Cat Ba Island: A complete guide in 5 questions before your visit

When you think of Vietnam, does your mind immediately turn to the famous Halong Bay? If you're seeking a truly unique way to experience this magnificent natural treasure, we have a delightful suggestion for you: Cat Ba Island, situated in Lan Ha Bay. Prepare to be mesmerized by its breathtaking landscapes and savor an authentic experience. Follow along with us to explore all the wonders that Cat Ba Island has to offer!

Written by Hiep Bui (Local Expert) Updated on 19-03-2024

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1. Where is Cat Ba Island?

Cat Ba Island, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Gulf of Tonkin", is a stunning destination situated within the city of Hai Phong in northern Vietnam, approximately 150 km from central Hanoi. Nestled in the midst of an exceptionally picturesque area, it is enveloped by over 300 sizable and petite islands in Lan Ha Bay, which forms an essential component of the Gulf of Tonkin. Intriguingly, Lan Ha Bay constitutes a segment of the globally renowned Halong Bay Complex.

2. What do Cat Ba Island and Ha Long Bay have in common?

• Geographic location: Both are situated in the Gulf of Tonkin region of northern Vietnam.
• UNESCO World Heritage: Both Cat Ba Island and Hạ Long Bay are designated as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Geological formation: Both showcase remarkable limestone formations, featuring caves, islands, and karst islets.

If you seek to escape the tourist crowds, Cat Ba Island (located in Lan Ha Bay) presents an excellent choice. By opting for Cat Ba as a more tranquil alternative to Halong Bay, you will encounter a spectacular coastline adorned with majestic karst formations emerging from the emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin. Furthermore, more than a third of the island is embraced by a magnificent national park, offering pristine nature and awe-inspiring vistas. You'll also immerse yourself in the local way of life, deeply rooted in the sea.

As a UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve, Cat Ba safeguards a precious ecosystem, serving as a sanctuary of tranquility and exceptional biodiversity. It stands as the perfect destination to rejuvenate amidst unspoiled nature, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.

3. What to see and do on Cat Ba Island?

• Enjoy a leisurely stroll along Cat Ba Town's Seafront

Make the most of your time on Cat Ba Island by taking a leisurely stroll through the charming Cat Ba town, particularly along its picturesque waterfront. Starting from the port, you can marvel at the vibrant fishing boats and floating restaurants, take in the captivating sight of karst islets on the horizon, and immerse yourself in the quintessential Vietnamese atmosphere, both day and night.

Indulge in the local culinary delights by treating yourself to delectable fish or seafood dishes at one of the city's numerous restaurants, explore the bustling Cat Ba market, and experience the vibrant nightlife at one of the many bars. During the daytime, we highly recommend a visit to the summit of Cannon Fort, where you can revel in a breathtaking panoramic view of Lan Ha Bay.

• Indulge in relaxation on pristine sandy Beaches

Cat Ba Island boasts splendid beaches that provide a delightful setting for relaxation. Among these, the three Cat Co beaches stand out as particularly popular choices. They can be reached with a leisurely fifteen-minute stroll from the center of Cat Ba town, or you may opt for the convenient shuttle service from Cat Ba town. Upon arrival, you can bask in moments of relaxation on the soft, warm sand, all while taking in the breathtaking view of the iconic limestone formations that characterize the region. This activity is ideal for rejuvenating yourself after a day of exploration on Cat Ba Island.

• Embark on a Hike through Cat Ba National Park

Half of Cat Ba Island is dedicated to a national park that has held UNESCO's recognition as a biosphere reserve since 2005. We highly recommend venturing into this natural haven on Cat Ba Island to unveil its incredible wildlife, diverse flora, and breathtaking natural vistas.

Within the park's boundaries reside hundreds of animal species, including a multitude of bird species and the highly elusive golden-headed langur, an exceedingly rare type of monkey. This magnificent park encompasses a dense tropical forest, several serene ponds, captivating waterfalls, vibrant coral reefs, and ancient caves that have withstood the test of time, hidden amidst karst formations of unique shapes.

Make the most of a hike through the park to explore its tropical forest, and ascend one of its peaks to behold a mesmerizing panoramic view of Cat Ba Island and the enchanting Lan Ha Bay from the summit.

• Explore Cat Ba Island's Authentic Villages by Bike

Exploring Cat Ba Island takes on a more authentic and friendly flavor when you traverse its landscapes on a bicycle. Hop aboard your bike and navigate the scenic, winding paths that lead you through lush forests and bamboo groves, ultimately reaching the quaint and picturesque village of Vung Vieng, a bastion of traditional fishing practices. Here, engage with the locals and gain insight into their time-honored techniques for fishing and gathering. These captivating and enriching encounters will leave an indelible mark on your stay, making it truly unforgettable.

