Understanding Cat Ba Island

Cat Ba Island is a popular alternative to Ha Long Bay cruises among independent travelers, set on the edge of neighboring Lan Ha Bay. Both bays are renowned for their dramatic limestone karsts, but this region offers more than just overnight cruises. Best things to do on Cat Ba Island include relaxing on beautiful beaches, hiking in the national park, rock climbing, exploring caves, and much more.

The main town feels functional, but the island’s raw beauty lies just beyond its concrete streets. Cat Ba Island is a destination that rewards effort with incredible landscapes.

One Minute History Lesson

Cat Ba Island has a history shaped by both nature and conflict. Its name, “Cat Ba,” translates to “Women’s Island.” Legend says three women of the Tran Dynasty were killed and their bodies washed ashore on different beaches. Local fishermen built temples for each, and the island became a place of tribute. For centuries, it was home to Viet-Chinese fishing communities.

During the Vietnam War, the island served as a strategic military site. The massive Hospital Cave, also called Quan Y, functioned as a bomb-resistant underground hospital and safe house for North Vietnamese forces, constructed between 1963 and 1965.

Cat Ba Island at a Glance

• Known For: A less-crowded gateway to the limestone karsts of Lan Ha Bay and the dense jungles of Cat Ba National Park.
• Best Time to Visit: Late September to November has pleasant weather and fewer crowds. March to May is also good. July and August are peak domestic travel months and hot. The main typhoon risk is typically late summer into autumn.
• Getting There: Most travelers arrive via a combination bus and ferry from Hanoi or a direct ferry from Haiphong.
• How Long to Stay: Stay 2-3 nights for a bay cruise and park visit, or 4-5 nights for hiking and rock climbing.

Planning Your Trip to Cat Ba Island

Best Time to Visit Cat Ba Island

The ideal time to visit Cat Ba is during the shoulder seasons. Autumn, from late September to November, brings clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and lower humidity. This period is perfect for hiking, climbing, and boat trips.

Spring, from March to May, is another excellent window with warm weather and calm seas. The summer months of June to August are the peak domestic season, leading to crowded ferries and higher prices. This is also the rainy season, with a risk of typhoons that can disrupt travel plans. Winter, from December to February, is often cool and misty, which can obscure the stunning bay views.

How Long to Stay on Cat Ba Island

A stay of three to four days is ideal for experiencing Cat Ba. This allows enough time for a full-day boat trip in Lan Ha Bay, a half-day exploring Cat Ba National Park, and time to see caves or relax on a beach. A shorter two-night stay is possible but will feel hurried.

For those interested in serious hiking, rock climbing, or simply a slower pace, a longer stay of five to seven days is easily justified. This gives you time to discover quieter parts of the island, like Viet Hai village.

How to Get to Cat Ba Island: Transportation Options

Getting to Cat Ba Island is a multi-step journey, but it is straightforward. Most travelers start from Hanoi, Haiphong, or Halong City.

• From Hanoi: The easiest option is a single ticket from a tourist bus company. These packages include a bus ride to a port in Haiphong, a speedboat or ferry ticket, and another bus to Cat Ba Town. The entire journey takes about 3.5 to 4 hours and costs around 300,000–400,000 VND ($12–$16 / €11–€15). Buses typically depart from Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
• From Haiphong: You can take a taxi or local bus to Got Pier (Pha Got). From there, a speedboat takes about 10 minutes to reach Cai Vieng Pier on Cat Ba Island, followed by a 40-minute bus ride to town. Alternatively, a slower ferry is also available.
• From Halong City: A ferry runs from Tuan Chau island to Gia Luan Pier on Cat Ba’s northern coast. The journey takes about an hour, and you will need to arrange transport from the pier into Cat Ba Town, which is another 40 minutes away.
• Cat Hai–Phu Long cable car: Another option is the cable car , which connects Cat Hai Island (near Haiphong) to Phu Long on Cat Ba Island. The 10-minute ride offers a scenic aerial view of Lan Ha Bay and the surrounding islands. From the Phu Long terminal, it’s about 20–30 minutes by bus or taxi to reach Cat Ba Town.

