Introduction
From white sandy beaches to lush forests and towering limestone karst peaks, Cat Ba Island serves all tastes of travelers and all kinds of interesting activities. From thrilling adventures to serene moments of relaxation in the serenity of nature.
Let yourself be amazed by Cat Ba, with its white sandy beaches and rainforests bordered with crystal-clear waters, inviting you to become addicted to its nature's beauty. If cultural exploration is more appealing, head to picturesque fishing villages, where you may get acquainted with the island's rich history and taste mouth-watering dishes prepared with local ingredients. Below are the 14 activities to do in Cat Ba that are researched and composed by Cat Ba Quang Thang, check it out!
1. Go Kayaking in Cat Ba
Kayaking in Cat Ba deserves to be put on the top of your things-to-do list. Compared to the crowded routes in Halong Bay, the kayaking route here is rather serene and independent. There is a pretty popular kayaking area around Cat Ba: the Lan Ha Bay. There you will find some stunning caves, pretty islets, and karsts. The tranquil waters and pristine beauty make it ideal for both half-day and full-day paddling.
Nothing to be afraid of even if you are a complete newbie. A few tips and instructions later, you will be paddling like a seasoned kayaker. There is the option to rent kayaks or take a guided tour. Normally, kayaking would cost about 2 USD per hour per person. We recommend that you book a cat ba island cruise which offers kayaking, as well. In this way, you will not need to worry about additional costs or plan the route.
2. Discover the Beauty of Van Boi Island
Among some famous places to see in Cat Ba, Van Boi Island probably offers the most natural experience. Indeed, this place has beaches, crystal-clear waters, coral reefs in all colors, stunning karsts, and greenery of all hues, that provide a haven of peace away from the overwhelming crowds. Lying opposite Tortoise Island, Van Boi is a serene oasis, not spoilt by mass tourism.
You can engage in a variety of activities from swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and kayaking. Or rather, you would love to explore some newly discovered interesting limestone formations around the island or trek across its crude land. Van Boi Island is therefore the place to rest and regain intimacy with nature.
3. Venture to Freedom Island
Freedom Island is a piece of heaven, which is arguably far more beautiful than Van Boi Island with its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and untouched landscapes.
When you come to Freedom Island, you can go swimming, kayak, sunbathe, and play volleyball. Note that this island is very underdeveloped; hence, no actual trails and signs are observed. Make sure to bring your phone and Google Maps to navigate the island.
Being remotely located, Freedom Island is often visited on a private cruise or as part of a small group tour. Indeed, it adds to its exclusivity, ensuring a truly peaceful and unforgettable experience.
4. Hike up Ngu Lam Peak
For the more adventurous, let's take a hike up Ngu Lam Peak. The 360 views of Cat Ba National Park and the surrounding islands are worth this challenging hike. It takes about 45 minutes to reach the top and another 30 minutes to go down. The trail is generally well-maintained in most parts, but there are some sections featuring steep drop-offs. Be careful!
The first view is a multi-level watchtower, almost giving a panoramic view of the surroundings, while the second one is more open to give you a feel of almost 360-degree views of the island. This tour can be commenced with a rented motorbike taken to the entrance of Cat Ba National Park. The entrance fee is about US$2; it has parking space for a few dollars. But remember to prepare for your hike by packing water, snacks, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and sturdy footwear.
5. Take a Public Ferry from Halong Bay
To see Cat Ba Island more naturally and cheaply, take the public ferry from Tuan Chau Island in Halong Bay. The public ferry offers breathtaking views of the iconic limestone karsts and emerald waters of Halong Bay.
While the public ferry may not be as luxurious as the cruise, it is your best chance to experience local culture and get along with other travelers. The journey itself is so breathtakingly beautiful, dive into the local lives of the people.
However, for those of you who want a comfortable and more convenient way of crossing, then you could choose to make use of a private boat transfer or even a tour group. These will indeed make your crossings more serviced and comfortable at a more expensive cost.
6. Stop by Quan Y Cave
Cat Ba Island has a variety of interesting caves, one of them being the so-called Quan Y Cave. It is a historic site that served as a hospital during the Vietnam War to treat injured soldiers.
Though the atmosphere in this cave is dark and sad, you can learn much about the past of the nation by being inside it. Then it is possible to walk along the chambers where there's a cinema, a swimming pool, and dolls of people dressed as soldiers demonstrating their activity during the time of war.
Please note that there is an entrance fee to Cat Ba National Park, which includes access to Quan Y Cave.
7. Dive into History at Cannon Fort
Perched on a 177-meter hill, Cannon Fort is better known for sunset views than as a historically significant site. However, this impressive fortification was important in Vietnam's 20th-century struggles against Western powers.
The Japanese invaded Cat Ba Island during the Second World War, building a complex network of tunnels and trenches to protect their military bases. These tunnels are somewhat similar to the Cu Chi Tunnels located in Ho Chi Minh City; they offer a good glimpse into wartime history on this island.
