inclusive resorts in the vicinity of Hang Sot in Halong Bay?


There are several all-inclusive resorts in the vicinity of Hang Sot in Halong Bay, including:
1. Paradise Suites Hotel: Located on Tuan Chau Island, this luxurious resort offers all-inclusive packages that include transfers to and from Hang Sot Cave, meals, and activities like kayaking and squid fishing.
2. La Vela Premium Cruise: This cruise ship offers all-inclusive packages that include a visit to Hang Sot Cave as part of its itinerary, along with meals and activities like Tai Chi and cooking classes.
3. Bhaya Classic Cruise: This cruise company offers all-inclusive packages that include a visit to Hang Sot Cave as part of its itinerary, along with meals and activities like kayaking, swimming, and squid fishing.
4. Indochina Sails Luxury Cruise: This luxury cruise ship offers all-inclusive packages that include a visit to Hang Sot Cave as part of its itinerary, along with meals and activities like Tai Chi and cooking classes.
5. Legend Halong Private Cruises: This private cruise company offers all-inclusive packages that include a visit to Hang Sot Cave as part of its itinerary, along with meals and activities like kayaking.

11. Is it recommended to stay on Cat Ba Island or closer to Hang Sot if I want to explore more caves and islands in Halong Bay?


It is recommended to stay on Cat Ba Island as it is centrally located and provides easy access to nearby caves and islands in Halong Bay. Many tour companies operate from Cat Ba, so you are likely to find a variety of options for exploring the area from there.

12. Are there any eco-friendly or sustainable accommodation options near Hang Sot cave in Halong Bay?


Yes, there are several eco-friendly and sustainable accommodation options near Hang Sot cave in Halong Bay. Some examples include:

1. Au Co Cruise: This luxury cruise offers sustainable and environmentally-friendly practices such as using solar panels for energy and supporting local communities through responsible tourism.

2. Halong Bay Eco-tourism Hotel: This hotel is designed with eco-friendly materials and practices, such as using solar power and minimizing plastic waste.

3. Dragon Legend Cruise: This boutique cruise uses eco-friendly materials in its construction and promotes responsible tourism by supporting local communities and engaging in conservation efforts.

4. La Vela Premium Cruise: This cruise is committed to reducing its carbon footprint through recycling, energy-saving practices, and using biodegradable amenities.

5. Cat Ba Island Resort & Spa: This resort features a sustainability program that includes initiatives such as waste reduction, energy conservation, and promoting environmental education to guests.

It is always recommended to research the sustainability practices of a particular accommodation before booking to ensure they align with your values.

13. Do any accommodations offer activities like kayaking or hiking to explore the area around Hang Sot cave?


Yes, several accommodations in the area around Hang Sot cave offer activities like kayaking and hiking to explore the surrounding area. These activities may be offered as part of a package or can be arranged separately with tour operators or activity providers. Some popular options include hiring a local guide to take you on a scenic hike through the jungle or renting kayaks to explore the nearby river and limestone cliffs. These activities are great ways to experience the natural beauty and adventure of this unique region.

14. Is it possible to reserve a hotel room with a balcony or terrace facing the limestone cliffs of Halong Bay and Hang Sot cave?

Yes, it is possible to reserve a hotel room with a balcony or terrace facing the limestone cliffs of Halong Bay and Hang Sot cave. There are many hotels and resorts in Halong Bay that offer rooms with views of the surrounding natural beauty, including the limestone cliffs and cave formations. It is recommended to check the amenities and room options before making a reservation to ensure you get the desired view. Some popular hotels with balconies/terraces facing Halong Bay include Halong Royal Palace Cruise, La Vela Classic Cruise, Novotel Halong Bay Hotel, and Paradise Luxury Cruise.

15. How far is the nearest airport from my accommodation options near Hang Sot cave in Halong Bay, Vietnam?


The nearest airport to Hang Sot cave in Halong Bay, Vietnam is Cat Bi International Airport in Hai Phong city, which is approximately 50km away.

