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What to do on Cat Ba Island? 20 ultimate experiences not to be missed in 2025

What to do on Cat Ba Island? 20 ultimate experiences not to be missed in 2025

01/08/2025

In the heart of the Gulf of Tonkin, Cat Ba Island is like a green jewel waiting for visitors to explore. Every time someone asks "What is there to do in Cat Ba?", the answer always surprises them with the richness and diversity of this beautiful island. From the majestic limestone cliffs embracing the emerald-green waters, to the sound of waves lapping at night under a starry sky, Cat Ba offers unforgettable moments. Let's discover 20 top experiences in 2025, to make your journey more complete and inspiring!

In the heart of Bac Bo Bay, Cat Ba is like a green gem waiting for tourists to discover. Whenever someone asks "What is there to do in Cat Ba?" , the answer always surprises them with the richness and diversity of this beautiful island.

From the majestic limestone cliffs embracing the clear jade-green waters, to the sound of waves lapping at night under a starry sky, Cat Ba offers unforgettable moments. Let's explore 20 ultimate experiences in 2025, to make your journey more complete and inspiring!

1. Kayaking to explore caves in Lan Ha Bay

1.1. Kayaking among majestic limestone islands

chèo kayak cát bà

Kayaking among majestic limestone islands (Photo: Collected)

 

As dawn breaks, Lan Ha Bay appears like a beautiful watercolor painting. With nearly 400 large and small islands creating a peaceful natural maze, this place is distinctly different from the bustling atmosphere of Ha Long Bay.

The jade-green water reflects the majestic limestone karsts, captivating everyone's hearts. The ideal time for kayaking on the water is early morning from 6:00 AM - 10:00 AM and late afternoon from 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM when the sunlight is gentle and the wind is calm.

Kayak tours last from 2-3 hours with prices ranging from 200,000 to 350,000 VND, including full safety equipment and dedicated guides. Notably, many transparent kayak rental services allow you to easily admire the fascinating underwater world right beneath your feet.

1.2. Discover the trio of caves: Bright Cave, Dark Cave, and Tunnel Cave

Bright Cave welcomes visitors with a 4-meter wide entrance, where natural light shines through the clear blue water, creating a magical, fairytale-like effect. Inside the cave, unique stalactites and stalagmites appear like natural works of art, most notably a winding stalactite resembling a mythical dragon.

In contrast to the brilliance of Bright Cave, Dark Cave offers a quiet, mysterious, and challenging atmosphere. To navigate through the 100-meter long tunnel, you need a flashlight. When the lights are off, the sound of dripping water echoes like a meditation track, helping the soul find absolute peace.

Tunnel Cave is for adventurous souls as you navigate through a narrow tunnel just wide enough for one kayak. After a 60-meter journey, a crystal-clear lagoon appears, surrounded by sheer cliffs 20-30 meters high, creating a feeling of being in a different world amidst wild nature.

Hang Luồn

Hang  Luon (Photo: Collected)

 

2. Jetski performance combined with fireworks

2.1. Best time to watch the jetski performance

Mãn nhãn với show jetski bắn pháo hoa hot nhất Cát Bà mùa hè 2025

Feast for the eyes with the hottest jetski fireworks show in Cat Ba summer 2025 (Photo: collected)

 

As night falls, Cat Ba lights up with the show "Symphony of the Green Island" - one of the most impressive answers to the question "What to do in Cat Ba" in the evening. The entire program is staged on a sea surface of over 50,000m², inspired by the legend of the Cat Ba fairy crane.

International athletes from all over the world coordinate in formations of jetski, flyboard, and jetsurf - extreme sports programmed to music, lights, fireworks, and lasers synchronized to the second.

The show takes place 5 nights a week (Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday), from 8:30 PM to 9:00 PM, and is expected to last until early September. The program has made a special mark with two world Guinness records appearing for the first time: the largest jetski fireworks show formation in the world and the event of a flyboard athlete performing the most flips in one minute.

