Discover Cat Ba Island’s Best Swimming Beaches: Your Ultimate Guide to Coastal Bliss

Cat Ba Island, the largest of the 367 islands in the Cat Ba Archipelago, is a jewel in Vietnam’s Gulf of Tonkin, celebrated for its pristine beaches, emerald waters, and lush jungles. Located 45 km east of Hai Phong City and 150 km southeast of Hanoi, this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Its beaches, including the popular Cat Co coves, serene Tung Thu, and remote Monkey Island, cater to every traveler’s taste, from lively shores to tranquil escapes. Legend Travel Group, a leading local tour operator, invites you to explore these stunning beaches through our sustainable tours, combining swimming, kayaking, and cultural experiences while supporting the Cat Ba Langur Conservation Project.

Cat Ba Island boasts a variety of beaches, each with unique charm and swimming conditions. Below, we detail the best spots for a refreshing dip, complete with updated information on access, amenities, and nearby attractions.

Cat Co Beaches (1, 2, and 3)

• Location: 1 km southeast of Cat Ba Town, a 5-10 minute walk or short motorbike ride ($2-$3).

• Description: The Cat Co trio—Cat Co 1, 2, and 3—are the most accessible beaches, known for their golden sand and clear waters, framed by limestone cliffs. Cat Co 1 is the liveliest, with nearby resorts and bars, but ongoing construction may add noise. Cat Co 2 is quieter, offering a secluded cove perfect for swimming, while Cat Co 3, adjacent to Cat Ba Sunrise Resort, provides sun loungers ($3-$5/day) and a private beach vibe. These beaches are connected by a scenic 700-meter cliffside walkway, ideal for a leisurely stroll.

• Swimming Conditions: Calm waves and clear waters make all three ideal for swimming, though Cat Co 1 and 3 can get crowded during peak season (April-October). Avoid swimming after 6 p.m. due to high tides.

• Amenities: Restaurants, bars, water sports (kayak rentals: $5-$10/hour), and restrooms. Cat Co 3 offers resort facilities like pools and spas.

• Note: Cat Co 1 and 3 are impacted by nearby resort development, so check current conditions before visiting. Cat Co 2 remains a tranquil choice.

Tung Thu Beach

• Location: 500 meters from Cat Ba Town, near the ferry terminal.

• Description: Tung Thu Beach is a pristine, less crowded alternative to the Cat Co beaches, with soft sand and gentle waves. Managed by a private company, access may require permission or a small fee ($2-$3). Its proximity to Cat Ba Town makes it convenient for a quick swim, with stunning views of Lan Ha Bay’s karsts.

• Swimming Conditions: Ideal for families due to shallow waters and calm currents. Best visited in the morning to avoid crowds.

• Amenities: Limited facilities; nearby Cat Ba Town offers restaurants and motorbike rentals ($5-$10/day).

• Note: Check with local operators for access permissions to avoid unexpected charges.

Monkey Island Beach (Cat Dua Beach)

• Location: 2 km from Ben Beo Harbour, accessible by boat ($10-$15 round-trip, 15 minutes).

• Description: Located on Monkey Island, a short boat ride from Cat Ba, this beach is a serene retreat with white sand and turquoise waters. Home to long-tailed macaques, it’s perfect for swimming and relaxation. The Monkey Island Resort offers bungalows and a beachfront restaurant serving fresh seafood (meals: $5-$15).

• Swimming Conditions: Clear, calm waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is less crowded, offering a peaceful escape.

• Amenities: Restaurant, bar, kayak rentals ($5-$10/hour), and glamping-style accommodations at Monkey Island Resort ($40-$70/night).

• Note: Book boat transfers through a reputable operator like Legend Travel Group to avoid overpriced local boats.

Ba Trai Dao Beach (Three Peaches Beach)

• Location: Lan Ha Bay, 10 km from Cat Ba Town, accessible by boat tour ($20-$30).

• Description: Named for its three peach-like limestone peaks, Ba Trai Dao Beach is a hidden gem with pristine sand and crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming and kayaking. Its remote location ensures tranquility, making it a favorite for eco-tours.

• Swimming Conditions: Shallow, clear waters perfect for swimming, with vibrant coral reefs nearby for snorkeling.

• Amenities: Limited facilities; boat tours provide snacks and equipment (snorkel gear: $5-$10).

• Note: Accessible only via guided tours, ensuring minimal environmental impact.

Chut Chit Beach

• Location: West side of Cat Ba Island, 8 km from Cat Ba Town, accessible by motorbike or taxi ($5-$10).

