Cat Ba, the largest pearl island in the archipelago of the same name in Hai Phong, has long been a dream destination for sea travel enthusiasts in Northern Vietnam. Unlike other famous bustling beaches, Cat Ba possesses a pristine, majestic natural beauty, blended with a rare tranquility and peace. Coming to Cat Ba, you will not only immerse yourself in the cool blue sea, explore the long stretches of white sand, but also have the opportunity to experience countless exciting activities, from trekking in the national park, kayaking on Lan Ha Bay, to enjoying the famous fresh seafood cuisine. If you are planning a self-guided trip to explore Cat Ba, let “Du lịch khắp thế gian” (Travel the World) be your companion with the detailed guide below to have a complete and memorable trip!
1. General Introduction to Cat Ba Island
1.1. Geographical Location and How to Get There
Cat Ba Island is located in the Gulf of Tonkin, about 30 nautical miles from the center of Hai Phong city and 25km from Ha Long. It is the largest island among nearly 2,000 islands, large and small, in the Ha Long Bay complex, recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage Site.
Previously, traveling to Cat Ba was mainly by waterway, causing many difficulties for tourists. However, with the development of transport infrastructure, especially the Tan Vu – Lach Huyen sea bridge, getting to Cat Ba has become easier and more convenient than ever. Visitors can combine car and ferry, or choose high-quality buses directly from Hanoi to Cat Ba.
1.2. Why is Cat Ba Attractive to Tourists?
Cat Ba is not just a tourist island, but also a natural treasure with a diverse and rich ecosystem. It was recognized by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve in 2004, proving its great biological and scenic value.
Coming to Cat Ba, you will be amazed by the wonderful harmony between majestic mountains, vast seas, and lush green primary forests. Lan Ha Bay, a part of Cat Ba, is likened to “Ha Long Bay on land” with hundreds of majestic limestone islands rising from the jade-green water. Besides, Cat Ba also owns many beautiful beaches such as Cat Co 1, 2, 3, Tung Thu beach, Cat Dua beach… which are ideal places for swimming, relaxing and participating in water sports activities.
In addition to its natural beauty, Cat Ba also attracts tourists with unique experiences such as exploring Cat Ba National Park with its rare flora and fauna, visiting historical sites such as Than Cong Fortress, immersing yourself in the peaceful life of fishermen in the ancient Cai Beo fishing village, and enjoying the fresh seafood cuisine typical of the island region.
Overview of Cat Ba Island with boats in the harbor
2. Decoding the Name “Cat Ba”
The name “Cat Ba” carries an interesting historical and cultural story. According to legend, in ancient times, this island region was a solid rear base, where mothers and women cultivated, gathered, and provided food for the front lines, where men fought to defend the country. To remember the great contributions of these heroic women, people called the island “Cac Ba” (The Ladies). Gradually, over time, the name “Cac Ba” was mispronounced as “Cat Ba” as it is today.
Opposite Cat Ba Island, the island where the warriors were stationed was called “Cac Ong” (The Gentlemen), and later it was also mispronounced as Cat Ong. The story of the name Cat Ba is not just a folk tale, but also evidence of the heroic history, martial spirit, and deep gratitude of the Vietnamese people towards those who have contributed to the country.
3. Interesting and Unique Facts about Cat Ba
Cat Ba is not only an attractive tourist destination but also hides many interesting and unique things that you may not know:
- The largest fishing ground in the North: Cat Ba is one of the key fishing grounds in the North, providing abundant and diverse seafood resources. It is also the cradle of the oldest fishing village in Vietnam, Cai Beo fishing village, with a history of hundreds of years.
- World Biosphere Reserve: Cat Ba National Park is recognized by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve, conserving a diverse ecosystem with primary forests, mangroves, cave systems, and rich coral reefs.
- Home to rare species: Cat Ba is home to many rare and precious flora and fauna species, listed in the Vietnam and World Red Books, especially the white-headed langur, an extremely endangered primate that can only be found in Cat Ba.