>>> See now: Show in Cat Ba sets an unprecedented Guinness World Record

2.2. How to book tickets

Ticket prices start at 1,000,000 VND for one guest, with group offers: two tickets for 1,500,000 VND and three tickets for 1,800,000 VND. There is currently a discount of up to 45% when booking tickets via the Sun Paradise Land app.

This is an unprecedented price for a large-scale international quality sports performance program. Book your tickets in advance to not miss the opportunity to experience this impressive performance night and add unforgettable moments to the list of "What to do in Cat Ba" .

 

3. Swimming at the most beautiful beaches of Lan Ha Bay

3.1. Cat Co Beaches 1, 2, 3 - The three jewels of Cat Ba

Bãi Cát Cò - Viên ngọc của Cát Bà

Cat Co Beach - The jewel of Cat Ba (Photo: collected)

 

Cat Co 1 Beach is the heart of Cat Ba town, stretching 500m with a fine white sandy shore and gentle waves soothingly lull. The sea water is clear blue, with depth gradually increasing from 0.5 to 3 meters, creating ideal conditions for all ages to play freely.

The area is fully equipped with amenities, including restaurants, hotels, and services for renting floats and umbrellas, priced from 50,000 to 100,000 VND. Everything offers complete comfort for visitors.

2km to the south, Cat Co 2 Beach possesses a quieter and more pristine beauty, less crowded with tourists. This is an ideal destination to enjoy romantic sunset views as the sun sets on the horizon. The seawater is saltier, providing a gentle and relaxing swimming experience.

Cat Co 3 Beach is the smallest of the three beaches, enclosed by rocky mountains forming a safe, sheltered cove. Water depth is only 1 - 1.5 meters within 100 meters from the shore, making it an ideal space for families with young children to play and explore.

3.2. Van Boi Beach, Cat Dua Beach, Ba Trai Dao Beach - Pristine sea paradise

Van Boi Beach is located on the southeast of the island, only accessible by boat with a 45-minute journey from Cat Ba pier. The beach is 800m long with powder-fine white sand and turquoise sea water so clear it reaches the bottom.

There are no commercial services, so you need to bring your own drinks and light snacks. This very pristine nature creates a rare, original beauty.

Cat Dua Beach stands out with a golden sandy strip gently curving like a crescent moon. During low tide from 11 AM to 2 PM, you can walk across the sand to the small island next to it to explore mysterious natural caves.

Bãi Cát Dứa

Cat Dua Beach (Photo: collected)

 

Ba Trai Dao Beach is named after three small peach-shaped islands near the shore. The deep blue seawater with a transparency of 8-10m, is an ideal destination for those who love coral diving and exploring the colorful underwater world.

4. Coral diving at Monkey Island

4.1. Discover the colorful coral world

Khám phá thế giới san hô rực rỡ sắc màu

Discover the vibrant world of coral (Photo: sourced)

 

Monkey Island is a 30-minute boat ride northeast of Cat Ba pier, the perfect answer to "What to play in Cat Ba" beneath the ocean. The waters around the island range from 8 to 25 meters deep, boasting over 150 diverse species of hard and soft corals.

A prominent dive site south of the island features a coral reef table nearly 2 hectares wide, including brain coral, staghorn coral, and colorful disc corals. The seawater temperature is stable at 24 to 28 degrees C year-round, with underwater visibility ranging from 8 to 15 meters depending on the weather.

The best time is from April to October when the sea is calm and the water is clear. Here, you can easily spot colorful butterflyfish, angelfish, and parrotfish, and if you're lucky, green sea turtles - a wonderful moment in pristine nature.

4.2. Experience diving with a professional instructor

Cat Ba Diving Center offers guided diving services priced at 800,000 - 1,200,000 VND/person for a half-day tour. The service package includes full diving equipment, a PADI-certified instructor, and accident insurance.

