Cat Ba

Cát Bà Island – Gateway to Lan Ha Bay

? Overview

• Location: Off the coast of Hai Phong City, near Ha Long Bay, northern Vietnam.

• Part of: Cát Bà Archipelago, with over 360 islands.

• Famous for: Beautiful beaches, limestone cliffs, Cát Bà National Park, and access to Lan Hạ Bay.

Why Visit Cát Bà?

• Less crowded and more laid-back than Ha Long Bay.

• Stunning mix of mountains, jungle, and ocean.

• Perfect for adventure lovers: kayaking, rock climbing, hiking, and boating.

• Gateway to explore the less touristy but equally majestic Lan Hạ Bay.

Top Attractions

1. Cát Bà National Park

• A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with tropical rainforest, caves, and wildlife.

• Great for trekking, birdwatching, and spotting endangered langurs.

• Popular hiking trail: Ngự Lâm Peak (1.5–2 hours) with panoramic views.

2. Lan Hạ Bay

• Neighboring Ha Long Bay but less commercial.

• Take a boat tour or kayak through limestone karsts, floating villages, and hidden beaches.

• Swim or snorkel in crystal-clear waters.

3. Cát Cò Beaches (1, 2, and 3)

• Easily accessible from Cát Bà town.

• Ideal for swimming, relaxing, and watching sunsets.

4. Cannon Fort (Pháo Đài Thần Công)

• Historical military site with tunnels and cannons.

• Offers one of the best sunset viewpoints on the island.

5. Hospital Cave

• A secret bomb-proof hospital during the Vietnam War.

• Fascinating mix of history and adventure.

Best Time to Visit

• April to June & September to November: Pleasant weather, fewer tourists.

• July & August: Hot and humid, with potential rainstorms (peak domestic travel season).

• December to March: Cooler and drier, good for hiking but not ideal for swimming.

How to Get to Cát Bà

1. From Hanoi:

   • Bus + speedboat combo (4–5 hours total) via Hai Phong or Ha Long.

   • Popular companies: Good Morning Cat Ba, Cat Ba Express.

2. From Ha Long City or Tuan Chau Island:

   • Ferry or speedboat directly to Cát Bà.

3. From Hai Phong:

   • Take a ferry from Ben Binh Pier or Got Pier (shortest route).

Where to Stay

• Cát Bà Town: Most accommodation options, restaurants, and tour offices.

• Eco-resorts in Lan Hạ Bay or secluded beaches: For nature lovers and honeymooners.

• Homestays in local villages or near the national park for quiet retreats.

Local Cuisine

• Seafood is the specialty: squid, clams, crab, and shrimp.

• Horseshoe crab (sam biển) – a local delicacy.

• Grilled scallops, fresh oysters, and fish hotpot are must-tries.

Travel Tips

• Book boat tours to Lan Hạ Bay in advance, especially in high season.

• Bring hiking shoes and swimwear for versatile activities.

• Eco-friendly travel is encouraged to protect the island's delicate environment.