5 of the most beautiful kayaking destinations in Vietnam.

As a country with numerous rivers, lakes, and marine and island resources, Vietnam has great potential to develop tourism with water sports such as paragliding, underwater walking, snorkeling, and especially kayaking.

With its sheltered bays and calm waters, and stunning coastal and island landscapes, kayaking in Vietnam is gradually becoming a trend and an unmissable destination for kayak enthusiasts. Let's take a look at some of the best kayaking destinations in Vietnam!

Tu San Gorge, Ha Giang

Years ago, young people conquering the Dong Van karst plateau could only stand on the Ma Pi Leng pass and gaze at the clear blue Nho Que River winding at the foot of the mountains. But now, the Nho Que River in the Tu San gorge has become one of the "coolest" kayaking spots in Vietnam, with unforgettable picturesque scenery.

The Nho Que River enters Vietnam at Seo Lung village, Lung Cu commune, Dong Van district, then passes through the Tu San gorge and flows along the Ma Pi Leng pass. The Tu San gorge is known as the deepest river gorge in Southeast Asia, nicknamed the "First Majestic Viewpoint" in Vietnam, with an altitude of 1,500 meters and a depth of 700-900 meters. Imagine the wonder of paddling a boat leisurely on the calm, emerald green waters and admiring the majestic and spectacular scenery of Ha Giang!

However, every activity requires considerable effort. Getting to the boat dock on the Nho Que River is not simple. From Ma Pi Leng Pass, continue towards Meo Vac until you see the sign pointing to Xin Cai, then continue for another 5-7 km to find Nho Que Boat Dock 1.

From here, you have to trek another 2 km to reach the boat dock right on the riverbank and rent a kayak for about 50,000 VND, then paddle to your heart's content in this area.

Phong Nha - Ke Bang cave system, Quang Binh

The Phong Nha - Ke Bang World Natural Heritage site is becoming a favorite kayaking destination for both domestic and international tourists. With its landscape combining majestic caves, clear streams, and magnificent mountains and forests, it's ideal for visitors to relax and paddle, taking in the breathtaking scenery that nature has bestowed upon Quang Binh province.

For kayaking in Phong Nha - Ke Bang, tourists typically have two options. One is the route along the Son River – a picturesque and tranquil branch of the Gianh River in Quang Binh province. Along both banks of the river are villages nestled beside majestic mountains. As you leisurely paddle along the Son River, you'll be able to admire the rolling mountains, interwoven like a breathtaking, unspoiled valley.

The second option for tourists who enjoy kayaking is to explore a section of Phong Nha Cave. This is the world's largest wet cave, with a vast underground river system and thousands of strangely shaped stalactites and stalagmites waiting to be discovered.

Visitors will have the opportunity to paddle kayaks deep into the cave, feeling the cool air emanating from the rocks and the mist. With a free exploration schedule, you can stop at Bi Ky Cave to admire the scenery or anchor your boat on the sandy beaches, relax, and admire the beauty of the cave.

On average, renting a kayak here costs around 100,000 VND per hour for two people. When kayaking into Phong Nha Cave, you should bring a flashlight to easily admire the beautiful stalactite formations inside, and remember to wear modest clothing as the cave is home to many insects.

Ha Long Bay, Quang Ninh

As one of the 7 natural wonders of the world, Ha Long Bay has long been a favorite destination. When visiting Ha Long, you can take a boat tour of the bay, swim in the sea, or explore the caves. But the most exciting activity is kayaking, weaving through the strangely shaped islands in the bay.

Ha Long Bay has long been chosen by foreign tourists as one of the most beautiful kayaking destinations in Vietnam thanks to its fresh climate and dreamy yet majestic scenery. Visitors can freely steer their small boats out into the wider sea. Or, if you love exploring caves, Luon Cave, Co Cave, Ba Trai Dao Cave, Dau Be Cave, and Ba Ham Cave are suitable locations for kayaking…

Besides the stunning caves, visitors can also spend time exploring the fishing villages in the bay, learning about the lives of the local fishermen. Each kayak costs 50,000 VND to rent and can accommodate two people. If you book a cruise tour, kayaking will be included in the tour.

The feeling of sitting in small boats and gently gliding across calm water, getting close to the foot of the rocky mountains to enjoy the beauty of the limestone mountain ranges up close, is surely an unforgettable experience.

Han River, Da Nang

The picturesque Han River has become a symbol of Da Nang city and a community hub in Vietnam's most livable city. Now, when visiting Da Nang, you can not only enjoy the beautiful scenery of the river from the shore but also experience kayaking on the river and watch the city sunset from a truly unique perspective.

Compared to the experience of kayaking on the sea, kayaking on the river offers many differences. While the vast ocean provides a sense of unspoiled wilderness, gliding along the Han River allows you to admire a modern, vibrant city. Especially in the late afternoon, as the sun sets on the horizon, the city begins to shimmer with colorful lights.

It's safe to say that the Han River is one of the most special kayaking spots you shouldn't miss. Starting from the Dragon Bridge, heading towards the Han River Bridge and then turning back, you'll get to fully enjoy the beauty of Da Nang's waterways and the vibrant, modern life on both banks.

If you have the chance, take a boat trip on the Han River as dusk approaches to witness a truly unique sunset. At that time, the daytime sun is no longer harsh, allowing you to fully enjoy the fresh air and let your mind wander with each wave.

Phu Quoc Island, Kien Giang Province

Talking about beautiful kayaking spots in Vietnam without mentioning Phu Quoc Island would be a huge oversight. This tourist paradise is blessed with pristine islands, crystal-clear waters, and endless stretches of white sand. While there are many other exciting sea experiences, don't forget to spend a few hours kayaking on the sparkling waves of Phu Quoc.

Phu Quoc boasts many attractive kayaking spots, with Bai Sao Beach and Cua Can River being popular choices among tourists. Bai Sao Beach, with its calm waters and refreshing breeze, is the perfect place to leisurely paddle and relax as time passes. You can also choose to put down your paddle, sunbathe, and enjoy a truly wonderful vacation.

If you enjoy kayaking on a river, the Cua Can River is a great option. This winding river flows through the pristine Phu Quoc rainforest, its water clean and clear, allowing you to admire schools of fish swimming freely while paddling. The banks of the Cua Can River are lined with orchards and fishing villages nestled peacefully in the sunshine, creating a breathtaking landscape.

My Tong