1. Location and History of Viet Hai Village, Cat Ba
Viet Hai Village, Cat Ba is located deep within the Cat Ba National Park (Image: collected)
1.1 Where is Viet Hai Village, Cat Ba located?
Viet Hai Village is nestled deep within the Cat Ba National Park, in Cat Hai District, Hai Phong City. The village is surrounded by pristine forest and limestone mountain ranges, creating an isolated valley, completely separate from urban life.
From the center of Cat Ba town, visitors can access the village via two main routes. The first is by boat from Beo wharf to Viet Hai wharf (approximately 45 minutes), followed by a 5 km trek or cycle through the forest to the village. The second route is trekking through the national park, with a distance of approximately 12 km depending on the route.
Currently, Viet Hai Village, Cat Ba has no roads accessible to motorized vehicles. Electric vehicles or motorized transport only operate within the town area and wharf, not entering the village. Therefore, the final leg of the journey requires walking or cycling.
1.2 History of Viet Hai Fishing Village
Viet Hai has a history dating back over a century. The first inhabitants were mainly fishermen from Quang Ninh and Hai Phong, who moved to the island's core to avoid storms and establish a long-term life.
During the resistance wars against the French and Americans, the village served as a vital supply point for the resistance forces due to its strategic, inaccessible location. Despite being deep within the forest, it maintained a stable community life, with fishing and subsistence farming as the main occupations.
Since 2004, after Cat Ba National Park was recognized by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve, Viet Hai began to transform. Instead of relying solely on agriculture and fishing, the people began to open their doors to tourists, building homestays, working as tour guides, and participating in controlled ecotourism activities.
2. The characteristic natural beauty of Viet Hai village
2.1 Mountainous landscape surrounding Viet Hai village, Cat Ba
Mountainous landscape surrounding Viet Hai village, Cat Ba (Image: collected)
Viet Hai village, Cat Ba is favored by nature, located amidst the primeval forest of Cat Ba National Park. The forest here is a type of tropical forest on limestone mountains with a characteristic ecosystem, home to many rare animals and plants, including the white-headed langur, which exists only here and is endangered.
The forest trail leading to the village stretches about 12km, depending on the starting point. The road winds under the dense canopy, the air is fresh, and occasionally the sound of forest birds echoes. Although you don't always hear wild animals clearly, the feeling of immersing yourself in nature is very distinct.
According to statistics from the Cat Ba National Park Management Board, this area has more than 1,500 plant species and over 200 animal species, including the white-headed langur – a rare primate that is strictly protected.
In the early morning, the village is covered with a layer of white mist, the strangely shaped limestone mountain ranges appear like ink-wash paintings. This scenery makes the journey to Viet Hai an unforgettable emotional experience.
2.2 Pristine coastline and fishing village wharf
Unspoiled Coastline and Fishing Village Wharf (Image: Collected)
The coastline at Viet Hai village stretches for approximately 2 km, featuring a smooth sandy beach and crystal-clear water, creating a peaceful atmosphere resembling a pristine natural painting. While not as prominent as the larger beaches in Cat Co or Tung Thu, this coastline retains its unspoiled beauty, minimally impacted by tourists.
The fishing village wharf is where traditional wooden boats are moored. This is the departure point for fishermen each morning as they set out to sea in search of fresh catches. Simultaneously, the wharf serves as a gateway connecting Viet Hai Cat Ba village to the outside world, a familiar destination for visitors to the village, typically arriving by canoe or boat.
As the sun sets, the scenery at Viet Hai beach becomes breathtaking. The sunlight reflects on the water's surface, creating a vibrant and captivating picture. From the wharf, visitors can also admire the panoramic view of Lan Ha Bay with hundreds of small islands dotting the clear blue water, creating an unforgettable moment for everyone.
3. Culture and People of Viet Hai Village, Cat Ba
Experiencing the Life and Culture of Viet Hai Cat Ba Village (Image: Collected)
3.1 Traditional Occupations of the Fishing Village People
The people of Viet Hai primarily live off two traditional occupations: seafood fishing and agriculture. For fishing, local fishermen use traditional, environmentally friendly methods such as net fishing, angling, and diving for seafood. Fishing techniques are passed down from generation to generation, creating the unique character of the fishing village.
In the agricultural sector, locals cultivate small terraced rice paddies, growing rice, corn, potatoes, and seasonal vegetables. Agriculture here remains largely self-sufficient, with minimal use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, resulting in clean and safe produce.
In recent years, community tourism has opened new avenues for the villagers.
Many families have opened homestays, serving local meals, or working as tour guides. What is commendable is their commitment to sustainable tourism, harmonizing with nature and traditional culture.
3.2 Architecture and Unique Cultural Aspects
Houses in Viet Hai village reflect the traditional architecture of the Northern coastal region, primarily constructed from wood with red tile roofs. Many houses retain the traditional three-section structure, with an ancestral altar respectfully placed in the central section. Around the houses are usually vegetable gardens and fruit trees, creating a living space close to nature.
