1. Overview of Cat Ba Beach (Hai Phong)
Cat Ba Beach (Hai Phong) is an attractive tourist destination. (Source: Collected)
Where Cat Ba Island is located and which province it belongs to is always a question for many tourists before each trip. Cat Ba is an archipelago belonging to Cat Hai island district, Hai Phong city. It possesses up to 367 large and small islands with a total area of about 300km², located in the waters of the North Bay, about 30km from the center of Hai Phong and about 140km from Hanoi.
Among them, Cat Ba Island is the largest island with an area of 153km², and also the third largest island in Vietnam (after Cai Bau Island and Phu Quoc Island). The terrain here is characterized by submerged tropical karst, creating a majestic and unique landscape, quite similar to Ha Long Bay (Quang Ninh). The islands rise amidst emerald waters, formed from karst towers, single rock spires, or closely clustered islands.
Besides, Cat Ba is also famous for its beautiful system of caves and karst valleys such as Gia Luan, Hung Son, Trung Trang, or Viet Hai – a place that offers tourists a journey to explore the most pristine and fascinating nature in the North.
2. Natural characteristics and ecosystem of Cat Ba Beach (Hai Phong)
Cat Ba Sea (Hai Phong) is a convergence of many precious ecosystems. (Source: Collected)
Cat Ba Sea – the green pearl of Hai Phong – is not only famous for its magnificent natural beauty but also a convergence of many precious ecosystems. In 2025, this coastal area continues to affirm its position as a leading ecological destination in the North, where tourists can explore pristine landscapes and admire its unique biodiversity.
2.1. Characteristic Topography, Beaches, and Landscapes
Cat Ba Sea impresses with its majestic limestone mountain topography intertwined with fine white sandy beaches and clear blue waters, creating a natural picture that is both wild and poetic. Natural cave systems like Trung Trang, Thien Long, Hoa Cuong… along with winding small bays help Cat Ba become a prominent ecological tourist destination in the North.
Not only does it have beautiful seas, this place also possesses Cat Ba National Park spanning tens of thousands of hectares, which is a unique intersection between primeval forests, mangrove forests, and marine ecosystems. This harmonious combination brings tourists the feeling of enjoying the sea air while immersing themselves in the majestic mountain and forest nature.
2.2. Endemic Biodiversity of Cat Ba
Cat Ba is recognized by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve thanks to its diverse ecosystem and rare genetic resources. This place is the sole habitat of the Cat Ba langur – an extremely rare primate species, with only a few dozen individuals remaining in the wild. In addition, the flora and fauna here also include hundreds of rare species such as chamois, golden monkeys, deer, orchids, and precious timber species… creating a "living biological museum" amidst the sea and sky of Hai Phong.
2.3. Typical Attractions: Lan Ha Bay, Cat Ba National Park
When mentioning Cat Ba, one cannot miss Lan Ha Bay – the green pearl located south of Ha Long Bay, notable for over 400 large and small islands covered in greenery and the peaceful ancient fishing village of Cai Beo. This is an ideal spot for activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, and sunset cruises.
In addition, Cat Ba National Park is a paradise for exploration-loving tourists, offering dozens of trekking routes through forests, caves, and high mountain peaks overlooking the entire bay. The blend of mountains, forests, and sea has made Cat Ba one of the most unique ecological destinations in Vietnam.
3. Unmissable Cat Ba Sea (Hai Phong) Experiences
There are many interesting experiences at Cat Ba Beach (Hai Phong). (Source: Collected)
Cat Ba Beach (Hai Phong) not only fascinates visitors with its beautiful natural scenery but also offers countless attractive experiences, from relaxing on the beach, exploring the national park to enjoying local seafood specialties. Whether you prefer relaxation or adventure, Cat Ba offers a memorable journey, where every moment is filled with the flavors of the sea, sky, and local culture.
3.1. Swimming and relaxing at famous Cat Ba beaches
Upon arriving in Cat Ba, visitors must visit the three most famous beaches on the island: Cat Co 1, Cat Co 2, and Cat Co 3. Each beach has its own charm — Cat Co 1 is lively with many modern services, Cat Co 2 is peaceful for those who prefer privacy, while Cat Co 3 is captivating with its pristine scenery, crystal-clear water, and long stretches of fine sand.
In 2025, this area will be further developed with many high-class coastal tourism facilities such as coastal resort areas, SUP paddling services, jet skis, and beachside bars serving guests until late at night. Visitors can immerse themselves in the cool water, watch the brilliant sunset, or stroll along the wooden bridges connecting the beaches — an unforgettable experience when visiting Cat Ba Beach (Hai Phong).
3.2. Unique ecological tourism activities at Cat Ba Beach (Hai Phong)
Cat Ba is not only beautiful with its beaches but also a paradise for ecological tourism and nature exploration. Visitors can join trekking tours through Cat Ba National Park, which boasts a rich primary forest ecosystem and the chance to encounter the rare Cat Ba langur.
Additionally, activities like kayaking through caves, diving to admire coral reefs in Lan Ha Bay, or taking a cruise offer novel experiences, allowing you to fully enjoy the magnificent beauty of the archipelago. Notably, visiting the ancient fishing village of Cai Beo allows visitors to delve deeper into the cultural life, traditional fishing practices, and the island spirit of the Cat Ba people.
