Cat Ba Island

The Cat Ba Archipelago consists of 367 islands located to the south of Halong Bay. Among them, Cat Ba Island is the primary tourist destination. This place showcases the characteristic beauty of the Halong Bay region with its limestone karst formations and serene turquoise waters.

The limestone mountains and the peaceful waters of Cat Ba Island

History

The history of Cat Ba Island is intertwined with the historical events of Vietnam and the surrounding region. The island has been inhabited for thousands of years, with evidence of early human presence dating back to the prehistoric era.

During the 19th century, Cat Ba Island became an important strategic location for the French colonial forces. They established a military outpost on the island to protect their interests in the region. The French presence on Cat Ba Island continued until the defeat of the French forces in the First Indochina War in 1954.

In more recent history, during the Vietnam War, Cat Ba Island served as a base for the North Vietnamese Army. The island’s strategic location in Halong Bay made it a crucial point for logistical support and military operations.

After the war, Cat Ba Island gradually opened up to tourism, and its natural beauty and rich marine biodiversity attracted visitors from around the world. Today, the island is a symbol of Vietnamese resilience and pride, reflected in its conservation efforts and national park status.

Things to do and see in Cat Ba Island

Cat Ba National Park

Cat Ba National Park is a designated UNESCO Man and Biosphere Reserve and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including several endangered species. The park features lush forests, rugged limestone hills, and a network of hiking trails, making it a great destination for eco-tourism and outdoor enthusiasts.

Cat Ba Langur is listed in the Red List of the World's Endangered Species

Visitors to Cat Ba National Park can explore its pristine beauty, hike through dense forests, and observe various wildlife, including langurs, macaques, and many species of birds. The park also offers opportunities for rock climbing and bird watching.

Cat Co Beaches

If you're in search of sunshine and sandy shores, make your way to the Cat Co Beaches. These beaches, consisting of Cat Co 1, Cat Co 2, and Cat Co 3, provide an ideal destination to relax and enjoy the sun. Each beach boasts its distinctive appeal, from serene and peaceful to more vibrant with beachfront bars and entertainment options. You can plunge into the invigorating waters, take leisurely walks along the sandy coast, or merely revel in the natural beauty that surrounds you.

The wooden bridge connecting three beaches will be a fantastic photo spot for tourists

Lan Ha Bay

Lan Ha Bay is renowned for its emerald waters, towering limestone karsts, and serene atmosphere. Visitors are drawn to Lan Ha Bay for its unspoiled natural beauty, which offers opportunities for activities like kayaking, swimming, and cruising.

Lan Ha Bay is an ideal destination for tourists to experience kayaking

Lan Ha Bay is often considered a hidden gem, as it features a more tranquil and less touristy environment compared to the nearby Halong Bay. The bay is dotted with numerous small islands, caves, and coves, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful escape.

Cai Beo Fishing Village

This is the oldest fishing village in Vietnam. In the fishing village, there are approximately 300 households engaged in fish farming in cages and catching seafood in the sea. When you visit here, you can have lunch right on the sea with the freshest seafood dishes.

Cai Beo Fishing Village from Above

Monkey Island

Monkey Island is the habitat of a troop of monkeys released by the Cat Ba National Park Management Board. Here, you can play and interact with the adorable monkeys or hike to the mountaintop to enjoy panoramic views of Lan Ha Bay from above.

Feeding the monkeys on Monkey Island

Cannon Fort

The Thien Cung Fortress is situated on a hill with an elevation of 177 meters. From a military strategic perspective, this location is considered an ideal defensive point. During World War II, the First Indochina War, and the Vietnam War, the Thien Cung Fortress was used for military purposes. From the fortress, you can enjoy a magnificent panoramic view overlooking Lan Ha Bay.

The stunning sunset view at Cannon Fort

Hospital Cave

This is a unique destination, located approximately 8.5 km from the town center, on the way to the national park. Inside the cave is a field hospital, constructed from 1963 to 1965. 

Inside Hospital Cave

Upon entering the cave, many tourists can't help but be surprised by the system of 17 rooms on three levels, including treatment rooms, rehabilitation exercise areas, and a movie screening room. The design of the entrance is bomb-resistant, a product of the wartime era.

What to eat on Cat Ba Island?

When visiting Cat Ba Island, besides enjoying relaxing moments and immersing yourself in the sea, savoring seafood seems to be one of the attractions for tourists here:

Geoduck

Geoduck dish

Horseshoe crab 

The grilled horseshoe crab is a specialty of Cat Ba Island

Mantis shrimp

Mantis Shrimp is roasted with salt

Grouper

The grouper dish

Various dishes made from squid

Dishes made from quid

The ticket prices for various tourist attractions on Cat Ba Island

+ Lan Ha Bay and Monkey Island Tour Ticket Price: 80,000 VND per adult (40,000 VND per child).

+ Lan Ha Bay Tour Ticket Price: 50,000 VND per adult (25,000 VND per child).

+ Monkey Island Swimming: Free (On days with low tides, boat rental is 10,000 VND per guest).

+ Cat Ba National Park: 80,000 VND per person.

+ Thien Cung Grotto (Heavenly Palace Cave) Tour Ticket: 80,000 VND.

+ Quan Y Cave: 80,000 VND per person.

+ Kayak Rental: 50,000 VND per kayak.

Weather

The weather on Cat Ba Island features a distinct tropical climate. The dry season, from November to April, offers pleasant temperatures and clear skies, ideal for outdoor activities. The wet season, from May to October, brings occasional rains, but the island's lush greenery becomes even more vibrant during this time.

How to get there

Cat Ba Island is accessible by both land and water. From Hanoi, travelers can take a combination of bus and ferry services. Buses depart regularly from Hanoi to Hai Phong, where you can catch a ferry to Cat Ba Island. The ferry offers stunning views of Halong Bay and takes about 45 minutes. Alternatively, there are speed boat services from Hai Phong City to Cat Ba, which provide a quicker option for visitors. Once on the island, local transport options like motorbikes and bicycles are available for exploring the charming landscapes and attractions.

Explore Cat Ba Island with Asia King Travel

Cat Ba Island is a captivating destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical significance. With Asia King Travel, we extend an invitation for you to embark on an adventure that leads you through the captivating splendor of Cat Ba. Allow us to be your navigator in this extraordinary location, where you can discover the magic of its natural marvels and cultural riches.