InterContinental Halong Bay Resort Opens, Bringing Global Luxury to Vietnam’s Iconic UNESCO Destination

A new chapter in Vietnam’s luxury hospitality landscape has begun with the grand opening of InterContinental Halong Bay Resort, the first international luxury resort in one of the world’s most celebrated UNESCO World Heritage destinations. With its privileged position overlooking emerald waters and limestone karsts, the property marks a milestone moment for InterContinental Hotels & Resorts as it continues expanding into culturally rich, experience-driven locations.

A Legacy Brand Arrives in an Iconic Location

With nearly eight decades of heritage, InterContinental has long been synonymous with refined travel. The opening of the Halong Bay resort represents a strategic step in strengthening the brand’s presence across Southeast Asia while catering to a new generation of sophisticated travellers seeking immersion, authenticity, and elevated comfort.

Jesper Larsen, General Manager of InterContinental Halong Bay Resort, shared that the vision behind the project was to merge global standards of hospitality with the natural beauty and cultural resonance of the region. “Here, modern luxury meets the spirit of Ha Long—allowing guests to feel both connected and inspired,” he expressed.

Architecture and Design Inspired by Land, Sea, and Storytelling

The resort’s design draws deeply from Ha Long Bay’s geography and folklore. Conceptualised by renowned architectural studio WATG, the structure echoes the rhythm of waves, mountain silhouettes, and traditional Vietnamese craft forms.

The interiors, brought to life by P49Deesign, showcase a coastal design language with thoughtful cultural references—such as bamboo basket-boat motifs, pearl-inspired finishes, and a colour palette reflecting shifting ocean hues. Turquoise textiles, brass detailing, and organic textures create a sense of calm and timeless sophistication.

The resort features:

• 275 rooms, suites, and private villas

• Bay-facing balconies and panoramic windows

• Warm, contemporary Vietnamese craftsmanship woven throughout

Dining That Celebrates Craft, Culture, and Coastline

Food and beverage experiences are a highlight of the new resort, offering six distinct dining concepts, ranging from relaxed all-day spaces to specialty culinary destinations.

Among them:

• Roku & Star Bar — a rooftop Japanese dining experience opening soon, showcasing six traditional culinary techniques alongside a curated Sake library and a dramatic bamboo art installation inspired by the famed “Descending Dragon” legend.

• Marina Kitchen — celebrating seafood and modern coastal cuisine

• La Baguette — a charming bistro blending French and Vietnamese flavours

• Del Mar — a poolside venue influenced by the floating communities of Cửa Vạn

• Vue Lobby Lounge — serving handcrafted cocktails, afternoon tea, and sweeping bay views

Wellness, Adventure, and Family-Friendly Experiences

The serene Hidden Lagoon Spa anchors the resort’s wellness philosophy, offering treatments inspired by the bay’s calm energy. Services incorporate premium products from global wellness brands, including Margaret Dabbs London and Sodashi.

Recreational offerings include:

• Three swimming pools

• Beach volleyball

• Archery

• Dedicated programmes for children and teens

The resort’s Planet Trekkers children’s club introduces young guests to Vietnamese culture through hands-on activities such as conical-hat painting, handicrafts, and eco-learning workshops.

A dedicated game zone, cinema space, foosball tables, and digital-gaming rooms ensure multi-generational entertainment.

A New Venue for Celebrations and Conferences

With versatile event spaces including the Tonkin Ballroom, Cat Ba Ballroom, and multiple flexible meeting rooms, the property is positioned to welcome milestone weddings, incentive groups, board meetings and high-profile conferences.

A New Icon for Halong’s Hospitality Future

As part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ growing luxury and lifestyle portfolio—which now includes more than 230 InterContinental properties worldwide—the Halong Bay resort symbolises the brand’s evolution. It reflects a renewed focus on place-driven design, meaningful cultural storytelling, and elevated experiential travel.

The opening aligns with Quang Ninh province’s long-term vision to elevate Ha Long Bay into a premier destination for high-end tourism, blending environmental stewardship with world-class hospitality.

A New Benchmark for Coastal Luxury

With its balance of global standards, artistic expression, and connection to one of Asia’s most breathtaking coastal landscapes, InterContinental Halong Bay Resort is set to redefine luxury travel in Vietnam—and offer guests a destination where every moment feels both tranquil and extraordinary.