Cat Ba Island - Discovering Vietnam

Travelling to Cat Ba Island

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Cat Ba Island, a pretty good destination in Vietnam (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Cat Ba Island and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Cat Ba Island, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Vietnam, here's everything to know about Cat Ba Island for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Cat Ba Island

Cat Ba Island is the largest island in the Cat Ba Archipelago, situated near the southeastern coast of Haiphong City in Vietnam. It covers an area of about 140 square kilometers and is famous for its stunning scenery, beautiful beaches, and unique limestone landscapes. Cat Ba Island is a popular destination for tourists who want to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, pristine beaches, and explore the natural beauty of the island. The island is home to Cat Ba National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, which boasts diverse flora and fauna, including many species of rare animals such as langurs, civet cats, and butterflies. There are also many outdoor activities that visitors can enjoy, including hiking, kayaking, cycling, and rock climbing. Cat Ba Island is also known for its delicious seafood, and there are many local restaurants that serve fresh seafood dishes at reasonable prices.

What to visit in Cat Ba Island

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Cat Ba Island and a brief information about each of them: 1. Lan Ha Bay: This bay is the most popular attraction of Cat Ba. The emerald green water, the karst limestone mountains and islands, and the peacefulness of the bay is something that cannot be missed. You can enjoy kayaking, swimming or even visit a floating village within the bay.
2. Cat Ba National Park: Cat Ba National Park is a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, a park that has a rich biodiversity with hundreds of wildlife species and ancient trees. Trekking to the peak of the National Park gives you stunning panoramic views of the whole island.
3. Cannon Fort: Cannon Fort is a historical site from the war against the US. This structure remains to this day intact and has been opened for tourists to explore, they have a museum that explains the history of the fortification as well as other areas.
4. Hospital Cave: Another historical site, Hospital Cave is said to have played an instrumental role in the Vietnam war. The cave once functioned as a bomb-proof secret hospital between 1963 and 1975, giving shelter for injured soldiers and officers. Today it is opened to the public for guided tours.
5. Cat Ba Island Beaches: Cat Ba Island is blessed with several beaches where visitors can sunbathe, go for a swim or simply walk through the sand. These beaches include Cat Co Beach, Tung Thu Beach, Cat Dua Beach among others.
6. Trung Trang Cave: Located in the northern part of Cat Ba Island, Trung Trang cave is a large cave running through the mountains. This cave is said to have been formed over millions of years, due to the erosion of water. Today, tourists can walk through the well-lit passages and admire the beautiful stalactites and stalagmites.
Each of these attractions is unique and definitely worth a visit to enjoy the beauty and cultural richness of Cat Ba Island, Vietnam.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Vietnam, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Cat Ba Island.

When to go on holiday to Cat Ba Island

The best time to visit Cat Ba Island is between March and May or between September and November. During these months, the weather is warm with little rain, and the temperatures are comfortable for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking and exploring the island's stunning beaches and landscape. However, if you prefer a bit of warmth and sunshine, June to August is the peak season, but it can be rainy and humid. December to February is cooler, and some outdoor activities may be limited due to colder weather and occasional rain.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Cat Ba Island

To get to Cat Ba Island in Vietnam, you will first need to make your way to Hai Phong City. From there, you can take a ferry or a speed boat to Cat Ba Island. Here are the steps: 1. Fly to the Cat Bi International Airport in Hai Phong City.
2. Take a taxi or a Grab to the Ben Binh Pier in Hai Phong City.
3. From the Ben Binh Pier, take a ferry to Cat Ba Island. The ferry ride takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. The cost is around 80,000 to 120,000 VND (3.5 to 5 USD) per person, depending on the season and the type of ferry.
4. Alternatively, you can take a speedboat from Hai Phong City to Cat Ba Island, which takes around 20-30 minutes and costs approximately 200,000 to 300,000 VND per person (9 to 13 USD), depending on the operator and the season. I recommend checking the ferry or speedboat schedules in advance and booking your tickets early to ensure a smooth journey.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Cat Ba Island, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Cat Ba Island

Here are some typical foods of Cat Ba Island in Vietnam along with a short description for each: 1. Seafood Hotpot - This is a popular dish on the island, made with a variety of fresh seafood including fish, shrimp, squid, and crab, cooked in a flavorful broth and served with vegetables.
2. Grilled fish - Grilled fish is a simple and delicious dish that you can find all over Cat Ba Island. The fish is marinated with herbs and grilled over charcoal until it is tender and flavorful.
3. Banh Mi - Banh Mi is a Vietnamese sandwich made with a crunchy baguette, meat, vegetables and a variety of sauces. You can find many stalls selling this tasty sandwich on Cat Ba Island.
4. Nem nuong - Nem nuong is a type of grilled pork sausage that is served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a sweet and sour dipping sauce. It's a great light meal that is perfect for hot weather.
5. Bun cha - Bun cha is a dish made with grilled pork patties, vermicelli noodles, fresh vegetables, and a sweet and sour dipping sauce. This dish is light, refreshing and full of flavor.
6. Bia Hoi - This is a popular Vietnamese beer that is perfect to enjoy with some street food or seafood while watching the sunset on Cat Ba Island.
Overall, Cat Ba Island offers a variety of delicious foods that showcases the freshness of the seafood, and the simplicity of the Vietnamese cuisine.
You can find general info about typical foods in Vietnam here.

