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Cat Ba Island - the largest gem of the Ha Long Bay archipelago offers a rich blend of adventure, local culture, and serene natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring hidden caves, kayaking through crystal-clear waters, or tasting authentic northern cuisine, the list of things to do in Cat Ba Island is as diverse as the landscapes themselves. From laid-back beach days to thrilling rock climbs, this island caters to every traveler's dream. Read on to discover the top 13 unforgettable experiences you shouldn't miss on your Cat Ba journey.
Exploring Lan Ha Bay by boat is one of the most relaxing and visually captivating experiences you can enjoy while visiting Cat Ba Island. This serene neighbor of Ha Long Bay is dotted with hundreds of limestone islets, hidden coves, and emerald green waters. Most cruises include stops at floating fishing villages, swimming or snorkeling in secluded lagoons, and a delicious seafood lunch served on board. As the boat glides past jungle-covered cliffs and uninhabited islands, you’ll feel like you've stepped into a natural paradise.
Lan Ha Bay is more secluded compared to Halong Bay (Source: Internet)
For those seeking a more immersive experience, consider an overnight cruise, which allows you to sleep under the stars and wake up to the stillness of the bay. Some luxury tours include onboard cooking classes, kayaking through sea caves, and guided visits to local communities. Whether you're a couple seeking romance or a family looking for soft adventure, cruising Lan Ha Bay provides the perfect balance of comfort and exploration.
Kayaking in Lan Ha Bay offers a peaceful yet exhilarating way to get closer to nature. As you paddle through gentle waters, you’ll pass under low limestone arches and into mysterious sea caves like Dark & Bright Cave, where shafts of sunlight illuminate the water below. The bay is dotted with small, hidden beaches and mangrove forests that are inaccessible to larger boats, making kayaking an ideal way to discover untouched corners of the landscape. The calm waters make this activity suitable even for beginners or children, with safety gear and guides often included.
Kayaking is the only way to explore the small corners of Cat Ba Archipelago (Source: Internet)
Guided kayaking tours typically depart from larger boats or floating docks and last from 1 to 3 hours, depending on the route. Many include ecological insights from local guides, who explain the unique rock formations, marine life, and history of the bay. Whether you go solo or join a group, kayaking in Lan Ha Bay is a meditative, muscle-powered adventure that brings you intimately in touch with the island's aquatic beauty.
Trekking through Cat Ba National Park is an essential experience for those who love exploring the outdoors. The park spans over 26,000 hectares and is home to a rich diversity of plant and animal life, including the critically endangered Cat Ba langur. Trails vary in difficulty, from the short 1.5-kilometer hike to Ngu Lam Peak — which rewards you with panoramic views over jungle and karst formations — to longer treks that wind deeper into the park’s rugged terrain. Along the way, you might encounter birds, butterflies, and native orchids tucked into the greenery.
You can spend one day trekking through the jungle of Cat Ba National Park (Source: Internet)
If you’re up for a longer journey, consider the trail that leads to the remote Viet Hai Village, combining forest trekking with cultural discovery. Guided tours are available and highly recommended for spotting wildlife and learning about the unique biosphere. The park also features natural caves, freshwater lakes, and a cool forest canopy that offers a welcome break from the tropical sun. It’s an invigorating activity that connects you with the ecological heartbeat of the island.
Van Boi Island is one of the lesser-known gems of the Cat Ba archipelago. This quiet island, nestled within Lan Ha Bay, offers a picture-perfect escape from the noise of modern life. It’s best known for its clear waters, soft sand, and shallow coral areas ideal for snorkeling or swimming. With minimal development, the island is perfect for those who want to unplug, read a book on the beach, or enjoy a peaceful picnic by the sea.
The wild beauty of Van Boi beach, nestled in the middle of Cat Ba Island (Source: Internet)
Because it’s relatively isolated, Van Boi remains uncrowded even during peak season, making it a top pick for couples or small groups seeking privacy. Many boat tours include a stop here, or you can charter a small boat for a half-day excursion. Some visitors choose to bring their own snorkeling gear or rent it from Cat Ba town before departure. There are no formal facilities, so plan accordingly and pack out whatever you bring in.
