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Nestled deep within Cat Ba National Park, Viet Hai Village offers visitors a peaceful retreat away from the bustling tourist spots. This hidden gem is not only a natural paradise but also a window into the authentic local life of island inhabitants, preserving a unique culture shaped by history and nature.
Viet Hai fishing Village is located in Viet Hai Ward, Cat Hai District, in the heart of Cat Ba National Park on Cat Ba Island, Hai Phong Province. Surrounded by lush forests and towering limestone mountains, the village is accessible only by trekking or boat, making it a secluded sanctuary far from urban noise.
Viet Hai Village has a rich history dating back several centuries. Originally established by ethnic Kinh settlers, the village developed as a small fishing and farming community nestled in the sheltered bay of Cat Ba Island. Due to its remote location, Viet Hai remained relatively isolated from the outside world for many years, allowing traditional ways of life to thrive.
Throughout history, the villagers relied heavily on natural resources around them - primarily fishing in Lan Ha Bay and cultivating rice and other crops on terraced fields carved into the mountainous terrain. The community lived in harmony with the environment, practicing sustainable fishing and farming methods that respected the fragile ecosystem of the national park.
During periods of conflict, Viet Hai’s seclusion helped protect it from major disruptions, preserving many cultural customs and practices. Today, the village maintains its authentic charm with a close-knit population who continue traditional crafts, local festivals, and a lifestyle deeply connected to nature.
Visitors to Viet Hai can still experience this genuine way of life, from the rustic wooden houses and simple fishing boats to the warm hospitality of villagers proud to share their heritage.
Viet Hai Village reflects a resilient culture deeply connected to the island’s natural environment and historical roots (Source: Internet)
To visit Viet Hai Village, you first need to reach Hai Phong city, a major gateway to Cat Ba Island. Hai Phong is well connected by road, rail, and air, with frequent buses, trains, and flights from Hanoi and other key cities in Vietnam.
From Hai Phong or Cat Ba town, visitors can take a boat or ferry to Viet Hai Village. This scenic water route passes through Lan Ha Bay, offering stunning views of limestone karsts and tranquil waters. The boat ride usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes, providing a relaxing start to your journey.
Inside the village, transportation options are limited to bicycles and electric carts, as motor vehicles are restricted to preserve the village’s peaceful atmosphere. Renting a bike (50,000 – 100,000 VND/day) or hopping on an electric cart (30,000 VND/person) allows visitors to explore the village and its surroundings comfortably while enjoying the natural beauty at a leisurely pace.
Bicycle is the preferred mode of transportation chosen by many tourists to explore Viet Hai Village (Source: Internet)
Viet Hai Village, Cat Ba is nestled amidst pristine nature, surrounded by lush green forests and the tranquil waters of Lan Ha Bay. Visitors can take leisurely walks along quiet paths lined with tropical plants, listen to birdsong, and enjoy the refreshing mountain air.
The peaceful environment offers a perfect escape from the noise and stress of city life. Sunrise and sunset over the bay paint the sky with stunning colors, creating unforgettable moments for photographers and nature lovers alike. This serene setting invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and truly reconnect with nature.
The village offers a poetic and tranquil atmosphere (Source: Internet)
For outdoor enthusiasts, trekking through Cat Ba National Park provides a thrilling adventure filled with breathtaking scenery and diverse wildlife. Several well-marked trails pass through dense tropical jungles, limestone cliffs, and hidden caves near Viet Hai.
Hikers can encounter rare animals such as langurs and exotic birds unique to this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The trails range from easy walks to more challenging hikes, suitable for all levels. Along the way, natural waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints offer perfect rest stops and photo opportunities. Trekking here allows you to experience the wild beauty of Cat Ba Island firsthand.
You need to prepare your health and bring all necessary supplies (Source: Internet)
One of the most authentic experiences in Viet Hai is immersing yourself in the daily routines of local fishermen. Walking around the village, you’ll see fishermen preparing their nets, repairing boats, and unloading the day’s fresh catch.
Many families still follow traditional fishing methods passed down through generations, such as using small wooden boats and hand-cast nets. Visitors can even join a fishing trip to learn firsthand about this way of life. The bustling fish market is a lively spot where locals trade seafood and share stories. This glimpse into the villagers’ livelihood offers a meaningful connection to Viet Hai’s cultural heritage.
Some traditional tools such as grinding stones, pestles, and earthen jars have long been preserved by the local people (Source: Internet)
Cycling is a fantastic way to explore the peaceful lanes of Viet Hai Village and discover its hidden charms. Bicycle rentals are available locally, and the flat terrain makes it accessible for riders of all ages and skill levels. As you pedal through the village, you’ll pass charming wooden houses, small docks, and serene rice paddies bordered by limestone hills.
There are numerous scenic spots perfect for photography, such as the quiet shoreline at dawn or the colorful boats anchored by the bay. Cycling also allows you to interact easily with friendly locals and stop spontaneously to explore side paths or local markets.
Visitors here can leisurely walk or rent bicycles to explore around the village (Source: Internet)
Viet Hai’s cuisine reflects its fishing village heritage, offering fresh and flavorful dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Seafood lovers can indulge in specialties like grilled fish, steamed shrimp, and crab cooked with traditional herbs and spices.
Many small family-run restaurants serve authentic meals prepared with recipes handed down over generations. Beyond seafood, visitors can try dishes featuring fresh vegetables grown in the village’s terraced fields, offering a delicious taste of rural Vietnamese cooking. Sharing a meal with local families provides not only a culinary delight but also insight into their warm hospitality and daily life.
When visiting Viet Hai, you must definitely try the fresh and delicious seafood (Source: Internet)
The ideal time to explore Viet Hai Village is during the spring and autumn months, from March to May and September to November, when the weather is mild and rainfall is minimal. Avoid the hot summer months and the rainy season, which can make trekking and outdoor activities less enjoyable. Visiting early in the morning or late afternoon is recommended to avoid the midday heat and to experience the village’s serene atmosphere at its calmest.
Besides, many travelers combine a visit to Viet Hai Village with a Ha Long Bay cruise itinerary. Some cruise operators offer morning excursions that include a boat trip through Lan Ha Bay, stopping at Viet Hai for a few hours to explore the village and its surroundings. This option is perfect for those who want to experience the village without dedicating a full day. The boat ride also offers spectacular views of limestone karsts and floating fishing villages, adding to the overall experience.
Strolling around the peaceful countryside offers a memorable experience (Source: Internet)
When visiting Viet Hai Village, tourists can combine their trip with stops at several nearby notable attractions such as
Cai Beo Fishing Village is a perfect spot for cultural immersion and photography (Source: Internet)
In summary, Viet Hai Village is a peaceful retreat that offers visitors a rare glimpse into traditional island life surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. Be sure to include Viet Hai Village in your travel itinerary when exploring Cat Ba Island for a truly unique adventure.
To visit Viet Hai Village, 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.
Passengers are required to have adequate travel documents for all flights on all concerned airlines and to abide by national laws and regulations. Vietnam Airlines does not take responsible if passengers are denied entry into any country.
Please visit here for more details.
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