Cat Ba is known as the 3rd largest island in Vietnam, covering. 336 square kilometers, on the south of Halong Bay with the nickname “The Pearl Island”.
Cat Ba is known as the Unesco site since 2014 but is way less crowded than Halong Bay. Located in the Northeast of Vietnam, 30 kilometers from the city of Hai Phong and 3.5 hours drive,then ferry crossing from Hanoi to get to Cai Ba.
Cat Ba is perfect for those who like to go off the beaten track, love nature, and outdoor activities and love the greenery with tons of activities: jungle trekking, hiking, stay in a homestay in the village, kayaking, swimming, cave visit, rock climbing and more.
How to Get to Cat Ba Island
Cat Ba Island, located approximately 130 km from Hanoi and 30 km from Hai Phong, offers various transportation options for travelers. The journey to this picturesque destination can be an adventure in itself, providing opportunities to admire the stunning landscapes of northern Vietnam.
From Hanoi
Travelers from Hanoi have several options to reach Cat Ba Island:
Bus: This is the most budget-friendly and convenient option. Luxury limousines run daily from Hanoi Old Quarter to Cat Ba town, taking around three hours. The journey typically includes a bus ride on the mainland and a ferry or speedboat transfer to the island.
Private Car: For those seeking comfort and flexibility, a private car is the fastest option. It allows travelers to customize their itinerary and enjoy the scenic route. The journey involves a 2-hour car ride to Cat Hai Island via the Hanoi – Hai Phong Highway 5B and the Tan Vu – Lach Huyen sea-crossing bridge, followed by a 30-minute ferry transfer to Cat Ba Island.
Motorbike: Adventure enthusiasts can opt for a motorbike journey, locally known as “phuot.” This option offers independence and the thrill of exploring the countryside.
Train and Ferry: This combined journey involves taking a train from Hanoi to Hai Phong, then a taxi to Dong Bai terminal, and finally a ferry or speedboat to Cat Ba Island.
Cable Car: A unique option that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The journey includes a bus ride from Hanoi and a cable car transfer over the sea.
Overnight Cruise: For a luxurious experience, travelers can book an overnight cruise from Hanoi to Cat Ba Island.
From Haiphong
Hai Phong serves as a convenient gateway to Cat Ba Island:
Ferry: The most common option is taking a ferry from Binh ferry terminal in Hai Phong City. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes and runs regularly throughout the day.
Speedboat: For a faster option, speedboats are available from Binh ferry terminal, taking about 60 minutes to reach Cat Ba Island. This option costs around 250,000 VND.
Bus and Ferry Combination: Travelers can take a bus to Got ferry terminal on Cat Hai Island, then transfer to a ferry (12,000 VND, 30 minutes) or speedboat (80,000 VND, 8 minutes) to reach Cat Ba Island.
From Halong City
For those already in Halong Bay, reaching Cat Ba Island is relatively straightforward:
Ferry: The most convenient option is taking a ferry from Tuan Chau Harbor to Gia Luan Harbor on Cat Ba Island. The ferry ride takes about 45-50 minutes and costs approximately US$2.5 for passengers.
High-Speed Boat: This option runs on the route “Bai Chay – Tuan Chau – Gia Luan – Cat Ba Town.” It costs around US$12 per person, with a maximum capacity of 13 guests per trip.
Hydrofoil: For a quicker journey, hydrofoils operate from Tuan Chau Harbor to Cat Ba Island. The travel time is about 10 to 12 minutes, with tickets priced at approximately US$9.5 one way.
Regardless of the chosen route, the journey to Cat Ba Island offers stunning views of LanHa Bay and the surrounding limestone karst mountains. Travelers can capture photos and videos to preserve these memorable moments as they make their way to this beautiful island destination.
Best Time to Visit Cat Ba Island
Cat Ba Island’s weather plays a crucial role in its appeal as a must-visit destination in Hai Phong. The island’s climate is characterized by a tropical monsoon pattern, influenced by two monsoon movements: the north-east monsoon and the south-west monsoon.
The north-east monsoon brings a cold, dry winter from November to April, while the south-west monsoon results in a hot and humid summer from May to October. This creates four distinct seasons, each offering unique landscapes and seascapes that make Cat Ba Island worth visiting year-round.
Spring (February to April)
Spring on Cat Ba Island is relatively cool with light drizzles. This season is ideal for those interested in experiencing a variety of festivals and traditional activities. The weather during this time is most beautiful, especially in February and March, with moderate sunshine and lower rainfall compared to the rest of the year.
