Cat Ba Island is often overlooked or neglected by most tourists to Ha Long Bay, which is a real shame. An area that has over 300 Islands all told, Cat Ba is the largest Island archipelago, found 25km south of Ha Long Bay. Made an UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve in 2004, international interest has since grown.
So, what's it to you from the perspective of your holiday to Vietnam? The Island is vast with a wild and rugged nature, crying out to you to discover for yourself. The Island has many plus points such as the natural world creating a true fantasy Island escape. It's a desirable location, begging for you to stay one or two nights:
And of course, quality hotels and resorts do exist. You can expect luxurious facilities and services without expense. It's an amazing opportunity to experience real beauty. It is Ha Long Bay, albeit without the crowds and why not? Because the Island also has excellent restaurants, bars and beaches.
In the north of Vietnam, Cat Ba Island must be one of the best two-day, weekend escapes. We went there on the promise of tranquility. Did we find it? Yes! And much more than imagined. If you seek mindful rest and reflection, a place to exercise your yoga, travel to Cat Ba Island.
Favorable weather all year round on the Island, our recommendation is to holiday in Ha Long Bay from May. Until the end of August, it's peak season. Visiting Cat Ba Island during those months is the best for family time. During this period, you experience the best of everything:
Towards August you may get a little rain. It's not a problem, the showers have a cooling effect from the high 80's Fahrenheit temperature.
The national park covers almost half of the Island in a rich rainforest jungle. It's this natural landscape what makes it irresistible to nature lovers. The rare and endangered Cat Ba Langur monkey is indigenous to the Island and protected. The UNESCO status of the park ensures the few remaining Cat Ba Langur are safe.
Catching a glimpse of one is more elusive than catching a glimpse of a Royal Bengal tiger on an Indian reserve.
At some point you will want to venture into the jungle, believe that. Even if you've no interest in nature, the urge to explore is overpowering. For the sheer joy of the quietness and stillness. Not to mention the stunning views over the jungle canopy. Breathtaking, especially if your resort is in the interior center.
The main mode of transport on the Island is the scooter or motorbike. As with driving anywhere in Vietnam be careful and mindful of your speed and sharp bends. Have insurance in place before going on the road. You can buy before flying out, or last minute 24 hours before driving. Renting a scooter is inexpensive so don't pay more than US$6 per day. Fuel is an extra charge, say another US$2 additionally.
Only once you're out of Cat Ba Town and away from the summer crowd can you enjoy the freedom of the Island.
An easy trek through the jungle, the trail towards Ngu Lam Peak. It should be doable within an hour of setting off, and quicker on the return as it's all downhill. Ascending to the peak gives you views out onto the mountainous jungle; it's to the top in no time. An amazing trek actually, no word of a lie you'll recall these sights for many years. The trail both ways, altogether can't be no more than 7km which means far more people should manage it. It's easy:
Be sure to take sunscreen and mosquito repellent with you, and plenty of drinking water. If you find yourself in the vicinity of Viet Hai Village, ask your guide about Hai Quan Peak and how to get to it. The 280m peak is a challenge. The trail is steep in many places, but the rewards are s stunning sights of the distant Ha Long Bay. There is a fort dating back to the Vietnam War at the peak which ganders a lot of interest from those who make it to the top.
The bulk of your time will be spent exploring the Cat Ba National Park and lounging on the various beaches, soaking up the sun. It's paradise after all and it would be a crime not to work on your tan.
Close to Cat Ba Town there are three beaches, that together as a whole, form a cove. At least one of them is a lot less crowded than the other two. Great for those seeking a little peace and quiet: solitude. Pick out one of the beaches and find a spot for yourself. Sunbathe hours long to develop your tan, is that what you want? There are few water sports or activities on these beaches, it's all possible.
It's exactly why you'd want to visit Cat Ba Island, for serenity, beauty and self-indulgence. Those three beaches don't have names. Rather, they are numbered 1, 2 and 3:
Beach 1 is an "all purpose" beach for everyone, perfect for families. Beach 2 is for those seeking solitude and romance, cozying up together as a couple. Beach 3 is ideal for those with a strong capability for swimming. Not very family friendly in our opinion, this last beach. Not so far off there are various caves, large and small, worth exploring. Nothing spectacular but nonetheless something to be mindful about.