Cat Ba Island is home to a network of fascinating caves, each offering a different glimpse into its natural and historical landscape. Trung Trang Cave, the most famous, stretches 300 meters through a dense forest and is filled with dramatic stalactites. Hospital Cave is a man-made marvel used as a secret field hospital during the Vietnam War — walking through its reinforced chambers is like stepping into a time capsule. Meanwhile, Dark & Bright Cave combines kayaking and cave exploration for a unique half-water, half-stone experience.
Inside the Military Hospital Cave (Source: Internet)
These caves are easily accessible via a short drive or motorbike ride from Cat Ba Town. Whether you're into geology, history, or photography, exploring the caves offers a cool (literally!) contrast to the island’s sunny coastlines. Be sure to bring good footwear, as paths can be damp and slippery, and consider hiring a guide to fully understand the cultural and natural significance of each site.
For many visitors, no trip to Cat Ba Island is complete without a day spent lounging on one of its iconic beaches. The three main spots — Cat Co 1, 2, and 3 — are nestled between rocky headlands just outside Cat Ba Town. Each offers soft white sand, calm swimming areas, and views of the open sea framed by jungle-clad cliffs. Lifeguards are on duty during peak hours, and the shallow waters make it ideal for families with kids.
Cat Co Beach is a must-visit when at Cat Ba Island (Source: Internet)
Cat Co 1 is the most spacious and often the busiest, while Cat Co 2 is quieter and surrounded by dramatic rocky scenery. Cat Co 3, now more developed, offers seaside cafés and modern resorts nearby. You can rent umbrellas and loungers, sip fresh coconut juice, or enjoy beachside massages. At sunset, locals and tourists alike gather here to watch the sky fade over the horizon — a daily ritual that captures the island’s simple charm.
Cai Beo is believed to be one of Vietnam’s oldest fishing villages, with roots tracing back over 7,000 years. Today, it remains a vibrant floating community where dozens of homes bob on anchored pontoons, and villagers tend fish farms below their kitchens. A visit here is more than a scenic detour — it’s a rare cultural experience. You’ll see how locals raise seafood like grouper, crab, and squid, using age-old methods passed down through generations.
With over 300 floating houses, Cai Beo Floating Village offers a unique glimpse into traditional Vietnamese culture and lifestyle (Source: Internet)
Many boat tours from Cat Ba Town include a stop in Cai Beo, but it’s also worth arranging a private trip to spend more time interacting with residents. Some families welcome visitors into their floating homes for tea or fresh seafood tastings. This is a peaceful, authentic glimpse into life lived on water, perfect for travelers interested in Vietnamese coastal culture.
Monkey Island, officially known as Cat Dua Island, is famous for its resident monkeys and picturesque beaches — but it’s also an ecological sanctuary. The highlight here is the opportunity to see Cat Ba langurs, an endangered primate species found only in this region. While the monkeys near the beach can be quite bold and playful, the langurs live deeper in the island’s protected forest. A light trekking trail leads to a viewpoint with panoramic vistas over Lan Ha Bay.
Monkey Island is a small island located in Halong Bay, known for its diverse ecosystem and playful monkeys (Source: Internet)
Most visitors come for the mix of nature and wildlife photography, but it's also a great beach spot for swimming or kayaking. Be mindful not to feed the monkeys, as they can become aggressive. Guided tours ensure safety while also sharing valuable information about the island’s conservation efforts. If you're lucky, you might witness langurs in their natural habitat — a rare sight even for seasoned travelers.
Nestled deep within Cat Ba National Park, Viet Hai Village offers an idyllic escape into a slower, simpler world. To get there, visitors take a boat to the dock, followed by a scenic bike ride through rice fields, limestone valleys, and forested paths. The ride itself is a highlight — tranquil and picturesque, with the occasional water buffalo or friendly villager waving hello. Viet Hai’s stone houses, herbal gardens, and self-sufficient lifestyle offer a look at rural Vietnam untouched by mass tourism.