Beginners receive basic diving techniques instruction for 30 minutes in shallow water before heading to the coral reef. The minimum requirements are to be able to swim and be 12 years or older.

Each diving group is limited to a maximum of 6 people with 1 instructor to ensure absolute safety. This is an essential experience when exploring "What to play in Cat Ba" beneath the blue sea.

5. Conquer Ngu Lam Peak in Cat Ba National Park

5.1. Trekking through the old-growth forest with rich biodiversity

Trekking xuyên rừng già

Trekking through the old-growth forest (Photo: collected)

 

Cat Ba National Park was established in 1986 with an area of 15,200 hectares, including land and sea areas, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. The trekking route to Ngu Lam Peak is 2.5km long, with an average slope of 30-45%, taking 1.5 to 2 hours one way.

On the journey, you will pass through three diverse vegetation layers: humid tropical forest with ancient trees like banyan and ficus; broadleaf forest at an altitude of 50-120m; and low shrub forest near the mountain peak.

The chance to encounter over 70 rare bird species, the island's endemic red-faced monkeys, and about 20 rare butterfly species will offer a rich natural experience. Wear non-slip shoes, prepare enough drinking water (at least 1 liter/person), and start early from 6-7 AM to avoid the harsh sun.

5.2. Admire the entire Cat Ba Island at an altitude of 200m

Ngu Lam Peak, 200m above sea level, is the highest point on the island, offering a stunning 360-degree view. From here, you can cast your eyes over the entire Cat Ba archipelago with its 367 large and small islands, Cat Ba town, Ben Beo Port, and the distant, mystical Ha Long Bay.

The most ideal time is early morning from 5:30-6:30 AM when the dawn light shines through the mist, creating a mystical, fairy-tale-like scene. Or sunset from 5:30-6:30 PM when the entire sea is bathed in a beautiful golden-orange hue.

At the summit, there are natural stone benches and tables, ideal spots for resting and taking picturesque souvenir photos. This is definitely an unmissable experience when exploring "What to do in Cat Ba" .

6. Discover Trung Trang Cave with its magnificent stalactites

6.1. Mysterious history of the largest cave in Cat Ba

Trekking xuyên rừng già

History of Trung Trang Cave (Photo: Collected)

 

Trung Trang Cave, 15km north of Cat Ba town, is a prominent and unmissable attraction. With a length of 300m divided into three distinct levels, the cave offers a fascinating exploration experience since its discovery in 1938 by fishermen seeking shelter from the rain.

During the resistance against the French (1946-1954), the cave once served as a hiding place for 17 families with over 100 people, adding to its mystique and historical value. The temperature inside the cave is always stable at 18-20°C year-round, creating a cool and pleasant feeling.

The cave is notable for its fascinating stalactite system formed over millions of years. The stalactites have unique shapes like "ancient pine tree", "giant sea turtle", and "frozen waterfall", making visitors feel like they are in a mystical world.

6.2. Tips for exploring Trung Trang Cave

The second level of the cave features the "Crystal Palace" with the densest concentration of stalactites, some stalactite columns having a diameter of up to 3m. The third level is an area with an underground lake 2m deep with clear water, where many visitors believe throwing coins brings good luck.

Admission is 120,000 VND/adult and 60,000 VND/child. The cave is open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, with a visiting time of approximately 45 minutes.

For a comfortable trip, bring a light jacket due to the low temperature, non-slip shoes, and prepare a phone with a flashlight for taking photos in low-light areas. Trung Trang Cave is a great place to explore magnificent natural beauty and learn about the history and culture of Cat Ba.

7. Enjoy delicious seafood at Cat Ba night market

7.1. Must-try seafood dishes

Tôm hùm nướng bơ tỏi

Grilled lobster with garlic butter (Photo: Collected)

Grilled lobster with garlic butter is the number 1 specialty of Cat Ba, priced at 500,000 - 800,000 VND/kg depending on size. Cat Ba lobsters have firm, naturally sweet meat thanks to living in clean sea water. The traditional preparation method is grilling over charcoal, spreading garlic butter and chili in the last 5 minutes to create a crispy golden crust on the outside.

