Co cave - A poetic gem of Ha Long bay

Situated along sightseeing route No. 4 of Ha Long bay, Co cave enchants visitors with its romantic harmony of water and limestone, leaving behind lasting impressions. Its pristine beauty and tranquil charm have made it the most popular offshore attraction in this UNESCO world heritage site.

Perched halfway up Co island, an outlying islet about 20 kilometers from Tuan Chau International Marina, the cave is relatively small, with a modest entrance that opens to two chambers connected by a narrow passage. The first chamber is smaller, while the second expands into a more spacious hall.

Inside, nature has sculpted a fascinating system of stalactites and stalagmites, each boasting unique shapes and colors unlike those found in other famous caves across the bay.

Just a few steps in, visitors are struck by a breathtaking formation resembling a giant seashell, or an enormous pearl oyster, its shell slightly ajar, shimmering with an inner glow. Another marvel is a towering stalactite column cascading from the ceiling to the cave floor, like a natural masterpiece adorned with intricate patterns. Around them, delicate “stone curtains” in shades of golden brown and pure white hang gracefully, mesmerizing anyone who gazes upon them.

One of Co cave’s special features is its natural skylights which are narrow cracks in the ceiling that let sunlight filter in. On bright days, rays of sunshine stream through, scattering into magical bands of light that dance across the cave walls. At the far end, a narrow exit leads to a stunning viewpoint framed by lush greenery.

From here, visitors can admire the emerald waters of the bay, sometimes catching sight of a cruise ship gliding gently toward the cave, a scene so picturesque it feels almost dreamlike.

The cave has only one entrance and exit, giving visitors the chance to enjoy two perspectives of Ha Long Bay as they return. From the mountainside, striking rock formations come into view, each with its own unique silhouette. At the foot of the cave lies a small sandy beach. Even at high tide, it remains visible, its smooth white sand dotted with boulders rising above the crystal-clear water. At low tide, the beach curves like a crescent moon, an enchanting sight when viewed from above. In the silence, the gentle rhythm of waves caressing the sand adds to the cave’s irresistible charm.

Peaceful, pristine, and far from the crowds, Co cave has become a favorite among high-end travelers, particularly those staying overnight on luxury cruises. During a recent visit, British traveler Lucy Fleetwood shared that she and her partner chose a private yacht for the serenity it offered. “Ha Long Bay is breathtaking,” she said. “From the very first moment, the scenery left me in awe. Co cave is especially beautiful because it feels secluded and allows us to truly connect with nature.”

Thanks to its unique appeal, the cave has consistently drawn the largest number of tourists among offshore routes 3 and 4 in recent years.

In 2024, it welcomed over 74,000 visitors, and in just the first half of this year, it has already attracted nearly 44,000. The majority are international guests, particularly high-end travelers enjoying overnight cruises, seeking both luxury and tranquility amid the wonders of Ha Long bay.