Summer (May to August)
Summer is considered an ideal season to visit Cat Ba Island. The weather is warm with golden sunlight, blue sea, and white sand, creating a poetic scenery for visitors. June and July are particularly favorable, offering perfect conditions for beach activities.
During these months, travelers can enjoy:
Swimming and sunbathing on stunning beaches
Kayaking in the emerald waters
Witnessing some of the most beautiful sunset views
However, it’s worth noting that July and August can bring heavy rain and rough seas. Travelers should check weather forecasts carefully to avoid stormy days during these months.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is perfect for those who love romance and adventure. The weather is cool and fresh, making it suitable for couples to relax or enjoy their honeymoon. October and November are especially beautiful months to visit Cat Ba Island.
Activities to enjoy during autumn include:
Trekking off-the-beaten-path trails
Mountain climbing in Cat Ba National Park
Cycling and admiring the island’s beautiful scenery in the early morning
Kayaking and cave visiting
The pleasant weather during this season allows visitors to enjoy these outdoor activities without the crowds of peak season.
Winter (December to January)
Winter on Cat Ba Island is relatively cold, with temperatures occasionally dropping below 10 degrees Celsius. The seawater is cold, making it less suitable for swimming. However, the thick fog during this season gives the island a mysterious appearance.
Despite the cooler weather, winter remains a favorite among foreign tourists who choose Cat Ba as a destination for their winter vacations. It’s an excellent time for those seeking a peaceful retreat away from home.
Best Months to Visit
For the most enjoyable experience, the best time to visit Cat Ba Island is during the following periods:
April to June: The weather is cool and pleasant, perfect for a summer getaway.
September to October: These months offer mild temperatures and are ideal for outdoor activities.
February, March, October, and November: These months provide excellent weather conditions with moderate sunshine and lower rainfall.
It’s important to note that the concept of “best time to visit” can be subjective. Cat Ba Island offers a great variety of activities and experiences throughout the year, even in less favorable weather conditions. The island’s diverse attractions ensure that every day can be a great day in Cat Ba, regardless of the season.
When planning a trip, travelers should consider their preferred activities and experiences. For instance, adventurous travelers might prefer the later months of the year for trekking through dense jungles when temperatures and humidity are lower. On the other hand, beach lovers might find the summer months more appealing for lazing on the stunning emerald water beaches.
Where to Stay on Cat Ba Island
Top Things to Do on Cat Ba Island
Cat Ba Island offers a diverse range of activities for visitors, from exploring stunning natural landscapes to relaxing on pristine beaches. Here are some of the top things to do on this beautiful island:
Explore Lan Ha Bay
Lan Ha Bay, located on the east of Cat Ba Island, is a must-visit destination for any traveler. Covering an area of more than 7,000 hectares, with 5,400 hectares under the management of Cat Ba National Park, Lan Ha Bay is often referred to as the twin of Ha Long Bay. The bay is home to numerous islets of various sizes and shapes, each covered in lush greenery, creating a breathtaking panorama.
Visitors can enjoy several activities in Lan Ha Bay:
Kayaking: Paddle through small islands, admire uniquely shaped mountains, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Cave exploration: Visit caves such as Ham Rong, Ca Cave, and the Dark and Light Cave system. The Dark and Light Cave area, located about 12 kilometers from Ben Beo Port, offers an exciting kayaking experience through underground cave systems.
Snorkeling and diving: Discover the diverse coral reefs and colorful fish species in the crystal-clear waters.
Visit fishing villages: Explore Cua Van Fishing Village, nestled among limestone mountains, and experience the rustic life of local people.
Rock climbing: For adventure enthusiasts, Lan Ha Bay offers various rock climbing opportunities at locations like Dau Be Islet, Ben Beo Port, and Ba Trai Dao Islet.
To fully experience the beauty of Lan Ha Bay, consider taking an overnight cruise. Some popular options include Heritage Cruise, Stellar of the Seas, and Era Cruise, which offer luxurious facilities and visits to less touristy areas.
Visit Cat Ba National Park
Cat Ba National Park is a haven for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. The park boasts diverse ecosystems, including limestone mountains, mangroves, and rainforests, with over 1,500 plant species, 160 of which have medicinal properties.
Hiking is one of the main activities in the park, with several trails to choose from:
Ngu Lam Peak Trail: This popular trail leads through gorgeous patches of forest before ascending to Ngu Lam peak, offering magnificent views of the island’s mountains.
Viet Hai Trail: A 14-kilometer trail that takes hikers through a flooded willow forest to the Viet Hai community, a small settlement inside the park.
