"Golden season" to explore the gem of the Gulf of Tonkin

The “golden season” to explore Cat Ba will start from this April

Summer, from April to September, is the best time to enjoy the crystal-clear waters, soft sandy beaches, and breathtaking nature of Cat Ba. The sea shimmers under the golden sun, creating perfect conditions for outdoor activities, from swimming and exploring Lan Ha Bay to experiencing the island's vibrant new nightlife.

Effortless travel to the island

From Hanoi or nearby provinces, the most convenient way to reach Cat Ba is via the Hanoi – Hai Phong expressway, taking only about 1.5 – 2 hours. For those traveling from Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, or further provinces, flights to Cat Bi Airport (Hai Phong) followed by a short trip to the island are the best options.

Cable car is the fastest and most cost-effective transportation

From Hai Phong, visitors have multiple ways to reach Cat Ba. Due to the expected surge in summer visitors, the Cat Hai – Phu Long Cable Car is the most recommended option. The ride takes only 15 minutes, helping to save both costs and waiting time. For those preferring traditional travel, the Dong Bai – Cai Vieng ferry now operates with five new ferries. Additionally, high-speed boats from Tuan Chau or Hon Gai directly to Cat Ba are ideal for those who enjoy gliding over the sea.

Once on the island, electric buses provide a convenient and eco-friendly way to explore Cat Ba. For a more personal adventure along the island’s scenic coastal roads, visitors can rent motorcycles or bicycles to explore at their own pace.

Nonstop excitement from day to night

One of the must-try experiences in Cat Ba is swimming in the pristine beaches of Lan Ha Bay—one of the most stunning bays in the world. With over 130 hidden beaches nestled among towering limestone karsts, visitors can escape crowded spots like Cat Co 1 and Cat Co 2 by renting a wooden boat or kayak to reach secluded sandy shores. The feeling of swimming in crystal-clear waters, gazing at the seabed, or lounging on untouched white sands will be unforgettable.

For nature lovers, Cat Ba National Park is an ideal stop. As one of Northern Vietnam’s rare remaining primeval forests, it is home to over 1,500 species of flora and fauna, including the endangered Cat Ba Langur—one of the world’s rarest primates. Visitors can trek the Ngu Lam trail (1-2 hours) or challenge themselves to climb the Than Cong Fortress, which offers panoramic views of the bay stretching to the horizon.

Discovering the fishing village at Cat Ba

Beyond its natural wonders, Cat Ba is also home to one of Vietnam’s oldest fishing villages – Cai Beo Fishing Village. Nestled between limestone cliffs and calm waters, the village features hundreds of floating houses, creating an incredibly serene scene. Visitors can take a small boat with local fishermen, explore floating fish farms, and experience squid fishing or traditional net casting, before enjoying a fresh seafood feast right on a floating raft.

"Symphony of Green Island" – A Nighttime Spectacle will debut in May at Central Bay

If Cat Ba’s days are defined by tranquil natural beauty, its nights are set to explode with "Symphony of Green Island", a cutting-edge water sports and fireworks show premiering in May in Central Bay. This grand spectacle, featuring high-speed Jetski races, aerial acrobatics, and dazzling light displays, is a collaboration between Sun Group, H2O Events, and LaserVision—the world’s top specialists in water performances. Over 20 Jetski riders, 8 Flyboarders, and 3 Jazzers (female athletes soaring over water in LED-lit costumes) will deliver breathtaking stunts for four months, culminating each night with a 5-minute fireworks finale over the bay, promising a new landmark event for Cat Ba’s nightlife.

VUI-Fest Green Market – The first eco-friendly night market in Hai Phong

The excitement doesn’t stop with the bay show. VUI-Fest Green Market, the first eco-friendly market in Hai Phong, will feature nearly 60 stalls, all using sustainable materials. The market is divided into three zones, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in a lively festival atmosphere with interactive games, street performances, and unique shopping experiences. From tarot readings and henna tattoos to live sketching and upcycling workshops, there’s something for everyone.

The sea culinary paradise

No trip to Cat Ba is complete without indulging in its rich seafood cuisine. The seafood here is not only incredibly fresh but also carries the distinct flavors of the Gulf of Tonkin, offering specialties unique to the island.

One must-try dish is grilled geoduck with scallion oil. The tender, slightly chewy texture of the geoduck, combined with the rich aroma of scallion oil and charcoal grilling, creates an unforgettable taste. Another iconic dish is salt-roasted mantis shrimp, with its firm meat and crunchy texture, delivering an addictive balance of salty and mildly spicy flavors. For a true taste of the sea, visitors can try grilled horseshoe crab, spicy horseshoe crab salad, or stir-fried horseshoe crab with lemongrass and chili—all offering bold, mouthwatering flavors.

Sun KraftBeer debuts in Northern Vietnam

For craft beer lovers, Sun KraftBeer is making its Northern Vietnam debut, pairing perfectly with freshly grilled seafood on the beach for a unique culinary experience. The fun continues at VUI-Fest Night Market, where visitors can explore local street food delights, from Ha Long squid cakes and Hai Phong crab spring rolls to banh da cua (crab noodle soup) and shrimp noodles.

From its awe-inspiring natural landscapes and hidden beaches to its high-speed water shows and bustling night markets, Cat Ba promises an unforgettable summer for every traveler.