- Limestone island paradise: Cat Ba owns more than 300 large and small limestone islands with unique shapes, creating a magnificent and majestic natural picture.
- Pristine beaches: More than 100 mini beaches hidden among the rocky islands, preserving their pristine and peaceful beauty, are ideal destinations for those seeking privacy and relaxation.
- Diverse experiences: Traveling to Cat Ba offers countless fascinating experiences such as cruising to explore Lan Ha Bay, visiting Cai Beo fishing village, conquering Cat Ba National Park, watching the sunset from Than Cong Fortress, swimming, kayaking, rock climbing, snorkeling to see coral reefs…
Natural beauty of Cat Ba from above
4. The Best Time to Visit Cat Ba
Cat Ba has a mild and cool climate all year round, with an average temperature ranging from 25-28 degrees Celsius. In summer (May – September), the temperature can rise above 30 degrees Celsius, but it is still pleasant thanks to sea breezes. In winter (November – March of the following year), the temperature can drop below 10 degrees Celsius when there is a Northeast monsoon, but it is usually not too cold.
The best time to visit Cat Ba is in the summer, from May to September. At this time, the weather is sunny and beautiful, the sea is calm, suitable for swimming, entertainment and exploring Lan Ha Bay. In particular, June and July are the peak domestic tourist season, Cat Ba welcomes a very large number of visitors, the atmosphere is bustling and lively.
Besides summer, autumn (September – November) and spring (March – May) are also suitable times to visit Cat Ba. At this time, the weather is cool and pleasant, not too crowded, suitable for those who want to enjoy peace and explore the natural beauty of the island. Winter (November – March) has fewer tourists, and service prices are also more affordable, suitable for budget and wellness trips.
However, it should be noted that Cat Ba is often very crowded on weekends and holidays. Room and service prices can increase sharply, and even run out of rooms if not booked in advance. If you want to have a quiet and economical trip, you should avoid going at these times and choose to travel on weekdays.
Travelers checking weather information for their Cat Ba trip
5. Detailed Guide on How to Get to Cat Ba Island
There are many ways to get to Cat Ba Island, depending on your starting point and preferences.
5.1. From Hanoi to Cat Ba
Direct bus to Cat Ba: This is the most popular and time-saving means of transportation to get from Hanoi to Cat Ba. High-quality bus operators such as Cat Ba Express, Interbuslines, GoodMorning Cat Ba Bus… have many daily departures from Hanoi to Cat Ba. Travel time is about 3.5 – 4 hours. You can book tickets online through reputable bus ticket websites such as vexere.com or catbaexpress.com.
Train combined with bus: You can take a train from Hanoi to Hai Phong, then take a bus or taxi to Binh wharf to take a speedboat or ferry to Cat Ba. The Hanoi – Hai Phong train route has many trips per day, travel time is about 3 hours. Train ticket prices range from 60,000 – 90,000 VND.
5.2. From Hanoi to Hai Phong then to Cat Ba
Motorbike: If you want to experience backpacking and be proactive about time, a motorbike is an interesting option. From Hanoi to Hai Phong, there are two main routes: Hanoi – Hai Phong highway (about 1.5 – 2 hours) or National Highway 5 and National Highway 5B (about 2.5 – 3 hours).
Hanoi – Hai Phong bus: There are many bus companies operating the Hanoi – Hai Phong route, departing from bus stations such as Gia Lam, Nuoc Ngam, Yen Nghia… Travel time is about 2 – 2.5 hours.
Hanoi – Hai Phong train: As mentioned above, the train is a comfortable and safe means of transportation from Hanoi to Hai Phong.
From Hai Phong to Cat Ba:
- Speedboat from Binh wharf: This is the fastest way to get to Cat Ba Island from Hai Phong. Speedboats depart from Binh wharf, travel time is about 45 minutes. Speedboat ticket prices range from 180,000 – 250,000 VND/person.
