King Kong Halong Bay: Exploring the Mysteries of Legend Island in Vietnam

places to visit in halong bay

During the Hollywood triumph of Kong: Skull Island in 2017, many people were taken aback by the raw beauty of the filming location. Let's discover King Kong Halong Bay if you are seeking a spot where nature is both lyrical and beautiful.

Where in Vietnam was Skull Island filmed?

The film utilized several stunning natural landscapes in Vietnam to depict the fictional Skull Island. Some of the key filming locations in Vietnam included:

• Halong Bay: Parts of the film were shot in Halong Bay, known for its iconic limestone karsts and emerald waters. Halong Bay is located in Quang Ninh Province.
• Ninh Binh: The picturesque Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex in Ninh Binh served as one of the primary filming locations. The filming area also has beautiful limestone mountain landscapes, world-famous rivers, and caves such as Tam Coc - Bich Dong or Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve.
• Quang Binh: The movie also used the breathtaking Son Doong Cave, the largest cave in the world, which is part of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in Quang Binh Province. Other scenes were filmed in Yen Phu Lake, Hang Chuot Cave, and Cha Noi Valley.

Was Kong Skull Island filmed in Halong Bay?

Kong Skull Island was filmed in Halong Bay in 2016. A-list Hollywood actors such as Tom Hiddleston, Brie Larson, Samuel L. Jackson, and John Goodman came to Vietnam with more than 200 film crew members and stayed for nearly a half year to record. 

Kong Skull Island 

The main setting of the movie is in Vietnam. Except for locations like Da Nang and Saigon before 1975 that were set in the studio, most of the film's duration is scenes shot in Ha Long. Audiences can admire the majestic beauty of Halong Bay from above as the planes of scientists and the US military penetrate the clouds over the Pacific Ocean.

Where was Kong Skull Island filmed in Halong Bay?

The location on Halong Bay chosen by the Kong: Skull Island film crew for their scenes is Cong La - Ba Hang island area - an island area located 30 km from Tuan Chau, and 20 km from Hon Gai pier, bordering Cat Ba Island. Cong La area has 2 beautiful small lakes, surrounded by mountains. 

Cong La - Ba Hang

One lake must be climbed over a mountain to enter, but the other lake can be rowed through 3 caves by bamboo boat, so this place is called Ba Hang. This beautiful area has many “ang” (small lakes) hidden inside the cliffs. Visitors can only access these villages by small rowing boats and when the water dries up, the caves are revealed.

Why was Halong Bay chosen as the filming location?

The blockbuster Kong Skull Island has made a huge impression in the film business not only for its excellent filmmaking techniques but also for its attractive filming sites. According to director Jordan Vogt-Roberts, the film team came to survey and admire the natural beauty of Vietnam, then immediately chose Vietnam. It became evident to them instantly that there was nowhere on the globe more beautiful than this country.

Halong Bay was chosen as the filming location

The scenery in Vietnam is both gorgeous and fascinating as if it were from another universe. There is a pure, magnificent beauty that is unlike any beauty that people have seen on screen. The natural scenery of Vietnam provided the ideal backdrop for Kong: Skull Island.

The natural beautiful landscape and heritage

Halong Bay, a stunning location in Vietnam, is celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty and historical significance. This coastal wonderland, often regarded as one of the world's most captivating natural spectacles, boasts emerald waters, towering limestone formations, and lush greenery, creating a serene yet exhilarating landscape. Beyond its mesmerizing aesthetics, Halong Bay is steeped in cultural and historical importance, making it an essential stop for travelers seeking an exceptional Southeast Asian experience.

Read more: Top 4 Places to Visit in Halong Bay: Exploring the Gems of the Bay

The unique indigenous culture

Halong Bay is not only a visual marvel but also a repository of rich and ancient indigenous culture. Archaeologists have unearthed around 50 "Ha Long Cultural" artifacts on its islands and along the coast from Mong Cai to Van Don. These artifacts, including stone tools and ceramics dating back 3,000 to 5,000 years, bear witness to the region's deep historical roots.

Traditional singing on Halong Bay

The inhabitants of Halong Bay hold a deep connection with their ancestors, enriching the bay's character through their traditions and rituals. Visitors can immerse themselves in local customs, relish delicious cuisine, and partake in the cultural tapestry of this remarkable coastal region, making Halong Bay a destination that delivers a profound and meaningful travel experience.

Affordable price

Now more accessible than ever thanks to budget-friendly cruises, Halong Bay offers an affordable way for tourists to explore its stunning green waters, towering limestone formations, and hidden caves. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of Halong Bay while enjoying the comfort and convenience of a cruise adventure. It's a fantastic choice for exploring King Kong Halong Bay.

How to explore Halong Bay?

