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Cat Ba Island, Halong Bay, is becoming more and more popular because of its serene beauty. Check out some best places to visit in Cat Ba here!
Possessing diverse tourism potential, Cat Ba Island is currently one of the attractive destinations that tourists cannot miss. Cat Ba is also the only place in Vietnam that holds three national and international titles: Cat Ba National Park, Marine Protected Area, and World Biosphere Reserve.
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1. Overview of Cat Ba Island, Halong Bay
Located south of Halong Bay, the Cat Ba Archipelago is in Cat Hai District, Hai Phong City. It is about 30km far from Cat Ba to reach the city center. This place is often referred to as the "pearl island" of the port city, with 388 large and small islands covering an area of approximately 345 km², among which Cat Ba is the largest island, with an area of about 100 km². Cat Ba archipelago has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve in 2004 and classified as a Special National Landmark - Monument by the Government in 2013. Especially on September 16, 2023, the Cat Ba Archipelago, along with Ha Long Bay, was recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage; this is also the first inter-provincial and municipal World Natural Heritage in Vietnam.
It is hard to find any other destinations in Vietnam that boast a pristine and stunning cluster of islands and sea caves like Cat Ba. In recent years, Cat Ba has emerged as one of Vietnam's attractive tourist destinations for those who love to explore culture and natural beauty.
2. Must-see attractions on Cat Ba Island, Halong Bay
2.1. Pristine beaches on Cat Ba Island
Cat Ba Island was formed millions of years ago, featuring high limestone mountains, dense primeval forests, and surrounded by smooth, white sandy beaches. One of the most famous landmarks in Cat Ba that attracts both domestic and foreign tourists is Lan Ha Bay. This bay is ranked among the most beautiful bays in the world, located to the east of Cat Ba Island, serving as a connecting link between Cat Ba Island and Ha Long Bay. Lan Ha Bay is a member of the Most Beautiful Bays of the World Association (MBBW). When visiting Cat Ba, tourists can have chances to explore and experience the pristine beaches of the island.
The most well-known beach is Cat Co Beach, which consists of three beaches located right near the town center named Cat Co 1, Cat Co 2, and Cat Co 3. Not only these attracted beaches but Cat Ba Archipelago also possesses hundreds of hidden beaches beneath the limestone mountains by the sea. During the journey to discover Lan Ha Bay, tourists will be able to explore the tranquil and untouched beaches such as Tung Thu Beach, Cat Dua Beach, Van Boi Beach, Monkey Island Beach, Nam Cat Island Beach and so on.
More remarkably, one of the most stunning beaches you can not miss is Three Peaches Beach (Ba Trai Dao Beach). This area includes 30 natural sandy beaches, both large and small, with crystal-clear waters where you can even see the bottom on sunny days. The sand is full of coral fossils, colorful shells, and sea snails that the waves bring ashore, creating a uniquely colorful beach. In addition to swimming, while visiting Lan Ha Bay, tourists will have exciting experiences such as surfing on kayaks, enjoying breathtaking views from high peaks when hiking, and immersing themselves in the peaceful atmosphere of nature.
2.2. Cat Ba National Park
Cat Ba National Park is one of the largest biosphere reserves in Vietnam and the world, covering an area of over 17,300 hectares (nearly 11,000 hectares of mountainous forests) with a diverse and rich ecosystem featuring 2,230 species of flora and fauna. It is an ideal destination for travelers who enjoy exploring and experiencing the wilderness of nature.
Trekking in Cat Ba National Park is an interesting experience when you go through many types of primeval forests with unique ancient trees. If you are lucky, you can have a chance to see the Golden-headed Langur, an endemic animal on Cat Ba archipelago. The entrance of Cat Ba National Park serves as the trekking tours across the island. Visitors can choose from many different trekking routes. The 2 km long route from the gate to the peak Ngu Lam is easy to go, chosen by many domestic tourists traveling in groups. Besides, visitors can opt for treks of 6 km or 10 km, depending on their needs and health. The journey's final destination is Viet Hai village, taking about 4 hours, after which you can return by boat. Furthermore, during the exploration of Cat Ba’s forests, tourists can experience a coastal trail crossing the island to admire the pristine beauty, with the blue sea on one side and the majestic mountain range on the other.
2.3. Peaceful fishing villages on Cat Ba Island
Another must-see destination on Cat Ba Island that attracts a large number of tourists is the ancient fishing villages such as Cai Beo and Viet Hai.
Cai Beo Floating Village is the oldest fishing village in Vietnam, which preserves thousands of years of culture. With more than 500 households living, this fishing village is not only an attractive tourist destination with wonderful natural scenery and fresh seafood specialties but also a place for you to explore the wild beauty and unique cultural traditions of the villagers. Here, visitors can experience the feeling of sitting on a bamboo boat, gliding on the crystal-clear water of Lan Ha Bay, and admiring the outstanding beauty of Cai Beo fishing village. The boat will take you through small mossy islands, creating an attractive and interesting journey of discovery amidst the wild nature of Cat Ba.
Unlike Cai Beo, Viet Hai Fishing Village is a small village located deep within Cat Ba National Park. Compared to other fishing villages, it has a relatively small area, with nearly 100 households living there. This ancient village of Cat Ba is also known by the nickname "island within an island" due to its rich ecosystem that includes mountains, forests, and the sea within it. When visiting a pristine village like Viet Hai, tourists should not miss the opportunity to experience rustic life. By embodying the role of a local farmer or fisherman, you can tend to buffaloes, visit ancient houses, and enjoy a genuine lifestyle.
This article about must-see attractions on Cat Ba Island provides information that we hope is helpful for you. IZITOUR offers tours to Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay daily. If you have any further questions about Cat Ba or Halong Bay tours, feel free to leave a comment below or contact us via email: sm@izitour.com or Whatsapp: +84 382 536 266 for instant assistance and to receive free detailed itineraries/quotes/promotions.
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