16. Can I arrange for transportation to pick me up from my hotel and take me directly to the boat for my cruise around Halong Bay including visits to places like Surprise Cave (Hang Sung Sôt)?


Yes, most cruise companies offer a pickup service from major hotels in Hanoi or other cities near Halong Bay. You can arrange for transportation to pick you up and take you directly to the boat for your cruise around Halong Bay. The transportation will also include visits to places like Surprise Cave (Hang Sung Sôt) during the cruise. However, it is recommended to check with your chosen cruise company beforehand to confirm their pickup locations and timings.

17. Are there any day trips available from my hotel to visit other nearby islands and attractions besides just visiting Surprise Cave (Hang Sung sôt)?


Yes, many hotels in Halong Bay offer day trips to other nearby islands and attractions such as Cat Ba Island, Titop Island, Tuan Chau Island, and Lan Ha Bay. These day trips usually include transportation, guided tours, and activities such as kayaking and visiting local villages. You can inquire about these options at your hotel’s front desk or through a tour agency.

18. What kind of amenities are offered at hotels near Hang Sot cave in Halong Bay?


The amenities offered at hotels near Hang Sot cave in Halong Bay may vary, but they may include the following:

1. Restaurant and bar: Most hotels in this area offer an on-site restaurant and bar where guests can enjoy local and international cuisine and drinks.

2. Free WiFi: Many hotels provide complimentary WiFi access to their guests.

3. Swimming pool: Some hotels may have a swimming pool where guests can relax and cool off after a day of exploring.

4. Spa services: Many hotels offer spa services such as massages and treatments for those looking to unwind.

5. Tour desk: Hotels may have a tour desk where guests can book guided tours of Halong Bay and other nearby attractions.

6. Fitness center: Some hotels may offer a fitness center for their guests to use during their stay.

7. Room service: 24-hour room service is often available for guests who prefer to dine in the comfort of their own room.

8. Concierge services: Guests can rely on the hotel’s concierge services for booking transportation, making restaurant reservations, or arranging other activities.

9. Air-conditioning: Due to the hot and humid weather in Vietnam, most hotels near Hang Sot cave are equipped with air-conditioning units in each room.

10. Complimentary breakfast: Many hotels offer a complimentary breakfast buffet with a variety of options to choose from.

11. Gift shop/souvenir shop: Some hotels may have a gift shop or souvenir shop on site for guests to purchase mementos or necessities they may have forgotten to pack.

12. Laundry services: Hotels often provide laundry services for an additional fee, so guests can keep their clothes clean during their trip.

13. Shuttle service/transportation: Shuttle service or transportation arrangements can be made through the hotel staff for convenience.

14. Safe deposit box/lockers: Most hotels near Hang Sot cave will offer safe deposit boxes or lockers for guests to store valuable items.

15. Non-smoking rooms: For non-smokers, many hotels have designated non-smoking rooms or a non-smoking policy throughout the entire hotel.

16. Business center: Some hotels may offer a business center with computers and printers for guests who need to attend to work-related tasks.

17. Child-friendly amenities: Families traveling with children can request amenities such as cribs, high chairs, and entertainment options for younger guests.

18. Parking: Depending on the hotel, there may be free or paid parking available for guests with vehicles.

19. Can I find accommodations that cater to different dietary needs or offer special meals for vegetarians or vegans?


There are many accommodations that cater to different dietary needs and offer special meals for vegetarians or vegans. Some hotels, resorts, and bed and breakfasts have dedicated menus or options for vegetarian and vegan guests. Others may be willing to make accommodations with advance notice. It is always best to inquire with the specific accommodation you are interested in booking to see what options they offer for dietary restrictions. Additionally, websites such as HappyCow or Yelp can provide information on restaurants and local food options that cater to vegetarians and vegans near your accommodation.

20. What is the average price range for accommodation options around Hang Sot in Halong Bay?


The average price range for accommodation options around Hang Sot in Halong Bay is $100-$300 per night. This can vary depending on the type of accommodation, season, and amenities provided. Some high-end luxury hotels or resorts may have higher prices, while budget options such as hostels or guesthouses may offer lower prices.