Insider Tip
If you’re exploring Vietnam on two wheels, you can easily bring your motorbike to Cat Ba Island using the vehicle ferries from Haiphong or Ha Long.

Prices on Cat Ba Island

Cat Ba Island remains an affordable destination, especially compared to more developed beach locations in Southeast Asia. You can easily manage costs by eating local food and choosing budget-friendly guesthouses.

The biggest expenses are typically boat tours and organized adventure activities. Here are some typical costs:

• Budget Double Room: 350,000–600,000 VND ($14–$24 / €13–€22)
• Sit-Down Meal: 100,000–250,000 VND ($4–$10 / €3.5–€9)
• Typical Street Food: 30,000–50,000 VND ($1–$2 / €1–€2)
• Motorbike Rental (1 day): 100,000–150,000 VND ($4–$6 / €3.50–€5.50)
• Beer in a Bar: 20,000–40,000 VND ($0.80–$1.60 / €0.70–€1.5)
• Coffee at a Cafe: 30,000–50,000 VND ($1.20–$2 / €1–€2)

Getting Around

Cat Ba Town is very walkable, with most hotels, restaurants, and the main beaches located close together.

For exploring further, renting a motorbike is the most popular option. Daily rentals are inexpensive and give you the freedom to visit the national park, caves, and remote piers on your own schedule. The island’s roads are mostly paved but can be steep and winding.

For those not comfortable on a scooter, taxis are available. Electric buggy-style vehicles also shuttle people along the main waterfront road and to the Cat Co beaches. Getting around Cat Ba Island is part of the adventure.

Where to Stay on Cat Ba Island

Accommodation on Cat Ba Island is concentrated in a few key areas, each offering a different vibe.

• Cat Ba Town is the main hub, packed with hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants lining a bustling waterfront. This area is convenient and budget-friendly but can be noisy.
• For a quieter atmosphere, consider staying along the road leading to the Cat Co beaches. These hotels often have better views but are a short walk from the town center.
• For a more secluded experience, look for homestays or bungalows near Viet Hai Village, deep within the national park. These offer a peaceful, nature-focused stay but are less accessible.
• A few resorts are located on private beaches outside the main town, providing a more upscale and isolated retreat.

When deciding where to stay on Cat Ba Island, balance your need for convenience with your desire for tranquility.

Best Things to See on Cat Ba Island: Top Attractions

1. Trung Trang Cave

Trung Trang Cave is a 1,000-foot (300-meter) long cavern shaped by millions of years of erosion. The cave is part of Cat Ba National Park’s buffer zone. It features many stalactites and stalagmites naturally formed into various shapes.

A lighted pathway guides you through the cave’s chambers. The interior is often damp, and the ground can be slippery. The exit is on the other side of the limestone mountain from the entrance.

• Hours and Prices: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM. The entrance fee is 80,000 VND ($3.25 / €3).
• How to get there: Situated about 9 miles (15 km) from Cat Ba Town, just before the national park entrance.
• Time needed: 30–40 minutes.
• Combines with: Hospital Cave and Cat Ba National Park.
• Travel Tip: Wear shoes with good grip as the stone steps inside are often wet.
• 📍Location on Google Maps

2. Cai Beo Floating Village

Cai Beo is one of Vietnam’s oldest and largest floating fishing villages. Hundreds of families live in houses built on floating platforms in a sheltered bay. The village economy is based on fishing and aquaculture.

You can observe the daily life of residents from a boat or kayak. People work on their fish farms, repair nets, and move between homes by small boat. The setting among the limestone karsts is notable.

• Hours and Prices: Access is free, but you must hire a boat or kayak. A private boat tour costs around 200,000–300,000 VND ($8–$12 / €7.50–€11).
• How to get there: The village is adjacent to Ben Beo Harbor, about 1.2 miles (2 km) from Cat Ba Town.
• Time needed: 1–1.5 hours.
• Travel Tip: Hire a local water taxi for a more personal tour instead of joining a large group.
• 📍Location on Google Maps

3. Viet Hai Village

Viet Hai is a small, remote village located deep within Cat Ba National Park. It is accessible only by boat or a long trek. The community has maintained a traditional way of life, with farming and fishing as primary occupations.