- Ferry from Got wharf: If you are traveling by private car or motorbike, you can take a ferry from Got wharf (Cat Hai) to Cai Vieng wharf (Cat Ba). Ferry travel time is about 30-45 minutes.
5.3. From Ha Long to Cat Ba
From Ha Long, you can travel to Cat Ba by Tuan Chau – Gia Luan ferry. The ferry departs from Tuan Chau ferry terminal (Ha Long) to Gia Luan wharf (Cat Ba), travel time is about 45-60 minutes. There are about 10-15 ferry trips per day. Ferry ticket price is about 100,000 VND/passenger. In addition, there is a speedboat from Tuan Chau directly to Cat Ba central port, ticket price is about 220,000 VND/passenger.
A passenger bus, a common mode of transport to Cat Ba Island
6. Transportation on Cat Ba Island
Once you arrive on Cat Ba Island, you have many options to get around and explore the attractions:
6.1. Taxi
Taxis are a popular and convenient means of transportation in Cat Ba, especially suitable for families or large groups. However, the number of taxis on the island is not as many as in big cities, you may need to wait a bit when calling a car. Taxi fares in Cat Ba are also quite high compared to other means of transport.
6.2. Electric Car
Electric cars are an environmentally friendly public transport option, popular in the central area of Cat Ba. Electric cars are suitable for moving between nearby attractions in the town, or going to Cat Co beaches. Electric car fares are quite reasonable, suitable for small groups or individuals.
6.3. Motorbike
Renting a motorbike is an ideal option for those who want to freely explore Cat Ba in their own way. There are many reputable motorbike rental locations in Cat Ba town, motorbike rental prices range from 100,000 – 150,000 VND/day. Motorbikes make it easy to move to attractions far from the center, explore the beautiful coastal roads and fully enjoy the beauty of Cat Ba.
Travelers riding scooters, a popular way to explore Cat Ba Island independently
7. Cat Ba Island Entrance Fees (2024 Prices)
Below is a price list for visiting some popular tourist attractions and services in Cat Ba (prices may change depending on the time):
- Cat Ba National Park entrance ticket: 80,000 VND/person
- Trung Trang Cave entrance ticket: 80,000 VND/person
- Lan Ha Bay entrance ticket: 80,000 VND/person
- Than Cong Fortress entrance ticket: 60,000 VND/person
- Lan Ha Bay sightseeing boat (group tour): Approximately 2,200,000 VND/trip
- Lan Ha Bay sightseeing speedboat (private charter): Approximately 2,500,000 VND/trip
- Ben Binh – Cat Ba speedboat: 180,000 – 250,000 VND/person/trip
- Got – Cai Vieng ferry: 12,000 VND/trip (passenger ticket), 70,000 – 90,000 VND/trip (car ticket)
- Tuan Chau – Gia Luan speedboat: 100,000 VND/person/trip
- Tuan Chau – Cat Ba speedboat (central port): 220,000 VND/person/trip
- Tuan Chau – Gia Luan ferry: 80,000 VND/person/trip
Note: Entrance fees may change according to the regulations of each destination and travel time. Check the latest ticket price information before going. Some attractions have ticket discounts for students, the elderly, and people with disabilities, please bring your ID to enjoy the discount.
8. Top 5+ Must-Visit Destinations in Cat Ba
8.1. Beautiful Beaches
Cat Ba is famous for its clear blue beaches with smooth white sand, a must-visit destination in your journey to explore the pearl island.
- Cat Co 1, 2, 3 Beaches: These are the 3 most famous beaches in Cat Ba, located near the town center, easy to move to. Cat Co 1 beach is bustling and lively with many entertainment activities, Cat Co 2 beach is quieter and more private, Cat Co 3 beach has deep water and strong waves, suitable for those who like swimming.
- Tung Thu Beach: A newly invested, modern beach with many convenient services, the only beach in Cat Ba with an outdoor stage.
