Best Things to Do in Lan Ha Bay: Kayaking, Cruises, Villages & More

Lan Ha Bay, located east of Cat Ba Island and south of Ha Long Bay, spans over 7,000 hectares and is managed partly by Cat Ba National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. With its emerald waters, 139+ sandy beaches, and vibrant fishing communities, it’s a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers. Unlike Ha Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay allows swimming and jumping from boats, offering a more relaxed experience. This guide highlights must-do activities like kayaking, rock climbing, and visiting Viet Hai and Cai Beo villages, with current pricing and eco-friendly tips for a sustainable trip.

1. Kayaking Through Limestone Caves

Lan Ha Bay’s calm waters and hidden lagoons make it a kayaking paradise. Paddle through Dark and Bright Caves, Ba Ham Lake, or around Ba Trai Dao Islet for stunning views of karst cliffs and coral reefs. Popular spots include:

• Cai Beo Floating Village: Kayak among floating homes (~50,000 VND/$2 USD per person for rentals at Cai Beo Wharf, no time limit).

• Van Boi Center Area: Ideal for exploring secluded lagoons.

• Monkey Island Area: Combines kayaking with beach stops (~50,000 VND/$2 USD for 2-person kayak rentals).

• Ba Trai Dao Area: Known for its three peach-shaped islets and calm waters.

Costs:

• Kayak rentals: ~50,000–100,000 VND/$2–$4 USD per person, available at Cai Beo Wharf or Monkey Island.

• Guided kayaking tours: ~400,000–600,000 VND/$16–$24 USD for half-day, often included in cruises.

Tips: Wear life vests and avoid kayaking during high tides (post-6:00 PM in summer). Book through operators like Cat Ba Ventures for guided tours.

2. Swimming at Pristine Beaches

Lan Ha Bay’s 139+ beaches offer crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming. Unlike Ha Long Bay, swimming is permitted almost everywhere (with local guidance for safety). Top beaches include:

• Monkey Island (Cat Dua): Clear waters and soft sand, accessible by boat (~100,000 VND/$4 USD round-trip from Ben Beo Pier).

• Van Boi Beach: Opposite Turtle Island, ideal for calm swims and coral viewing.

• Ba Trai Dao Beach: Crescent-shaped with turquoise waters, often a cruise stop.

• Ban Chan Beach: Secluded and pristine, great for quiet dips.

Costs:

• Beach access: Free, though boat transfers cost ~100,000–200,000 VND/$4–$8 USD round-trip.

• Snorkeling gear rental: ~150,000 VND/$6 USD per day, available via cruises or Monkey Island resorts.

Tips: Swim with a local instructor for safety (~100,000 VND/$4 USD per hour). Avoid swimming alone and follow beach warning signs.

3. Rock Climbing on Limestone Cliffs

Lan Ha Bay is a rock climbing hotspot, with Cat Ba’s International Rock Climbing Center offering tours for all levels. Try deep-water soloing or guided climbs at:

• Van Boi Island: Ideal for beginners with limestone cliffs.

• Three Peaches Islet (Ba Trai Dao): Scenic peaks with panoramic views.

• Butterfly Valley: A land-based option near Cat Ba Town (~600,000 VND/$24 USD half-day).

Costs:

• Half-day tours: ~600,000–800,000 VND/$24–$32 USD, including gear and guides, bookable at Monkey Island Resort or Asia Outdoors.

• Full-day tours: ~1,000,000–1,500,000 VND/$40–$60 USD for advanced routes.

Tips: Book in advance for peak season (October–April). Wear sturdy shoes and bring water.

4. Visit Viet Hai Fishing Village

Nestled in Cat Ba National Park, Viet Hai Village offers a glimpse into rural life with 70 households amid rice fields and forests. Reach it via a 6-km trek, bike ride, or electric car from Viet Hai Harbour, accessible by boat from Ben Beo Pier (~150,000 VND/$6 USD round-trip).

• Activities: Cycle through the village (~100,000 VND/$4 USD bike rental), visit traditional straw houses, or enjoy a fish foot massage (~50,000 VND/$2 USD).

• Dining: Sample fresh seafood at local eateries (~100,000 VND/$4 USD per meal).

Costs:

• Boat to Viet Hai Harbour: ~150,000 VND/$6 USD round-trip.

• Guided tours: ~500,000–700,000 VND/$20–$28 USD, including transport and cycling.

Tips: Visit April–September for sunny weather. Bring insect repellent for jungle paths.

5. Explore Cai Beo Floating Village

Cai Beo, Vietnam’s oldest fishing village (dating back 7,000 years), is a cultural highlight with 300+ floating homes. Located 1.5 km from Cat Ba Town, it’s accessible by boat from Ben Beo Pier (~80,000 VND/$3.20 USD ticket).

• Activities: Tour the village by boat (~100,000 VND/$4 USD for small boats), shop for fresh seafood (~150,000–350,000 VND/$6–$14 USD per kg), or dine at floating restaurants (~120,000 VND/$4.80 USD per meal).

• Cultural Insight: Learn about fish farming and local life, unchanged for centuries.

Costs:

• Boat ticket: ~80,000 VND/$3.20 USD per person.

• Guided tours: ~300,000–500,000 VND/$12–$20 USD, often part of cruises.

