Discover Cat Ba Island Hai Phong: The Pristine Beauty of the North Sea
1. Introduction to Cat Ba Island Hai Phong
- Geographical location of Cat Ba Island:
Cat Ba Island is located in Cat Hai District, Hai Phong City, in the Gulf of Tonkin. The island is about 30 km from Hai Phong City center and about 150 km east of Hanoi. Cat Ba archipelago includes more than 360 large and small islands, of which Cat Ba Island is the largest island, with an area of about 285 km².
The island has a diverse terrain, from pristine beaches, majestic limestone mountains to a rich system of primeval forests, home to many rare species of flora and fauna. Therefore, in 2004, UNESCO recognized Cat Ba archipelago as a World Biosphere Reserve.
Not only does Cat Ba Island Hai Phong have impressive natural scenery, it also has a strategic location, located near Ha Long Bay – one of the natural wonders of the world. This makes Cat Ba an ideal destination for those who want to combine visiting Ha Long Bay and exploring the unique ecosystem of the world biosphere reserve.
Lan Ha Bay – Cat Ba Hai Phong
- Interesting History About Cat Ba Island Hai Phong:
Not only famous for its beautiful natural landscape, Cat Ba Island in Hai Phong also carries interesting historical traces. According to researchers, Cat Ba has been inhabited for about 6,000 – 7,000 years, with traces of Ha Long culture found here. Archaeological sites show that ancient residents on the island knew how to fish, gather and make tools from stone and shells.
The name “Cat Ba” also has a special origin. According to legend, this place used to be the rear base of female generals in ancient times. During the battles against foreign invaders, the women and mothers on the island took care of logistics and soldiers, so the people named the island “Cac Ba”, which was later mispronounced as “Cat Ba”.
During the anti-American resistance war, Cat Ba played an important role as a strategic military base, with a system of caves and bunkers used to protect troops and military equipment. One of the typical relics that still exists today is the Than Cong fortress, located on a high hill, where two large cannons and a system of underground tunnels from the war are still preserved. From here, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the beautiful Lan Ha Bay and feel the heroic history of the nation.
2. How to get to Cat Ba Island from Hanoi, Hai Phong, Quang Ninh:
3. What’s attractive about Cat Ba Island? Must-see destinations and activities
3.1. Lan Ha Bay – A natural masterpiece in the middle of the ocean
Dubbed as a “miniature Ha Long Bay”, Lan Ha Bay is one of the most beautiful destinations when traveling to Cat Ba. The bay has more than 400 large and small limestone islands, covered with green trees, creating a majestic natural landscape. The unique point is that most of the islands in the bay have small, white sand beaches, ideal for visitors to stop and enjoy the clear blue water.
Activities not to be missed:
- Kayak through sea caves and explore unique ecosystems.
- Swim at Ba Trai Dao, Monkey Island, enjoy the peaceful space.
Visitors can book a 1-day Lan Ha Bay tour or a half-day Lan Ha Bay tour – sunset viewing organized daily by Cat Ba Du Ky.
3.2. Cat Ba National Park – Discover the primeval forest ecosystem
As a world biosphere reserve recognized by UNESCO in 2004, Cat Ba National Park covers an area of over 17,000 hectares with more than 1,500 rare species of flora and fauna. Notably, this place is home to the Cat Ba langur, one of the rarest primates in the world, with only about 70 individuals left (according to a report by Fauna & Flora International).
Outstanding experience:
- Trekking to the top of Ngu Lam, where visitors can admire the whole island from a height of more than 200m.
- Explore Kim Giao forest, home to precious trees with unique silver-white trunks.
3.3. The most beautiful beaches on Cat Ba Island
When mentioning Cat Ba Island Hai Phong, you cannot miss the beautiful beaches.:
- Cat Co Beach 1, 2, 3: Clear blue sea water, fine white sand, suitable for swimming and relaxing.
- Tung Thu Beach: Quieter, suitable for those who love private space.
3.4. Trung Trang Cave & Military Hospital Cave – Mysterious and rich in historical value
- Trung Trang Cave: A large cave with a magical stalactite system formed over millions of years.
- Hang Quan Y: A field hospital during wartime, with special architecture to protect medical staff and wounded soldiers from bombs and bullets.
3.5. Cai Beo Floating Fishing Village – The mark of the oldest fishing village in Vietnam
Cai Beo Floating Fishing Village is one of the oldest fishing villages in Vietnam, dating back more than 7,000 years (according to archaeological research). Located in the middle of Lan Ha Bay, the village consists of hundreds of raft houses close together on the water, creating a peaceful yet vibrant scene. Coming here, visitors can kayak, experience the life of fishermen, visit seafood farms and enjoy delicious specialties.
3.6. Viet Hai Ancient Village – A pristine fishing village hidden in isolation in Cat Ba National Park
Mentioning the ancient village of Viet Hai is mentioning a special village hidden deep in a peaceful valley in the middle of the primeval forest of Cat Ba National Park. Here, visitors will admire the pristine beauty with breathtaking natural mountain and forest landscapes; learn and experience the typical cultural lifestyle of the local people, experience interesting foot massage or participate in trekking activities to visit Tien Duc cave, explore Hai Quan peak – the highest peak in Viet Hai where you can see the whole Ha Long Bay – Lan Ha Bay complex from above.