Another village not to be missed is Viet Hai, an unspoiled fishing village where the locals greet you with warm smiles and extend invitations to explore their traditional homes, constructed from natural materials like straw, mud, and bamboo. Engaging with the residents provides a valuable opportunity to delve deeper into their way of life, witnessing their daily activities centered around fishing and gathering.

• Embark on a Cruise in Lan Ha Bay

Following your exploration of Cat Ba Island, embarking on a cruise in Lan Ha Bay is an absolute must! A cruise aboard a private or shared junk boat is the perfect way to behold the stunning limestone karst peaks rising majestically from the bay.

A quintessential activity during a Lan Ha Bay cruise is kayaking, offering you the opportunity to explore this extraordinary seascape from a unique perspective. Paddling through this landscape, whether with a partner, family, or friends, allows you to get up close to the impressive limestone formations, touch the tropical vegetation, and experience the thrill of adventure as you navigate through narrow caves to discover hidden, secluded lagoons.

Itineraries may vary among different cruise lines, but you can embark on kayak adventures to explore locations such as the Ca Tunnel and its magnificent Ba Ham Lake, as well as the picturesque tunnels of Vung Kiem Lam, Hang Ca, and many others. Discovering Lan Ha Bay by kayak promises an unforgettable travel experience.

Following a kayak excursion, it's delightful to take a swim in the middle of the bay or in one of the numerous coves nestled among the karst rocks of Lan Ha Bay, such as the Ba Trai Dao beaches.

Another must-do activity during your visit to Lan Ha Bay is a trip to the floating villages. Here, you'll relish the opportunity to discover this unique way of life, interact with the local fishing communities, and gain insights into their traditional fishing techniques and daily activities centered around the sea.

• Discover Millennia-Old Caves

Exploring Lan Ha Bay provides a unique opportunity to delve into the depths of ancient caves nestled amid the limestone formations that have stood the test of time. These caves house magnificent stalactites and stalagmites that have endured through millennia. During your Lan Ha Bay cruise, you can venture to the shores of Cat Ba Island to explore two caves: Trung Trang Son Cave and Quan Y Cave. The latter, situated near the city center of Cat Ba, held significant importance during the Vietnam War, serving as a hospital dispensary for wounded soldiers.

Me Cung Cave also stands out, featuring a vast blue lake encircled by majestic mountains, while the Sang et Toi Cave (Cave of Light and Darkness) leaves a lasting impression as a place of profound serenity and meditation.

4. How to get to Cat Ba Island?

• From Hanoi or Ninh Binh to Cat Ba:

The bus is a good way to get to Hai Phong, the town connecting Cat Ba Island. Then you can take the canoe or ferry to Cat Ba Island. The journey takes approximately 3.5 hours from Hanoi and approximately 4.5 hours from Halong Bay on land. Otherwise, taking a private car with driver is one of the best choices to have the freedom to manage your time and move around with complete peace of mind.

• From Ho Chi Minh City to Cat Ba:

If you are departing from Ho Chi Minh City or other cities in the central region such as Da Nang, Hue, etc., you have the option of taking a direct flight to Hai Phong city. Then you can get to the island by canoe or ferry.

5. When to go to Cat Ba?

• January and February: During these months, Cat Ba experiences cold, humid, and cloudy weather. The island exudes a serene and tranquil atmosphere, providing a peaceful escape from the bustling crowds. The sea remains generally calm.
• March and April: Spring brings varying weather, featuring moments of cold, wetness, and sunshine. This season is ideal for admiring vibrant flowers and savoring the tranquility of Cat Ba. April, in particular, marks the peak of squid fishing, with clear blue skies and abundant sunshine, heralding the start of the high tourist season.
• May, June, July, and August: Summer emerges as the peak tourist period on Cat Ba. The weather turns warm, and the waves can be robust. Sea-related activities, such as swimming in Lan Ha Bay, become highly popular during this time.
• August, September, and October: Enjoy pleasantly cool weather and warm sea waters during these months. You can explore the island without the tourist crowds typical of the high season, especially in September and October. However, occasional rain showers may occur.
• November and December: Winter brings colder days, yet they are dry and sunny. This is the perfect time to engage in outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and kayaking in Lan Ha Bay.

▶️Find out more about: When to go to Vietnam? Your ultimate weather guide for the perfect trip

Our final words,

If you're seeking a different, authentic, and less touristy perspective to explore the landscapes of Halong Bay, then Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay are must-visit destinations. This tranquil and unspoiled setting will undoubtedly exceed your expectations.

💡Other must-see attractions in Vietnam:

• Phu Quoc, 6 questions before leaving for this paradise island
• Nha Trang, 6 essential questions before planning your seaside trip
• Da Nang: 7 questions before visiting the most pleasant city in Vietnam