Cat Ba Island Ultimate Travel Guide: What to Know Before You Go
Cat Ba Island is the largest of the 367 islands in the Cat Ba Archipelago, located on the southwestern edge of Ha Long Bay in northern Vietnam. It only take 45 minutes to go to Halong from Cat Ba. Although often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, Ha Long Bay, Cat Ba offers a more laid-back and eco-friendly vibe. It is part of the UNESCO-listed Cat Ba Biosphere Reserve and is home to rare wildlife like the endangered Cat Ba langur.
In recent years, Cat Ba has become a popular base for travelers looking to explore both the island itself and Halong Bay. In fact, many visitors choose to combine their stay on Cat Ba with a 1-day Halong Bay or Lan Ha Bay cruise, taking advantage of the island’s easy access to these stunning seascapes. This dual-experience approach offers the best of both worlds – lush jungle and limestone peaks inland, and emerald waters dotted with karsts just offshore.
Nature meets history on this island, with lush forests, limestone mountains, secret beaches, and remnants of wartime hospitals hidden in caves. Visitors are drawn by the island’s mix of adventure activities and relaxation, from trekking in the national park to kayaking through Lan Ha Bay.
Whether you’re a solo backpacker, a couple seeking romance, or a family craving a peaceful escape, this Cat Ba island ultimate travel guide is tailored to help you plan your visit seamlessly.
Top Things to Do on Cat Ba Island
Cat Ba Island offers a rich blend of nature, adventure, and historical landmarks, making it a top destination in Northern Vietnam. Whether you’re looking for outdoor action, quiet relaxation, or cultural exploration, the island delivers.
Explore Cat Ba National Park
A visit to Cat Ba National Park is an absolute must for nature enthusiasts. Covering over 26,000 hectares, the park is a lush haven of tropical rainforest, rugged limestone peaks, and rare wildlife.
- Distance from Cat Ba town: ~15 km (around 30–40 minutes by motorbike)
- Address: Cat Ba National Park, Tran Chau Commune, Cat Hai District
- Entrance Fee: 80,000 VND ($3.50)
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
Things to do:
- Hike to Ngu Lam Peak: The most popular trail, about 1.5–2 hours round trip, rewards you with panoramic views of the rainforest canopy and surrounding limestone mountains.
- Visit Trung Trang Cave: A large limestone cave located along the park road. Inside, you’ll find eerie rock formations and remnants of its use as a wartime shelter.
- Trek to Ao Ech (Frog Pond): A longer trek (half-day) through thick jungle that’s great for spotting wildlife, including squirrels, civets, and birds.
- Wildlife watching: If you’re lucky, you might spot the Cat Ba langur, one of the world’s rarest primates.
- Biking trails: Rent a mountain bike for a scenic ride through park trails or quiet roads.
Bring good walking shoes, water, and insect repellent. Guided tours are available for around 250,000–400,000 VND/person (~$10–$17).
Visit Lan Ha Bay
Just off Cat Ba’s southern coast, Lan Ha Bay is often described as the quieter twin of Ha Long Bay, with similar limestone karsts and emerald waters—but far fewer tourists.
- Activities: Kayaking, swimming, cliff jumping, boat tours
- Departure: From Beo Pier, ~2 km from Cat Ba Town
- Tour prices: Start at $20/day, luxury options available
Lan Ha Bay is perfect for a half-day or full-day cruise. Many operators also include lunch, snorkeling, and cave visits.
Cannon Fort (Pháo Đài Thần Công)
A historic military site built by the Japanese and used during the Vietnam War. It offers 360-degree views of Cat Ba Town, Lan Ha Bay, and the jungle below.
- Distance: ~10 minutes from the town center by motorbike or a steep hike
- Entrance Fee: 40,000 VND ($1.60)
- Sunset views here are stunning – bring your camera.
Hospital Cave
Hidden in the limestone cliffs, this three-story cave complex once served as a secret field hospital during the war. It includes an operating room, cinema, and meeting rooms carved directly into the rock.
