Explore Cat Ba Island 2025: Itinerary, Costs & Must-Visit Attractions

Explore Cat Ba 2025 – a journey to a stunning island nestled within Lan Ha Bay, where turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and pristine nature come together in perfect harmony. This guide provides a detailed travel itinerary, estimated costs, and highlights must-visit attractions such as Cat Ba National Park, Cai Beo Fishing Village, Tung Thu Beach, and many other exciting activities — helping you enjoy a complete and unforgettable trip to Vietnam’s beautiful pearl island.

Explore Cat Ba Island 2025: Itinerary, Costs & Must-Visit Attractions

? Introduction

If you’re looking for a destination that perfectly combines pristine beaches, lush mountains, and fresh sea air, then Cat Ba Island is an ideal choice.

Located in Cat Hai District, Hai Phong City, Cat Ba is known as “the pearl island of Northern Vietnam”, where Lan Ha Bay meets Ha Long Bay, creating a landscape that’s both majestic and serene.

This guide will help you explore Cat Ba Island in 2025 to the fullest – including a suggested 3-day itinerary, estimated travel costs, must-visit attractions, and useful travel tips to make your trip perfect.

?️ About Cat Ba Island

Cat Ba Archipelago consists of 367 islands, with Cat Ba being the largest. It lies at the gateway to Lan Ha Bay and is part of the UNESCO-recognized World Biosphere Reserve.

The island boasts a diverse ecosystem — from lush tropical forests and limestone caves to colorful coral reefs and ancient fishing villages.

Cat Ba tourism has been growing rapidly, offering a variety of activities: eco-tours, luxury cruises, adventure travel, beach relaxation, and nature exploration.

? Suggested 3-Day-2-Night Itinerary for Exploring Cat Ba

? Day 1: Travel to Cat Ba – Explore the Island Center

Depart from Hanoi → Hai Phong → Cat Ba by bus and speedboat or ferry.

Check into your hotel, rest, and have lunch.

Afternoon: Visit Cannon Fort, the best spot to enjoy panoramic views of Lan Ha Bay.

Evening: Stroll along Cat Ba Town’s seaside promenade and enjoy fresh seafood dinner at local restaurants.

? Day 2: Discover Lan Ha Bay – Visit Cai Beo Fishing Village

Morning: Take a boat tour around Lan Ha Bay, admiring the emerald waters and stunning limestone islands.

Go kayaking through Dark & Bright Cave and relax at Ba Trai Dao Beach.

Lunch: Onboard dining or seafood at floating fish farms.

Afternoon: Visit Cai Beo Fishing Village, one of Vietnam’s oldest, to learn about local fishermen’s life.

Evening: Return to town, relax, or enjoy a peaceful night by the sea.

? Day 3: Trekking in Cat Ba National Park – Souvenir Shopping

Morning: Explore Cat Ba National Park, trek through Kim Giao Forest, and climb to Ngu Lam Peak for breathtaking panoramic views.

Lunch and rest.

Afternoon: Shop for local specialties like Cat Hai fish sauce, wild honey, or dried seafood before returning to Hanoi.

? Top Attractions to Explore in Cat Ba

? 1. Lan Ha Bay – “The Hidden Paradise”

Featuring over 400 limestone islands surrounded by crystal-clear waters, Lan Ha Bay is often called the “untouched twin of Ha Long Bay.”

Popular activities include: cruising, kayaking, swimming, and snorkeling.

? 2. Cai Beo Fishing Village – Rustic Beauty on the Water

One of Vietnam’s oldest floating villages, where you can paddle through fish farms, watch fishermen at work, and enjoy seafood meals on floating houses.

? 3. Cat Ba National Park – A Wild Natural Haven

Home to rich flora and fauna, the park features Kim Giao Forest, Trung Trang Cave, and Ngu Lam Peak, offering spectacular hiking routes and viewpoints.

? 4. Cat Co Beaches – The Island’s Signature Shores

Comprising Cat Co 1, Cat Co 2, and Cat Co 3, these beaches are known for their white sands, turquoise water, and convenient beachside services.

? 5. Cannon Fort – The Best Sunset Viewpoint

From this historic site, you can take in panoramic views of Lan Ha Bay, Cat Ba Town, and the surrounding islands glowing in the sunset.

? Cat Ba Cuisine – A Taste of the Sea

Cat Ba is a seafood lover’s paradise. Don’t miss these signature dishes:

Grilled geoduck (tu hai) – the island’s must-try delicacy.

Steamed blue crab, mantis shrimp with salt, stir-fried horseshoe crab, steamed grouper.

Cat Hai fish sauce – a local specialty with rich, natural flavor.

Enjoy a romantic dinner on a floating restaurant in Lan Ha Bay for a truly unforgettable dining experience.

? Practical Travel Tips for Exploring Cat Ba

Best time to visit: April–October (clear skies, calm sea).

Getting there: From Hanoi, take a bus to Got Pier, then a ferry or speedboat to Cat Ba.

Accommodation: Book early during peak season (June–August).

Recommended activities: Trekking, kayaking, snorkeling, Lan Ha Bay cruising.

Tips: Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and help protect the island’s environment.

? Conclusion

Exploring Cat Ba Island in 2025 is not just a beach getaway but a journey to reconnect with nature.

From the stunning Lan Ha Bay, and the rustic Cai Beo Fishing Village, to delicious seafood feasts, Cat Ba offers a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural charm.

 Plan your Cat Ba Island adventure today and experience the untouched beauty of Northern Vietnam’s emerald paradise!