The cove is a beautiful setting with mountains and lush jungle to your back. Seagulls flock and sound off, and eagles circling far above. It may seem "all too perfect" but you do feel this is all part of a paradise. You are living the dream. The dream doesn't end there though. Because, as gorgeous, are the other beaches they are, the soft sands. Lush rainforest beauty crowds the calming waves:
One of the most prominent and friendly beaches for families is Tung Thu Beach located 2km from Cat Ba Town. It's within easy walking (or cycling) distance and on arrival you're met with soft sand and calm waters. You're taken aback actually. Moments lost, staring at clear and turquoise blue water. Exactly what you dreamt from a tropical Island beach. Our favorite is Cat Dua Beach. Because a) there are two beaches and b) both located on the Cat Dua Island (Monkey Island).
The namesake (Monkey Island) is because of the resident monkeys. Often, they are on the beaches and are playful ― and hungry. You can buy fruit (the second beach only) to eat, but also to hand out to the monkeys, enjoyable fun times. They are fun to be around, and cute too.
The first beach is best for swimming, but the second beach is best for nature. The best way to reach Cat Dua Island is by booking a cruise. Ferries do run daily from Tuan Chau and Haiphong to Cat Ba Island, none actually go to Cat Dua Island. If you are already on Cat Ba Island you can book a private boat to take you to the Island, departing from Beo Pier.
Cat Dua Island has well-established bars and restaurants. Accommodation too, were you wanting to stay the night? Do note, hotels are not to the same degree as found on Cat Ba Island. Accommodation comprises singled out bungalows built from natural materials. Every bungalow has:
Actually, there is no reason why you shouldn't rent a boat. Navigating along the coastline of Cat Ba Island gives the best views of the Island's interior. Whoever owns the boat you rent from, will know of all the best spots to take you to. Be ready to haggle on price and bring along beachwear.
From Hanoi, you can take a bus which will take you part way. Having arrived in Haiphong City you must get on board a boat for a 30-minute journey. You leave from Phu Long Pier to finally arrive on Cat Ba Island but must take another bus to town. From start to finish it's roughly 5 hours all in.
Your hotel should be able to arrange the transport for you upon request, including the return. Not bound for Haiphong City from Hanoi City? No worries. Staying in the Ha Long Bay area, you can get a ferry from Tuan Chau Island. That's where the majority of cruise operators operate from anyway. Taking a ferry from there to Cat Ba Island is less than an hour across the bay. Once back on land you get a bus or taxi to your hotel. The cost of the ferry is US$5 per person.
Cruises you've often heard about, or seen in glossy brochures, they're not expensive. We had no trouble finding a nice cruise at reasonable prices. The same for families, cruise package prices are available for most budgets. The experience everyone goes home with is as beautiful on a lower budget as are on the high-end ones. By that we mean everyone sees the same attractions more or less, regardless.
Every cruise is memorable.
What is important is you decide on which itinerary you take. Are you going on a cruise for two days and one night, or are you on a cruise for three days and two nights? The longer the cruise you opt for, the more it costs. Our advice is this:
It could be you finish your cruise, your last day on board, by going to Cat Dua Island. You could then make your way to Cat Ba Island afterwards, as you please. That's important to know you have that option. Because most cruises will not stop at Cat Ba Island itself. It could be that Cat Ba Island is where you finish off your Ha Long Bay holiday.
You've a choice how to end your holiday on this stunning fantasy Island, what Cat Ba is.
You can be on this Island in under 30 minutes of departing from Cat Ba Island. This is the adventurous traveler's dreamland. The Island's location is among other small Islands off Lan Ha Bay. Have you taken a boat tour from Cat Ba Island? A good chance you've passed around it, without knowing. The Island's virginity is clear to see.
No human interference, the rock yields its beauty to you. Other Islands in the bay are busy but not this one. You feel alone, left in peace to enjoy swimming and kayaking in the blue, green hued calm waters.
The sunsets are golden and one off's, very seldom can you see a sunset alone on the beach by yourself. The Island and its few in habitants are all about conservation and ecotourism. Find pleasure with a campfire on the beach, kick back and enjoy fresh seafood barbecued. Savor the experience, because moments like these are very rare.
The mainstream tourist is learning about this beautiful Island. Cat Ba National Park is a realization, the motivator to travel a little further out from Ha Long Bay. Increased frequency of ferries between the Islands contributes towards ecotourism efforts too. There is little fear of over development of Ha Long Bay, resulting in the ruin of the natural world. Because of the UNESCO status.
Hundreds of thousands descend on the bay yearly, long may the fantasy continue for those of you yet to come.
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Hello, we are George and Elle Mae Melyre.
Over the years, amidst work and family life, we have traveled extensively throughout Asia. Any chance to briefly escape or properly holiday in our beloved Asian destinations is eagerly seized, motivated by the enduring dream of leaving behind the UK's dreary cold for tropical climes.