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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

Recommended Restaurants

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 is Late March to early June or September to November.

Avoid public holidays like Tet when prices surge and transport is booked out early.

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

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:

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.