IN A NUTSHELL
- Cat Ba Island, situated in the Gulf of Tonkin near Hai Phong City in northeastern Vietnam, is the largest among the Cat Ba Archipelago, covering an expansive area exceeding 300 square kilometers.
- Renowned for its breathtaking natural allure, the island features towering cliffs, dense forests, and crystalline waters.
- Recognized as a UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Reserve in 2004, Cat Ba Island boasts exceptional biodiversity and a distinctive ecosystem. Within its boundaries reside various wildlife species, including the critically endangered Cat Ba Langur, counted among the world’s rarest primates.
- The island has become a favored destination for adventure enthusiasts due to its diverse activity offerings, including rock climbing, kayaking, and hiking, catering to those seeking thrilling experiences.
- Cat Ba Island has three main beaches (named Cat Ba 1, Cat Ba 2, and Cat Ba 3) where visitors can get their tan on and enjoy a dip in the ocean. For those who are more physically inclined, there are activities such as rock climbing, kayaking, and snorkeling.
When is the best time to visit Cat Ba Island?
Spring and autumn are considered the best times for a balanced visit to Cat Ba Island, offering pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer is ideal for beach enthusiasts, while winter provides a quieter experience for those who don’t mind cooler temperatures. Let’s check the details with Ftripvietnam to find out the best time to visit Cat Ba Island:
Spring (March to May): This is a fantastic time to visit, with mild temperatures, lush landscapes, and relatively fewer tourists. The weather is comfortable for outdoor activities, hiking, and exploring the island’s natural beauty.
Summer (June to August): While these months bring warm temperatures and clear skies, they also attract larger crowds of domestic tourists who travel with family and kids during the summer holiday. This time is ideal for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. Be prepared for occasional rain showers, especially in July and August.
Autumn (September to November): Early autumn is a great time with pleasant weather and fewer tourists. September can be a bit rainy, but October and November are generally dry and comfortable for various activities. Autumn is really our favourite time to be in Cat Ba, it is perfect for hiking in the national park, less crown and most importantly we can still do all the water sport such as swimming and kayaking. The waves are much camer in this time so those who afraid of seasick, it is your time to visit Cat Ba Island.
Winter (December to February): The weather is cooler, and Cat Ba Island sees fewer visitors during this period. It’s a peaceful time to explore the island, but some businesses may close for the season. Pack warmer clothing as temperatures can drop, and occasional drizzles may occur.
How To Get There
From Halong Bay (22,7 km)
The most convenient way to reach Cat Ba Island is by starting your journey from Halong Bay (if you visit this area). Once you arrive in Halong Bay, the optimal mode of transportation to reach Cat Ba Island is by utilizing a ferry service. There are three ferry departures daily, all heading towards the northern part of the island. The ferry journey typically lasts approximately one hour and costs 80,000 VND per passenger or 100,000 VND if you are traveling with a motorbike. Upon reaching the northern side of the island, a 40-minute drive will take you to Cat Ba town. An economical option is to hop on a bus, which typically charges around 30,000 VND for the journey. Alternatively, taxis are available but exercise caution as some may attempt to overcharge you with inflated fares. For additional guidance on navigating the route from Halong Bay to Cat Ba Island, please refer to our comprehensive guide.
From Hanoi (124 km)
Taking a Hanoi-Haiphong highway bus is a convenient way to travel from Hanoi to Cat Ba Island, typically covering the distance in approximately 3-5 hours, with an average travel time of around 4 hours. There are several bus operators available, but you may consider options like Cat Ba Express and Good Morning Cat Ba for a combination of reasonable fares and quality service.
| Operator | Depart | Arrive | Tickets (2023) |
| Good Morning Cat Ba (35-seater) | 07:30 at 09 Cho Gao, Hoan Kiem | 11:35 at Cat Ba island (4h5′, no transfer) | 250,000 VND |
| Orient Travel (29-seater) | 08:00 at 128 Tran Nhat Duat | 11:50 at Cat Ba island (3h50′, no transfer) | 230,000 VND |
| Daiichi Travel (45-seater) | 10:30 at 96 Nguyen Huu Huan | 14:15 at Cat Ba Island (3h45′, no transfer) | 220,000 VND |
| Cát Bà Express (29-seater) | 13:45 at 37B Nguyen Huu Huan | 17:30 at Cat Ba island (3h45′, no transfer) | 270,000 VND |
From Hai Phong (33 km)
There are multiple ways to travel to Cat Ba island from Hai Phong. There is a public bus departure from 6:00 am in the morning from Ben Binh (Minh Khai, Hong Bang, Hai Phong) which is early enough for you to catch the morning cruise of the day.
| Transport (Company) | Schedule | Price |
| Speedboat (Mekong Hoang Yen) | Ben Binh: 09:00 am arrive Cat Ba pier at 09:45 (45 minutes) | 180,000 VND |
| Bus (Good Morning Cat Ba) | Tan Vu Lach Huyen Bridge at 09:30 am to Cat Ba at 11:10 (1h40′) | 400,000 VND |
| Taxi (Mai Linh Hai Phong Or En Vang ) | Door to door sevice | 480,000 VND |
Things to do in Cat Ba Island
The island has so much to offer from the beautiful national park to the cruise over Lan Ha Bay but there are more. Ftrip has listed some highlights here for your choice.
Spend half a day in Viet Hai village
Accessible primarily by boat/ cruise or a scenic hike through Cat Ba National Park, the village offers a nice escape from the bustling cities. Surrounded by towering limestone karsts, the village is a testament to traditional Vietnamese rural life with rice paddies dotting the landscape. The villagers maintain a simple, relying on farming, fishing, and tourism. We can explore the verdant landscapes on bike rides, visit local homes, and try fish massage.