Discover Halong Bay with cruise tour 

The beauty of King Kong Halong Bay attracts millions of tourists every year. Most authentically, to truly appreciate its natural beauty and heritage, is best achieved through a cruise experience. 

Cruise to explore King Kong Halong Bay 

Cruising through this breathtaking bay allows you to immerse yourself in its pristine landscapes, ancient caves, and stunning limestone karsts, all while enjoying the rich cultural and historical aspects of the region. A cruise not only provides an up-close encounter with the bay's diverse ecosystem but also offers an opportunity to witness the local way of life, making it the optimal choice for an unforgettable Halong Bay adventure.

For more information: Review Halong Bay Cruise - What to Know Before Setting Sail

Visit King Kong Tuan Chau Park 

Moreover, visitors can enhance their exploration of Halong Bay by visiting the impressive sculptures at King Kong Tuan Chau Park. The park's main attraction is its giant statues, reminiscent of popular Hollywood blockbusters. Another must-see is the dragon park, featuring 19 different types of mythical dragons up to 40 meters in height, blending both Eastern and Western cultural influences.

King Kong Tuan Chau Park

Additionally, at King Kong Tuan Chau Park, you can also marvel at other works such as Lac Long Quan, Au Co, Sister Hang Nga, and Uncle Cuoi, all inspired by Vietnamese fairy tales. And don't miss the stunning rose maze, adorned with thousands of colorful flowers. Visitors can have an unforgettable experience exploring the Dinosaur Park, Earth Dragon Park, Ecological Park, and waterfall system, all within a short 10-15 minute journey from the central area.

Another interesting place to go:  Unveiling the secrets of history and culture at Quang Ninh Museum

Explore Halong Bay with Paradise Vietnam’s Cruises

A perfect choice for touring Halong Bay by cruise is Paradise Vietnam's Cruises, which is ideal for tourists.

Paradise Peak

The epitome of luxury in Halong Bay's tourism landscape, the Paradise Peak Cruise offers unparalleled comfort and extravagance. Priority boarding, a diverse menu featuring traditional Vietnamese and international delicacies, and unique itineraries encompassing cave exploration are just a few highlights. Guests can savor unlimited dining selections from the dinner menu while enjoying free-flowing beverages and complimentary kayaking. The opulent room designs and diverse onboard facilities enhance this exclusive experience. Furthermore, guests can indulge in the Imperial Bao Dai Dinner, adorning Vietnamese Royal Costumes, and capture memorable photographs with the onboard manager. 

The Paradise Peak Cruise

Each room and suite on the Paradise Peak is furnished with premium interiors and features a private balcony, allowing guests to enjoy unique vistas through the window. The cruise ship also boasts a lounge, library, outdoor bar, and relaxation areas, including a spa and a fitness center.

Paradise Elegance

The Paradise Elegance Cruise, operated by Paradise Vietnam, is renowned for its exceptional service and elegant atmosphere amidst the breathtaking scenery of Halong Bay. One of its standout features is the delectable cuisine prepared by a team of expert chefs using only the freshest and highest quality ingredients. 

The Paradise Elegance Cruise

The cruise also offers thoughtfully planned itineraries that take passengers through the stunning Halong Bay, where they can participate in activities like exploring caves, visiting beaches, and other thrilling adventures. With its unique routes, the cruise provides guests with unparalleled views of the magnificent Halong Bay.

Explore further: Halong Bay Half-Day Cruise - Discover the Beauty in 4 Hours

Paradise Sails

Inspired by design from Oriental wooden sailboats combined with floating entertainment models, Paradise Sails offers a floating masterpiece, setting sail to explore Halong Bay with exceptional service and opulent surroundings. Dining on Paradise Sails is a gourmet adventure in itself which is prepared with the finest, freshest ingredients by a team of skilled chefs. 

Paradise Sails

Paradise Sails which is one of the best Halong Bay Cruise offers carefully crafted itineraries that traverse the stunning landscapes of Halong Bay. Passengers can partake in activities such as cave explorations, kayaking, and visits to fishing villages, all while enjoying the serene beauty of the bay. The cruise offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Read more: Sun World Ha Long - Unwind and Explore the Stunning Beauty

In conclusion, the association of King Kong Halong Bay has brought a new level of excitement and adventure to this already stunning destination. The synergy between the two has not only boosted tourism and the economy but also highlighted the importance of preserving natural wonders like Halong Bay. With its unique blend of culture, adventure, and beauty, Halong Bay with King Kong is truly a must-visit destination for any traveler.

Read more information about cruises to explore the beautiful landscapes of Ha Long Bay

• Halong Bay Cruise Overnight 
• Halong bay cruise 2 days 1 night
• Halong bay cruise 3 days 2 nights