Steamed crab with banana leaves, priced at 150,000 - 200,000 VND/kg, is a simple yet irresistibly delicious dish. Fresh crab is steamed in young banana leaves with lemongrass and ginger to retain its natural sweetness. Cat Ba crab meat is ivory white and firm, not mushy.

Grilled geoduck with scallion oil, priced at 300,000 - 450,000 VND/kg, is an exclusive specialty of the Cat Ba sea area. Geoducks here are larger than in other regions (6 - 8cm/clam), with thick, rich sweet meat. The dish is grilled over charcoal and drizzled with fragrant fried scallion oil.

7.2. Tips for eating delicious seafood

The ideal time to enjoy fresh and delicious seafood is from 18:00 to 21:00 when the seafood has just been caught that day. For a quality meal, choose restaurants with tanks of live, swimming seafood, and avoid frozen or long-dead items.

Techniques for choosing fresh seafood: lobsters with long antennae, clear black eyes, and a hard, shiny shell; crabs that feel firm with tightly closed claws; geoducks with tightly closed shells that make a sound when lightly tapped.

When buying, ask for prices at at least three places to compare and negotiate a 10-15% discount towards the end of the evening. To enjoy a variety of delicious dishes, go in a group of 4-6 people, with an average cost of 200,000 – 300,000 VND/person for a filling meal. Many restaurants also cook seafood bought elsewhere for a fee of 30,000 to 50,000 VND/dish.

8. Visiting the hundred-year-old Cai Beo fishing village

8.1. Experiencing the life of fishermen at sea

Cai Beo fishing village preserves over 100 years of history with over 120 households living on 180 coracles and floating houses – the largest fishing village in the Gulf of Tonkin. Located 20 minutes by boat southeast of Cat Ba pier, it is a destination offering an authentic experience of traditional fishermen's life.

Village life begins at 4 AM when fishing boats leave the pier. Tourists can join a fishing tour with fishermen for only 300,000 VND/person for a 4-hour journey, experiencing casting nets, pulling nets, and sorting fresh seafood right on the sea.

Làng chài Cái Bèo

Cai Beo fishing village (Photo: Collected) 


A special highlight is the more than 50-hectare cage aquaculture system, where you can visit and directly feed groupers, butterfish, and lobsters. Many families offer overnight stays for tourists on floating houses for 200,000 VND/person, including dinner and breakfast, providing a rich coastal cultural experience.

8.2. Enjoy the characteristic cuisine of the fishing village

Cai Beo fish cake is made from fresh mackerel, snapper, ground finely, mixed with pork fat, scallions, and exclusive spices. The cakes are fried golden brown, served with fresh vermicelli, raw vegetables, and sweet and sour dipping sauce. The price for a serving of fish cake is about 80,000 - 120,000 VND.

Sour fish soup is cooked with fresh groupers from the cages, seasoned with tamarind, pineapple, okra, and culantro. The natural sour taste combined with the sweet and fatty fish meat creates an unforgettable characteristic flavor. A pot of soup sufficient for 4-5 people costs 150,000 - 200,000 VND.

Canh chua cá bớp

Grouper Sour Soup (Photo: Collected)

Ruou can is a traditional drink of fishermen, fermented from sticky rice with special forest leaves. The alcohol content is about 15 - 20%, with a slightly sweet taste and a characteristic aroma. Tourists can buy it as a souvenir for 150,000 VND/750ml bottle.

9. Explore the vibrant Cat Ba night market

9.1. Shop for unique souvenirs

Cat Ba night market operates from 18:00-23:00 daily in the town center area, stretching along Nong Trang Van street. The market has about 150 stalls selling all kinds of souvenirs, dried seafood, and local specialties.

