10 Reasons Why Cat Ba Island is Your Perfect Summer Holiday
A trip to Cat Ba Island has become an irresistible choice for this summer vacation! You will have the opportunity to visit Lan Ha Bay and its majestic limestone mountains, witness rare animal species found only in Cat Ba National Park, or indulge in the beauty of pristine beaches. Let this green pearl island create memorable experiences for your upcoming trip!
Where Is Cat Ba Island?
Peaceful moment on Lan Ha Bay, Cat Ba Island
Cat Ba Island belongs to Hai Phong City, about 10 km southeast of Halong Bay, 30 km from the city center of Hai Phong. Cat Ba is the largest island of Cat Ba archipelago which is composed of 367 islands on the water of Lan Ha Bay. Come to this green pearl island, visitors will have a chance to enjoy the wonders of nature, the idyllic way of life and the savory seafood.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Cat Ba Island?
Summer is the best time to visit this green pearl island for the sunny skies, less rain and high temperature which are suitable for all beachside activities, trekking in Cat Ba National Park. The summertime in North Vietnam lasts from May to August. This green pearl island in wintertime which falls between from November to March isn’t the best place in Vietnam for swimming due to the cold water and winds.
For more information, reaching out to our blog post Cat Ba: Best Time to Visit this Beautiful Island.
10 Reasons Why Cat Ba is the Best for Summer Holiday!
The unique natural beauty of Cat Ba
Cat Ba, an island nestled in the midst of Ha Long Bay, shines with its unique natural beauty. The area is adorned with captivating turquoise beaches, embraced by beautiful limestone mountains that form arch-like structures. Tourists love landmarks such as Lan Ha Bay, Trung Trang Cave, and Cat Co Beach.
Cai Beo Fishing Village The Oldest Fishing Village in Viet Nam
Don’t forget to visit the “gate to the sky amidst the sea” – Dark and Bright Cave. Here, you can paddle through calm waters inside the cave, admire unique limestone formations, and gaze out at the breathtaking bay. Lan Ha Bay paints a unique natural picture with overwhelming beauty that will captivate your senses.
Exciting water sports and outdoor activities
Don’t miss out on the following activities if you’re an adventure enthusiast.
Kayaking and cave exploration
Kayaking is an activity you shouldn’t miss if you love exploration and adventure. You’ll glide across the cool blue sea, marvel at towering cliffs, mysterious caves, and stunning beaches. This activity provides a sense of freedom, excitement, and vitality. You’ll feel the invigorating sea breeze as you glide on the water’s surface, taking in magnificent natural landscapes.
Kayaking Experience
Go Swimming at Cat Co Beaches
Locals named the three beaches on Cat Ba Island Cat Co 1, 2, and 3, and they lie close to the central town. Golden sandy shores and turquoise-colored seawater bless the beaches. Moreover, they offer various tourist services, from electric cars and food and drinks to exciting beachside activities. Water games are also available at Cat Co 1 and 2.
Children playing on Cat Co 1 Beach
Rock Climbing in Lan Ha Bay
Lan Ha Bay and rock climbing are a heavenly match. With many islands of various shapes and sizes, rock climbing enthusiasts can challenge themselves on many levels of difficulty. There are five rock-climbing routes, starting from Beo Wharf. Most beautiful cliffs can be named such as Dau Be, Van Boi Island, Fish Cave, Tien Ong Island.
Rock Mountain Climbing
- Sea diving and ocean exploration
Sea diving is a highly recommended activity when taking a trip to Cat Ba. This is due to the incredible underwater experiences it offers. Beneath the deep blue sea, you will discover a new world, full of colors and diversity with marine creatures. You will witness the marvelous beauty of coral reefs and countless species of fish in various shapes and sizes. This activity also provides a sense of peaceful relaxation due to the detachment from the outside world. Surrender yourself to the open embrace of the ocean and enjoy this fascinating new world!
Sea Diving and Explore Coral Reefs
Beautiful Beaches that are Not Overcrowded
One of the best aspects of Cát Bà is its pristine, less-crowded beaches. While places like Halong Bay are often packed with tourists, Cát Bà remains relatively tranquil. With beaches like Cat Co 1, Cat Co 2, and Cat Co 3, visitors can enjoy long stretches of golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and peaceful surroundings. Whether you want to relax in the sun or take a refreshing swim, you’ll find a quiet spot to enjoy the beach without the usual crowds of mass tourism.
Untouched Beach
For more information, meanwhile, reach out to our blog post Cat Ba Island: 8 Most Beautiful Beaches for Tourists.
Cat Ba National Park and its biodiversity
Cat Ba National Park is a natural treasure with rich biodiversity. With its unique ecosystem in the primary forest, the park is especially home to many species of animals, including rare and adorable ones. You will encounter various fascinating creatures such as serows, black squirrels, and langurs. Exploring Cat Ba National Park overall gives you an opportunity to admire the magnificent natural beauty and appreciate its rich biodiversity.
