Cat Ba Archipelago
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Cat Ba Archipelago, also known as Pearl Island, consists of 367 large and small islands. It belongs to Hai Phong City and is located south of Ha Long Bay. Today, Cat Ba has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve.
The archipelago is blessed with diverse natural landscapes, including cave systems, coral reefs, limestone mountains, and a harmonious blend of forest and sea. These elements create majestic scenery and make Cat Ba one of the must-visit destinations in Lan Ha Bay.
Visitors can admire layered mountain ranges, gaze out at vast turquoise waters, and enjoy refreshing sea breezes. Travelers only need to cover transportation costs to Cat Ba Island and entrance fees for specific attractions, as there is no general admission fee to the island itself.
Cua Van Floating Village
Cua Van Floating Village was ranked among the world’s 16 most beautiful ancient villages in 2012 by the international travel magazine Journeyetc. This small floating community is a highly attractive destination in Lan Ha Bay, drawing both domestic and international visitors.
The village belongs to Hung Thang Commune and is home to more than 300 households living on floating houses and earning their livelihoods through fishing. Boats are the primary means of transportation, and children grow up closely connected to the sea, learning to swim and paddle boats from a very young age.
Life in the village is simple and peaceful, with small tiled-roof houses nestled against limestone mountains, reflecting traditional maritime culture. Beyond the quiet rhythm of daily life lies a picturesque seascape of calm waters and rugged cliffs. Instead of staying in Cat Ba hotels, visitors can stay overnight with local families to experience daily life, join fishing activities, row boats, and set nets. These experiences often leave lasting impressions of the villagers’ warmth and hospitality.
Viet Hai Fishing Village
Viet Hai Fishing Village covers an area of approximately 140 hectares and is home to around 70–80 households. Located deep within Cat Ba National Park, it offers visitors two main access options: traveling by cruise through Lan Ha Bay to Viet Hai Pier, or trekking through the pristine forest of the national park.
If visiting by cruise, entrance fees are usually included in the tour price. Independent travelers must purchase a Cat Ba National Park ticket, priced at 80,000 VND per person.
Due to its secluded forest location, Viet Hai is largely isolated from the outside world and offers a peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can rent bicycles or walk along village paths, explore the surrounding forest, observe daily life, and enjoy the unspoiled natural environment of mountains and sea, making it a notable eco-tourism destination in Lan Ha Bay.
Monkey Island
Monkey Island is located about 2 km from Cat Ba Town and takes approximately 10 minutes to reach by boat via Cai Beo Floating Village. In the past, the island was also known as Cat Dua Island due to the abundance of wild pineapples, which are not edible and are traditionally dried for medicinal use.
The island is home to many playful monkeys, making it especially appealing to families and children. The entrance fee is 80,000 VND per person.
Monkey Island also features two natural beaches, Cat Dua 1 and Cat Dua 2, both known for clear water and fine white sand. Monkeys often come down to the shore, creating lively scenes for visitors. With its scenic environment, Monkey Island is well suited for eco-tourism within Lan Ha Bay.
Van Boi Beach
Located in Lan Ha Bay and facing Rua Giong Island, Van Boi Beach is a popular summer destination. It lies just 3 km from Cat Ba town, making access quick and convenient.
The beach retains a tranquil, unspoiled character, surrounded by rocky cliffs. Clear blue water, smooth white sand, and poetic natural scenery create a calm and relaxing atmosphere. Visitors can swim, snorkel to view coral, explore nearby caves, or enjoy kayaking activities.
Nam Cat Island
Located in Khe Sau – Viet Hai, Nam Cat Island is one of over 300 islands in Lan Ha Bay and is often regarded as a tropical retreat of the Cat Ba Archipelago. The island features a beach approximately 500 meters long, with clear water and soft white sand, suitable for swimming and kayaking around nearby islands.
Nam Cat Island is covered by dense green vegetation, with rocky formations and rows of palm trees creating a cool, fresh atmosphere. These natural elements contribute to its reputation as a peaceful and appealing island getaway.
Sang Toi Cave
When booking a Ha Long tour that includes Lan Ha Bay, visitors should not miss Sang Toi Cave, located on the boundary between Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay. The cave is widely known as one of the most scenic kayaking areas in the region.
Sang Toi Cave consists of two sections: Bright Cave and Dark Cave. Bright Cave is shorter and illuminated by natural sunlight filtering through limestone openings. Dark Cave, over 200 meters long, is influenced by tidal levels and requires flashlights. Inside, visitors can observe impressive limestone formations and shimmering stalactites while enjoying the fresh air and cool seawater.
Luon Cave
Another notable attraction in Lan Ha Bay is Luon Cave. The cave is located on Bo Hon Island and takes approximately 15–20 minutes to reach from Tuan Chau Island.
Luon Cave has an arched shape close to the water surface, with clear seawater filling its interior. The cave is about 80 meters long, with an entrance approximately 4 meters wide and 3 meters high, depending on the tide. Its appeal lies in the harmonious natural scenery, lush vegetation, and tranquil water, creating a serene environment that leaves a strong impression on visitors.
Travel Experience Notes for Lan Ha Bay
A common travel experience for Lan Ha Bay is to book flights to Hai Phong first, then select a Lan Ha Bay cruise tour. Typical itineraries include routes connecting Ha Long – Lan Ha – Cat Ba, with activities such as cycling to fishing villages, night squid fishing, and kayaking among limestone formations.
As one of Vietnam’s largest cruise agencies, BestPrice is frequently chosen by travelers for cruises such as Capella, Scarlet Pearl, Heritage, and Paradise Grand. Visitors can contact the hotline 1900 2605 to arrange their cruise experience.