Dark and Bright Cave is an ideal destination for those passionate about kayaking and exploring the fascinating wonders of nature. This mysterious cave, resembling a gateway amidst the vast sea and sky, promises an exciting experience that you undoubtedly cannot miss once you set foot here. 
1. Overview of Dark and Bright Cave
1.1 Location of Dark and Bright Cave
Dark and Bright Cave (also known as Dark Cave, Bright Cave or Sang Toi Cave) is located in Lan Ha Bay, part of the Cat Ba Archipelago, an area adjacent to Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay. The cave stretches nearly 100m through the mountain, with its floor submerged in the seawater and the cave ceiling above the water surface. To explore this enchanting place, visitors must hop on a Kayak and gently paddle along the water flow to marvel at the mysterious beauty.
The unique landscape here features islands adjacent to the sea, creating a mystical cave. A space where small boats can navigate, taking visitors to explore fascinating scenery. Dark and Bright Cave has a height of 3m above the water, a length of nearly 100m, and a width of about 4m.
1.2 The Magnificent Beauty of the Cave
Stepping through the "gate" in the middle of the open sea, visitors will find themselves in the midst of a majestic natural wonder. Inside is a large lake surrounded by diverse limestone mountain ranges. Sitting on the boat, drifting with the water, breathing in the fresh air amid the beautiful natural scenery, will be a moment you have been seeking amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life. 
Dark and Bright Cave is renowned as one of the most unique caves due to its formation not on the water surface like many other caves. Instead, the cave is shaped by various small and large islands, gradually forming a cave with a unique shape.
Visitors can easily enter Dark and Bright Cave, but Dark and Bright Cave may be affected by tidal water levels, so special considerations are needed when visiting on specific days. Inside the cave, a different space of the wet cave will open up, leading visitors to a small lake surrounded by rocky islets within the bay.
2. Getting to Dark and Bright Cave
2.1 Experience Overnight Cruise Tours
The Dark and Bright Cave area is currently an extremely popular tourist destination, with almost 99% of overnight cruise and day cruise tours in Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay stopping by. Visitors can choose to travel by cruise ships departing from Ha Long or Beo Cat Ba piers. The water surface here is extremely clear, allowing visitors to swim directly in the bay. 
Following the cruise itinerary, you will visit the Vang Boi fishing village - one of the bustling villages of Lan Ha Bay residents. Then explore Viet Hai village on Cat Ba Island, where traditional thatched houses have been preserved for over 40 years. More importantly, experience the overnight service on the "floating hotel," spending the whole day to fully admire the beauty of the heritage. These experiences will undoubtedly bring many emotional levels and unforgettable memories.
2.2 Exploring Dark and Bright Cave by Kayak
To explore Dark and Bright Cave, the best way is for visitors to paddle kayaks or rowing boats into the cave area. With their compact size, kayaks or rowing boats will help you easily explore Dark and Bright Cave and immerse yourself in nature, feeling the pristine beauty and fresh air here.
With a kayak, you can get closer to the mountain base and freely explore the beauty of nature, admiring the majestic limestone mountain feet right in front of you. Gliding into the cave, you will have the opportunity to personally experience the beauty of the cave slowly, savoring the masterpiece created by the hands of nature. 
Passing through Dark and Bright Cave, a valley lying on the sea with high and majestic mountain ranges embracing it will appear before your eyes. Drifting the paddle, immersing yourself in the vast seascape will undoubtedly become a remarkable highlight in your Halong Bay exploration journey.
2.3 Exploring Dark and Bright Cave by Rowing Boat
If you’re on a rowing boat, don’t forget to bring your camera and recording devices to capture interesting moments while exploring Dark and Bright Cave with your companions. Each boat will carry from 5 to 7 passengers, and the boatman is usually a local resident familiar with the riverine terrain, so you can completely rest assured. Visitors will be equipped with life jackets to ensure absolute safety. On the boat, there are also culturally colored hats to help you block the uncomfortable sun rays of summer. 
Visitors can easily enter Dark and Bright Cave area, but Dark and Bright Cave may be affected by tidal water levels, so there are some considerations when visiting the cave on specific days. Inside the cave, the unique space of the wet cave will lead visitors to a small lake surrounded by rocky islets, within the bay.
As you paddle through the cave to the inside, visitors will be surprised as if they are entering a heavenly place. Inside is a vast expanse of water surrounded by towering limestone mountain ranges. Sitting on the boat, drifting with the water, breathing in the fresh air along with the deep green water, admiring the surrounding beauty and feeling the peace amidst the vast sea, clouds, and mountains will undoubtedly be a moment you have been seeking. 
As one of the most beautiful landmarks in the vicinity of Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay, Dark and Bright Cave resembles a majestic gateway that leads travelers into a different and enchanting realm. Alongside many other famous destinations in the area, Dark and Bright Cave is a must-visit spot with numerous entertaining activities and fascinating experiences. So, why wait? Pack your bags now and embark on the exploration of this unique destination!