Tips: Book a guided tour via Hanoi Eco Tour for authentic interactions (~45–55 USD per person). Kayaking is restricted here; opt for boat tours.

6. Stay at Private Beach Bungalows

Lan Ha Bay’s private beaches offer serene overnight stays in eco-friendly bungalows. Top options include:

• Monkey Island Resort: Beachfront bungalows with kayaking and volleyball (~800,000 VND/$32 USD per night).

• Sandy Beach Resort: Secluded with clear waters (~1,000,000 VND/$40 USD).

• Castaway Bungalow: Eco-friendly bamboo structures (~1,200,000 VND/$48 USD).

• Van Boi Ecolux Resort: Modern bungalows with bay views (~1,500,000 VND/$60 USD).

Costs:

• Bungalows: ~800,000–2,000,000 VND/$32–$80 USD per night, including breakfast.

• Activities: Kayaking (~200,000 VND/$8 USD), beach sports (free with stay).

Tips: Book via Vietnamtour.in for package deals. Limited dining options; bring snacks or eat at resort restaurants.

7. Lan Ha Bay Cruises

Cruises are the best way to explore Lan Ha Bay’s islets, caves, and beaches, offering a cost-effective alternative to Ha Long Bay. Options range from day trips to multi-day adventures, often including kayaking, swimming, and cooking classes.

• Day Cruise: 8-hour tours (~600,000–1,200,000 VND/$24–$48 USD) visit Ba Trai Dao, Cai Beo, and Dark Cave. Includes lunch and kayaking.

• 2-Day, 1-Night Cruise: Overnight on luxury boats like Mon Chéri or Rosy Cruise (~2,000,000–3,500,000 VND/$80–$140 USD). Features Viet Hai Village, night squid fishing, and tai chi.

• 3-Day, 2-Night Cruise: Extended itineraries (~3,500,000–5,000,000 VND/$140–$200 USD) explore remote areas and include beach BBQs.

Costs:

• Day tours: ~600,000–1,200,000 VND/$24–$48 USD per person.

• Overnight cruises: ~2,000,000–5,000,000 VND/$80–$200 USD, depending on luxury level (3–5 stars).

• Private cruises: ~168–273 USD per person for 2 days, ideal for families.

Tips: Book with BestPrice Travel or Serenity Cruises for reliable service. Check refund policies for weather cancellations.

8. Night Squid Fishing

Experience local culture with a night squid fishing tour, typically offered on cruises or as standalone trips from Ben Beo Pier.

• Activity: Use lanterns to attract squid, guided by local fishermen (~600,000–1,000,000 VND/$24–$40 USD for 3–4 hours).

• Dining: Some tours include onboard seafood dinners (~200,000 VND/$8 USD extra).

Tips: Book via Good Morning Cat Ba for authentic experiences. Wear warm clothing for cool evenings.

October to April offers ideal weather (20–25°C/68–77°F) for kayaking, swimming, and cruising. November is perfect for clear skies and calm seas. March–April and October–November are less crowded. May to September risks storms, potentially canceling cruises, though lush greenery enhances jungle views. Avoid August–October for heavy rain.

• Getting There:

• • From Hanoi: Bus-ferry (~300,000–350,000 VND/$12–$14 USD, 3.5–4 hours) or bus-cable car (~375,000 VND/$15 USD).

  • From Hai Phong: Speedboat from Ben Binh Pier (~220,000–300,000 VND/$9–$12 USD, 45 minutes).

  • From Ha Long Bay: Ferry from Tuan Chau to Cat Ba (~220,000 VND/$9 USD, 1 hour).

• Getting Around: Rent motorbikes (~120,000 VND/$4.80 USD per day) or bicycles (~50,000 VND/$2 USD) in Cat Ba Town. Taxis/Grab: ~50,000–200,000 VND/$2–$8 USD.

• Accommodation: Budget hostels (~150,000 VND/$6 USD), mid-range hotels (~750,000 VND/$30 USD), or luxury resorts like Hôtel Perle d’Orient (~2,000,000 VND/$80 USD). Floating homestays at Cai Beo cost ~500,000 VND/$20 USD.

• Safety: Wear life vests for water activities. Follow guides in villages to respect local customs.

• Sustainability: Choose eco-friendly operators like Blue Swimmers. Avoid feeding monkeys or littering.

• Budget: Daily expenses: ~500,000–1,000,000 VND/$20–$40 USD (excluding cruises). Bring cash (VND) for small vendors.

• Weather: Check forecasts to avoid stormy days. Bring sunscreen and jackets for cooler evenings.

Lan Ha Bay’s untouched beauty, affordable activities, and cultural richness make it a standout destination. Whether kayaking through caves, swimming at private beaches, or exploring ancient villages, it offers a serene escape from Ha Long Bay’s crowds. Its proximity to Cat Ba Island and eco-friendly tourism options ensure a memorable, sustainable adventure. Legend Travel Group’s Lan Ha Bay Tours guide you through this pristine paradise, ensuring a sustainable Lan Ha Bay Travel experience filled with immersive exploration and eco-conscious practices. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your Lan Ha Bay adventure today!
Plan Your Trip: Book cruises and activities early for peak season (October–April). Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable Lan Ha Bay journey!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Sources: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group