When you travel to Vietnam, do you immediately think of the famous Ha Long Bay? If you are looking for a truly unique way to experience this beautiful natural treasure, we have an interesting suggestion for you: Cat Ba Island, located in Lan Ha Bay, a lesser-known gateway to Ha Long Bay. In this article, we present you with a detailed guide to exploring Cat Ba Island, from top activities, how to get around to useful tips to make your trip go smoother. Follow us to discover all the wonders that this island has to offer!
Introduction to Cat Ba Island
Cat Ba Island, often called the “Pearl of the Gulf of Tonkin”, is a beautiful archipelago in northern Vietnam, about 150 km from the center of Hanoi. Located in a picturesque area, it is surrounded by more than 300 large and small islands in Lan Ha Bay, part of the world-famous Ha Long Bay Complex. Cat Ba Island attracts tourists not only by its vast primeval forest space and peaceful beaches, but also by its interesting cultural paintings and the lives of fishing villagers as well as other famous historical relics.
The aerial view of Cat Ba Island
Cat Ba Island has been recognized by UNESCO as a world biosphere reserve because of its diverse and rich ecosystem, many primeval forests on limestone mountains floating on the sea, creating a poetic landscape. About half of the island is protected as Cat Ba National Park, a biodiversity hotspot that is home to a number of rare species, including the critically endangered Cat Ba langur. Despite its wild nature, Cat Ba Island is also inhabited, mostly in Cat Ba Town, the island’s main urban center, which serves as a hub for tourism, dining, and transportation.
Cat Ba Island and Ha Long Bay: What’s the Difference?
If you’ve been to or are planning a holiday to Vietnam, you’ve probably heard of the world-famous Ha Long Bay, but not many people know of Cat Ba Island, a quieter but equally stunning island. I’ve had the chance to explore both and I can tell you: although they may look similar from the outside, each offers a unique travel experience.
Both Cat Ba and Ha Long Bay are located in the Gulf of Tonkin in northern Vietnam and are recognized as part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cat Ba Archipelago. They both have breathtaking scenery, with pristine beaches, towering limestone mountains, caves, small karst islands floating in emerald green waters, and floating fishing villages. You’ll have great opportunities for boating, kayaking, swimming, and photography, and they offer overnight cruise options. Another similarity? The local seafood is fresh and delicious. If you’re a seafood lover like me, you’ll be spoilt for choice in both places, with a wide variety of fresh grilled oysters, squid, and shrimp, and surprisingly affordable prices, especially in Cat Ba.
Cat Ba Island and Ha Long Bay, which one will suit you best
Despite these similarities, the atmosphere and experience these two places offer are completely different.
Being the more famous destination, Ha Long Bay is definitely more developed and attracts more tourists. There are plenty of cruise companies, tour buses, and international visitors. If you’re looking for a more organized, structured, and classic travel experience, Ha Long is the way to go. I went on a 2-day cruise there last year, and while the scenery was beautiful, I did find it quite overwhelming because of the crowds, especially during peak months.
On the other hand, if you want to get away from the tourist crowds, Cat Ba Island is a great option, offering a more laid-back, wilder feel. In fact, many Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay cruises actually depart from or pass through Cat Ba Island, offering the chance to explore and enjoy more peaceful activities.
In Cat Ba, even on a sunny weekend, I have had times when I kayaked through Lan Ha Bay without seeing another boat for an hour. Such peace is hard to find in Ha Long these days. But don’t just stay on the cruise, take some time to explore the island. You can stay a few nights, rent a motorbike and explore the local beaches, hike through the National Park, or climb the mountains for some of the best views in the area.
