Imagine one day you find yourself standing on the deck of a cruise, with a cool ocean breeze tingling your skin and before you can wonder to yourself “Where am I?”, you are already mesmerized by the beauty of Ha Long Bay. 

More than just a picturesque seascape, Ha Long Bay is a living legend. The islets, rising mysteriously from the water, tell silent stories of love, guardianship, and even humor. Each formation, crafted over millions of years, carries an identity so unique that locals have named them after the objects or creatures they resemble. As you are sailing through this fairyland, you would discover some of the most fascinating islets that make Ha Long Bay an unforgettable destination. Let us give you a heads up about these amazing sculptures of mother nature. 

Hon Trong Mai (Chicken Mate Islet)

Going by different names as Trong Mai, Chicken Mate, Kissing Rocks or Fighting Cocks islet, it is a rock formation, among the most iconic landmarks of Ha Long Bay. From a distance, these two towering rock formations stood opposite each other, appearing like two giant chickens-one male, one female-locked in a timeless dance above the sea. Many believe the islet symbolizes an unbreakable bond, making it a favorite destination for couples who come here to seek blessings for their own love stories and gret photo shoots too. 

Hon Cho Da (Stone Dog Islet)

One thing you should keep in mind is that the names for many islets or islands resonated in Ha Long Bay are taken from easily identified shapes, and Cho Da Islet is one of many examples. Perched on a rocky base, this natural sculpture eerily resembled a loyal canine, gazing out towards the open sea, Cho Da Islet, as believed by the locals, is more than just a rock. This stone guardian watches over sailors and travelers, ensuring safe passage through the bay’s unpredictable waters, as if the bay itself was watching over us.

Hon Oan (Oan Islet)

Unlike other islets hidden deeper in the bay, this one was close enough to the shore that we could see it clearly with the naked eye. Oan Islet is shaped like a traditional Vietnamese rice cake called “oản”. At 22 meters tall, it has a balanced, rounded shape, much like the sweet delicacy it was named after. Oan Islet had even made an appearance in the famous French movie L’Indochine (1992), cementing its place in cinematic history.

Hon Dinh Huong (Dinh Huong Islet)

Floating proudly amidst the waters is Dinh Huong Islet, an incredible rock formation resembling an incense burner. It was no ordinary islet-this very image is featured on Vietnam’s 200,000 VND banknote, a testament to its cultural significance. It is a surreal experience to see it in real life, with your own two eyes as its sturdy base and intricate shape seemed like a tribute to Vietnam’s deep-rooted traditions of worship and reverence. 

Hon Yen Ngua (Horse Saddle Islet)

True to its name, the formation had two rock pillars connected in such a way that they formed a perfect horse saddle shape. This islet has a secret passage in the middle large enough for a medium-sized boat to pass through if you are lucky enough to sail through when the tide is low. 

Hon Ngon Cai (Thumb Islet)

Hon Ngon Cai resembles a gigantic thumb as if nature itself was giving us a reassuring thumb-up! Local fishermen refer to it as “Hon Ngon Tay” (Finger Islet), a name passed down through generations and they believe Hon Ngonc Cai symbolizes good luck - a common symbol in many cultures across the globe.

Hon Con Coc (Toad Islet)

Rising from the water, this rock formation resembled a toad sitting patiently, gazing skyward as if praying for rain. In Vietnamese folklore, the toad is considered the “uncle of heavens” bringing much-needed rain to the earth. That being said, every islet here has a soul, a silent story waiting to be heard by those who take the time to explore its wonders.

Hon Dau Nguoi (Human Head Islet)

Unlike the other formations, this one had a distinct facial structure: a large, prominent nose, deep-set eyes, and a rugged, expressive profile. It felt as though an ancient being was watching over the bay, silently observing centuries of change. The islet was an artistic masterpiece sculpted by wind and waves, a true testament to the creativity of nature.