Bike through the beautiful roads of Viet Hai Village is the best way to explore the local life (Source: Internet)
Once in the village, you can enjoy a home-cooked meal at a local guesthouse, chat with farmers about their traditional practices, or even try organic herbal foot baths. Some visitors opt to camp or stay overnight in eco-lodges, making the most of the cool night air and star-filled skies. It's a soul-refreshing contrast to the beaches and boat life elsewhere on the island.
Cat Ba has emerged as one of Southeast Asia’s premier rock-climbing destinations thanks to its vertical limestone cliffs, stunning views, and well-developed routes. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced climber, local outfitters provide everything from gear rental to professional guides. Popular climbing spots include Butterfly Valley — a lush inland crag with over 60 bolted routes — and the overwater cliffs of Lan Ha Bay, where deep water soloing offers an adrenaline-pumping experience without ropes.
Cat Ba climbing is also on the rise and becoming an exciting pursuit for travelers (Source: Internet)
Climbers rave about the setting: dramatic karst scenery, chirping birds, and the occasional monkey watching from above. Safety is top priority, and local guides ensure all equipment is up to international standards. It's an ideal adventure for sporty travelers and photographers looking to capture the raw beauty of Cat Ba from above.
Night squid fishing offers a fascinating look into the life of Cat Ba’s local fishermen — and it’s also surprisingly fun. After sunset, you’ll board a small boat equipped with strong lights that attract squid to the surface. Your guide will show you how to use simple fishing gear, and with a bit of luck, you’ll haul up a wriggling catch. Freshly caught squid can be grilled right on the boat for an ultra-local dinner.
Squid fishing can be an unique memory for many travelers at Cat Ba Island (Source: Internet)
This activity is ideal for families and night owls who want something beyond the usual nightlife. It’s peaceful on the water at night, with views of distant islands twinkling under the stars. Some operators also provide warm tea, snacks, and stories of maritime life. It’s a cozy, interactive way to end your day on the island.
Cat Ba’s culinary scene is a treat for the senses, especially for fans of fresh seafood and Northern Vietnamese specialties. Start your food journey with banh cuon tom (steamed rice rolls with shrimp), then dive into local classics like goi ca trich (raw herring salad) or cha muc (grilled squid patties). Many seaside restaurants offer hot pots made from the catch of the day, served with herbs, rice noodles, and dipping sauces that are both tangy and fragrant.
Cha muc - a must-eat when in Cat Ba and can be bought as souvenirs (Source: Internet)
Eating on Cat Ba isn’t just about the food — it’s the atmosphere. Many eateries have open-air terraces where you can dine with ocean views and watch boats bobbing in the harbor. Don’t miss the street food scene either; from skewered grilled oysters to coconut jelly, there's something delicious for every budget and taste.
For those craving a satisfying hike and postcard-worthy views, Ngu Lam Peak delivers on both fronts. This short but rewarding trail takes you uphill through dense jungle, over rocky paths, and up to a viewpoint overlooking the entire island and Lan Ha Bay. The climb takes about 30 - 45 minutes each way and is moderately challenging, with stairs and handrails in steeper parts.
Enjoy the panoramic view from Ngu Lam Peak (Source: Internet)
The payoff? A sweeping panorama of lush hills, winding coastlines, and distant limestone islands that shimmer under the sun. It’s best visited early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat. Bring water, wear sturdy shoes, and don’t forget your camera — the view from the top is one of the most breathtaking things to do in Cat Ba Island.
From scenic boat rides in Lan Ha Bay to hiking Ngu Lam Peak and indulging in fresh seafood, the wide range of things to do in Cat Ba Island ensures that every traveler finds their perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Whether you're planning a weekend escape or a longer coastal retreat, Cat Ba promises enriching local experiences, spectacular views, and memories that last a lifetime. Pack your bags — the island is calling.
To explore Cat Ba, book your Flight to Hai Phong with Vietnam Airlines today! For more details on flights, baggage policies, and travel itineraries, contact Vietnam Airlines via their hotline at 1900 1100, or through Fanpage or Zalo for expert advice.
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