Visitors can walk or cycle through the village to see local homes and rice paddies. A new concrete road now connects the pier to the village center. Some residents offer homestays for overnight stays.

• Hours and Prices: Free to enter. Boat transport costs around 500,000 VND ($20 / €18.50) for a private boat.
• How to get there: Take a 45-minute boat from Ben Beo Harbor or hike 4-5 hours through the national park.
• Time needed: 1–2 hours in the village, plus travel time.
• 📍Location on Google Maps

4. Cat Co Beaches

The Cat Co beaches are three small sandy coves near Cat Ba Town. A wooden cliffside walkway connects Cat Co 1 and Cat Co 2. Cat Co 3 is the largest and most developed of the three.

These beaches are popular and can become very crowded, especially on summer weekends. The water is generally calm and suitable for swimming. High tide can submerge much of the beach area.

• Hours and Prices: Open access. Swimming is often restricted after 6:30 PM due to strong currents.
• How to get there: A 10–15 minute walk or a short taxi ride from the center of Cat Ba Town.
• Travel Tip: Visit on a weekday morning for the fewest people and the most available space on the sand.
• 📍Location on Google Maps

5. Linh Quang Pagoda

Linh Quang Pagoda, also known as Hai Son Tu, is the main Buddhist temple on Cat Ba Island. It is an active place of worship for the local community. The pagoda sits at the base of a small limestone hill.

The grounds are peaceful and feature traditional Buddhist architecture and statues. You can see the main prayer hall and observe local religious customs. It provides a brief look into the spiritual life of the island’s residents.

• Hours and Prices: Open daily. Free entry, but donations are accepted.
• How to get there: Located a short walk from the main road in Cat Ba Town, near the local market.
• Time needed: 20–30 minutes.
• Travel Tip: Dress respectfully with shoulders and knees covered when visiting the temple.
• 📍Location on Google Maps

6. Tung Thu Beach

Tung Thu Beach is a quieter alternative to the Cat Co beaches. It is a man-made beach with calmer water located in a sheltered bay. The area is less developed and attracts fewer tourists.

The sand is clean, and the gentle slope makes it suitable for families. There are a few local vendors but limited services compared to other beaches. It offers a more relaxed environment for swimming and sunbathing.

• Hours and Prices: Free public access.
• How to get there: Located about 1.2 miles (2 km) northwest of Cat Ba Town. It is accessible by scooter, bicycle, or a 25-minute walk.
• Travel Tip: Bring your own water and snacks, as facilities are minimal.
• 📍Location on Google Maps

7. Hoa Cuong Cave (Diamond Cave)

Hoa Cuong Cave is a smaller, less-visited cave on the island. It is known for the sparkling, granite-like stones inside, which give it the name “Diamond Cave.” The cave is undeveloped for tourism and lacks artificial lighting.

Exploring this cave offers a more rugged experience. You will need a flashlight to see the rock formations. The entrance is small and can be difficult to find without a local guide.

It is sometimes closed to visitors, but if you ask at the nearby café, they can usually find someone to unlock it for you. Expect to pay a small fee of around 30,000–50,000 VND ($1.20–$2 / €1.10–€1.80) per person.

• Hours and Prices: Open access. Free entry.
• How to get there: Located on the main road toward Cat Ba National Park, about 8 miles (13 km) from Cat Ba Town and not far from the ferry route to Ha Long.
• Time needed: 20–30 minutes.
• Combines with: Hospital Cave and Trung Trang Cave or Ferry to Halong
• 📍Location on Google Maps

8. Hospital Cave (Quan Y Cave)

Hospital Cave is a large, multi-level cavern system. It served as a secret, bomb-proof hospital during the Vietnam War. The Vietnamese government built the concrete facility inside the cave between 1963 and 1965.

You can walk through its 17 rooms on three levels. The cave contains a former operating room and patient wards. The concrete structures built directly into the natural grotto are the main feature.