When visiting the park, keep in mind:
The park closes at 5 pm, so plan your trek accordingly.
Entrance fees include a parking fee of 5,000 VND and an entrance fee of 40,000 VND per person.
Maps are not provided, so it’s recommended to take a photo of the main map at the entrance for navigation.
Relax on Beautiful Beaches
Cat Ba Island is renowned for its stunning beaches, offering visitors a perfect place to unwind and soak up the sun. Some of the most popular beaches include:
Cat Co Beaches: A trio of beaches (Cat Co 1, 2, and 3) near Cat Ba town. Cat Co 1 is the most popular, featuring smooth white sand and slight waves suitable for both adults and children .
Tung Thu Beach: Located just 2 kilometers from Cat Ba town center, this beach offers rolling waves, a peaceful atmosphere, and a variety of water sports activities .
Cat Dua Beach: Situated on Monkey Island, Cat Dua Beach is divided into two smaller beaches. It’s ideal for swimming and relaxing, with a long smooth sandy bank and crystal-clear water .
Van Boi Beach: One of the most tranquil beaches on Cat Ba Island, perfect for escaping crowds and enjoying a relaxing holiday. Activities here include swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling to observe colorful fish species .
Nam Cat Beach: Located on Nam Cat Island, about 5 kilometers southeast of Cat Ba Town, this 500-meter beach offers a wide slope and is surrounded by small islands, making it ideal for kayaking and exploring nearby islets.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Cat Ba Island has something for everyone. From exploring the stunning Lan Ha Bay to hiking through Cat Ba National Park and lounging on beautiful beaches, visitors can experience the natural beauty and diverse activities this island has to offer.
Best Beaches on Cat Ba Island
Cat Ba Island, one of Vietnam’s most popular tourist destinations, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and diverse range of activities. Among the island’s many attractions, the beaches are undoubtedly a major draw for visitors . From easily accessible sandy shores to hidden gems, Cat Ba Island offers a variety of beach experiences for every type of traveler.
Cat Co Beaches
The Cat Co beaches are a series of three beautiful sandy beaches located on the eastern side of Cat Ba Town . These beaches are easily accessible and offer a range of amenities, making them a popular choice for both locals and tourists . The Cat Co beaches are divided into Cat Co 1, Cat Co 2, and Cat Co 3, each with its own unique characteristics.
Cat Co 1 Beach: This is the most beautiful and widest beach of the three . It features smooth white sand stretching along majestic green rocky mountains . The waves here are relatively slight, making it suitable for both adults and children . Cat Co 1 is also the most bustling of the three beaches .
Cat Co 2 Beach: Located farthest from the town center, Cat Co 2 brings a sense of peace and mystery . It has a narrower space compared to Cat Co 1, making it ideal for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy a quiet beach vacation .
Cat Co 3 Beach: Unlike the other two beaches, Cat Co 3 is more modern with full catering services . The waves here are quite strong, making it suitable for good swimmers and those who want to experience thrills . It’s an excellent spot for water activities such as jet skiing, canoeing, and banana-boat riding .
An interesting feature of the Cat Co beaches is the lane on the cliff connecting Beach 1 and Beach 3, which is considered the most beautiful place to watch the sunset in the area .
Hidden Beaches
In addition to the more well-known beaches, Cat Ba Island also boasts a number of hidden gems that are less crowded and offer a more peaceful and secluded experience . These hidden beaches can be accessed by hiking or taking a boat tour, and they offer stunning views of the island’s natural landscapes .
One such hidden beach is Van Boi Beach, considered one of the most tranquil beaches on Cat Ba Island . It’s ideal for escaping the crowds and enjoying a relaxing holiday . Activities here include swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling to observe colorful fish species .
Another notable hidden beach is Moody Beach, located just a 5-minute boat ride or 10-minute swim from Tiger Beach . This uninhabited area is home to cragged mountains and unblemished landscapes . It’s one of the most active beaches in Cat Ba, offering top-rope climbing and a wide range of water-based activities like deep water soloing, kayaking, and swimming .
These hidden beaches provide a perfect opportunity for those seeking a more adventurous and off-the-beaten-path experience on Cat Ba Island. They offer a chance to explore the island’s natural beauty away from the more touristy areas, allowing visitors to truly immerse themselves in the stunning landscapes that make Cat Ba Island such a unique destination.
Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Cat Ba Island offers a diverse range of outdoor activities and adventures for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike. From exploring the stunning landscapes through hiking to navigating the serene waters by kayak and challenging oneself with rock climbing, the island provides numerous opportunities to immerse in its natural beauty and test one’s physical limits.
