9 Reasons why Cat Ba Local People Always Love This Place With All Their Hearts
9 Reasons why Cat Ba Local People Always Love This Place With All Their Hearts
Cat Ba Island is not just a destination; it’s a way of life for the locals who call it home. Nestled in the heart of Vietnam’s stunning coastline, this island has a unique charm that captivates both visitors and residents alike. For the people of Cat Ba, the island is more than just picturesque beaches and lush landscapes—it’s a place filled with deep-rooted traditions, natural beauty, and a strong sense of community. Here are nine reasons why the locals cherish Cat Ba with all their hearts and why it continues to be a beloved haven for those who live here.
Menu
ToggleThe Trusting Community
One of the first things I noticed when I moved to Cat Ba is the sense of trust among the people here. It’s common to see scooters left with the keys in the ignition. On the mainland, this would be unthinkable, but on Cat Ba, it’s a testament to the tight-knit, trusting community.

Stunning Sunsets
Every evening, the sky over Cat Ba transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors. Whether you’re watching from the beach, a boat, or a hilltop, the sunsets here are nothing short of magical. It’s a daily spectacle that never gets old.

The Unique “Say Cạn” Phenomenon
Here on Cat Ba, there’s a funny reversal of the usual motion sickness. Locals, especially fishermen, sometimes feel disoriented when they spend too much time on land after being at sea. This phenomenon, known as “say cạn,” is a quirky aspect of island life that always brings a smile to my face.

- Affordable Local Food

While certain foods like beef and pork are more expensive due to the island’s limited agricultural land, the seafood here is incredibly affordable and fresh. The wet market is a treasure trove of delicious, reasonably priced seafood. Eating here means indulging in the ocean’s bounty without breaking the bank.
The Vibrant Local Market
Speaking of markets, the local market in Cat Ba is a vibrant hub of activity. From early morning until late afternoon, it’s bustling with vendors selling fresh produce, seafood, and other local goods. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the daily life of the island and pick up some delicious snacks.
Scenic Kayaking Adventures
Kayaking in Lan Ha Bay, especially at night with the glowing plankton, is an unforgettable experience. The calm waters, the stunning limestone karsts, and the magical bioluminescence create a surreal adventure. The bay’s location in the heart of the national park means there’s no light pollution, making the glowing plankton even more spectacular. It’s one of the many ways Cat Ba offers unique, nature-based experiences.
The Friendly Locals
The people of Cat Ba are incredibly friendly and welcoming. Whether you’re chatting with a vendor at the market or asking for directions, the locals are always eager to help. Their warmth and hospitality make visitors feel right at home.
Hidden Beaches and Coves
Cat Ba is dotted with hidden beaches and secluded coves waiting to be discovered. A short hike or a boat ride can lead you to these quiet, pristine spots where you can relax and enjoy the natural beauty in peace. It’s like having your own private paradise.

Rich Cultural History
From the ancient Cái Bèo people to the island’s role in recent history, Cat Ba is steeped in cultural heritage. Exploring the island’s historical sites and learning about its past gives you a deeper appreciation for its present. The blend of history and natural beauty is truly captivating.

Bonus: The Magic of Fireflies and Night Hikes
One of the enchanting experiences in Cat Ba is witnessing the fireflies at night. During the summer, these tiny creatures light up the island’s lush landscapes, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere. Additionally, hiking to the Navy Peak in Viet Hai offers breathtaking views and a chance to connect with nature in a profound way. The hike is a journey through dense forests and rugged terrain, ending with panoramic views that make the effort worthwhile.

