Ultimate Cat Ba Island Travel Guide: Top Activities, Tours, and Tips for an Unforgettable Adventure

Cat Ba Island, located 30 km from Hai Phong and 25 km from Halong Bay, is Northern Vietnam’s premier destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Its 367-island archipelago, part of the UNESCO-recognized Cat Ba Biosphere Reserve, boasts tropical forests, coral reefs, and serene beaches. Unlike the crowded Halong Bay, Cat Ba offers a quieter, more authentic experience, with Lan Ha Bay’s limestone karsts rivaling its famous neighbor. The island’s rich history, from 7,000-year-old Cai Beo settlements to wartime fortifications like Cannon Fort, adds cultural depth. Legend Travel Group’s tours ($25-$60 per person) combine eco-friendly exploration with visits to Cat Ba’s highlights, ensuring a memorable journey.

Cat Ba Island is easily accessible from Hanoi, Hai Phong, or Halong Bay, with multiple transportation options:

• From Hanoi (150 km, 3.5-4 hours):

  • Bus and Ferry Combo: A popular choice, costing $13-$18 one-way (VND 325,000-450,000). Operators like Good Morning Cat Ba or Hoang Long include a bus to Hai Phong, a speedboat to Cai Vieng Port, and a bus to Cat Ba Town. Book through Legend Travel Group for a seamless package ($80-$150 per person, including tours).

  • Private Car: $80-$120 for up to 4 people, taking 3 hours to Hai Phong’s Got Harbor, followed by a 30-minute speedboat ($6-$10).

  • Cable Car: The Sun World Cat Ba Cable Car from Hai Phong to Cat Ba costs $4-$6 per person (VND 95,000-150,000), offering scenic views but requiring a bus to Cat Ba Town ($2-$3).

• From Hai Phong (30 km, 1-1.5 hours):

  • Speedboat: Departs from Got Harbor or Binh Wharf, costing $6-$10 (30-45 minutes).

  • Ferry: Slower but cheaper at $4-$7 (45-60 minutes).

• From Halong Bay (25 km, 1-2 hours):

  • Ferry from Tuan Chau Port: $7-$12 to Gia Luan Port, followed by a 45-minute taxi ($10-$15) to Cat Ba Town.

  • Cruise Drop-Off: Many Lan Ha Bay cruises ($100-$200 per person) include a drop-off at Cat Ba, combining sightseeing with transport.

Legend Travel Group Tip: Book our all-inclusive packages ($80-$150 per person) from Hanoi, including bus, ferry, and guided Cat Ba tours, to avoid logistical hassles. Contact us at +84 825862222 or info@legendtravelgroup.com.

1. Explore Cat Ba National Park

Hike through this 17,000-hectare park, home to 32 mammal species, including the rare Cat Ba langur. The 1.5-km trail to Ngu Lam Peak (90 minutes, $2 entry) offers jungle views, while the 9-km trek to Viet Hai Village (4-5 hours, $3.50 entry) is ideal for adventurers. Guided tours with Legend Travel Group ($30-$50 per person) include park fees, a guide, and lunch.

2. Kayak or Cruise Lan Ha Bay

Paddle through Lan Ha Bay’s turquoise waters, dotted with 400 islets and hidden lagoons. Kayak rentals cost $5-$10 per hour, or join Legend Travel Group’s cruises ($25-$60 per person), which include kayaking, swimming, and visits to Cai Beo Floating Village. Private boat tours from Ben Beo Port cost $35-$50 for 6 people.

3. Visit Cannon Fort

Discover this 1940s fortress at 177 meters, offering panoramic views and wartime relics like French cannons. Entry costs $3.50 (VND 80,000), with a 20-30 minute hike or motorbike ride ($5-$8 rental per day) from Cat Ba Town. Legend Travel Group’s half-day tours ($20-$45 per person) include a guide and transport.

4. Relax on Cat Ba’s Beaches

Cat Co 1, 2, and 3 beaches, a 10-minute walk from Cat Ba Town, are popular for their soft sands but can be crowded. Tung Thu Beach, near the town, is quieter, while Chut Chit Beach on the west side is pristine and secluded. Beach chair rentals cost $2-$5. Legend Travel Group’s beach tours ($25-$40 per person) include transport and snorkeling ($10-$15).

5. Cycle to Viet Hai Village

Ride a 5-6 km scenic route to this eco-friendly fishing village, surrounded by rice fields and karsts. Bike rentals cost $3-$5 per day, or join Legend Travel Group’s cycling tours ($25-$40 per person) with a homestay lunch ($5-$8). Electric buggies are available for $5-$8 per ride.

6. Rock Climbing

Scale Cat Ba’s limestone cliffs at sites like Butterfly Valley or Lan Ha Bay. Half-day tours with Cat Ba Climbing or Langur’s Adventures cost $49-$70 per person, including gear and guides. Legend Travel Group’s adventure tours ($60-$90 per person) combine climbing with trekking.

7. Visit Cai Beo Floating Village

Explore Vietnam’s oldest fishing village (7,000 years old) with 300 floating homes. A 2-4 hour boat tour from Ben Beo Harbor costs $8-$15 per person, or $35-$40 for a private boat. Legend Travel Group’s tours ($25-$55 per person) include cultural interactions and fish farm visits.