- Cat Dua Beach (Monkey Island): Located on Monkey Island, Cat Dua beach has jade-green water and smooth white sand, likened to a “sea paradise”.
- Beaches in Lan Ha Bay: Lan Ha Bay also hides hundreds of small, pristine and beautiful beaches such as Van Boi beach, Ba Trai Dao beach, Co Tien beach… To explore these beaches, you can rent a private boat or join a Lan Ha Bay cruise tour.
Cat Co Beach, a must-visit beach in Cat Ba Island
8.2. Lan Ha Bay
Lan Ha Bay is located in the East of Cat Ba Island, with an area of over 7,000 hectares with more than 400 large and small islands. Lan Ha Bay is known as “Ha Long Bay No. 2” with unspoiled, majestic beauty no less than Ha Long Bay. The special feature of Lan Ha Bay is that most of the islands are covered in green vegetation, creating a fresh and vibrant landscape.
Coming to Lan Ha Bay, you can participate in many interesting activities such as:
- Sightseeing cruise: Cruising is the best way to explore the overall beauty of Lan Ha Bay. You can choose a day cruise or an overnight cruise on the bay for a more complete experience.
- Kayaking: Kayaking through caves, exploring secret lagoons and admiring the scenery of Lan Ha Bay from a close-up perspective is an unmissable experience.
- Rock climbing: Some islands in Lan Ha Bay have limestone mountain terrain, suitable for rock climbing and admiring the bay from above.
- Swimming: Lan Ha Bay has many pristine beaches with clear blue water, ideal for swimming and relaxing.
8.3. Monkey Island
Monkey Island (also known as Cat Dua Island) is a small island located about 2km from the center of Cat Ba. Monkey Island is famous for its beautiful Cat Dua beach and the natural monkey population living on the island. Cat Dua beach has smooth white sand, clear, calm sea water, very suitable for swimming and relaxing. The monkeys on the island are very friendly and bold, you can play and take pictures with them.
Monkey Island in Cat Ba, home to friendly monkeys
8.4. Than Cong Fortress (Cannon Fort)
Than Cong Fortress is a historical site located on top of a hill 177m above sea level, built during the French colonial period. This is an ideal destination to see the panoramic view of Cat Ba town and Lan Ha Bay from above. In particular, the sunset at Than Cong Fortress is one of the most beautiful moments that you should not miss when coming to Cat Ba. Here, you can also visit ancient military structures, learn about history and enjoy drinks at the hilltop cafe.
8.5. Cat Ba National Park
Cat Ba National Park is the largest nature reserve in Vietnam, with an area of over 26,000 hectares, including both land and sea areas. Cat Ba National Park is home to many rare and precious flora and fauna species, especially the white-headed langur, an extremely endangered primate.
Coming to Cat Ba National Park, you can participate in activities such as:
- Forest trekking: Cat Ba National Park has many trekking routes with different levels of difficulty, suitable for all types of visitors. Popular trekking routes include Kim Giao – Ngu Lam peak route, Ao Ech – Viet Hai fishing village route…
- Cave exploration: Cat Ba National Park has many beautiful and mysterious caves such as Trung Trang cave, Quan Y cave, Bat cave…
- View from Ngu Lam Peak: Ngu Lam Peak is the highest point of Cat Ba National Park, from here you can see the entire National Park and Lan Ha Bay.
8.6. Other Destinations
In addition to the famous destinations above, Cat Ba has many other attractive places waiting for you to explore such as:
- Quan Y Cave (Hospital Cave): A natural cave used as a field hospital during the American War.
- Trung Trang Cave: A cave with a magical and magnificent stalactite system.
- Ancient Cai Beo Fishing Village: The oldest floating fishing village in Vietnam, where you can learn about the life and culture of local fishermen.