- Location: On the way to Cat Ba National Park (approx. 13 km from town)
- Fee: 40,000 VND ($1.60) + optional guide
- Duration: Allow 30–45 minutes for a tour
Cat Co Beaches (Cat Co 1, 2, and 3)
These are Cat Ba’s main beaches, great for swimming and sunbathing.
- Cat Co 1: Best for swimming; busiest but spacious
- Cat Co 2: More relaxed, ideal for couples
- Cat Co 3: Clean and modern, often used by resorts
A coastal walkway connects all three, offering a nice sunset stroll.
Cat Ba Market
For a slice of local life, visit the early morning Cat Ba Market, where fishermen sell fresh catches and locals shop for produce. It’s not touristy, so it’s a great spot to observe daily culture or buy snacks.
Tip: Rent a motorbike for around 150,000 VND/day (~$6) to explore all the above easily.
What to Eat in Cat Ba Island
As an island community, Cat Ba is best known for its fresh seafood, but there’s more to discover – from local delicacies to international bites. Whether you’re after a steaming bowl of noodle soup or a grilled oyster platter by the sea, this section of the Cat Ba island ultimate travel guide has your cravings covered.
Must-Try Dishes
| Dish | Description |
| Seafood Hotpot (Lẩu hải sản) | A communal dish with shrimp, crab, squid, and fish simmered in spicy broth. Great for dinner by the sea. |
| Geoduck (Tu Hài) | A rare mollusk native to the region, known for its chewy texture and slightly sweet flavor. Served steamed or grilled. |
| Grilled Oysters (Hàu nướng mỡ hành) | Fresh oysters topped with scallions, peanuts, and oil—an irresistible street-side snack. |
| Nem Cua Bể (Crab Spring Rolls) | Crispy fried rolls stuffed with minced crab meat, glass noodles, mushrooms, and vegetables. |
| Seafood Noodle Soup (Bún hải sản) | A lighter breakfast dish with noodles, squid, and herbs in clear broth. |
Recommended Restaurants
| Restaurant Name | Address | Phone | Highlights |
| Cua Vang (Golden Crab) Restaurant | 2 Phan Chu Trinh, Bai Chay, Halong | +84 203 3819 919 | Known for its seafood dishes, especially crab, and offers a view of the bay. |
| Linh Dan Restaurant | 104 Bai Chay, Halong | +84 914 634 598 | A well-regarded spot for seafood, especially lobster. |
| Lang Chai Ha Long Restaurant | 120 Hoang Quoc Viet, Bai Chay, Halong | +84 982 770 091 | Known for its traditional Vietnamese cuisine and a relaxed atmosphere. |
| Casa Bonita | 82 Nui Ngoc, Cat Ba, Cat Hai | +84 963 153 886 | Great vegan & vegetarian options |
| Oasis Bar | 228 1/4 Street, Cat Ba, Cat Hai | +84 989 327 755 | Western food, live music, craft beer |
Most restaurants are within walking distance in Cat Ba Town. If you’re vegetarian or halal, mention it clearly – staff are generally accommodating.
Tip: Try eating at floating restaurants near Beo Pier. They serve seafood straight from the ocean, and the setting is uniquely Cat Ba.
Best Time to Visit Cat Ba Island
| Season | Months | Weather & Activities |
| Spring | March–May | Pleasant weather, great for hiking |
| Summer | June–August | Hot and humid, ideal for beach activities |
| Autumn | Sept–Nov | Cooler, fewer crowds |
| Winter | Dec–Feb | Dry but chilly, fewer water activities |
Best time to visit Cat Ba Island is Late March to early June or September to November.
Avoid public holidays like Tet when prices surge and transport is booked out early.
Suggested Itinerary: Combine Cat Ba Island with 1-Day Halong Bay Cruise
If you want the best of both worlds – Cat Ba’s quiet charm and Halong Bay’s iconic limestone landscapes, this combined itinerary is your perfect match. Many travelers find this route more authentic and less touristy than staying in Ha Long City.