Is Cat Ba Island an expensive destination for tourists?

Cat Ba Island can be considered as mid-range in terms of prices for tourists. The cost of accommodation is relatively affordable, with a range of options from budget hostels to luxury resorts. Similarly, you can find food at a reasonable price from street vendors or local restaurants. However, some activities and tours, such as kayaking tours or rock climbing, can be relatively expensive. It is always best to research and compare prices before booking any activities or accommodation. Overall, it is possible to travel to Cat Ba Island on a budget but be prepared to spend more on some activities.

Where to find accomodation in Cat Ba Island

There are several areas on Cat Ba Island where you can find accommodation. The most popular area is Cat Ba Town, which is located on the southern part of the island. Here, you can find a wide variety of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxurious resorts.
Another popular area is near Cat Co Beach, which is a beautiful beach on the eastern side of the island. There are a number of hotels, resorts, and guesthouses located in this area. If you are looking for a quieter area, you might want to consider staying in the northern part of the island, near the village of Viet Hai. This area is known for its peaceful surroundings and stunning natural scenery. However, accommodation options in this area are more limited and may require a bit more planning to arrange.
You can check hotel prices at Cat Ba Island here:
Booking.com

Is Cat Ba Island a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Cat Ba Island is generally considered a safe place for tourists. It is a popular tourist destination and the local authorities take steps to ensure the safety of visitors. However, as with any destination, tourists should take normal precautions to ensure their personal safety and security. This includes being aware of your surroundings, avoiding poorly lit and isolated areas at night, and keeping your valuables safe and secure. It is also recommended that you travel with a reliable and reputable tour operator and follow their guidance.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Vietnam here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Cat Ba Island.

What type of travelers will enjoy Cat Ba Island the most?

Cat Ba Island in Vietnam offers a variety of activities and experiences that can cater to different types of travelers, but it is mostly suitable for families and couples. Families with children can enjoy the island's scenic beauty, hike through the Cat Ba National Park, and engage in outdoor activities like kayaking or swimming. There are also several child-friendly beaches and family-friendly resorts that provide various amenities and activities for kids.
Couples would enjoy Cat Ba Island for its romantic atmosphere, with stunning sunset views, secluded beaches, and the island's relaxed pace of life providing an opportunity for them to connect. The island's charming local markets and vibrant nightlife scene, with its seaside bars and restaurants, make it a popular destination for romantic getaways.
While the island is not a party destination, young travelers looking for a mix of adventure will also enjoy Cat Ba Island, with the various outdoor activities available, including rock climbing and water sports, creating an ideal destination for adrenaline-junkies.
Overall, Cat Ba Island can accommodate different types of travelers, but it is most suitable for couples and families looking for a peaceful and serene atmosphere with outdoor activities available.

How to get around Cat Ba Island

There are several modes of transportation that you can use to move around Cat Ba Island, Vietnam. The most common options include: 1. Motorbikes: Renting a motorbike is a popular option to explore the island. It costs around 100,000 to 150,000 VND per day (equivalent to $4.5 to $6.5 USD).
2. Bicycle: This is a cheap and convenient option for those who like to ride around the island. Bicycles can be rented for around 50,000 VND per day (equivalent to $2.2 USD).
3. Taxis: Taxis are available on the island and are the easiest way to get around, especially if you don't want to drive yourself. You can also rent a private car through travel operators, but it’s more expensive.
4. Public Bus: There is a bus that runs from Cat Ba town to other places on the island and to nearby cities such as Haiphong and Hanoi. It is a low-cost option but not very convenient as it operates at infrequent intervals.
5. Motorbike Taxi: This is a popular and cheaper alternative to traditional taxis on the island. These taxis are easily available and mostly operated by local people.

What to see around Cat Ba Island

Sure, here are some nice places you can visit in a day trip from Cat Ba Island (Vietnam): 1. Lan Ha Bay: A scenic bay with limestone cliffs, pristine water, and diverse marine life. You can take a boat tour or rent a kayak to explore its hidden lagoons and caves.
2. Viet Hai Village: A peaceful village located in the heart of Cat Ba National Park. You can enjoy a leisurely hike through the lush jungle, visit traditional houses made of bamboo, and taste local cuisine.
3. Monkey Island: A small island inhabited by playful monkeys that love to interact with visitors. You can enjoy a short hike to the top of the island for amazing views of the surrounding area.
4. Trung Trang Cave: A fascinating cave with intricate stalactites and stalagmites. You can explore the cave with a tour guide and learn about its geology and history.
5. Cat Ba Island Market: A bustling market where you can find fresh seafood, fruits, and veggies, as well as artisanal crafts and souvenirs.
6. Cannon Fort: A historic fort that offers panoramic views of Cat Ba Island and the surrounding sea. You can learn about the island's role during the Vietnam War and enjoy a beautiful sunset over the horizon.
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