• Budget Options ($10-$25 per night):

  • Cat Ba Central Hotel 2 (Nui Ngoc, Cat Ba Town): Clean rooms, free Wi-Fi, $15-$25. +84 225 3888 229.

  • Cat Ba Oasis Bungalows (246 1/4 Street): Dorms and bungalows, $10-$20. +84 225 3888 241.

• Mid-Range ($25-$60 per night):

  • Hung Long Harbour Hotel (268 1/4 Street): Bay views, $25-$45. +84 225 3888 567.

  • The Moon Boutique Hotel (Nui Ngoc): Stylish decor, $30-$50. +84 225 3888 999.

• Luxury ($60-$200 per night):

  • Hôtel Perle d’Orient Cat Ba - MGallery (Cat Co 3 Beach): 5-star, rooftop pool, $100-$200. +84 225 3887 360.

  • Cat Ba Eco Lodge (Xuan Dam Village): Eco-friendly, $50-$80. +84 225 368 8975.

• Homestays in Viet Hai Village: Rustic stays with locals, $10-$20 per night, including breakfast. Legend Travel Group can arrange homestays with tours ($35-$55 per person).

Note: Monkey Island Resort is closed due to conservation efforts. Stay in Cat Ba Town or Viet Hai for easy tour access.

Cat Ba’s dining scene focuses on fresh seafood, with menus tailored to international tastes:

• Yummy Restaurant (180 Nui Ngoc): Seafood hotpot ($10-$15), vegan stir-fry ($4-$6). +84 977 950 906.

• Green Mango (18 Nui Ngoc): Seafood platter ($12-$20), cocktails ($4-$6). +84 225 3887 151.

• Quang Anh Floating Restaurant (Ben Beo Harbor): Grilled geoduck ($8-$12), shrimp noodles ($5-$8). +84 225 3888 395.

• Cat Ba Market (Cat Ba Town): Fresh seafood ($8-$25/kg, cooked for $2-$4 extra) and young coconuts ($1-$2).

Try regional specialties like horseshoe crab ($6-$10) or mantis shrimp ($6-$8). Legend Travel Group’s tours ($45-$55 per person) include seafood lunches at floating restaurants.

• Spring (March-April): Mild weather (20-25°C), ideal for hiking and water activities. Fewer crowds, moderate prices.

• Summer (May-August): Hot (25-35°C) and humid, perfect for water sports but crowded with domestic tourists. Book hotels early, expect higher prices.

• Autumn (September-November): Best time with pleasant temperatures (15-25°C), clear skies, and vibrant scenery. Ideal for cruises and trekking.

• Winter (December-February): Cooler (10-20°C), fewer tourists, and lower rates ($10-$15 less for tours). Swimming may be chilly.

Note: Avoid July-August for fewer storms, which can disrupt boat tours. Check weather forecasts before booking.

• Duration: Spend 2-5 days to explore Cat Ba National Park, Lan Ha Bay, and villages like Viet Hai and Cai Beo.

• Budget: Daily costs average $30-$60 per person, including budget accommodation ($10-$25), meals ($10-$20), and activities ($10-$15). Tours with Legend Travel Group ($25-$60 per person) offer value.

• Advance Booking: Reserve tours and hotels 2-3 months ahead for peak seasons (March-April, September-November) to secure spots and discounts.

• Connect with Locals: Engage with residents at Cat Ba Market or Viet Hai homestays for cultural insights. Legend Travel Group’s tours include local interactions.

• Responsible Tourism: Avoid littering, respect wildlife (e.g., don’t feed monkeys), and choose eco-friendly operators like Legend Travel Group to support conservation.

Legend Travel Group, a trusted local tour operator, delivers authentic Cat Ba experiences with:

• Expert Guides: Local experts share insights into Cat Ba’s history, culture, and biodiversity.

• Small Groups: 4-10 participants for personalized attention.

• Eco-Friendly Tours: Commitment to sustainable tourism, supporting local communities and conservation.

• Comprehensive Packages: Day tours ($20-$60 per person), multi-day adventures ($80-$150 per person), or private tours ($80-$200 per group) include transport, entry fees, and activities.

• Seamless Logistics: Hotel pickup, boat transfers, and permits handled for a stress-free trip.

Contact us at +84 825862222 or info@legendtravelgroup.com to customize your Cat Ba adventure today

Cat Ba Island, a jewel in Lan Ha Bay, captivates with its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and eco-friendly adventures, just a short ferry ride from Hai Phong or Hanoi. From kayaking through emerald waters and limestone karsts to hiking Cannon Fort’s historic trails for panoramic views, this island offers a perfect blend of nature and heritage. Legend Travel Group’s Cat Ba Tours ensure a sustainable Cat Ba Travel experience, combining seamless exploration of Lan Ha Bay, Cat Ba National Park, and local fishing villages with eco-conscious practices that support conservation and communities. Don’t miss out—browse our exclusive tour packages and book your eco-friendly adventure today to dive into Vietnam’s coastal paradise!
Ready to explore Cat Ba Island’s stunning landscapes and rich culture? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable journey!

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

Sources:

• Cat Ba Island Information: vietnam.travel, localvietnam.com, vietnamescapetours.com, catbaventures.com, tripadvisor.com