Kayaking
Kayaking at Cat Ba Island is an excellent way to explore the beautiful landscape and discover hidden spots inaccessible by larger boats . It allows visitors to paddle through serene waters, admiring the limestone cliffs, mangrove forests, and secluded beaches . The abundance of islands and smaller bays creates generally calm water conditions, making it easy and safe for kayaking .
Popular kayaking destinations include:
Lan Ha Bay: Located just south of Cat Ba Island, Lan Ha Bay is known for its calm, clear waters and stunning limestone cliffs .
Three Peaches Beach: Situated on a group of islands on the eastern side of Cat Ba Island, this beach is renowned for its tranquil waters and picturesque scenery .
Viet Hai Village: This secluded village on the eastern side of Cat Ba Island can only be reached by boat or kayak, offering a unique glimpse into traditional village life .
Frog Lake: Located in the heart of Cat Ba National Park, this small lake provides a peaceful setting for kayaking, surrounded by forest and limestone cliffs .
The best time for kayaking is during the dry season, from November to March, when the weather is generally sunny and dry with calm seas . For safety and convenience, guided kayak tours are recommended, especially for beginners. These tours provide necessary equipment, experienced guides, and local knowledge about the area’s culture, history, and wildlife .
Rock Climbing
Cat Ba Island and the surrounding Ha Long Bay region offer a paradise for rock climbing enthusiasts. The area boasts an abundance of magnificent climbable faces, with many walls rising directly from the water, ideal for Deep Water Solo (DWS) .
Key facts about rock climbing in Cat Ba:
There are more than 200 sport climbing routes and 30 trad routes across 18 crags, ranging from 4a to 8a difficulty levels .
The bay features over 0 deep water solo lines on 24 cliffs, with difficulty levels ranging from 4a to 7c+ .
All climbing locations are within a day trip distance from Cat Ba Town .
For independent climbers exploring Cat Ba Island’s crags, an access pass from Asia Outdoors and transportation (motorbike or bicycle) are required . To explore sport and trad climbing in the bay, a basket boat with a driver and access passes for the beaches are necessary .
The ideal time for rock climbing, especially DWS, is during the spring (April – May) and autumn months (September – November) when the weather is generally good . During these periods, there are typically over 15 days a month suitable for DWS .
Hiking
Cat Ba Island offers excellent opportunities for trekking and hiking, allowing visitors to get closer to nature and discover its special features . The Cat Ba National Park provides various trekking trails, each offering unique experiences and stunning views.
Popular hiking routes include:
National Park – Frog Lake – Viet Hai Village Trail: This 14 km long trail is challenging but rewarding. It takes hikers through a magnificent flooded willow forest, to Ao Ech (the largest concentration of fresh water on the island), and finally to Viet Hai commune, a traditional settlement within the National Park .
Ngu Lam Peak Trail: This.6 km route takes about 45 minutes to climb up and 30 minutes down. The trail passes through a butterfly garden, zoo, botanical gardens, natural forest on limestone mountain, and Kim Giao forest before reaching Ngu Lam Peak. The peak offers panoramic mountain scenery, considered one of the most beautiful and unique views on the island .
Monkey Island Trek: While known for its monkeys, Monkey Island also offers a climbing experience to a viewpoint that provides stunning views of Lan Ha Bay, showcasing hundreds of multi-sized islands rising from blue waters along with white sandy shores .
When hiking in Cat Ba National Park, keep in mind that the park closes at 5 pm, so plan your trek accordingly. The entrance fee is 40,000 VND per person, with an additional 5,000 VND parking fee. It’s recommended to take a photo of the main map at the entrance for navigation, as maps are not provided.
These outdoor activities and adventures offer visitors a chance to fully experience the natural beauty of Cat Ba Island, from its stunning seascapes to its lush forests and limestone cliffs. Whether paddling through calm waters, scaling rocky faces, or trekking through diverse ecosystems, Cat Ba Island provides unforgettable experiences for outdoor enthusiasts.
Where to Eat and Drink on Cat Ba Island
Cat Ba Island offers a diverse culinary scene, from fresh seafood restaurants to lively bars and nightlife spots. Visitors can indulge in local delicacies while enjoying the island’s stunning natural beauty.
Seafood Restaurants
Cat Ba Island is renowned for its fresh, locally-sourced seafood. Several restaurants offer a wide variety of dishes that showcase the island’s marine bounty:
Green Mango: This restaurant stands out for its beautiful ambiance and diverse menu. It offers both traditional Vietnamese seafood dishes and European cuisine. Green Mango also caters to various dietary needs, providing vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options .
