Cat Ba Island: Everything You Need to Know

Cat Ba Island is located in Northern Vietnam, in the Gulf of Tonkin. It’s the largest island in the Cat Ba Archipelago and along with Ha Long Bay it is a UNESCO Heritage site. The closest big city is Hai Phong City, from where it’s easy to access by ferry or boat. It’s also only about 3.5 hours from Hanoi.

Here you can cruise through the emerald waters of Lan Ha Bay on a traditional junk boat, swapping the more fancy boats of Ha Long Bay. For thrill-seekers, Cat Ba offers rare activities like deep water soloing or night kayaking among bioluminescent plankton. You can also go trekking in Cat Ba National Park to spot the endangered golden-headed langur or explore caves like Trung Trang. To add more adventure to your trip, you can spend a night in a floating homestay.

Cat Ba Island is ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers as it offers lots of outdoor and high energy activities such as rock climbing and kayaking. It’s also great for solo travellers since many experiences are on a join-in basis. We’d also highly recommend it for those that are looking for a quieter and more authentic alternative to the Halong Bay cruise.

From Hanoi, the most popular route is a direct bus with a ferry transfer. The journey takes about 2 hours by bus from Hanoi’s Old Quarter to the port, followed by a 1-hour ferry ride to Cat Ba Island, and a final 45-minute bus ride to Cat Ba Town, the island’s main hub.

If you’re traveling from Hai Phong, the journey is even quicker. You can take a ferry directly to Cat Ba Island, making it an ideal option for those already in the region. Coming from Ninh Binh? Many travelers opt for a combination of bus and ferry services that connect the scenic countryside to the island.

If you are coming from somewhere further in Vietnam, like Ho Chi Minh City, you can fly into the Cat Ba Airport which is located in Hai Phong.

To fully experience Cat Ba Island, plan for at least 2 days. This allows time to explore the highlights of Lan Ha Bay by boat, trek through Cat Ba National Park, and visit the unique floating villages and hidden beaches. If you're interested in trying more activities like rock climbing or spending a night in a floating homestay, consider extending your stay to 3 or 4 days for a deeper immersion.

Cat Ba Island is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own charm. Spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are ideal for mild weather, warm days, and fewer crowds—perfect for outdoor adventures like kayaking, trekking, and rock climbing. Summer (July and August) brings hotter temperatures and bigger crowds as local tourists flock to the island for summer holidays, but it can be a fun way to experience the local vibes. Even in winter (December to March), the island’s serene beauty shines through, with cooler weather and fewer visitors creating a tranquil escape.

Lan Ha Bay is the crown jewel of Cat Ba Island and an absolute must-see for any visitor. For those short on time, the best way to experience its beauty is on a day boat trip. These smaller boats, typically with a maximum of 30 passengers, let you explore multiple highlights, such as Cai Beo Fishing Village and kayak through hidden caves, in just one day.

You can even try a completely unique boat experience of fishing or crabbing with a local guide.

A 2D1N cruise on Lan Ha Bay is the ultimate all-in-one adventure, combining the best of Cat Ba’s activities into a seamless experience. Perfect for those who want to tick all the boxes, this journey includes kayaking through hidden lagoons, biking to the tranquil Viet Hai Village, and even marveling at bioluminescent plankton at night.

Cat Ba is home one of the rarest natural wonders in the world: bioluminescent plankton. Found in only a handful of places globally, these glowing organisms transform the waters of Lan Ha Bay into a magical, illuminated dreamscape. One of the best ways to get close is by kayaking.

If you are looking for a day time kayaking experience, there’s tour operators that can make that possible as well.

Step into the wild heart of Cat Ba Island with a trek through its stunning national park, a playground of rugged limestone peaks, dense jungles, and hidden wildlife. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is home to rare species like the elusive Cat Ba langur and vibrant tropical birds, making every step an adventure. The hiking trails full of greenery and raw natural beauty make trekking here an unforgettable way to connect with Cat Ba’s untamed side.