• Hours and Prices: Daily 8:00 AM–5:00 PM. The entrance fee is 80,000 VND ($3.25 / €3).
• How to get there: Located 6 miles (10 km) from Cat Ba Town on the main road to the national park. Reach it by scooter or taxi.
• Time needed: 30–45 minutes.
• Combines with: Trung Trang Cave and Cat Ba National Park are nearby on the same road.
• Travel Tip: Visit early in the morning before tour buses arrive around 10:00 AM.
• 📍Location on Google Maps

9. Navy Peak Viewpoint

Navy Peak is a lesser-known viewpoint located above Viet Hai Village on the eastern side of Cat Ba Island. It can be reached either by hiking the long trail through Cat Ba National Park that ends in Viet Hai, or by taking a boat from Ben Beo Harbor to Viet Hai Pier and starting the climb from the village.

The path is not an official tourist trail and is poorly maintained, with steep and sometimes slippery sections. Parts of the track are overgrown or eroded, and there are short stretches that feel exposed, so caution is essential. Despite the effort, the reward is a sweeping view across Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay on clear, sunny days.

• Hours and Prices: Open access. Free.
• How to get there: Either trek 4–5 hours from Cat Ba National Park headquarters to Viet Hai Village, or take a 45-minute boat ride from Ben Beo Harbor and walk from the village.
• Time needed: 2–3 hours for the climb from Viet Hai Village.
• Travel Tip: Attempt this hike only in dry conditions, and wear sturdy shoes. Bring plenty of water and expect no facilities along the way.
• 📍Location on Google Maps

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Best Things to Do on Cat Ba: Activities & Experiences

10. Lan Ha Bay Full-Day Boat Cruise

A boat cruise is the primary way to experience Lan Ha Bay’s landscape. The bay features hundreds of limestone karsts similar to Ha Long Bay but is often less crowded. Tours typically depart from Ben Beo Harbor and last most of the day.

Most full-day cruises include kayaking through sea caves, swimming at a secluded beach, and lunch on the boat. The route passes floating fishing villages and offers continuous views of the karsts. This is one of the most popular things to do on Cat Ba Island.

• Hours and Prices: Tours usually run from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Prices range from 500,000–800,000 VND ($20–$32 / €18.50–€30) per person.
• How to get there: Book a tour in Cat Ba Town. Most operators include hotel pickup to Ben Beo Harbor.
• Time needed: 7–9 hours.
• Travel Tip: Choose a tour operator based on reviews and group size; cheaper tours often have more crowded boats.

11. Trek to Ngu Lam Peak (Cat Ba National Park)

Ngu Lam Peak is a popular viewpoint inside Cat Ba National Park. The trail to the summit is a steep, 1-mile (1.6 km) round-trip hike. It involves a mix of stone steps and uneven, rocky paths.

From the top, you get a 360-degree view of the park’s forested hills. The final section requires scrambling up a sharp rock face. The humidity and steepness make the short hike physically demanding.

• Hours and Prices: Park hours are 7:00 AM–5:00 PM. Park entrance is 80,000 VND ($3.25 / €3).
• How to get there: The trailhead is at the Cat Ba National Park Headquarters, a 25-minute scooter ride from town.
• Time needed: 1.5–2 hours.
• Combines with: Visiting Hospital Cave or Trung Trang Cave on the same trip.
• Travel Tip: Start the hike before 9:00 AM to avoid the midday heat and the largest crowds.
• 📍Location on Google Maps

12. Cat Ba National Park – Viet Hai Village Full-Day Hike

This challenging hike crosses a large section of Cat Ba National Park. The trail runs approximately 6 miles (10 km) from the park headquarters to Viet Hai Village. It navigates dense jungle, steep hills, and rocky terrain.

This trek offers deep immersion into the island’s ecosystem. A local guide is recommended for navigation and safety. The hike ends in Viet Hai Village, from where you can take a boat back to Cat Ba Town.

• Hours and Prices: A guide costs around 1,000,000 VND ($40 / €37). Add park entrance and boat fees.
• How to get there: Start at the national park headquarters. Arrange for a boat to pick you up at the Viet Hai pier for the return.
• Time needed: 4–6 hours for the hike, plus travel time.
• Combines with: A visit to Viet Hai Village.
• Travel Tip: Wear long pants and sturdy hiking shoes, and carry at least 2 liters of water per person.

