Cat Ba Island, Vietnam

Cat Ba Island

Hai Phong ProvinceVietnam

Why You'll Love Cat Ba Island

Experience the beauty and adventure of Cat Ba Island, Vietnam's largest island surrounded by emerald waters and stunning limestone cliffs. Famous for its untouched natural scenery and wildlife, the island is a peaceful retreat for those seeking a break from city life. Visitors can explore the rare flora and fauna in the national park or take a dip in the clear waters of Cat Ba's beaches. The island boasts a vibrant Vietnamese culture and welcomes tourists with open arms.

Getting to Cat Ba Island

There are regular ferries from Hai Phong and Halong City to Cat Ba Town. Alternatively, visitors can take a flight to Cat Bi International Airport in Hai Phong and then make their way to the island by taxi or bus.

The closest city to Cat Ba Island is Cat Ba Town, in Hai Phong Province.

Travelling from Cat Bi International Airport to Cat Ba Island

When to Visit

The best time to visit Cat Ba Island is from March to May or September to November when the weather is mild and the island is less crowded. Monsoon season occurs from May to September.

Weather and Climate

Cat Ba Island has a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year. The average temperature ranges from 20°C to 30°C. The months of December to February are the coolest months with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C. Monsoon season occurs from May to September.

Costs When Visiting

In Vietnam, the currency is the Vietnamese Dong.
Some sample costs when travelling around Cat Ba Island are:

Sample Accommodation Costs

Accommodation on Cat Ba Island can range from budget hostels to luxury resorts. A budget hostel can be found for around $5 USD per night, while a luxurious resort may cost around $250 USD per night.

Sample Food Costs

There are many affordable options for food on Cat Ba Island, with street food and local restaurants offering delicious and cheap meals. A meal at a local restaurant may cost around $3 USD, while a more upscale restaurant can cost around $25 USD for a meal.

Safety Rating

Vietnam is generally considered a safe country for tourists. However, visitors should take precautions to avoid petty crime. Cat Ba Island is a safe destination for tourists, with a low crime rate. Women and LGBTQ+ visitors should take precautions and be aware of their surroundings.

Local Population

Cat Ba Island has a population of around 13,000 people, consisting mainly of the Vietnamese Kinh people. The majority of the residents speak Vietnamese, although English is widely spoken in tourist areas. The island also has a small expat community.

Things to Do

Popular activities on Cat Ba Island include kayaking, exploring the Cat Ba National Park, visiting the Monkey Island, and taking a boat tour of Halong Bay. Visitors can also enjoy scuba diving, hiking, rock climbing, and beach hopping.