Military Hospital Cave in Cat Ba, used during wartime
9. Unique Experiences You Must Try When Visiting Cat Ba
9.1. Kayaking in Lan Ha Bay
Kayaking in Lan Ha Bay is an unmissable experience when coming to Cat Ba. Manually kayaking through caves, exploring secret lagoons and admiring the scenery of Lan Ha Bay from a close-up perspective will bring you unforgettable emotions. You can rent kayaks at Cat Co, Tung Thu beaches or Lan Ha Bay.
Trekking path through the lush forest of Cat Ba National Park
9.2. Trekking in Cat Ba National Park
Trekking through Cat Ba National Park is an interesting experience for those who love nature exploration and exercise. Cat Ba National Park has many trekking routes with different lengths and difficulties, suitable for all fitness levels. Forest trekking helps you explore the diverse ecosystem, admire the majestic natural scenery and improve your health.
9.3. Rock Climbing
Cat Ba has many attractive rock climbing spots, suitable for those who love adventure and conquering heights. Popular climbing spots in Cat Ba include Dau Be Island, Ba Trai Dao, Ben Beo, Hang Ca… Rock climbing is not only a sport activity but also an opportunity for you to see the panoramic view of Cat Ba from above and enjoy the feeling of conquering yourself.
9.4. Snorkeling to See Coral Reefs
The coral reef ecosystem in Cat Ba is very diverse and rich, with many rare coral species. Snorkeling to see coral reefs is a great experience to explore the beauty of the ocean world and admire the biodiversity of Cat Ba. Beautiful snorkeling spots in Cat Ba include Cat Dua, Ba Trai Dao, Mui Hong, Ang Tham…
9.5. Overnight Camping
Overnight camping on the beach or in Cat Ba National Park is a romantic and memorable experience. You can set up tents on the beach, organize a BBQ party, stargaze and listen to the sound of waves lapping. Overnight camping helps you immerse yourself in nature, enjoy the fresh air and relax after stressful working days.
Camping tents set up on a beach in Cat Ba at night
9.6. Overnight Stay on a Cruise
Overnight stay on a cruise is a luxurious and classy experience in Cat Ba. Cruises usually have itineraries to visit Lan Ha Bay, including activities such as swimming, kayaking, visiting caves, fishing villages… Overnight stay on a cruise helps you enjoy privacy, comfort and admire the beauty of Lan Ha Bay at night and sunrise at sea.
10. Suggested Quality Hotels and Homestays in Cat Ba
Cat Ba has many diverse accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly homestays, suitable for all needs and budgets. Here are a few suggestions:
- Luxury hotels: Cat Ba Golden Palace Hotel, Flamingo Cat Ba Beach Resort, Mgallery Cat Ba.
- Mid-range hotels: Emerald Hotel Cat Ba, Blue Lagoon Cat Ba, LePont Cat Ba Bungalow.
- Budget homestays and guesthouses: JoyStay Cat Ba, Rustic House, Central Backpackers Hotel.
You can book hotel and homestay rooms online through websites such as Agoda, Booking.com or contact the hotel directly for the best price. You should book rooms in advance, especially during peak tourist season or weekends to ensure you have satisfactory accommodation.
11. Exploring Cat Ba Cuisine – Delicious Dishes & Dining Locations
Cat Ba cuisine is famous for its fresh and diverse seafood. Coming to Cat Ba, you cannot miss specialties such as:
- Stir-fried Mantis Shrimp with Salt: The most popular dish in Cat Ba, fresh mantis shrimp stir-fried with flavorful chili salt.
- Grilled Tu Hai with Scallion Oil: Tu Hai (geoduck clam) is a rare specialty of Cat Ba, grilled with fragrant and fatty scallion oil.
- Grilled Horseshoe Crab Eggs: Cat Ba horseshoe crab has many ways of processing, of which grilled horseshoe crab eggs is a popular and favorite dish.
- Steamed/Grilled Blue Crab: Cat Ba blue crab has firm, sweet meat, steamed or grilled are both delicious.