Hiking and Trekking
Explore Cat Ba National Park, home to diverse flora and fauna. Hike to viewpoints like Ngu Lam Peak to enjoy panoramic vistas of the island and the bay. Visit the official website for the best guidance from the local team: https://catbanationalpark.vn
Lan Ha Bay Cruises:
Take a boat tour of Lan Ha Bay, known for its stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters. You can go kayaking, swimming, and visit fishing villages.
Cat Ba Beaches:
Relax on beautiful beaches like Cat Co 1, Cat Co 2, and Cat Co 3, known for their white sands and clear waters. These beaches offer sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.
Island Hopping:
Arrange island-hopping tours to explore nearby islands, such as Monkey Island, Thoi Quyt, and Quan Lan Island.
Check out our guide for the top 12 things to do in Cat Ba here: https://ftripvietnam.com/top-12-things-to-do-in-cat-ba-island/
What and where to eat in Cat Ba Island
Whether you’re a seafood lover or a vegetarian, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings while enjoying the island’s unique flavors.
For seafood enthusiasts, Cat Ba Town’s local seafood restaurants are a must-visit. Dine at places like Cat Ba Seafood Restaurant or Green Mango for seafood dishes such as grilled squid, crab hotpot, and garlic butter prawns, all sourced fresh from the island’s waters. Don’t forget to try the famous “Cá Cơm” (rice fish) salad, a local delicacy that’s both refreshing and flavorful.
Many restaurants on Cat Ba Island offer vegetarian versions of traditional Vietnamese dishes like Pho (noodle soup), Com (rice) dishes, and spring rolls, with tofu and vegetables replacing meat. Visit places like Green Vegan Restaurant and Quan Com Chay to enjoy a variety of vegetarian and vegan options prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Whenever you see a “Com Chay” place, it is a vegan/ vegetarian restaurant for locals with reasonable prices. In addition, you can find a wide selection of fresh fruits, vegetables, and tropical treats to create your own vegetarian meals or snacks. Additionally, the island’s street food scene often offers vegetarian-friendly options like banh mi sandwiches stuffed with fresh veggies and sauces.
Where to stay in Cat Ba Island
If you’re traveling with family, consider staying at Cat Ba Sunrise Resort or Cat Ba Island Resort & Spa. These family-friendly accommodations offer spacious rooms, swimming pools, and activities like kayaking and cycling. The serene surroundings and easy access to the beach make them great choices for a relaxing family getaway. You can also find family suites and connecting rooms at several hotels to ensure everyone has a comfortable stay.
For a romantic escape, check out Sea Pearl Hotel, overlooking Cat Co Beach, which offers cozy rooms with sea views, perfect for couples. Lan Ha Legend Cruise offers overnight cruises with private cabins, allowing you to experience the beauty of Halong Bay in a secluded setting. Another intimate choice is Cat Ba Eco-Lodge, nestled in nature, offering a tranquil ambiance for couples seeking seclusion.
If you are traveling on a budget, Cat Ba Hostel and Central Backpackers Hostel are popular choices and offer dormitory-style rooms and a social atmosphere for meeting fellow travelers. Buffalo Hostel has recently a hot spot for young travelers with all the convenient amenities such as a swimming pool, and bike rentals, and it offers both dormitory and private rooms.
Suggested itinerary
To enjoy Cat Ba Island to the fullest, we recommend our customers spend at least 3 days on the island. The typical Itinerary would look like the below:
Day 1: Explore Cat Ba Town and relax on the Beach
Start your three-day adventure on Cat Ba Island by exploring Cat Ba Town. Stroll along the vibrant streets, lined with local shops, seafood restaurants, and quaint cafes. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the town’s seafood eateries to savor the island’s freshest catches.
Afterward, head to one of the stunning Cat Co Beaches (Cat Co 1, Cat Co 2, or Cat Co 3). These shores offer golden sands and clear waters, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply taking in the breathtaking views of the bay. Spend your afternoon relaxing on the beach, or if you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at kayaking or paddleboarding and finish with a beautiful sunset. In the evening, return to Cat Ba Town and savor a delicious seafood dinner, followed by a leisurely walk along the promenade to take in the town’s lively atmosphere.
Day 2: Hope on Lan Ha Bay Cruise
On your second day, embark on a Lan Ha Bay cruise adventure. Many tour operators offer full-day or half-day cruises, which allow you to explore the bay’s stunning limestone karsts, pristine waters, and hidden caves. Enjoy activities like kayaking, swimming, and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. You can also visit fishing villages and floating houses to learn about the local way of life.
Lunch is typically served on the boat, featuring fresh seafood and Vietnamese cuisine. In the afternoon, relax on the sundeck, soak in the breathtaking scenery, and take plenty of photos to capture the beauty of Lan Ha Bay. Return to Cat Ba Town in the evening, where you can dine at a seafood restaurant or opt for a romantic sunset dinner cruise.
Day 3: Check out Cat Ba National Park
On your final day, set off to explore Cat Ba National Park, a nature lover’s paradise. Begin your adventure with a visit to the park’s visitor center, where you can obtain maps and information about the hiking trails. Opt for a trek to Ngu Lam Peak, which rewards you with panoramic views of the island and the bay.
Alternatively, you can choose to hike to the historic Hospital Cave, an underground hospital built during the Vietnam War, which provides insight into the island’s history. After your trek, enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the lush surroundings before descending back to Cat Ba Town. In the afternoon, consider a relaxing boat trip to discover the hidden gems and secluded beaches within the park, or explore the park’s tropical flora and fauna.
The above is Fripvietnam’s complete guide for Cat Ba Island. You can either visit on your own or book your package with a travel agency for convenience.
