The largest island in Vietnam’s Halong Bay, Cat Ba offers a beautiful blend of sandy beaches, thick green jungle and adventurous activities.
Around half of Cat Ba is a designated national park that protects the island’s precious ecosystems. This includes isolated beaches, tropical rainforests and a variety of unique wildlife such as the Cat Ba langur – the world’s most endangered primate. You can trek up to Ngu Lam Peak for soaring views over the park, or take a guided tour into the island’s fascinating cave systems.
The main beaches in Cat Ba are situated to the south and simply named Cat Co 1, Cat Co 2 and Cat Co 3. You can walk from beach to beach via a narrow cliffside path, offering incredible views over the ocean. Take a rest on the soft sand or try your hand at some water sports like jet-skiing or kayaking.
The easiest and most common way to explore Cat Ba is by motorbike, which can be rented from most hotels for a reasonable price. It’s recommended that you opt for a larger engine size if available, as this will help you deal with some of the island's steep inclines. You can also get around the island via the local buses, or by hiring a bicycle to explore the scenic coastal roads at your own pace.