Plan your trip to Monkey Island in Cat Ba with our ultimate guide! Discover the best transportation options, tour packages, and insider tips to explore this stunning island. Book your adventure with Legend Travel Group today!
Monkey Island, nestled in the heart of Lan Ha Bay, is a highlight of the Cat Ba Archipelago, renowned for its unspoiled beauty and vibrant ecosystem. The island’s two arc-shaped beaches, Cat Dua 1 and Cat Dua 2, boast clear waters and soft sands, perfect for swimming and relaxation. Home to over 20 bold macaques, the island offers a chance to observe these playful creatures in their natural habitat. Adventurous travelers can trek to the island’s summit for stunning views of Lan Ha Bay’s limestone karsts and emerald waters. With Legend Travel Group’s expertly designed tours, you can explore Monkey Island alongside other attractions like Cai Beo fishing village and Cat Ba National Park, ensuring a memorable adventure.
Monkey Island lies approximately 1-2 km southeast of Cat Ba Town, making it an easy day trip from the main island. Accessible only by boat, the journey from Beo Harbor takes about 10-15 minutes, passing through the scenic Cai Beo fishing village and smaller islets. Its proximity to Cat Ba Town and inclusion in Lan Ha Bay tours makes it a convenient stop for travelers exploring the region.
Reaching Monkey Island is straightforward with several transportation options, primarily involving a combination of land and sea travel. Below are the best ways to get there, with updated pricing and tips for a smooth journey.
By Boat from Beo Harbor: The most common route is a 10-15 minute boat ride from Beo Harbor, located 2 km from Cat Ba Town. Group boat tickets cost approximately $8-$12 per person round-trip, including entrance fees to the island. Private boat charters are available for $50-$100, depending on group size and itinerary. Legend Travel Group offers day tours starting at $25 per person, which include boat transfers, kayaking, and guided exploration of Monkey Island.
By Motorbike to Beo Harbor: Rent a motorbike in Cat Ba Town for $5-$8 per day and ride to Beo Harbor, where you can park and board a boat. This option allows flexibility to stop for photos along the scenic coastal road.
Bus and Boat Package: Travel from Hanoi to Cat Ba Island via a combination of bus and speedboat, taking 3.5-4 hours. Tickets cost $13-$18 one way, with reputable operators like Hoang Long or Good Morning Cat Ba. Legend Travel Group offers all-inclusive packages starting at $80 per person, including round-trip transportation, accommodation, and a Monkey Island tour.
Private Transfer: For a more comfortable journey, book a private car from Hanoi to Hai Phong’s Got Harbor, followed by a speedboat to Cat Ba ($80-$120 for up to 4 people). From Cat Ba Town, join a boat tour to Monkey Island.
Luxury Bus Option: Luxury limousine buses provide a premium experience with spacious seats and Wi-Fi, costing $20-$25 one way. These buses connect Hanoi to Cat Ba via Hai Phong and are ideal for small groups or families.
Ferry or Speedboat: From Hai Phong’s Got Harbor, take a speedboat (30 minutes, $6-$10 per person) or ferry (45-50 minutes, $4-$7 per person) to Cai Vieng Terminal on Cat Ba Island. From there, a 30-minute drive or bus ride ($2-$5) takes you to Cat Ba Town, where you can board a boat to Monkey Island.
Cat Bi Airport to Cat Ba: If arriving at Cat Bi International Airport in Hai Phong, take a taxi or shuttle to Got Harbor (40 minutes, $15-$20). Then, catch a speedboat or ferry to Cat Ba. Legend Travel Group can arrange airport transfers and Monkey Island tours for a seamless experience, starting at $100 per person for a full-day package.
Tuan Chau to Cat Ba Ferry: From Tuan Chau Harbor (near Halong City), ferries or hydrofoils run to Gia Luan Terminal on Cat Ba Island (30-50 minutes, $7-$12 per person). From Gia Luan, it’s a 45-minute drive to Cat Ba Town ($10-$15 by taxi or bus). Book a Monkey Island tour from Cat Ba Town for $25-$40 per person, including boat transfers and activities like kayaking.
For the easiest and most enriching experience, book a guided tour with Legend Travel Group. Our packages include:
Day Tour ($25-$40 per person): Boat transfers from Beo Harbor, kayaking, swimming, and guided visits to Monkey Island and Lan Ha Bay.
Multi-Day Tour ($80-$150 per person): Combines Monkey Island with Cat Ba National Park, Lan Ha Bay cruises, and Cai Beo fishing village, with accommodation and meals included.
Private Tours ($100-$200 per group): Customizable itineraries for families or small groups, with private boat transfers and personalized guides.
Contact us at our Hanoi office (+84 825862222) or email info@legendtravelgroup.com to book your tour today!
Best Time to Visit: Travel between March-May or October-November for mild weather (20-28°C) and calm seas, ideal for swimming and kayaking. Avoid July-September due to potential storms, and check weather forecasts in advance.
Monkey Safety: Keep food and valuables secure, as the island’s macaques can be bold and may snatch items. Observe from a distance to avoid bites or aggressive behavior.
What to Bring: Pack sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, comfortable shoes for trekking, and a waterproof bag for kayaking. Carry Vietnamese Dong (VND) for small purchases, as card payments are limited on the island.
Eco-Friendly Travel: Respect the island’s pristine environment by avoiding littering and following local guidelines to protect wildlife and marine ecosystems.
Combine with Other Attractions: Pair your Monkey Island visit with a Lan Ha Bay cruise, a trek in Cat Ba National Park, or a tour of Cai Beo fishing village for a full Cat Ba experience.
As a trusted local tour operator, Legend Travel Group specializes in crafting immersive and affordable experiences in Cat Ba and beyond. Our tours are designed to maximize your time on Monkey Island, with expert guides, comfortable transportation, and sustainable practices. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, we offer flexible packages to suit your needs. Book now to secure your spot and embark on an unforgettable journey to Monkey Island!
Monkey Island in Cat Ba, a playful eco-tourism haven, enchants with its pristine beaches, cheeky macaques, and lush trails, offering an adventurous escape in the Gulf of Tonkin. From snorkeling in crystal waters to hiking to panoramic viewpoints, this island blends wildlife encounters with serene relaxation. Supported by sustainable practices like guided eco-tours and community conservation, Legend Travel Group’s Cat Ba Tours guide you through Monkey Island’s wonders, ensuring a sustainable Cat Ba Travel experience filled with immersive exploration. Ready to explore the wonders of Monkey Island? Browse our exclusive tour packages below and book with Legend Travel Group for a hassle-free adventure. From day trips to multi-day escapes, we have the perfect itinerary to make your Cat Ba experience extraordinary. Reserve your spot today!
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. By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group.
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