Chợ đêm Cát Bà

Cat Ba Night Market (Photo: Collected)

 

Featured Specialties:

• Cat Ba Dried Shrimp (medium size): 400,000-500,000 VND/kg

• Large Dried Shrimp: 600,000-800,000 VND/kg

• One-Sun Dried Squid: 200,000-300,000 VND/kg

• Fresh and Dried Seaweed: 50,000-80,000 VND/kg

Cat Ba Dried Shrimp is naturally dried under the sun, retaining its rich sweet taste. Choose shrimp with a natural pink color, neither too dry nor too moist.

One-sun dried squid is dried for exactly one sunny day to maintain its chewy texture and sweet taste. Unlike traditional dried squid dried for many days, Cat Ba one-sun dried squid can be eaten directly without re-grilling.

9.2. Enjoy the Culinary Culture of Cat Ba Night Market

Grilled seafood baguette is a unique snack only found at Cat Ba night market. The baguette is grilled until crispy, stuffed with shrimp, squid, homemade fish cake, along with fresh vegetables and special chili sauce. Priced at 25,000-35,000 VND/baguette, its delicious taste is no less than Hoi An or Saigon baguettes.

Fresh coconut milk ice cream is handcrafted from Cat Ba Siamese coconuts with a rich, refreshing sweet taste. The ice cream is served in the coconut shell itself for 30,000 VND/coconut. Especially in summer, this is an ideal refreshment after a long day of sightseeing.

Kem dừa nước cốt dừa tươi

Fresh coconut milk ice cream

 

Lotus seed sweet soup cooked from fresh, peeled lotus seeds, with coconut milk and rock sugar. Cat Ba lotus seeds have a naturally rich, nutty flavor, not bitter like in many other places. A bowl of chè costs 20,000 VND, usually served hot in the cold season, and with ice in the hot season.

10. Join a boat tour to explore Lan Ha Bay

10.1. Comparing Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay

Vịnh Lan Hạ

Lan Ha Bay (Photo: Collected)

Lan Ha Bay has 400 large and small islands compared to Ha Long Bay's 1,969 islands, creating a more secluded space. Lan Ha Bay's seawater has higher transparency (8 - 12m) due to fewer boats passing through, while Ha Long Bay has a transparency of 4 - 6m due to large tourist traffic.

Lan Ha Bay's landscape is special with 139 natural beaches, twice the number of beaches in Ha Long Bay. Lan Ha Bay also stands out with many caves that can be kayaked through, creating a different and interesting experience compared to Ha Long Bay where large caves are mainly explored on foot.

Travel costs in Lan Ha Bay are 20 - 30% lower than in Ha Long Bay. A one-day boat tour in Lan Ha Bay costs 450,000 - 650,000 VND/person, while in Ha Long Bay it costs 600,000 - 900,000 VND/person with the same service quality.

10.2. Experience choosing a suitable boat tour

Half-day tour (4-5 hours) - 350,000 - 450,000 VND:

• 4-5 main attractions: Lan Ha Bay, three kayaking caves, a swimming beach, and Cai Beo fishing village

• Suitable for guests with limited time or traveling with young children

One-day tour (8-9 hours) - 550,000 - 750,000 VND:

• Includes additional snorkeling activities, seafood lunch on the boat

• Relaxation time at a private beach

• Optimal choice for groups of young people who love experiences

Overnight tour on the boat - 1,200,000 - 2,000,000 VND/person:

• Private cabin, 3 meals, and evening entertainment

• Night squid fishing, karaoke on the boat

Important note: book tours through reputable companies with clear operating licenses, avoid booking tours through street vendors to ensure quality and safety.

11. Overnight camping on the beach

Cat Co 3 Beach is the most popular camping spot with a spacious area, fine sand, and a natural windbreak area from the rocky cliffs. Only 3km from the town, you can easily buy food and drinks. The beach allows free camping and has public restrooms 200m away.