13. Deep Water Soloing in Lan Ha Bay

Deep water soloing (DWS) is a form of rock climbing over the sea without ropes. Lan Ha Bay’s limestone cliffs offer many routes for this activity. Climbers ascend as high as they are comfortable and fall safely into the water below.

Several tour companies in Cat Ba Town offer guided DWS trips. These tours provide boat transport, climbing shoes, and expert guidance on safe climbing spots. This activity is suitable for both beginners and experienced climbers.

• Hours and Prices: Full-day trips cost around 1,200,000 VND ($48 / €44).
• How to get there: Book with an operator like Cat Ba Climbing. Tours depart from Ben Beo Harbor.

14. Rock Climbing at Butterfly Valley (Lien Minh)

Butterfly Valley is the main sport climbing area on Cat Ba Island. It features dozens of bolted routes on limestone cliffs. The routes range in difficulty, accommodating novice and advanced climbers.

Access is through the quiet village of Lien Minh. Climbing operators in Cat Ba Town run half-day and full-day guided trips. They provide all necessary equipment and instruction.

• Hours and Prices: A half-day guided trip costs about 900,000 VND ($36 / €33).
• How to get there: Located about 40 minutes from Cat Ba Town. Tour operators provide transportation.
• Time needed: 4–5 hours for a half-day trip.
• Combines with: A chance to see a more rural part of the island.
• Travel Tip: The valley can be very hot in the middle of the day; morning or late afternoon sessions are more comfortable.
• 📍Location on Google Maps

15. Phu Long Mangroves Boat Tour

The Phu Long mangrove forest is an important ecological area on the island’s western side. This area is less visited than Lan Ha Bay. It provides a different perspective on the island’s biodiversity.

Local boat operators in Phu Long village offer tours through the tidal creeks. You can see the mangrove ecosystem and various bird species. The experience is quiet and focused on nature.

• Hours and Prices: A private boat tour costs around 400,000 VND ($16 / €15) for a 1-2 hour trip.
• How to get there: Phu Long village is a 40-minute scooter ride from Cat Ba Town.
• Time needed: 2–3 hours, including travel.
• Combines with: Exploring the less-touristed western part of Cat Ba Island.
• Travel Tip: The best time for a boat tour is during high tide when the boat can navigate deeper into the forest.
• 📍Location on Google Maps

16. Walk Explorations

• Cat Ba Town Waterfront: Walk the promenade along the harbor. You can observe fishing boats, tour boats, and local restaurants. The walk is flat and offers views of the bay, especially in the early morning or evening.
• Cat Ba Market Area: Wander the streets around Cat Ba Market. This area is full of local shops, food stalls, and residents going about their day. It provides a sensory experience of local commerce and food culture.
• Cliffside Walkway: A short wooden path connects Cat Co 1 and Cat Co 2 beaches along the rocky shoreline. The walk is only about 10 minutes, but it offers sweeping views of the bay and is especially scenic at sunset. It’s one of the easiest ways to enjoy the coastal scenery without leaving town.

Food and Drinks on Cat Ba island

A must-try dish on Cat Ba is horseshoe crab (Sam), which is often grilled or used in a sweet and sour stir-fry. Geoduck (Tu Hai) is another local specialty, typically steamed with onion and garlic. You can also find grilled squid and shrimp served at many waterfront restaurants. Another authentic option is seafood hotpot (Lau Hai San). It is a communal dish perfect for sharing.

Many restaurants serve both local and Western food, but the best food to try on Cat Ba Island is undoubtedly the fresh catch of the day.
For more gastro-inspiration, explore our guide on the best food to try in Vietnam.

Where to Eat on Cat Ba Island

The main hub for dining is the waterfront road in Cat Ba Town, known as Duong 1/4 or April 1st Street. This strip is lined with dozens of restaurants serving fresh seafood, Vietnamese classics, and Western fare. Many places have outdoor seating with views of the harbor.

For a more local experience, venture into the smaller side streets behind the main road. Here, you will find cheaper, family-run eateries with authentic flavors.

The area around Ben Beo Harbor, where the Lan Ha Bay tours depart, has a few floating restaurants. These offer a unique dining experience right on the water.