Yummy Restaurant: A popular choice among visitors, Yummy Restaurant is known for its tasty food and reasonable prices. Seafood specialties include grilled fish, grilled oysters, mantis shrimp, and steamed squid .
Hung Manh Floating Restaurant: This unique dining experience offers a 360-degree view of the bay. Guests can enjoy fresh seafood while observing colorful fish and marine life swimming around the restaurant. The menu features green crab and lobster, among other delicacies .
Quang Anh Floating Restaurant: Another floating restaurant, Quang Anh, combines dining with fish farming. It’s famous for its sea cucumber dishes, including sea cucumber soup and fried sea cucumber with basil. Other popular items include green mussels, steamed fish, and steamed clam with lemongrass and ginger .
Quang Tung Seafood Restaurant: This establishment allows guests to choose their own fresh ingredients and have them prepared according to their preferences. The menu offers various cooking styles and includes a seafood hot pot option .
Hai Yen Restaurant: Located near the beach, Hai Yen boasts a spacious 1000-square-meter campus with a capacity for 800 guests. The menu features both Vietnamese and Western-style dishes, with seafood options including lobster, geoduck, oyster, and abalone .
Cat Ba Sweet Potato Restaurant: Known for its local specialties, this restaurant is particularly famous for its braised stingrays with guise leaves, spring rolls, steamed fish, and grilled oysters .
Bars and Nightlife
While Cat Ba’s nightlife is generally tranquil, the island offers several bars and pubs for those looking to unwind after a day of exploration:
Rose Club: One of the best bars on the island, Rose Club features a DJ playing lively music and remix tracks. It offers a variety of alcoholic beverages and hosts free drinks for everyone at 10 pm nightly .
The Bigman Bar: Formerly known as The Good Bar, this cozy establishment offers quality live music and beautiful harbor views. It’s an excellent place to relax and meet fellow travelers. Happy hour runs from 6 pm to 8 pm .
Oasis Bar: The first bar to open in Cat Ba Town, Oasis Bar is part of a larger hospitality complex. It offers a spacious area with a garden coffee shop, bar, and outdoor swimming pool. The menu includes both Vietnamese and Western cuisine .
Bia Hoi Stall: For a local experience, visit this outdoor stall serving Bia Hoi (Vietnamese Fresh Beer) at incredibly low prices. It’s an excellent spot for a casual night out and to enjoy some local seafood dishes 24.
Noble House: Located on the second floor of a hotel, this bar offers a pool table, board games, and stunning ocean views. It’s ideal for a relaxing evening with reasonably priced drinks and delicious food .
Flightless Bird Cafe: Popular among tourists and backpackers, this cozy bar offers a wide selection of beers and wines from around the world. It’s known for its stone-baked pizzas and harbor views from the second-floor balcony .
Cat Ba Island’s dining and nightlife scene caters to various tastes and preferences, ensuring visitors can find the perfect spot to enjoy local flavors and unwind after a day of adventure.
Conclusion
Cat Ba Island emerges as a captivating destination that caters to a wide range of travel preferences. From its stunning beaches and lush national park to its thrilling outdoor activities and mouthwatering seafood, the island has an undeniable charm. Its diverse attractions offer something for everyone, whether you’re looking to relax on pristine shores, explore hidden caves, or challenge yourself with rock climbing.
As you plan your visit to Cat Ba Island, keep in mind the best times to go and the various transportation options available. Remember that each season brings its own unique experiences, from festival-filled springs to adventure-packed autumns. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adrenaline junkie, or a food enthusiast, Cat Ba Island promises an unforgettable journey filled with natural beauty, exciting adventures, and delicious local flavors.
FAQs
1. Is it recommended to stay on Cat Ba Island during a trip to Vietnam?
Absolutely, Cat Ba Island is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Vietnam. The island offers breathtaking landscapes, a rich cultural history, and numerous outdoor activities, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
2. What is the ideal duration for a visit to Cat Ba Island?
Spending 1 to 3 days on Cat Ba Island is advisable. This duration is sufficient to explore the key attractions and fully experience what the island has to offer.
3. How popular is Cat Ba Island among tourists?
Cat Ba Island is a major tourist destination in Vietnam, attracting about 2.5 million visitors annually. Despite its small local population of around 16,000, the island offers numerous attractions and activities.
4. Does Cat Ba Island have an active nightlife?
While Cat Ba Island is known more for its tranquil environment, it still offers some nightlife options. The main town features a few top local bars and pubs, some of which are expat-owned, where visitors can enjoy drinks and live music until late.