Experience Cat Ba for Yourself
These nine small reasons (plus a bonus!) are just a glimpse into what makes Cat Ba such a wonderful place to live and visit. Each one adds to the charm and allure of the island, making it a destination that stays with you long after you’ve left. Whether you’re here for a short visit or planning a longer stay, I hope you fall in love with Cat Ba just as I have.
For more information about Cat Ba and to book your tours, visit our website at catbalocal.com. Come and discover the magic of Cat Ba for yourself!
Tags
Quick booking process
(+84) 325 979 229
QUISEQUE VEL ORTOR
Ready to adventure and enjoy natural
Meet Our Team
Tùng Phạm
Lâm Điệp
Tiến Đạt (Drake)
Tú Quỳnh (Judy)
Hà Bùi (Hana)
Huy Hòang (Ryan)
Hoàng Nguyễn(Luffy)
Ngô Toàn (Tony)
Việt Hưng (Rio)
Mr Quang
Exotic Day Tours & Things to Do in Cat Ba
Experience the Magic: Sunset & Night Kayaking with Glowing Plankton
What our travelers say about us
EXCELLENT Based on 835 reviews Posted on HedVerified Very good day !! We had a very good time on the boat will Luu who was kind and fun ! Very beautiful day with kayaking and swimming ! We were really happy that we choose this cruise:)Posted on Léa DVerified Perfect. It was really well organized. We were picked up and dropped off at our hotel. It was a very pleasant day, Ryan is very nice and explained a lot to us. I recommend with my eyes closed!Posted on Chris SVerified Recommended tour Ride was perfectly organized. Luu gave us comprehensive information about the coves, wildlife and life of the people there. He has answered any questions. Captain and cook also top. The tour was a lot of fun and we would book it again anytime. Thank you very muchPosted on Barry RVerified Unfortunate situation handled beautifully Our tour was disrupted by the weather conditions that tragically hit the Philippines just the day before. The tour operators immediately offered us a full refund, an exchange or a rescheduling to the following evening. We chose to go the following night but unfortunately again, the government didn’t allow tour boats after 18:30 or late night kayaking, but didn’t inform the tour operators until after our departure. This meant that we couldn’t continue with the kayaking as planned or see the plankton, but the operator still took us on a tour of the majestic Lan Ha bay and the floating village, AND refunded us for the whole thing. Completely out of their hands, but they handled it beautifully. Such is the gamble when touring the natural world.Communication with Cat Ba Local was quick and easy, transport from our hotel was seamless and they really tried their best to make sure we got the most out of our tour.Can’t fault Cat Ba Local one bit for unfortunately weather - just one more reason for us to come back to the wonderful Cat Ba!!Posted on Keely VVerified Cát Bà Full day cruise & Kayak I had such a great experience on this tour and would absolutely recommend it to anyone visiting Cát Bà Island. It was much less touristy than I expected — while we did see a few other groups around the kayaking and fishing farm areas, we mostly had the freedom to do our own thing, which made it feel very relaxed and authentic.The group size was small and intimate, which I really appreciated. You could easily chat and get to know the others or just enjoy the scenery quietly on your own. There was also plenty of space on the boat, which made the whole day feel comfortable and unhurried.Our guide, Ryan, was exceptional. He was incredibly knowledgeable about the area, the culture, and the environment, and he patiently answered all of my many questions. His passion and depth of knowledge were so impressive that even people from other tours started listening in to what he was saying! His English was excellent as well.I’ll admit I was skeptical before booking, but I’m so glad I chose Cát Bà Local — many of the other tours we saw looked crowded and less enjoyable. This one felt genuine, well-organized, and personal. I’d recommend it without hesitation to friends, family, or anyone looking for an authentic and memorable experience on Cát Bà.Posted on Carla DVerified Super 1 - day tour in particularly beautiful places at an unbeatable price A great tour! Luu really managed to lead us to lonely places throughout, away from the crowds! Besides, he didn't tell much about life in Vietnam. He has also found particularly beautiful places for kayaking and swimming. A completely successful tour! At this low price a tour that was in no way inferior to the "big", significantly more expensive tours! - Thank you!sPosted on Emilie HVerified Cat Ba full day/night tour Our experience in the island and at the Bay was incredible from the start to end, and thanks to Cat Ba Local. The organisation, the communication and the services are excellent. The local guides share their experience with you and we had a great time with them. We had a very complete, park/bay, day/night tour. Much recommended! Thank you to the whole tea, it was a pleasure!Posted on davide bVerified Day cruise Lan Ha Beautiful tour away from the chaos of large boats and large groups of tourists.Great food, great guide, recommend it!!Posted on thi an nVerified cruise Halong Bay we took the day cruise on Lan Ha Bay/Halong Bay. Everything was perfect thanks to our guide Luu who was exceptionally kind and who lost his time to find us an itinerary off the tourist trails, thanks to him we will keep this day as a magnificent memory!
Most frequent asked questions
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.