Evenings and Nightlife on Cat Ba Island: What to Do After Dark

The nightlife on Cat Ba Island is low-key and relaxed. It centers around the bars and restaurants along the main waterfront. Many establishments offer happy hour deals and stay open late, creating a casual and social atmosphere. You will find a mix of sports bars, laid-back pubs, and a few spots with live music.

There are no large nightclubs on the island. The evening entertainment is more about enjoying a cold beer with fellow travelers, sharing stories, and watching the fishing boats in the harbor. Overall, the vibe is peaceful rather than wild, making it a good place to unwind after a day of adventure.

Cat Ba Island Itinerary Ideas

1-Day Cat Ba Island Itinerary: Island Highlights

This itinerary covers the island’s main land-based attractions. In the morning, visit Cat Ba National Park and hike to Ngu Lam Peak for views. In the afternoon, explore Hospital Cave on your way back to town. End the day by swimming at Cat Co Beach 1 or 2 before sunset.

2-Day Itinerary: Land and Sea

Day one is dedicated to the water. Take a full-day boat cruise of Lan Ha Bay, including kayaking and swimming. On day two, explore the island’s interior. Ride a scooter to Hospital Cave and Trung Trang Cave, then hike in the national park or relax at Tung Thu Beach.

3-Day Adventure Itinerary

This plan focuses on active experiences. On day one, go rock climbing in Butterfly Valley. Spend day two on a deep water soloing trip in Lan Ha Bay. On day three, undertake the challenging full-day trek through Cat Ba National Park, from the headquarters to Viet Hai Village, and return by boat.

Know Before You Go

Local Tips

When renting a motorbike, always check the brakes, tires, and lights before you leave. Take a photo of the bike to document any pre-existing scratches. The roads on Cat Ba can be steep and have sharp turns, so drive cautiously, especially if you are not an experienced rider.

Accessibility

Accessibility on Cat Ba Island is very limited for travelers with mobility impairments. Most hotels lack elevators, and sidewalks are often uneven or blocked. The natural attractions, such as caves and hiking trails in the national park, are not wheelchair accessible. Boat tours may be possible, but boarding and disembarking can be challenging.

Overall, navigating the island requires a significant degree of mobility, and infrastructure for disabled travelers is minimal.

Safety Tips

Cat Ba is generally a safe destination, but petty crime like theft can occur. The biggest safety concern is often traffic. If you rent a motorbike, always wear a helmet and avoid driving at night if you are unfamiliar with the roads.

Etiquette Basics

• When visiting temples or pagodas, such as Linh Quang Pagoda, dress conservatively. This means covering your shoulders and knees.
• Ask for permission before taking photos of people.
• When bargaining at markets, do so with a smile and a friendly attitude.
• Tipping is not expected but is appreciated for good service. A small tip for a tour guide or a driver is a nice gesture.

Family with Kids

Cat Ba can be a fun destination for adventurous families. The beaches, especially Tung Thu Beach with its calm waters, are great for kids. A boat trip through Lan Ha Bay with opportunities for swimming and kayaking is a highlight for all ages. However, many activities, like long hikes or rock climbing, are better suited for older children and teens. Family-friendly activities on Cat Ba Island mostly revolve around nature.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Without the Hype: Is Cat Ba Island Worth Visiting?

Cat Ba Island mixes raw edges with striking beauty. The town itself may feel crowded and built-up, the beaches can fill with local visitors, and getting there takes some effort unless you have a motorbike. But beyond that, the island rewards travelers with incredible nature, adventurous activities, and a cheap, easy alternative to Ha Long Bay.

You’ll like Cat Ba Island if:

• You are an independent traveler who prefers adventure over all-inclusive resorts.
• You want a budget-friendly way to experience the famous karst landscape with fewer tour boats.
• You enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and climbing.

You might skip it if:

• You are looking for quiet, pristine beaches and a high-end resort experience.
• You have limited time and need a quick, seamless day trip from Hanoi.

We hope this guide on the best things to do on Cat Ba Island helps you plan your adventure. For more travel inspiration. If you’re exploring further, don’t miss our full guide on the Best Places to Visit in Vietnam. Wishing you smooth planning and an unforgettable trip.