3.3. Local cultural experiences and Hai Phong's seafood specialties
In Cat Ba, you will immerse yourself in a festive atmosphere rich in coastal identity, notably the Early Year Fishing Festival, the Whale Worship Festival, and the Water Procession Festival. These are occasions for locals to express gratitude to the sea and pray for a bountiful fishing season.
Furthermore, Cat Ba's cuisine is an unforgettable highlight with fresh seafood dishes such as razor clams, horseshoe crabs, lobsters, steamed mantis shrimp, grouper, ink squid... along with many rustic dishes like crab noodle soup and Hai Phong shrimp vermicelli. Visitors can combine visits to floating fishing villages and early morning seafood markets to enjoy specialties while experiencing the simple rhythm of life on the pearl island.
4. Tips for transportation and accommodation when traveling to Cat Ba Beach (Hai Phong)
Moving from the mainland to the island by Sun World cable car.
Tourism in Cat Ba Island (Hai Phong) is not only attractive for its wild natural beauty but also for its increasingly modern and convenient transportation and accommodation infrastructure. Whether you are departing from Hanoi, Hai Phong, or other provinces, moving to the island and finding suitable accommodation becomes easy, offering a complete and memorable travel experience.
4.1. Guide to traveling to Cat Ba from Hanoi, Hai Phong, and other provinces
To reach Cat Ba Island (Hai Phong) – a beautiful island in the Gulf of Tonkin, tourists can choose various flexible and modern transportation options suitable for their needs and budget.
From Hanoi to Cat Ba: From the center of Hanoi, tourists can travel by car or bus via the Hanoi – Hai Phong Expressway, a total distance of about 140km, taking 2 – 2.5 hours. Some limousine car companies operate a package Hanoi – Cat Ba route, with ticket prices ranging from 250,000 – 350,000 VND/trip, taking guests directly to the island center. Alternatively, you can take a train to Hai Phong station, then continue the journey to the island by high-speed ferry or Sun World cable car.
From Hai Phong to Cat Ba: The Sun World cable car is the fastest and most convenient option in 2025, taking only about 10 minutes to cross the sea to the island. If you want to experience the sea air, you can take the Dong Bai – Cai Vieng ferry or a high-speed ferry from Binh Pier, with a travel time of 30 - 45 minutes.
From other provinces: Tourists in Northern Vietnam such as Quang Ninh, Nam Dinh, Thai Binh, or Ninh Binh can take an inter-provincial bus to Hai Phong, then connect to Cat Ba by ferry, high-speed ferry, or cable car. For tourists from Central and Southern Vietnam, Cat Bi Airport (Hai Phong) is the most convenient option – with many domestic flights, then continue for about 40 minutes to reach the island.
4.2. Notable accommodation spots in Cat Ba
Tourism in Cat Ba Island (Hai Phong) is not only attractive for its poetic sea scenery but also impressive with its diverse system of resorts, hotels, and homestays, suitable for all types of tourists. Here are the notable accommodation spots in 2025 highly rated by many visitors:
Flamingo Cat Ba Beach Resort: Located right on the shore of Lan Ha Bay, Flamingo Cat Ba Beach Resort is a leading 5-star resort in Hai Phong. With an impressive green design, each room is covered by plants and faces the sea, offering a complete immersion in nature. Guests can enjoy premium amenities such as an infinity pool, sky bar, and luxurious spa area.
Cat Ba Sunrise Resort: Cat Ba Sunrise Resort is an ideal destination for families with young children, with a private beach, large swimming pool, and modern children's play area. The resort also has a restaurant serving fresh seafood and many water sports activities, making your holiday more complete.
Cat Ba Eco Lodge: For those who love nature and trekking, Cat Ba Eco Lodge is located amidst the Cat Ba primeval forest, offering a unique ecological resort style. Visitors here can join forest trekking tours, admire the Cat Ba langur, and enjoy the fresh air in the wild nature.
5. Useful tips for tourists visiting Cat Ba Island (Hai Phong)
Comply with the regulations at Cat Ba Beach (Hai Phong). (Source: Collected)
To make your exploration trip to Cat Ba Beach (Hai Phong) complete and safe, visitors should prepare thoroughly from personal belongings to important notes throughout the journey. Here are some useful experiences you should not miss:
Bring swimwear, cool, quick-drying clothes, and sports shoes if you plan to trek in the national park or join an island exploration tour.
Should bring seasickness medicine, insect bite medicine, personal bandages and Comply with the instructions of the tourist area management board or tour guide when participating in activities at sea, especially when diving to see coral, kayaking or mountain climbing.
Do not litter, do not touch coral or catch marine life, contributing to preserving the natural beauty of Cat Ba – a UNESCO-recognized world biosphere reserve.
Do not swim without permission when there are warning signs, avoid swimming far from shore during times of large waves or when the weather is bad.
Preserve the landscape and respect local culture, especially when visiting traditional fishing villages.
With its clear blue beaches, fine white sand, and peaceful atmosphere, Cat Ba Beach (Hai Phong) is an ideal destination for those who love beach tourism and relaxation. Visitors can swim, participate in water sports activities, and enjoy the beautiful natural scenery. Add Cat Ba Beach (Hai Phong) to your 2025 travel itinerary to fully experience an enjoyable holiday and memorable moments by the sea.