> > > Looking to escape the crowds and soak up Vietnam’s coastal beauty at a slower pace? This Ha Long – Cat Ba tour in 3 days will take you from the iconic limestone cliffs of Ha Long Bay to the peaceful beaches and jungle-covered hills of Cat Ba Island, the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
How to get to Cat Ba Island
There are many means of transport to Cat Ba Island, you can choose to go from Hai Phong or Ha Long. From Hai Phong to Cat Ba is the most time-saving route, however, if you want to see the Gulf of Tonkin, going from Ha Long will be a more ideal choice. Depending on the starting location, some ways to travel to Cat Ba Island that you can refer to are:
By ferry
Traveling by ferry is the most cost-effective way to travel. Dong Bai Ferry (Cat Hai head) is the new ferry terminal replacing Got Ferry 3 km away, operating from 5:30 am to 6:30 pm daily. The last trip from Cai Vieng wharf to Dong Bai Ferry will depart at 6:00 pm. The ferry ride takes about 30 minutes and the fare is from 10,000 VND for pedestrians, 45,000 VND for motorbikes and 190,000 VND for cars under 9 seats (excluding passengers). After arriving at the ferry terminal on the island, you have to take another bus to town about 25km away from the terminal.
Although the cost is cheap and does not take too much time to travel, there are some inconveniences because you can only buy tickets directly at the ferry terminal and cannot book tickets in advance. During peak season, the road to the terminal may be congested, the ferry terminal is often crowded and there is a long wait, so consider carefully and plan your trip accordingly.
By cable car
A faster and more comfortable way to travel if you do not have your own vehicle is the cable car across the sea, with a time of only about 8 minutes. The cable car ticket price is about 100,000 VND one way, children under 1 meter are free. The cable car is closed every Tuesday (except holidays and Tet). The cable car station is also right next to the ferry terminal, so it is very convenient for you to travel. Sitting on the cable car, you can admire the extremely spectacular view of the island from above, with cool sea breezes blowing through the cabin.
By speedboat
From Hai Phong: Ben Binh is the departure point, located right near the center of Hai Phong city. Here, transport units will pick up passengers to Cat Ba island with a ticket price of 250,000 VND/passenger for a one-way trip from Ben Binh – Cat Ba. The travel time to Cat Ba island by speedboat only takes about 45 – 60 minutes. You can buy tickets directly at the pier, but during peak season, you should book tickets at least 2 weeks in advance.
From Ha Long: Another route that many tourists love is from Ha Long to Cat Ba. From Tuan Chau Port, you take a speedboat to Gia Luan wharf island in Cat Ba with a ticket price of about 80,000 VND/passenger. From the port, it takes about 40 minutes to drive to Cat Ba town. This bay-viewing tourist route is quite popular with tourists, so you should book tickets in advance.
Get around Cat Ba Island
After getting off the ferry or other ports, you will need to travel about 20 km more to reach the center of Cat Ba. The roads here are quite easy to travel and especially the pass road is very beautiful overlooking the sea and one side is a limestone cliff. You can travel by bus, taxi, electric car, motorbike taxi or other personal vehicles.
When you arrive at the center, if you like to explore and learn about many places on the island, for more convenient travel, you can take an electric car if traveling in a large group or rent a motorbike at a reasonable price of 100,000 VND/vehicle. For further locations, you should choose a taxi to ensure safety and avoid getting lost.
Best things to do in Cat Ba Island
Embark on a cruise in Lan Ha Bay
Once you arrive in the island, you must take a cruise in Lan Ha Bay! A private or shared yacht cruise is the perfect way to admire the stunning limestone peaks that rise majestically from the bay. Kayaking is truly the highlight of this trip, giving you the opportunity to explore this stunning seascape from a unique perspective. Itineraries may vary between different cruise lines, but you can kayak to explore sites such as the majestic Ca Tunnel and Ba Ham Lake, as well as the picturesque tunnels of Vung Kiem Lam,… Some caves are accessible by kayak or boat while others are only accessible at low tide. Many caves even have hidden beaches or isolated lagoons inside.
A peaceful cruise through Lan Ha Bay
Besides, don’t miss a trip to the famous floating villages such as Cai Beo, Viet Hai, Quang Anh. Here, you will witness the ancient fishing village lifestyle that has been passed down through generations. Interacting with local fishermen, learning about their daily routines and observing traditional fishing techniques will provide valuable insights into island life. And of course, don’t forget to enjoy the village’s delicious seafood.