Community culture is clearly evident in the fishing village life. Locals maintain traditional festivals such as the annual fishing ceremony to pray for a successful and safe fishing year. During festivals, the village atmosphere becomes lively with drums, music, and folk dances.
Viet Hai cuisine is a blend of fresh seafood and local produce. Specialties such as steamed grouper, grilled lobster, salt-roasted crab, and many other seafood dishes are prepared simply to preserve their natural flavors. Visitors cannot miss the opportunity to enjoy a meal prepared by the locals using the freshest ingredients.
4. Experience Viet Hai Village, Cat Ba
Cycling experience in Viet Hai Village, Cat Ba (Image: Collected)
4.1 Transportation to Viet Hai Village, Cat Ba
Accessing Viet Hai Village can be done in two main ways: by water and by trekking through the forest. Many tourists also choose to combine both for a more complete experience.
| Mode of Transportation | Description | Time | Notes |
| Canoe | Departing from the central wharf of Cat Ba town, travel to Viet Hai wharf via Lan Ha Bay. | 30–40 minutes | Rental price is approximately 800,000–1,200,000 VND/cano trip depending on the number of people |
| Trekking | Starting from the Cat Ba National Park Gate, walk about 6km through the primary forest. | 2–3 hours | It is recommended to have a local guide accompany you |
| Combination | One way by canoe, the other way by trekking or vice versa. | Flexible | Suitable for those who like to explore nature |
Once you arrive at the village, you can rent bicycles or electric vehicles to explore the area – an environmentally friendly option and easy access to destinations in the village.
4.2 One-Day Trip to Viet Hai Village
Here is a suggested itinerary for a day exploring Viet Hai Village:
7:00 – 8:00: Depart from Cat Ba, admire Lan Ha Bay in the early morning
Departing by canoe or small boat from the center of Cat Ba town, it will take you about 30–45 minutes to reach Viet Hai wharf. This journey offers a gentle, relaxing experience as Lan Ha Bay is still calm and the water reflects the early morning sky.
8:00 – 8:30: Arrive at Viet Hai Village, rent bicycles to explore
Right at the wharf, you can rent bicycles at a common price of 50,000–80,000 VND/day. The road leading to the village is cool and shady, with pristine scenery of vegetable gardens, mountains, and rice paddies depending on the season.
8:30 – 10:00: Visit the village center, community house
The first stop should be the village community house – where images, artifacts, and stories about life through generations are preserved. This is also where you can start chatting with the locals to learn more about the farming traditions and daily life of Viet Hai.
10:00 – 12:00: Cycle around the village, stroll along the beach
Ideal time to explore the scenery around the village. The small terraced rice fields, clean vegetable gardens, and the image of people working evoke a slow, peaceful pace of life. This is also when the soft sunlight is best for taking photos.
12:00 – 13:30: Have lunch at a restaurant or homestay
The village has several restaurants and homestays serving local dishes. Lunch with fresh seafood, locally grown vegetables, and signature dishes costs around 150,000–250,000 VND/person. The quiet, intimate atmosphere and on-site cooking create a cozy feeling like a home-cooked meal.
13:30 – 15:30: Rest, participate in experiential activities
After lunch, you can choose some light activities such as:
| Activity | Note |
| Visit the organic vegetable garden | Can have a short experience with the locals |
| Bathe in the stream or relax | Some homestays offer herbal bath and foot soak services |
| Fish massage | Not widely available, please inquire in advance to book |
Note: Fishing activities usually take place very early, before 7:00. If you arrive at the village after 8:30, it is no longer suitable to participate in this activity.
15:30 – 17:00: Light Trekking or Swimming
Trekking up Hai Quan Hill to admire the panoramic view of the village from above is a worthwhile experience. The trail is not too difficult, but you need to prepare water and suitable shoes. If you don't want to trek, you can cycle to the beach near the village to swim and relax.
17:00 – 17:30: Return to the pier
At the end of your village trip, you should be at the pier before 17:30 to catch the boat/canoe back.
17:30 – 18:30: Return to Cat Ba, enjoy the sunset over the bay
The afternoon trip is when the sunset casts its glow over Lan Ha Bay. The last rays of sunlight gently fall on the sea, creating a peaceful and serene scene – ending a perfect day.
5. Unique experiences not to be missed in Viet Hai
5.1 Trekking through the forest to explore nature
Trekking through Cat Ba forest to explore nature (Image: collected)
Trekking through Cat Ba National Park to reach Viet Hai village is an experience not to be missed for those who love exploring nature. The journey starts from the National Park Gate, taking you through pristine forests with many endemic plant species and opportunities to see wildlife.
The route is about 12km long, with a terrain that is sometimes flat and sometimes gently sloping, suitable for people with good endurance. Along the way are ideal resting spots, opening up a wide view of Lan Ha Bay and the Cat Ba mountains.
To make the trip safer and more complete, you can hire a local guide for around 500,000 VND. The guides are usually locals, who not only know the way well but also have extensive knowledge of the flora and fauna in the area.