Sample 3-Day Itinerary
| Day | Activities | Notes |
| Day 1: Arrival in Cat Ba Island | – Travel from Hanoi to Cat Ba – Check in to your hotel – Explore Cat Co beaches (Cat Co 1 & 2) – Sunset at Cannon Fort | Relaxing start with beach and viewpoint |
| Day 2: Cat Ba National Park & Lan Ha Bay | – Morning hike in Cat Ba National Park (Ngu Lam Peak or Ao Ech) – Lunch at local restaurant – Afternoon Lan Ha Bay boat tour (kayaking, swimming) – Evening seafood hotpot dinner | Book tours early for combo packages |
| Day 3: Halong Bay Cruise & Return to Hanoi | – Early transfer to Got Pier – Join 1-day Halong Bay cruise (Thien Cung Cave, Fighting Cock Islet, lunch on board) – Return to Hanoi in the evening | Ideal way to experience both bays |
Cruises can be arranged through hotels or agencies a day in advance.
Cruise Options: Lan Ha Bay or Ha Long Bay?
Both bays offer beautiful limestone scenery, but they differ slightly:
| Criteria | Lan Ha Bay | Ha Long Bay |
| Departure Point | Cat Ba Island | Tuan Chau (mainland) |
| Crowd Level | Fewer tourists | More crowded |
| Activities | Kayaking, swimming, floating villages | Caves, islets, bay cruises |
| Views | Limestone karsts, fishing life | Iconic Ha Long formations |
| Price (1-day) | $20–$50 | $35–$70 |
If you’re already on Cat Ba Island, Lan Ha Bay is more convenient and less commercial. However, if you’re curious about Vietnam’s UNESCO-listed wonder, joining a 1-day Halong Bay cruise via Got Pier (20–25 mins drive from Cat Ba Town) is a solid option.
Conclusion
From wild national parks and hidden caves to fresh seafood and peaceful beaches, Cat Ba Island is a destination that deserves a place on your Vietnam itinerary. This Cat Ba island ultimate travel guide gives you all the essentials to plan a meaningful trip without missing out on the local secrets or the unforgettable sights. Whether you’re blending your visit with a Halong Bay cruise or seeking an escape from Hanoi’s chaos, Cat Ba delivers both adventure and tranquility.
FAQs
Is Cat Ba Island worth visiting compared to Halong Bay?
Yes. While Ha Long Bay is iconic, Cat Ba Island offers a quieter, more authentic experience with similar limestone karsts, plus beaches, jungles, and fewer crowds. It’s also more budget-friendly and has easier access to Lan Ha Bay.
How many days should I spend on Cat Ba Island?
Ideally 2–3 days. This gives you time to explore Cat Ba National Park, enjoy a day cruise on Lan Ha Bay, relax at the beaches, and try local food.
Can I swim at the beaches on Cat Ba Island?
Absolutely. Popular beaches like Cat Co 1, 2, and 3 are swimmable and easily accessible from Cat Ba Town. Water is clean during the dry season (April–October), and there are lifeguards in peak season.
Is Cat Ba safe for solo travelers?
Yes, Cat Ba is generally safe and welcoming to solo travelers. Just take standard precautions: avoid hiking alone at dusk, don’t leave valuables on the beach, and use licensed tour providers.
Are there ATMs and internet access on the island?
Yes. You’ll find several ATMs in Cat Ba Town (e.g., Vietcombank, Agribank), and most hotels, cafés, and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi. However, cash is still preferred in small shops or rural areas.
Can I rent a motorbike on Cat Ba Island? How much does it cost?
Yes. Motorbike rentals are widely available in town for about 100,000–150,000 VND/day (~$4–6). Always check the brakes and ask for helmets. Gas stations are limited outside town, so plan ahead.
What is the best way to explore Cat Ba National Park?
The best way to explore Cat Ba National Park is by hiking. There are several trails that offer stunning views, such as the Giang Vo Peak Trail. You can either join a guided tour or go independently, but be sure to bring good shoes, water, and sunscreen. Guided tours can provide extra safety and insight into the park’s biodiversity.
Are there any cultural experiences on Cat Ba Island?
Yes, while Cat Ba is known for its natural beauty, you can also experience local culture. Visit the Cannon Fort for historical insights or interact with local fishermen in Viet Hai Village to learn about their traditional way of life. Many local homestays offer an authentic look into Cat Ba’s rural life.
