What to Do in Cat Ba? Top Experiences That Make Travelers Fall in Love With the Pearl Island

What’s interesting about Cat Ba? This beautiful island offers travelers a complete journey filled with crystal-clear beaches, the unspoiled charm of Lan Ha Bay, the biodiversity-rich Cat Ba National Park, peaceful fishing villages, and a wide range of exciting activities such as kayaking, swimming, trekking, and sunset watching. Cat Ba is also known for its delicious fresh seafood, stylish homestays, and countless Instagram-worthy spots for travel lovers.

“What to do in Cat Ba?” is one of the most common questions for anyone planning a trip to this famous island in Northern Vietnam. Known for its crystal-clear beaches, unspoiled nature, and a wide range of outdoor activities, Cat Ba has long been a dream destination for both local and international travelers. This article reveals all the must-try experiences, top attractions, and reasons why this island is considered a true travel paradise. Let’s dive in and discover what makes Cat Ba so captivating.

 What to Do in Cat Ba? A Quick Overview of the Northern Pearl Island

Cat Ba is the largest island in Hai Phong, featuring a breathtaking combination of sea, mountains, and pristine forests. When asking “What to do in Cat Ba?”, the answer lies in the island’s natural beauty: the romantic Lan Ha Bay, the biodiversity-rich Cat Ba National Park, picturesque beaches, and countless outdoor adventures.

Beyond nature, Cat Ba impresses visitors with its rapidly developing tourism services, modern resorts, scenic seaside homestays, and fresh local seafood. Whether you are traveling with friends, family, or exploring solo, Cat Ba is an ideal destination.

Why Is Cat Ba So Attractive? 5 Reasons Travelers Love It

1. Stunning Bay and Coastal Landscapes

Lan Ha Bay is often called a mini Ha Long Bay, featuring hundreds of limestone mountains and emerald waters perfect for sightseeing, kayaking, and sunset watching.

2. Beautiful, Crystal-Clear Beaches

Popular beaches like Cat Co 1, Cat Co 2, and Tung Thu offer ideal conditions for swimming, sunbathing, and photography.

3. Rich Forest Ecosystem

Cat Ba National Park is home to rare wildlife species, especially the Cat Ba langur—one of the world’s most endangered primates.

4. Delicious and Diverse Seafood

You can enjoy specialties such as horseshoe crab, geoduck clam, mantis shrimp, grouper fish, and grilled oysters—fresh and affordable.

5. Plenty of Fun Activities

From trekking, kayaking, and stand-up paddling to night squid fishing, Cat Ba has something for everyone.

What to Do in Cat Ba? Current Trends and Traveler Concerns

Even though the island is popular, travelers still wonder:

What makes Cat Ba different from Ha Long?

Is it easy to travel around Cat Ba on your own?

What is the best time to visit Cat Ba?

In recent years, Cat Ba has received major investments in tourism infrastructure: faster travel routes, upgraded cruise services, electric cars for transportation, and improved Lan Ha Bay tours. As a result, visitor numbers have increased significantly, especially during summer. Knowing the top experiences in advance will help you make the most of your trip.

Top Activities to Do in Cat Ba 

1. Kayaking on Lan Ha Bay

One of the most iconic experiences. Suitable for beginners thanks to calm waters, and available through daily tours or self-guided rentals.

2. Visiting Cai Beo Floating Village

One of the oldest fishing villages in Vietnam, perfect for boat rides, photos, and learning about local fishing life.

 3. Trekking in Cat Ba National Park

The Viet Hai route is highly recommended for its scenic mountain-and-forest landscapes and moderate difficulty level.

4. Watching the Sunset at Cannon Fort

A spectacular viewpoint overlooking the sea, mountains, and fishing boats—ideal for sunset lovers.

5. Swimming at the Cat Co Beaches

Cat Co 1 & 2 are lively and vibrant, while Tung Thu Beach offers wider, quieter spaces—excellent for families.

Essential Tips for Visiting Cat Ba

Best time to visit: April to October (sunny, ideal for beach trips). November–March is cooler with occasional drizzle.

Start your day early: Fewer crowds and better conditions for tours and photos.

Book accommodation early in summer: Prices rise quickly on weekends.

Wear comfortable shoes: Especially useful for trekking or climbing.

Bring sun protection and waterproof gear: Important for kayaking or boating.

Helpful Services for a Smooth Cat Ba Trip

If you're traveling independently, consider using these services:

Lan Ha Bay day cruise tours

High-speed boat from Hai Phong to Cat Ba

Electric car transfers within the town

Motorbike rental, kayak rental, Cannon Fort entry tickets

In summary, the question “What to do in Cat Ba?” can be answered with an endless list of exciting experiences: the picture-perfect Lan Ha Bay, refreshing beaches, pristine national park, delicious seafood, and countless fun activities. Cat Ba is a perfect destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone wanting a memorable getaway in Northern Vietnam.

If you’re planning a trip to Cat Ba, save this guide to make your journey truly unforgettable!