• Description: A lesser-known beach with untouched beauty, Chut Chit is nearly deserted, offering a private swimming experience. Its isolation and proximity to an abandoned resort add a sense of adventure.

• Swimming Conditions: Calm, clear waters ideal for swimming, with minimal crowds year-round.

• Amenities: No facilities; bring your own water and snacks. Nearby Cat Ba Town offers dining options.

• Note: Ideal for travelers seeking solitude, but ensure you have a reliable map or guide.

Pair your beach visit with Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours to explore Cat Ba’s coastal and jungle wonders while supporting conservation efforts. All prices are in USD, including transportation, English-speaking guides, entrance fees, and eco-friendly activities.

• 2-Day Cat Ba Beaches and National Park Adventure
  Price: $159 per person (group of 4+); $209 per person (private tour)
  Highlights: Swim at Cat Co 2 and Ba Trai Dao beaches, trek the Ngu Lam Peak Trail, and cruise Lan Ha Bay to view langur habitats. Includes a homestay in Viet Hai Village and a donation to the Cat Ba Langur Conservation Project.
  Itinerary: Day 1 - Ferry to Cat Ba, beach time at Cat Co 2, trek to Ngu Lam Peak. Day 2 - Boat tour to Ba Trai Dao, Viet Hai village visit.

• 3-Day Coastal and Wildlife Discovery Tour
  Price: $259 per person (group of 4+); $309 per person (private tour)
  Highlights: Swim at Monkey Island and Tung Thu beaches, kayak in Lan Ha Bay, and visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Center in Cuc Phuong. Enjoy local seafood and conservation talks.
  Itinerary: Day 1 - Arrival, beach time at Tung Thu, park trekking. Day 2 - Kayaking, Monkey Island visit. Day 3 - Transfer to Cuc Phuong for EPRC visit.

• 1-Day Beach and Kayaking Eco-Tour
  Price: $99 per person (full-day)
  Highlights: Swim at Ba Trai Dao Beach, kayak through Lan Ha Bay’s lagoons, and enjoy a wildlife talk about the Cat Ba Langur. Perfect for a quick coastal escape.
  Itinerary: Morning boat tour to Ba Trai Dao, kayaking, afternoon wildlife talk.

Booking Information: Secure your tour with a $99 deposit via our website. Flexible cancellations up to 7 days before departure. Contact us for custom itineraries or group discounts.

• From Hanoi (150 km): Take a tourist bus to Hai Phong (2 hours, $10-$15), then a ferry from Binh Wharf to Cai Vieng Pier (45 minutes, $10-$15). Alternatively, ride the Cat Ba Cable Car from Cat Hai to Phu Long ($6.50-$10, 10 minutes). Total travel time: 3-4 hours.

• From Hai Phong (45 km): Board a speedboat or ferry to Cai Vieng Pier ($10-$15, 45 minutes).

• Within Cat Ba: Rent a motorbike ($5-$10/day) or taxi to reach beaches. Legend Travel Group includes round-trip transfers in all tour packages for seamless travel.

Visit from April to October for warm, sunny weather (25°C-32°C), ideal for swimming and water sports. April and May are perfect for clear skies and vibrant marine life, with fewer crowds than June-August. Avoid November-December due to cooler temperatures and occasional rain, which may affect swimming conditions.

• Safety: Avoid swimming after 6 p.m. due to high tides, and heed beach warning signs. Never swim alone.

• Crowd Avoidance: Visit midweek to avoid weekend crowds, especially at Cat Co beaches during Vietnamese holidays (April-August).

• Conservation: Choose eco-friendly tours to minimize environmental impact and support the Cat Ba Langur Conservation Project.

• Essentials: Bring sunscreen, hats, and water. Rent snorkel gear or kayaks through reputable operators to avoid overcharges.

• Dining: Enjoy fresh seafood at local spots like Phuong Nhung Restaurant or Quang Anh Floating Restaurant ($5-$15/meal).

Cat Ba Island, Hai Phong City, is a sustainable tourism haven, where Legend Travel Group partners with the Cat Ba Langur Conservation Project to protect its biodiversity. Our Cat Ba Tours offer immersive experiences, expert guides, and seamless logistics, ensuring a memorable and responsible adventure. With over a decade of expertise, we craft personalized itineraries that blend beach relaxation with cultural and wildlife exploration, providing a sustainable Cat Ba Travel experience. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-journey today!
Book Now: Dive into Cat Ba Island’s stunning beaches with Legend Travel Group’s eco-tours. Secure your adventure with a $99 deposit and experience Vietnam’s coastal paradise sustainably!

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