Trekking to Navy Peak, Cat Ba National Park
Enjoy Cat Ba Island’s Delicious Seafood
Like every island in Vietnam, Cat Ba offers the highest quality and quantity of seafood. If you’re looking for a gourmet BBQ party in Vietnam, Cat Ba is an excellent option. The restaurants here have great views of the bay, a diverse menu consisting of seafood goodies such as lobsters, shrimps, squids, fishes, abalone, and the list goes on.
Mantis Shrimp – one of the best seafood signatures in Cat Ba
One thing to take into consideration: the prices for seafood here are not cheap because Cat Ba town is heavily touristic but it comes with quality. And, if you want more detail information, here is the list Cat Ba Food Tour: Top 5 Must-Try Dishes You Can’t Miss,recommended by Cat Ba Local!
Peaceful Atmosphere Perfect for Relaxation
If you’re looking for a destination that offers a calm, laid-back vibe, Cat Ba is definitely the perfect choice. The island is far less commercialized than other Vietnamese tourist hotspots, making it an ideal place for those seeking relaxation and quiet time. The serene beaches, tranquil coves, and peaceful hiking trails allow you to unwind and disconnect from the stresses of daily life. Whether you’re sunbathing on a beach, strolling through the national park, or enjoying a sunset cruise, the quiet atmosphere of Cat Ba is perfect for rejuvenation.
Tourists enjoying the scenery of Lan Ha Bay
Fresh and Clean Air
Unlike many busy tourist destinations, Cat Ba offers a breath of fresh air, both literally and figuratively. With the island’s natural environment preserved and relatively low levels of pollution, the air is clean and crisp. Especially, Cat Ba’s lush forests, coastal breezes, and outdoor spaces provide a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Moreover, the calm, clean air makes it an ideal destination for anyone seeking to relax and recharge.
Tourists enjoying the scenery of Lan Ha Bay
Affordable Compared to Other Tourist Destinations
Cat Ba Island offers great value for money. Compared to popular destinations like Halong Bay or Phu Quoc, Cat Ba Island is generally more affordable, with a wide range of accommodation, food, and activities to suit different budgets. Whether you’re traveling on a backpacker’s budget or looking for luxury resorts, Cat Ba Island offers plenty of options. Local restaurants and street food vendors provide delicious meals at very reasonable prices, and the cost of tours and activities is often more affordable than those in other tourist-heavy regions.
Local culture and ecotourism experience
- Visit Cai Beo Fishing Village and Viet Hai Ancient Village
These are two ancient villages with a long history in Cat Ba. Cai Beo Fishing Village, also known as Vung O Village, is a traditional village with over 7000 years of history. The village boasts beautiful hexagonal houses that locals build on the water using bamboo columns. When visiting the fishing village, you can sail on the water, explore the fish farms, learn about fish farming techniques, or indulge in delicious local delicacies.
Tranquil life of fishermen in Cai Beo Fishing Village
Viet Hai Ancient Village is a small fishing village nestled deep in Cat Ba National Park. It is surrounded by mountains and turquoise sea, thus creating a serene and idyllic rural landscape. You will visit traditional wooden houses, explore the customs of the local people, and also experience fish massage by the stream.
- Discover local culture and cuisine
An essential part when experiencing a trip to Cat Ba Island is exploring the local culture and cuisine. One of the famous festivals in this green pearl island is the Fisherman’s Village Festival, which locals hold at the beginning of April each year. Then, you can immerse yourself in the lively festive atmosphere on the island, cheering on the dragon boat racing teams,… This is an annual activity organized by the local residents. It’s a vibrant and dynamic time on the island that you should experience at least once!
And don’t forget to savor the flavors of fresh seafood such as clams, mantis shrimp or sea snails,… Therefore, this is a chance for you to try some dishes cooked in the distinctive style of the local people here.
Easy Access from Hanoi and Hai Phong
Cat Ba is conveniently located, making it easy to reach from two major cities in northern Vietnam: Hanoi and Hai Phong. From Hanoi, you can travel to Hai Phong by bus, train, or car. The journey takes about 2–3 hours. Then, from Hai Phong, it’s only another 30-minute ferry ride to the island. Moreover, the well-developed transportation network makes Cat Ba an ideal weekend getaway. It’s also perfect for a longer holiday without spending too much time traveling. Whether you’re coming from the capital or nearby coastal cities, Cat Ba remains easily accessible. This is true for both domestic and international travelers.
Best Tours in Cat Ba Island!
- Lan Ha Bay – Ha Long Bay Full Day Cruise and Kayak
- Sunset & Night Kayaking with Glowing Plankton
- Perfect 2 Days 1 Night on Floating Homestay and Discover Beautiful Lan Ha Bay
Cat Ba Island has something for everyone. Whether you’re a food lover, thrill-seeker, shopping enthusiast, history fan, or just in need of some peaceful downtime, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.