5.2 Cycling around the village and along the coast
Cycling is an ideal way to explore Viet Hai village, Cat Ba, with its winding small roads and poetic scenery. You can rent bicycles at homestays or at rental points near the pier for around 50,000-80,000 VND/day.
The route leads through rice paddies, lush vegetable gardens and ancient houses. Especially, the 2km coastal road takes you to a romantic scene with the sea on one side and lush green mountains on the other.
An interesting stop when cycling is the rice paddy to the west of the village, where you can admire the terraced rice fields winding along the hillside, creating a characteristic agricultural picture of Northern Vietnam. During the rice harvest season (May-June and October-November), the whole paddy is dyed golden, creating a spectacular scene.
5.3 Experiencing the life of fishermen and farmers
In Viet Hai village, Cat Ba, you have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the daily life of the local people, participating in activities such as fishing, farming and seafood processing.
If you want to experience fishing, you can register to join a trip out to sea with fishermen in the early morning (usually starting from 4-5 am).
On this trip, you will learn how to cast nets, haul nets, and sort seafood - basic skills of a fisherman. The cost of this experience ranges from 300,000-500,000 VND/person, including breakfast on the boat.
Farming activities such as harvesting vegetables, land preparation, and planting are also organized by homestays, suitable for full-day experiences. This is an opportunity to better understand traditional farming techniques on the island.
Another special experience is learning how to process seafood using the traditional methods of the Viet Hai people. You will be guided on how to clean, marinate, and cook specialty dishes from freshly caught ingredients.
5.4 Unique Fish Massage
Unique fish massage (Image: collected)
A unique relaxing experience in Viet Hai is the fish massage service. Unlike conventional massage services, here you will soak your feet in tanks of water containing small fish. These fish will gently "massage" by nibbling on dead skin cells, creating a very interesting tingling sensation.
The fish massage service in Viet Hai uses fish native to the region, not imported from elsewhere, ensuring the safety of the local ecosystem. The cost for a 15-20 minute fish massage ranges from 50,000-100,000 VND, a fairly reasonable price compared to other tourist areas.
In addition to cleansing the skin, fish massage also helps stimulate blood circulation, reduce stress and fatigue after a long day of exploring. The special thing is that you experience this service in a breezy natural space, beside a stream or under the trees, creating a feeling of absolute relaxation.
5.5 Enjoy the peaceful and picturesque scenery
After all the exploration activities, don't forget to take some time to enjoy the peaceful and picturesque scenery of Viet Hai village - something rarely preserved in today's industrial age.
Sunrise and sunset are two wonderful times to admire the village's beauty. In the early morning, when the village is still shrouded in a light mist, the fresh air and chirping birds create a strangely peaceful scene.
At sunset, the soft afternoon sun casts a warm yellow glow over the village, reflecting on the sea to create a breathtaking natural painting.
An ideal viewpoint to admire the whole view of Viet Hai is from the hilltop in the southeast of the village. From here, you can see the entire village nestled in the valley, surrounded by lush green mountains and the blue sea in the distance. This is also an ideal photography spot, especially at sunset.
If you have more time, visit one of the small cafes in the village, sit and sip local coffee, and listen to the villagers' stories about the history, culture, and life here. Sometimes, these simple moments are the most memorable experiences of a trip.
6. Combining experiences when visiting Cat Ba
Combining experiences with the Jetski show when visiting Cat Ba (Image: collected)
Cat Ba is a charming destination where pristine nature and traditional cultural values blend together, offering visitors wonderful experiences. A visit to Cat Ba would not be complete without the exciting activities at the prominent locations.
In the summer of 2025, if you have the opportunity to visit Cat Ba, you should not miss the Symphony of the Green Island. This is a special performance combining jetski, flyboard, jetsurf with lighting and laser effects on the sea, taking place right on the stage at Cat Ba Beach (Lady Beach).
Taking place every evening from 8:30 PM for approximately 30 minutes, visitors can admire breathtaking aerial performances over the ocean, combined with spectacular firework displays. The music is orchestrated, inspired by the Cat Ba Fairy Crane legend, creating a unique cultural performance.
Located right next to the performance stage, Cat Ba Beach boasts a pristine ocean, a long stretch of soft sand, and a stunning sunset view. Operating from 4:30 PM to 11 PM daily, the Vui-Fest night market offers a green and friendly night market atmosphere, right on the beach promenade near the stage. Over 35 kiosks are designed from recycled cardboard, creating a rustic and approachable feel.
Visitors can enjoy many Hai Phong culinary specialties such as cua cakes, crab spring rolls, spicy banh mi, and coconut milk dessert. There are also many craft workshops such as fabric bag painting, pottery making, statue painting, along with tarot readings, and acoustic music performances in a magical atmosphere of lights on the beach.
Viet Hai Village, Cat Ba is an ideal destination for those who love nature and want to explore authentic local culture. With its pristine beauty, fresh air, and slow pace of life, Viet Hai offers a unique vacation experience compared to modern tourist destinations. Plan your trip to Viet Hai in 2025 now, to immerse yourself in the stunning natural scenery and memorable cultural experiences in the heart of Cat Ba National Park.