Explore Cat Ba Island by motorbike or bicycle
Riding a motorbike is a unique way to explore this island
Exploring Cat Ba Island becomes more authentic and friendly when you cycle or drive your motorbike through the island’s landscapes. Renting a motorbike from Cat Ba town allows you to explore the island independently. The traffic is very light, allowing you to drive safely. However, remember to wear a helmet! Travel on winding, picturesque roads that lead you through lush forests and bamboo groves, eventually reaching the quaint and picturesque village of Vung Vieng, a stronghold of traditional fishing activities. Here, you can interact with the locals and learn more about their age-old fishing and gathering techniques. These fascinating and rewarding encounters will leave a lasting mark on your holiday, making it truly unforgettable.
Spend a day visiting Monkey Island
A wild day trip to Monkey Island
Located just 1 km from the town center, Monkey Island is also known as Cat Dua because of the many wild pineapple trees here, which are currently home to a large group of about 20 monkeys, making it a popular destination for tourists who want to explore wildlife. These mischievous monkeys often come down to the beach and beg for food, contributing to the bustling and lively beach here. The island has two beautiful crescent-shaped beaches, with crystal clear water and is very well preserved so there is no trash.
Visitors can snorkel, sunbathe or simply watch the mischievous monkeys in their natural habitat. Be careful not to get too close, most of them are mischievous little thieves who like to play pranks on tourists… In addition, conquer the steep cliffs and take in the beautiful view of Lan Ha Bay, especially at sunset.
Relax on the island’s peaceful beaches
Cat Co 1 Beach, the most popular beach on the island
Cat Ba Island boasts stunning beaches that offer a relaxing setting. Among them, the three Cat Co beaches stand out as particularly popular choices. They can be reached by a relaxing fifteen-minute walk from the town center. Once there, you can indulge in relaxing moments on the soft golden sands, clear blue waters and picturesque views of the iconic limestone mountains that characterize the area. These beaches are also well-equipped with beachside cafes, restaurants and bars, allowing you to unwind after a day exploring Cat Ba Island.
Trekking in Cat Ba National Park
Ngu Lam Peak, the highest point in Cat Ba Island
Cat Ba National Park covers almost half of the island and is famous for its dense tropical forests, rugged limestone mountains and rich biodiversity, including numerous bird species and the rare golden-headed Cat Ba langur, which is only found on Cat Ba Island. The entrance fee is around $2.5, which contributes to the efforts to preserve this pristine environment.
We highly recommend hiking along the well-marked trails, discovering hidden caves, diverse ecosystems and breathtaking natural scenery. There are a variety of hiking routes of varying difficulty, and a popular route includes Ngu Lam Peak Trail, which leads to the highest viewpoint on the island, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Cat Ba Island and beyond to Lan Ha Bay.
Visit Millennia-Old Caves
Some of the most beautiful caves in the island you can’t miss
If you are a nature lover, the island offers a unique opportunity to explore deep inside ancient caves hidden among limestone. These caves contain beautiful stalactites and stalagmites that have survived for millennia. Some of the most famous caves are Hospital Cave, a historical site that served as a military hospital during the war. We recommend visiting with a guide to immerse yourself in the history of Vietnam’s resistance.
You can then continue your journey to Trung Trang Cave, also known as Bat Cave, located along the main road and near the entrance to the National Park. This is one of the largest and most spectacular caves on the island, stretching nearly 2 km and featuring impressive stalactites and stalagmites inside. Me Cung Cave also features a large blue lake surrounded by majestic mountains, while Sang va Toi Cave (Light and Dark Cave) leaves a lasting impression as a place of deep serenity and meditation.