Above are the 10 Reasons Why Cat Ba Island is Your Perfect Summer Holiday. Some experiences especially can’t be missed. For example, you can go trekking in Cat Ba National Park. You can also enjoy relaxing on the beaches. In addition, don’t miss watching the sunset from the Divine Fortress. So to make it even better, contact Cat Ba Local to receive even more inspiration for your trip, we can design the most suitable tours for you and you only!
Tags
Quick booking process
(+84) 325 979 229
QUISEQUE VEL ORTOR
Ready to adventure and enjoy natural
By choosing Cat Ba Local, you are not just booking a tour; you are investing in an authentic, hassle-free, and enriching travel experience led by locals who are passionate about sharing the beauty and culture of their homeland. Here are the key reasons:
1. Authentic experience
Our tour guides possess a unique understanding of indigenous cultures and the local history. Their deep knowledge and passion for the region ensure that you get an authentic and immersive experience. By booking with Cat Ba Local, you gain access to hidden gems and local secrets that typical tours might miss. Our guides are locals themselves, offering the warm of a family and and sincerity that make you feel at home while discover new perspectives of life.
2. A seamless experience
We keep our high standard for all of your touchpoints. We partner with the best service possible for any need of yours, from transportation, accommodations , and best restaurant for all destinaions. This guarantees a reliable and seamless experience for you.
3. Convenience and Time Saving
We handle all the arrangements, from flights and hotels to transfers and activities. This saves you significant time and effort, allowing you to relax and enjoy your vacation without the stress of planning. With everything pre-arranged, you can avoid the hassle of contacting multiple service providers. Our streamlined process ensures a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.
4. Socialize Opportunities
Our tours are designed to foster social interaction, allowing you to meet and connect with people who share your interests. Whether you prefer family-friendly tours or adult-only experiences, we have options that cater to your social preferences.
5. Best Price Guarantees
By having an excellent logistic chain, we deliver you the best experience in a price that
We offer competitive pricing due to our ability to bulk buy package deals, passing the savings onto you. This allows you to enjoy a cost-effective travel experience without compromising on quality. Our packages often include all meals and trips, reducing uncertainty about additional costs. This helps you budget accurately for your trip, avoiding any unexpected expenses.
Travel with Local Experts” it is about the authentic local experience that make us different.
Our tour guides are natives with an intimate knowledge of the local culture, history, and landscapes. This local insight ensures that you experience the true essence of Cat Ba, beyond the typical tourist spots.
They also share unique perspectives; personal stories and cultural nuances that you won’t find in guidebooks, offering a deeper understanding of the region. One more thing, you will have a playful local friend after the trip.
Yes, we always trike towards to give you the best possible exprience contact us to design your vacation together for free
Yes, our tours are designed to be suitable for both children and older adults. We have several special offers for children as follows:
– Infants (under 2 years old): Free
– Kids (From 2 to 4 years old): just must to pay 25% tour value
– Child (From 5 to 9 years old): just must to pay 50% tour value
– Teenagers (From 10 to 13 years old): just must to pay 75% tour value
We are ready to provide special diets that suit your needs if you inform us when booking your tour. Most of our meals include seafood and local cuisine, so if you are vegetarian or have any allergies, please let us know in advance. This way, we can ensure your dietary requirements are met throughout your journey.
You have 2 options to pay: Online & Offline
For your convenience, we offer multiple payment options. You can pay in cash or by credit card (with a 3% service charge). Alternatively, you can use applications like PayPal or WISE, and we will cover the service fees for these apps – less fees transfer.
Please let us know your preferred payment method. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out.
In the event of weather-related issues, such as storms or heavy rain preventing boats from setting sail, we have the following policies:
– If the tour needs to be rescheduled due to adverse weather conditions and you’re still on Cat Ba Island during the rescheduled period, we will postpone the tour to the following day. If you’re no longer on Cat Ba Island during the rescheduled period, we will provide a full refund of the tour cost if you’ve already made payment.
– In the case of unexpected events originating from guests: If you cancel before 7 days prior to the tour, you are eligible for a refund. If you cancel 5 days before the tour, we will refund 80% of the deposit; if you cancel within 3 days, a 50% refund will be provided. Cancellations made after this period will result in forfeiture of the deposit.
In other special cases, our customer service department will provide individualized support to guests.
No, accommodations are not included in the experiential tours. However, our sales staff will assist you in booking accommodations if you provide them with clear descriptions of your room preferences, budget, and other requirements. Additionally, you will receive a discount voucher for accommodations when booking our experiential tours.
No, international flights are not part of the experiential tour package. However, our sales team will aid you in arranging international flights upon receiving clear descriptions from you.
