Top attractions on Cat Ba Island

When it comes to what to do in Cat Ba, the island offers a remarkable concentration of natural and cultural highlights, making it one of the most diverse destinations in Northern Vietnam. Within a relatively small area, travelers can explore tranquil bays, dense tropical forests, historical viewpoints, and scenic beaches. This diversity allows visitors to experience Cat Ba at their own pace – whether through outdoor adventures, photography, or relaxed moments along the coast.

Lan Ha Bay: A quieter alternative to Halong Bay

Located just off the coast of Cat Ba Island, Lan Ha Bay is often considered one of the most beautiful seascapes in Vietnam. With hundreds of limestone karsts rising from calm, emerald waters, the bay offers the same dramatic scenery as Halong Bay but with fewer tourist boats. Visitors can join a day cruise or overnight cruise to explore the bay

Cat Ba National Park

Covering a large portion of the island, Cat Ba National Park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and one of the best places in Northern Vietnam for nature-based exploration. The park features tropical forests, limestone mountains, and rich biodiversity, including rare species such as the Cat Ba langur. Well-marked trekking routes lead to panoramic viewpoints overlooking the island and the sea, making this attraction ideal for travelers who enjoy hiking, wildlife, and immersive natural landscapes.

Cannon Fort

Perched on a hill above Cat Ba town, Cannon Fort (also known as High Point 177) combines historical significance with breathtaking views. Originally built for military purposes, the site now offers sweeping panoramas over Lan Ha Bay, the town, and surrounding islands. It is widely regarded as the best spot on Cat Ba Island to watch the sunset, and it can be easily reached by motorbike or taxi, making it accessible for most visitors.

Please be advised that Cannon Fort is currently under maintenance and is not open to the public! (Last updated: January, 2026)

Cat Co Beaches

Cat Ba’s main beaches – Cat Co 1 and Cat Co 3 – are located close to the town center and are ideal for swimming and relaxing by the sea. Framed by limestone cliffs and facing open waters, these beaches can experience noticeable waves, especially during the summer months and periods of stronger winds. A scenic cliffside coastal path links Cat Co 1 and Cat Co 3, offering panoramic sea views and making the walk itself part of the experience.

Trung Trang Cave

Located inside Cat Ba National Park, Trung Trang Cave extends for nearly 300 meters through a limestone mountain shaped over millions of years. Inside, visitors encounter a series of chambers filled with stalactites and stalagmites formed by water erosion, offering insight into the island’s karst geology.

The cave maintains a cool temperature year-round, providing a refreshing contrast to Cat Ba’s tropical heat. It is easily accessible and well suited for travelers interested in natural landscapes, geology, and light exploration without physical difficulty.

Hospital Cave (Hang Quan Y)

Hospital Cave is one of Cat Ba’s most remarkable historical sites. Hidden within a limestone mountain, it functioned as a secret military hospital during the American War in Vietnam between 1963 and 1965.

The cave contains preserved treatment rooms, operating theaters, living quarters, and command areas, all ingeniously built inside the rock to withstand bombings. Visiting Hospital Cave offers an immersive look into wartime life and medical ingenuity, making it especially meaningful for travelers interested in modern history and cultural heritage.

Viet Hai Ancient Village

Viet Hai Ancient Village lies in a remote valley deep within Cat Ba National Park, surrounded by dense forest, limestone peaks, and rice fields. The village remains quite isolated from mass tourism, preserving a traditional way of life closely connected to nature.

Travelers can reach Viet Hai in two different ways, each offering a distinct experience:

• By boat: A scenic cruise through Lan Ha Bay followed by a gentle bicycle ride or an electric cart ride to the village, suitable for most travelers.
• By trekking through Cat Ba National Park: A guided trek crossing the forested heart of the park, passing through jungle trails and limestone terrain before emerging in Viet Hai valley. This option is ideal for active travelers seeking a deeper connection with Cat Ba’s biodiversity and landscapes.

Once in the village, visitors can cycle along quiet paths, observe local farming practices, and interact with residents in a calm, unhurried setting. Viet Hai is best appreciated as a slow-travel experience rather than a quick stop.

Best activities on Cat Ba Island

Beyond its scenic attractions, Cat Ba Island is best experienced through its wide range of outdoor and sea-based activities.

Night kayaking through glowing bioluminescent plankton

Kayaking is one of the most popular and rewarding activities on Cat Ba Island. The calm waters of Lan Ha Bay allow travelers to paddle at an easy pace through limestone arches, hidden lagoons, and narrow channels between karsts. Many kayaking routes lead to small, untouched beaches where visitors can stop for swimming or simply enjoy the silence of the bay. Kayaking is often included in day tours or overnight cruises departing from Cat Ba.

Rock climbing and deep water soloing

Cat Ba is considered the best rock climbing destination in Vietnam. The island’s limestone cliffs provide routes for all levels, from beginners to experienced climbers. Deep water soloing- climbing above the sea without ropes – is also available for those seeking a more adventurous experience. Professional operators on the island provide certified guides and safety equipment, making these activities accessible even for first-time climbers.

Watch the “Symphony of the Green Island” Show

One of Cat Ba’s most unforgettable nighttime experiences is “Symphony of the Green Island”, a world-class outdoor spectacle that transforms the sea into a grand stage of light, sound, and action. Held over the waters of Cat Ba Central Bay, this show combines cutting-edge performance technology with art, culture, and adrenaline-fuelled stunts. Spanning an expansive 50,000 m² stage on the open water, the show blends synchronized jetski formations, flyboard acrobatics, laser lights, music, and fireworks into a cohesive performance designed to engage all the senses.