Enjoy island specialties and seafood
Fresh seafood with affordable prices in Cat Ba Island
Cat Ba offers a wide range of delicious local dishes, reflecting the flavors and culture of the region. Especially with the coastal location of Cat Ba, seafood is abundant and is a highlight of the local cuisine, all prepared with traditional Vietnamese flavors. Many restaurants and street stalls in Cat Ba town and neighboring villages offer a wide selection of seafood at affordable prices. You should not miss the delicious seafood dishes prepared in many delicious and attractive ways such as steamed blue crab, shrimp noodles, seafood salad, crab noodles,…
> > > If you’re dreaming of a romantic getaway that goes beyond the usual tourist trail, consider our 4-day honeymoon trip through Northern Vietnam, blending the charm of Hanoi with the serene beauty of Lan Ha Bay, Ha Long Bay, and the poetic landscapes of Ninh Binh.
Suggested itineraries for your trip to Cat Ba Island
Spending 2-3 days on Cat Ba Island is ideal to fully experience the natural beauty, rich culture and exciting activities without feeling rushed. You can leisurely explore major attractions such as Cat Ba National Park and Lan Ha Bay, enjoy outdoor adventures and relax on beautiful beaches while also getting a taste of local life and cuisine. Here are some suggested itineraries for your trip:
For a 2-day trip:
Day 1: Arrive, explore Cat Ba town, relax at Cat Co beach and enjoy a seafood dinner
Day 2: Morning hike in Cat Ba National Park, lunch and afternoon cruise to Lan Ha Bay
For a 3-day trip:
Day 1: Arrive + walk around town and beach
Day 2: Full-day cruise (Lan Ha Bay + floating village + kayaking)
Day 3: Visit Cannon Fort or Hospital Cave + cycle around the countryside before departure
Some practical tips for your trip
To make the most of your time on this peaceful island, here are a few more useful, practical, and often-overlooked tips for visiting Cat Ba Island, especially helpful for first-time foreign travelers:
- Choose the best time to visit Cat Ba Island: the best months are from March to May and from October to December. During this time, the weather is pleasant and dry, the sky is always clear and sunny, ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking and exploring the beach. Avoid traveling between July and September because this time of year has a lot of rain and tropical storms that can delay your trip.
- Book in advance: although the amenities and services on the island are quite abundant, they can be overcrowded during peak months. Therefore, no matter when you go, book your accommodation and tours at least 2 weeks in advance to get the best place and reasonable price. You can change your itinerary to a weekday if possible to get cheaper room rates and especially the opportunity to explore the island without the crowds.
- Where to stay on the island: With hundreds of accommodations on the island, you can choose from high-end resorts to homestays close to nature. Usually, the price of accommodation in Cat Ba will change according to the tourist season of the year. During the peak season, room rates are often 30 – 50% higher than the low season, so check carefully before booking.
- Make a specific schedule: Although the island looks small on the map, there are countless places to visit, you should have a suitable schedule when coming to Cat Ba Island. You should plan your trip with a schedule of at least 2 to 3 days to have enough time to fully explore the island town without missing any places or being too rushed.
- Payment methods: While there are banks and ATMs on the island, they are limited due to lack of credit or network issues. Most restaurants and budget shops on the island do not accept cards or bank transfers, so it is advisable to exchange enough cash in Hanoi or Hai Phong before arriving.
- Avoid tourist traps: While Cat Ba is more laid-back than other popular tourist destinations, scams do occur from time to time, especially around the pier or main square. Be wary of overpriced boat tickets sold on the street, and book through reputable apps or a highly-rated agent instead. Double-check restaurant bills before paying, and don’t be afraid to ask for a detailed receipt.
- Bring essentials: Cat Ba has convenience stores, but once you head out to the beaches or national parks, basic items can be hard to find or may be overpriced. So double-check your luggage and pack enough items such as sunscreen, bug spray, water bottle, backpack and snacks, etc.
- Protect nature and local life: Cat Ba is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Do your part by not littering the beaches or hiking trails and support eco-friendly tours and locally owned accommodation whenever possible.
With this guide in hand, you’re ready to explore Cat Ba Island, a stunning island with dramatic limestone cliffs, tranquil beaches, and authentic local life away from the crowds of Ha Long Bay. Need help planning your perfect Cat Ba trip? Contact us today for custom itineraries, local tips, and the best deals on tours and accommodations. Let us make your Vietnam adventure unforgettable.
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