- Cat Ba Shrimp Noodle Soup: A rustic noodle dish but with the typical flavor of the sea, with fresh shrimp, fish cakes, and flavorful broth.
- Steamed/Grilled/Hot Pot Grouper: Cat Ba grouper has white, chewy, sweet meat, which can be processed into many delicious dishes.
Delicious dining locations in Cat Ba:
- Floating raft restaurants: Experiencing fresh seafood on floating raft restaurants on the bay is a unique experience in Cat Ba.
- Restaurants in the central area: The central town area of Cat Ba has many delicious seafood restaurants and local eateries serving Cat Ba specialties.
- Snack stalls at Cat Ba Market: Cat Ba Market is a place that gathers many snack stalls and street food with affordable prices.
Delicious seafood dishes, a culinary highlight of Cat Ba Island
12. What to Buy as Souvenirs When Traveling to Cat Ba?
Coming to Cat Ba, you can buy many specialties as gifts for relatives and friends:
- Dried seafood: Dried squid, dried shrimp, dried fish, dried peanut worms… are popular and easy-to-preserve gifts.
- Cat Hai Fish Sauce: Cat Hai fish sauce is famous for its delicious, rich flavor, a traditional specialty of Hai Phong.
- Cat Ba Forest Honey: Cat Ba forest honey is of good quality, with a characteristic delicious aroma.
- Souvenirs: Handicrafts from seashells, snail shells, keychains, jewelry… are meaningful souvenirs.
Shopping locations for souvenirs and Cat Ba specialties:
- Cat Ba Market: Cat Ba Market is a place that gathers many stalls selling specialties, dried seafood, souvenirs…
- Specialty stores: Specialty stores on Cat Ba streets also sell many types of specialties and souvenirs.
Dried squid, a popular specialty souvenir from Cat Ba Island
13. Suggested Detailed 2 Days 1 Night Self-Guided Cat Ba Itinerary
Day 1:
- Morning: Depart from Hanoi to Cat Ba (bus or combination of train and bus). Arrive in Cat Ba, check into the hotel and have lunch.
- Afternoon: Visit Than Cong Fortress, swim at Cat Co beach or Tung Thu beach, watch the sunset over the sea.
- Evening: Have seafood dinner at a floating raft restaurant, stroll along the beach at night or explore Cat Ba town at night.
Day 2:
- Morning: Watch the sunrise over the sea, have breakfast and check out of the hotel.
- Morning – Afternoon: Rent a boat to visit Lan Ha Bay, kayak, swim, explore Monkey Island, have lunch on the boat or restaurant on the bay.
- Late afternoon: End Lan Ha Bay tour, move back to Hanoi (bus or combination of train and bus).
Note: This is just a suggested itinerary, you can flexibly adjust it according to your preferences and time. If you have more time, you can stay in Cat Ba for 3 days 2 nights or 4 days 3 nights to explore more of Cat Ba National Park, caves, fishing villages and experience many other interesting activities.
14. Important Notes for a More Complete Cat Ba Trip
- Prepare enough personal items: Sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, swimwear, towels, medicine…
- Book hotel rooms and bus tickets in advance: Especially during peak tourist season and weekends.
- Ask for prices before buying goods or using services: Avoid being overcharged.
- Bring enough cash: Some locations in Cat Ba may not accept card payments.
- Protect the environment: Do not litter indiscriminately, maintain general hygiene at tourist spots.
- Find out weather information before going: To proactively prepare clothes and plan accordingly.
- Choose appropriate clothes: You should bring comfortable, easy-to-move clothes, suitable for island sea weather.
- Maintain personal security: Be careful with belongings, avoid carrying many expensive jewelry.
With this detailed self-guided Cat Ba travel guide from “Du lịch khắp thế gian” (Travel the World), hopefully you will have a truly fun, meaningful and memorable trip to this beautiful pearl island. If you have any questions or need more advice about traveling to Cat Ba, do not hesitate to contact us for the best support!