For those drawn to panoramic views and a sense of achievement, the trek to Navy Peak is a natural next step. Rising through the dense jungle trails of Cat Ba National Park, this popular route leads to one of the island’s most stunning vantage points. At the summit, you’re rewarded with a panoramic spectacle: forested hills rolling into the distance, the emerald waters of Lan Ha Bay, and even a glimpse of Ha Long City on the horizon.

Viet Hai Village is a centuries-old community nestled deep within Cat Ba National Park. Surrounded by lush forests and towering limestone cliffs, this remote village has preserved its traditional way of life, offering visitors a rare glimpse into Vietnam’s past. The scenic ride to the village takes you through vibrant rice fields and jungle paths, adding to the sense of adventure. Once there, unwind with a soothing fish massage, where tiny fish gently exfoliate your feet, or explore the village and connect with locals who warmly share their heritage and stories.

Trung Trang Cave is a natural masterpiece carved over thousands of years. Located in Cat Ba National Park, this 300-meter-long cave is filled with mesmerizing stalactites and stalagmites that create otherworldly formations. As you wander through its cool, dimly lit chambers, keep an eye out for the unique wildlife that calls this subterranean world home, including tiny crabs and snails thriving in its crevices. Trung Trang Cave offers a captivating journey into Cat Ba’s geological and cultural heritage.

If you’re ready to test your strength and skill, rock climbing in Cat Ba is the perfect challenge. The island is a world-class climbing destination, with its iconic limestone cliffs offering routes for all levels, from beginner-friendly climbs to advanced overhangs. With expert guides to show you the ropes, you’ll learn the techniques and experience the thrill of conquering these natural giants.

You can even try out more extreme versions of this by going deep water soloing and rappelling.

For a convenient and relaxing escape, head to Cat Co Beach, just minutes from Cat Ba Town. Its golden sands and calm turquoise waters make it perfect for swimming and sunbathing, with easy access and no need for a boat trip. If you’re looking for a quieter spot, Tung Thu Beach is a fantastic alternative. Located slightly farther from town, it offers the same serene beauty with fewer crowds, making it ideal for those seeking a more peaceful experience.

We'd recommend at least 3 days here:

Day 1: Arrive around noon and unwind with a relaxing boat trip or a magical night kayaking with bioluminescent plankton.

Day 2: Spend the day on an adventure—trek through Cat Ba National Park or try abseiling, deep water soloing, or rock climbing.

Day 3: Before your afternoon departure, choose a half-day activity—explore Trung Trang Cave, hike Navy Peak, or swim at Cat Co Beach.

Bring breathable clothing for warm days, a jacket for cooler evenings, and swimwear for the beaches and kayaking. Comfortable walking shoes for trekking, along with sandals for at the beach. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect against the sun, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. For outdoor activities, pack a dry bag for your valuables and a flashlight for night adventures.

There are ATMs available on Cat Ba Island, primarily located in Cat Ba Town. It’s a good idea to withdraw enough VND before arriving, especially if you plan to explore more remote areas of the island, as smaller establishments and activities often don’t accept card payments. Always have some cash on hand to ensure a hassle-free experience.

WiFi is readily available in Cat Ba Town, with most hotels, cafes, and restaurants offering decent speeds for browsing and basic communication. However, connectivity becomes sparse or nonexistent when venturing into Lan Ha Bay or more remote parts of the island. If you plan to explore the bay or go on overnight boat trips, be prepared to disconnect. It’s the perfect excuse for a digital detox!

The main thing to consider is your preference for comfort and authenticity. If you are looking for a more authentic and quieter experience, you are better off going to Cat Ba. If you prefer a more comfortable or even fancy accommodation, your best option is a Halong Bay cruise. You’ll have a very similar experience in term of views, so you won’t have to compromise on that.

Although the summer months do tend to get busy as the Vietnamese come to enjoy their summer holidays, Cat Ba is a lot quieter than Halong Bay. You can expect to find a quarter or so of the boats you would see in Ha Long Bay.