Top things need to do in Cat Ba Island.
Cat Ba Island, located 145 km east of Hanoi, is the main island in Northern Vietnam and the second-largest island in the country, after Phu Quoc. Cat Ba Island – This beautiful destination has it all, from stunning landscapes and beaches to exciting outdoor activities. Discover the best experiences Cat Ba below.
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- Hiking Cat Ba National Park
Hiking in Cat Ba National Park is a favored activity among the top things to do in Cat Ba for adventurous souls. The trails here wind through diverse ecosystems teeming with wildlife. Whether you prefer exploring caves or ascending peaks, Cat Ba National Park offers a rich tapestry of natural wonders for visitors to behold.
- Lan Ha Bay
Once belonging to Ha Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay was named an independent Archipelago in an effort to maintain the natural biodiversity.
It is quite a surreal experience to cruise amongst the ageless cliffs and let your eyes explore the picturesque horizon.
Traveling as a group, including children and seniors, is best done by booking a bay tour, which typically includes swimming. However, this option is significantly more expensive, costing around 1.1-1.3 million VND.
- Soak in Viet Hai village
The largest floating village in Vietnam (Cai Beo) can be accessed via the Cai Beo port.
The floating houseboats and inviting smiles of local villagers will be an everlasting memento.
The local might invite you to visit their houses or mingle with you to experience the unique way of life here.
You should visit the mountain village of Viet Hai and do your very own walking tour around.
Here you will learn about the local lifestyle and the surroundings, bringing more meaning and appreciation to what you experience in Cat Ba.
There are three ways to enter the village: Doing a kayak, using a boat, or trekking throughout the Cat Ba National Park.
- Go swimming
On a scorching summer day, one of the most exciting things to do in Cat Ba is diving into the clear, blue waters of Cat Ba Beach. While the popular Cat Co beaches can get crowded, there are secret spots for a more peaceful swim. Tourists can hire boats to move to Monkey Island or Tung Thu Beach to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and gentle waves. For the adventurous, the wild beaches at Lan Ha Bay offer a chance to connect with nature. Whether it is tranquility or excitement you seek, being immersed in the sea here will definitely be one of the most unforgettable experiences in your Cat Ba trip.
- Observe langurs’ life in Monkey Island, Cat Ba
Monkey Island, once known as Cat Dua Cat Ba Island for its wild pineapples, offers a chance to observe langurs in their natural habitat. With unspoiled beauty and over 20 friendly monkeys, it is rightly called Monkey Island. Here, you can play, feed, and watch these intelligent creatures perform tricks. It is a unique and enchanting experience that brings you close to nature and the island’s inhabitants.
- Try night squid fishing
Trying squid fishing at night in Cat Ba adds an interesting twist to your entertainment options, though it can be a bit pricey at around 500,000 VND for a short trip. To give it a shot, you can ask your hotel to set it up or approach the local rafters and boat folks at the town’s main wharf. As the sun sets, the waters come alive, offering a unique chance to enjoy the serene beauty of the nighttime sea and perhaps even catch some squid.
- Experience Cat Ba rock climbing
Cat Ba Island offers tourists some great spots to experience Cat Ba rock climbing. Among the favorites are Dau Be Island and Ben Beo Mountain Cliff, conveniently located near the town center. For a unique experience with stunning sea views, it is suggested that you check out the cliffs at Ba Trai Dao Island, a bit further down. You can rent climbing gear here, but if you are new, it is smart to have a certified guide. They will make sure that you are safe and have a good time.
- Watch the sunset at Cannon Fort
One of the most popular things to do in Cat Ba is watching the sunset from Cannon Fort. Situated on a strategic hill, it offers a stunning 360-degree panorama, especially during sunrise and sunset. The hill’s historical importance adds depth to the experience. You can reach the fort by motorbike, car, or a short walk. The fort is open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays, with an entry fee of 40,000 VND per person.
- Explore mystic caves in Cat Ba Island
Another activity that attracts numerous tourists is discovering the mysteries of Cat Ba Island’s enchanting caves. Two remarkable ones, Hospital Cave and Trung Trang Cave, have stories to tell. Quan Y Cave was a wartime field hospital built from 1963 to 1965. Inside, you will find a surprising layout with 17 rooms across three floors, including treatment and rehab areas and even a movie room. The bomb-proof door design is a relic from those times.
Trung Trang Cave, in the same direction, stretches about 300 meters through the mountain. You will be in awe stepping into a world of sparkling formations made by dripping water over 6 million years. Plus, there are fascinating stalactites and stalagmites of all shapes. The cave also holds ancient Vietnamese remnants that add to its allure.
- Enjoy a feast of fresh seafood
When on Cat Ba Island, tourists should not miss out on the seafood feast. There are a bunch of yummy options like geoduck clams, lobster, snapper, and more. You can get them grilled, stir-fried, or steamed at the restaurants, or you can savor these tasty dishes at Cat Ba Market. For a special experience, you can try dining on rafts by the sea. Imagine enjoying seafood while feeling the sea breeze – it is not just a meal, it is a whole island vibe on your plate.