Boat tours to private beach islands

Boat tours from Cat Ba offer travelers the chance to escape the main tourist areas and visit small, secluded beach islands scattered across Lan Ha Bay. Along the way, visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing by the sea, with plenty of time to appreciate the natural beauty of limestone karsts rising from the water. For those seeking a slower pace and a more exclusive experience, boat tours to private beach islands provide a perfect contrast to Cat Ba’s more active excursions; ideal for couples, small groups, and travelers looking for tranquility.

Weather on Cat Ba Island: Best time to visit

The best time: April to June (Spring – early Summer)

This is when the island is at its most vibrant, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C. The water temperature is perfect for night snorkeling to witness the bioluminescent plankton, a rare “bucket list” experience. While this is a beautiful time, it marks the start of local summer holidays. To maintain your private travel experience, we recommend scheduling your bay explorations on weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds from the mainland.

The peak season: July to September (Summer)

This is the time of dramatic tropical sun and occasional monsoon rains, with higher visitor numbers during the summer holidays. However, travelers should note that this period also falls within the rainy season, bringing occasional heavy showers and rougher sea conditions that may affect outdoor activities and boat tours.

The golden window: October to November (Autumn)

This is, without a doubt, the most prestigious time for European travelers to visit. The humidity drops, replaced by crisp air and a “golden hour” that seems to last all afternoon. It is the peak season for trekking through the primary forest to Viet Hai Village without the sweltering heat. The sea is calm and crystal clear, making it the ultimate period for a private overnight cruise.

The cool season: December to March (Winter)

From December to March, Cat Ba experiences cooler weather, with temperatures sometimes dropping below 20°C. A period often overlooked by mass tourism, but beloved by slow-travel enthusiasts. Sea conditions can be less favorable during this period, which may limit activities such as swimming and kayaking. However, the cooler climate and quieter atmosphere make this season well suited for hiking, sightseeing, and exploring the island without crowds.

How to get to Cat Ba Island

Private vehicle: Flexible but more complex

Traveling by private vehicle offers flexibility but can be complicated without professional assistance. In most cases, two separate vehicles are required:

• One car to the mainland port
• Another vehicle waiting on Cat Ba Island

In between, travelers must arrange their own transfer by speedboat or cable car, coordinating schedules and luggage handling. This option is generally recommended only for travelers booking through a travel agent, as managing multiple transfers independently can be stressful, especially for first-time visitors to Vietnam.

Shared bus or limousine: The most convenient option

For most travelers, shared buses or limousine services are the easiest and most convenient way to reach Cat Ba Island. These services usually include:

• Hotel pickup in Hanoi or Ninh BInh
• Land transport to the port
• Ferry or speedboat transfer
• Direct drop-off at hotels in Cat Ba town

With all transfers arranged in one ticket, travelers do not need to worry about connections or timing. This option offers excellent value, comfort, and peace of mind, making it the most popular choice for independent travelers.

Tender boat from cruises: Ideal for combined itineraries

For travelers combining Cat Ba Island with a cruise in Lan Ha Bay, tender boats provide a seamless solution. Many cruises operating in Lan Ha Bay use tender boats to transfer guests directly between the cruise and Cat Ba Island. This option eliminates the need for land transportation and allows travelers to smoothly integrate Cat Ba into a multi-day itinerary. This is an excellent choice for visitors who want to experience both cruising and island life without logistical complications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Travel Guide to Cat Ba Island

Q: When is the best time to visit Cat Ba?

• April – June: The ideal time for swimming and kayaking thanks to clear blue skies and beautiful sunshine.
• October – November: Cool, dry weather, perfect for trekking in the national park and visiting ancient villages.

Note: July to September is typhoon season, so you should check the weather forecast before you leave.

Q: Is Cannon Fort in Cat Ba open for visitors?

Currently, updated in 2025, Cannon Fort is temporarily closed for maintenance. You can replace the panoramic bay view experience by taking a sunset cruise or visiting the high-rise rooftop cafes in town.

Q: Should I choose Lan Ha Bay or Ha Long Bay?

If you’re looking for peace, quiet, and charming small natural beaches, Lan Ha Bay is a much better choice. Lan Ha Bay has similar scenery to Ha Long Bay, but with fewer tourist boats, offering a more relaxing and private experience.

Q: What’s the most convenient way to get from Hanoi to Cat Ba?

Complete package bus/limousine is the most popular way. The bus will pick you up in Hanoi or Ninh Binh, including ferry/speedboat tickets, and drop you off directly at your hotel in Cat Ba town.

Q: What to do at night in Cat Ba?

Besides strolling along the beach, you shouldn’t miss two unique experiences:

• The “Symphony of the Green Island” show: A spectacular live show on the sea featuring jetskis, flyboards, and fireworks.
• Kayaking to see bioluminescent plankton: In the calm waters of Lan Ha Bay, you can see bioluminescent plankton glowing in the dark as you paddle.

Q: How many days are enough for a trip to Cat Ba?

You should spend at least 2 days and 1 night visiting the basic attractions like Lan Ha Bay and the National Park. However, to truly experience the beauty of the island and participate in activities such as mountain climbing, visiting Viet Hai village, or watching shows, a 2-night itinerary is the great choice.

Final thoughts

We hope this guide helps you discover the authentic soul of Cat Ba Island. With its blend of adventure and tranquility, this corner of Vietnam promises to leave an indelible mark on your travel memories.

Would you like Travel Sense Asia to customize your Cat Ba itinerary to include a private cruise in Lan Ha Bay or an ocean-view room in one of the island’s boutique hotels? Contact us today and start planning the trip.