3.7. Monkey Island – Lan Ha Bay
Monkey Island is an island located in the center of Lan Ha Bay. Previously, the island was called Cat Dua Island by the locals, but was later renamed Monkey Island when the island became a conservation area for wild monkeys under the management of Cat Ba National Park. This is a favorite destination for tourists when traveling to Cat Ba Island because in addition to watching and playing with the monkeys on the island, visitors can also immerse themselves in the clear water of the pristine natural beaches on this island or climb mountains and trek to see the whole view of Lan Ha Bay from above.
5. Cat Ba Island Cuisine – Delicious dishes not to be missed
Besides the beautiful natural scenery, Cat Ba Island Hai Phong also attracts tourists with its rich seafood cuisine, with many typical delicious dishes that you cannot miss.
- Grilled geoduck with scallion oil – Famous specialty.
Geoduck (elephant snail) is one of the most famous specialties of Cat Ba. Geoduck meat has a natural sweetness, is chewy and crispy, and when grilled with scallion oil, it gives off an attractive aroma. This is a dish loved by many tourists when coming to the island.
- Sweet and sour stir-fried sea cucumber – Delicious and nutritious
Sea horseshoe crab is a rare seafood that lives mainly in the Northern sea. Sweet and sour stir-fried sea horseshoe crab has a special flavor thanks to the combination of sweet and chewy meat and sour tamarind sauce. Local people often process sea horseshoe crab into many different dishes such as sea horseshoe crab blood pudding, grilled sea horseshoe crab, sea horseshoe crab salad – all with unique flavors.
- Salt-roasted mantis shrimp – Unique and attractive flavor
Salt-roasted mantis shrimp is a popular dish among tourists when visiting Cat Ba. After being steamed or fried, the mantis shrimp is covered with a layer of salty roasted salt, creating a rich, crispy flavor. This dish is best eaten hot with a slightly spicy seafood dipping sauce.
- Grilled Oysters with Cheese – Rich, irresistible flavor
Fresh oysters after being cleaned will be grilled with rich cheese, creating an attractive and nutritious dish. The melted cheese layer blends with the sweetness of the oysters, making it unforgettable for anyone who tries it once.
6. When to go to Cat Ba Island? Weather on the pearl island
Cat Ba Island Hai Phong is an attractive destination all year round, each season has its own unique beauty. Choosing the ideal time to travel not only helps you enjoy your trip to the fullest but also optimizes the experience to suit your personal preferences.
Peak season (April – October) – Paradise of blue sea and golden sunshine
From April to October is the best time to explore Cat Ba Island. This is also the peak tourist season, especially in the summer, when tourists from all over flock to enjoy the blue sea, white sand, and golden sunshine.
- Weather: Clear sky, temperature ranges from 25 – 32°C, little rain, suitable for outdoor activities.
- Unmissable Experience:
- Swimming at Cat Co beach, Tung Thu.
- Kayaking to explore Lan Ha Bay.
- Scuba diving, visit Monkey Island.
- Trekking Cat Ba National Park, conquering Ngu Lam peak.
Low season (November – March) – Peaceful space, suitable for relaxation
From November to March, the number of tourists decreases, Cat Ba becomes quieter and more peaceful.
- Weather: Cool, temperature around 15 – 22°C, some days with light fog, the sea can be rough during cold weather.
- Relevant experience:
- Relax in a peaceful space, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
- Explore caves and historical sites, such as Quan Y Cave and Trung Trang Cave.
- Enjoy seafood specialties, enjoy high quality service at reasonable prices.
7. Important notes when visiting Cat Ba Island Hai Phong
To have a safe, complete and memorable trip to Cat Ba Island, Hai Phong, visitors need to pay attention to some important things related to clothing, environmental protection and safety when participating in outdoor activities.
Prepare Appropriate Clothing
- If you plan to trek in Cat Ba National Park, you should choose sports shoes or specialized climbing shoes, comfortable clothes, and good sweat absorption.
- Kayaking and swimming require swimsuits, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun.
- Evenings on the island can be chilly in autumn and winter, so visitors should bring a light jacket.
Environmental Protection – Responsibility of Every Tourist
- Do not litter on beaches, bays, or in national forests. If you do find litter, please pick it up and dispose of it properly.
- Limit the use of single-use plastics, prioritize reusable water bottles and cloth bags.
- Do not touch corals, do not catch wild animals to protect the marine ecosystem.
Safety Notes When Participating in Outdoor Activities
- Trekking in the forest: Go in groups, do not separate from the group, prepare enough drinking water, flashlights and insect repellent.
- Kayaking: Always wear a life jacket and avoid going far from shore without a guide.
- Swimming: Choose an area with lifeguards, pay attention to danger signs, and do not swim too far.