During both the French and American Wars, Cannon Fort would serve as a strategic defense post. In fact, the Vietnamese forces were able to take control of the place and monitor marine and air attacks, contributing to major victories against the foreign invaders.
A visit to Cannon Fort will give insight into the rich history of Vietnam and the sacrifices that have been laid out by the people to save their country.
8. Book a Cruise Around Cat Ba Island
You can also book a cruise around Cat Ba Island for an unforgettable experience. This is the best alternative to the crowded tours in Halong Bay since the tour gives a serene and intimate exploration of Lan Ha Bay.
You'll be enchanted as you cruise along the limestone karsts rising majestically out of the water and hidden coves. Some cruises offer kayaking, swimming, and snorkeling adventures so that you may completely experience this natural beauty.
Please note down some of the factors for choosing an appropriate cruise: length, proposed itinerary, amenity options, and, of course, your personal preference. Be it a cruise for relaxation or a sailing packed with adventure; there will always be one suited to your needs.
9. Retreat to Monkey Island
Just a short boat ride from Cat Ba Town, we will reach Monkey Island. Monkey Island houses a playful troop of macaques. This is one of those islands that get a lot of traffic from visitors because of how unique and interactive it is.
You will admire these monkeys during a sail around the island while they are in their natural environment. But let's remember to keep our distance, never feeding them with food because this could be a disturbance of their natural behavior.
In addition to the monkeys, Monkey Island offers awesome hiking trails with great views around Lan Ha Bay. The hike to the top of the island is long but very rewarding. Don't forget proper shoes and watch out for slippery terrain.
10. Discover Cat Ba National Park
Nearly half of the island is a protected area, Cat Ba Nation Park is also a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. This unspoiled wilderness supports a range of ecosystems from emerald rainforests and sapphire freshwater lakes to secluded beaches and coral reefs.
Several trails of different difficulties are open to visitors for an overview of the park. It is worth trying a hike up to Ngu Lam Peak, as we will get a superb panoramic view of the island and the surrounding waters as a reward.
Once again, there is a plethora of exciting wildlife in Cat Ba National Park that hosts the endangered golden-headed langur. Keep an eye out for this rare primate on your tour. An entrance ticket for Cat Ba National Park costs about 2 USD. The park is open every day from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
11. Explore Viet Hai Village
Viet Hai Village is situated right in the heart of the magnificent landscapes that Cat Ba National Park offers. It is far away from hustle and bustle, tranquil with traditional houses on stilts, and it is an open world of breathtaking natural beauty.
You may also take a drive across the nearby mountains, trek through the dense jungles, or just sit by the tranquil waters. Local cycling around the village will enable you to feel the idyllic scenes at your own pace.
Most of the cruise tours, such as Mon Cheri and Orchid, include visits to this destination called Viet Hai Village, thereby making it very conveniently accessible for its guests.
12. Go Rock Climbing
If the above activities seem to be quite relaxing, Cat Ba Island boasts some of the best rock climbing in Asia. It is a place for enthusiastic climbers of all levels, with over 120 sport climbing routes scattered over 13 crags.
Some popular climbing sites include Dau Be Island, Ben Beo Mountain Cliff, and Ba Trai Dao Island. The best time to go rock climbing in Cat Ba is during the winter months, specifically from November to February, as the weather is cool and dry during this season.
13. Marvel at the Bioluminescent Plankton
One of the most magical experiences in Cat Ba is to witness the bioluminescent plankton. These tiny organisms emit a stunning blue light when disturbed, making this a mesmerizing sight.
You could go well on a multi-day cruise around Lan Ha Bay to notice it. Many cruises anchor in areas known for their bioluminescent plankton, where you can swim or kayak through the glowing waters.
Another option is to pay a night's visit to Cat Ba Beaches 1, 2, or 3. Be very considerate, though, of locals' rules and properties. While such a dip in the bioluminescence-emitting water is incomparable with any other experience, safety, and care for environmental concerns should also be put into consideration.
14. Watch the Sunset from Cannon Fort
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To conclude your Cat Ba adventure, make sure to catch its magnificent view of sunset at Cannon Fort. It offers you an all-around view of the surrounding islands and the sea beyond.
You will sit on the picnic benches as the sun starts to set over your head, coloring the sky with the most vivid tints of orange and purple. Alternatively, you could enjoy a cool drink at the bar. With its tranquil atmosphere and stunning scenery, this spot is truly perfect for relaxation and deliberation after the journey so far.
You should go to Cannon Fort quite early to get a good view since at sunset, there are numerous visitors to the fort. This way, you can enjoy your moments and take magnificent photos. However, we recommend you book a sunset tour on Lan Ha Bay to enjoy the charm of Cat Ba’s sunset to the fullest.
To Summary
The activities in Cat Ba range from the adventurous outdoors to the more culturally enriching and relaxing modes of entertainment. Boasting unrivaled natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality, Cat Ba Island simply must be on the itinerary of any traveler who seeks something different and long-remembered.
