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Known as the largest and oldest floating fishing village in the area, Cai Beo Fishing Village offers visitors a rare glimpse into the traditional maritime lifestyle of local fishermen. Rich in history and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, this village provides an authentic cultural experience away from the usual tourist trails. Whether you’re seeking adventure, history, or peaceful scenery, Cai Beo Fishing Village is a perfect destination to add to your travel itinerary.
Cai Beo Fishing Village is located just about 1.5 kilometers southeast of Cat Ba town center. The easiest way to reach it is by boat, with a short 5-minute ride from Beo Port.
This is not only the largest but also one of the oldest floating villages in Cat Ba, with a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Home to around 400 households, the villagers here rely mainly on fishing and aquaculture for their livelihood.
Unlike the more tourist-heavy areas of Cat Ba, Cai Beo retains an authentic charm. Colorful floating houses and fish farms dot the calm, emerald waters, creating a peaceful and picturesque scene that feels like stepping back in time.
Many local boat tours include a stop at Cai Beo, or you can hire a small private boat for a more personalized experience. As you glide through the bay, you'll pass limestone karsts, floating fish cages, and locals tending to their nets—perfect for photography or just taking in the tranquil vibe.
The Cai Beo Fishing Village is considered the cradle of ancient Vietnamese culture (Source: Internet)
Beyond its natural beauty, Cai Beo Fishing Village is a site of great historical and archaeological importance. It is considered one of the most significant prehistoric sites in the Cat Ba region, with evidence of human habitation dating back between 4,000 and 7,000 years.
The name "Cai Beo", meaning "big bay", reflects its natural suitability for early settlement by ancient Vietnamese communities. Archaeological excavations have uncovered two ancient kitchen sites, 137 stone tools, 1,424 ceramic shards, and 568 animal bones, revealing a culture centered around fishing and shellfish gathering.
During the Vietnam War, the area was bombed by U.S. forces, but the village remained resilient. In 1972, archaeologists discovered additional relics, including ancient fishing nets and stone tools.
Today, Cai Beo is home to around 400 fishing families who live on floating houses and maintain a traditional way of life, now supported by electricity from the mainland. With an average water depth of about 4 meters (13 feet), the village is ideal for aquaculture and remains largely untouched by mass tourism. Most day and overnight cruises pass by without stopping, allowing Cai Beo to preserve its authentic, peaceful charm as a living museum of Vietnam's maritime heritage.
The fishing village is nestled amidst picturesque mountains and waters (Source: Internet)
Reaching Cai Beo Fishing Village is easier than you might think. Whether you're traveling from Hanoi or already on Cat Ba Island, this hidden gem is just a short journey away.
From Hanoi to Cat Ba Island
There are several comfortable and reliable bus services that run daily from Hanoi to Cat Ba Island. The total travel time from Hanoi to Cat Ba is around 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and connection times.
From Beo Port to Cai Beo Fishing Village
Once you arrive in Cat Ba town, head to Beo Port, which is just a short distance from the town center. You can rent a small motorboat (suitable for 4–6 people) which typically costs between VND 200,000 and VND 500,000 per person. A quick 5-minute boat ride will take you directly to Cai Beo Fishing Village
This is also a great opportunity to explore nearby attractions like Monkey Island (Dao Khi) or simply enjoy a peaceful cruise through Lan Ha Bay’s floating communities and limestone scenery.
One of the best ways to experience Cai Beo Fishing Village is by fully immersing yourself in its peaceful, authentic atmosphere. Take a boat tour through the village to explore its hidden corners, passing by floating fish farms, colorful houseboats, and even floating restaurants. For a more intimate experience, consider hiring a private motorboat tour, which gives you the flexibility to stop at individual floating homes.
Many local families are happy to welcome visitors, allowing you to interact with fishermen, learn about their daily routines, and get a deeper understanding of life on the sea. When visiting a floating household, it is customary to offer a small gift around VND 100,000 (about USD 4) as a token of appreciation for their hospitality. This quiet, community-centered exploration is one of the most rewarding activities in Cai Beo, offering insight into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for generations.
Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the daily life of local fishermen (Source: Internet)
For a truly authentic experience in Cai Beo Fishing Village, don’t miss the chance to join a local fishing trip - an activity offered exclusively through guided tours with experienced local captains and fishermen. You'll get to try your hand at traditional fishing methods, whether using a rod or casting a net, just like the locals have done for generations.
This activity is especially suitable for families with children, offering a safe, educational, and fun way to connect with the sea. Life jackets are provided to ensure safety for all participants, and the peaceful setting of Lan Ha Bay makes the trip both relaxing and memorable. It’s a wonderful way to better understand the daily life of fishing families while enjoying the stunning marine surroundings.
Visitors explore the floating fish farms (Source: Internet)
One of the most memorable experiences in Cai Beo Fishing Village is dining at a floating restaurant nestled in the calm waters of Lan Ha Bay. Enjoying a seafood dinner while watching the sunset over the water is a truly magical moment. These restaurants serve freshly caught seafood, everything from grilled fish to steamed clams, offering a taste of the ocean just hours after it's been harvested.
The open-air setting provides a cool sea breeze and a panoramic view of the bay, making it the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring. Whether you're with friends, family, or traveling solo, this unique culinary experience captures the essence of life in a floating village.
Floating restaurants serve local dishes and seafood (Source: Internet)
Cai Beo Fishing Village is not just a scenic destination, it's also a living museum of Vietnam’s ancient coastal culture. With a history dating back over 7,000 years, the village is home to many well-preserved relics that tell the story of early human settlement and maritime trade.
Once a thriving residential and trading hub, Cai Beo has yielded a wealth of archaeological discoveries, including ceramic artifacts, fossils, granite tools, and more. Some of these items are still kept and displayed locally, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the village’s prehistoric and historic past. Exploring these artifacts adds depth to your visit, allowing you to connect the vibrant present-day life of Cai Beo with its remarkable ancient roots.
During the journey of visiting the houses in the village, visitors will have the chance to admire the fishing tools used for catching fish (Source: Internet)
To help you have the best experience while exploring Cai Beo Fishing Village, here are some useful tips to keep in mind:
Cai Beo Fishing Village is a must-visit destination when exploring Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay. It offers not only rich cultural and historical value but also a unique experience of traditional fisherman's life amid peaceful, beautiful coastal scenery. Plan your trip to Cai Beo and immerse yourself in the distinctive lifestyle of this remarkable floating fishing village in the heart of the sea!
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