Van Boi Beach is for a completely wild camping experience. There is no electricity, running water, or amenities here, so you need to prepare sufficient food, drinks, and power banks. The big plus is the absolute privacy and beautiful sunset views.

Bãi Vạn Bội

Beach Van Boi (Photo: Collected)

 

And if you are a lover of privacy and tranquility, come to beach Ba Trai Dao . The crescent-shaped terrain, embraced by sturdy rocky outcrops, is like a gentle palm cradling every wave. The shallow seawater is safe for a night swim under the moonlight. However, as this is a protected area, you need to book in advance with the National Park Management Board – but in return, you will have an unforgettable night.

12. Experience cycling to explore Cat Ba

If camping is a journey of quiet nights, then cycling in Cat Ba is a symphony of sunshine, wind, and movement. On a bicycle, every scene appears intimate and vivid.

12.1. Ideal cycling routes

Những cung đường đẹp nhất

The most beautiful routes (Photo: Collected) 

 

The route from the center of Cat Ba town to Cat Ba National Park is one of the most beautiful routes. About 15km long, the road winds through primeval forests, valleys shrouded in early morning mist, and bends that open up to a panoramic view of the vast blue sea. Cycling at dawn, with light filtering through the forest canopy, you will feel the whole world pause to listen to your breath and the rhythm of nature.

If you love peaceful beauty, the coastal road from Cat Ba to Gia Luan Ferry Terminal is also a great choice. The scenery here features the jade green color of Lan Ha Bay, mixed with the wildness of towering limestone mountains – like a slow-motion film of the tropics.

12.2. Notes and preparation for cycling in Cat Ba

Although cycling in Cat Ba is not too difficult, the hilly terrain and humid, salty climate also require you to have appropriate preparation.

  • Choose a mountain bike or a hybrid bike with good brakes and sturdy tires.

  • Bring drinking water, a thermos, some quick snacks, and mosquito repellent – especially if you are cycling through the forest.

  • A helmet, sunglasses, and gloves will protect you better on steep sections and in strong sunlight.

  • Always check the map and download an offline map in advance in case of signal loss.

Lưu ý khi thuê xe đạp

Notes on renting a bicycle

 

And finally – slow down. Cat Ba is not a place to rush. Here, every turn of the wheel is a slow-motion frame, taking you through a world where nature remains pristine and gently beautiful.

13. Visit Than Cong Fortress - A Military Historical Site

13.1. Explore the wartime defense system

Located atop a 177m high mountain, Than Cong Fortress was built by the French army in 1942 to control the strategic sea area in Cat Ba. It was once a solid defense system with 5 sturdy concrete bunkers, 12 ammunition cellars, and a 1.2km long tunnel connecting combat positions.

Pháo đài Thần Công

Than Cong Fortress (Photo: Collected)

 

During the resistance war against the US (1965–1975), the fortress was converted into an air defense system with 8 85mm cannons and 12 37mm cannons. It was here that the Cat Ba air defense force bravely shot down 33 US aircraft, including the famous F-4 Phantom – its wreckage is still preserved and displayed at the museum, as a vivid testament to history.

Today, Than Cong Fortress is not only a war relic but also an attractive destination for history lovers and exploration enthusiasts. The relic site is preserved with three impressive exhibition rooms: weapons, war documents, and vivid battlefield models. The entrance fee is 80,000 VND/adult and 50,000 VND/child, open from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM daily. This is an ideal place for you to feel the resilient spirit of the Vietnamese nation, while admiring the majestic natural beauty from an ideal altitude.

13.2. Enjoying the panoramic view of Cat Ba from the fortress

What amazes visitors upon arriving at Than Cong Fortress is the spectacular view from the rooftop. From here, you can gaze out at Lan Ha Bay with hundreds of islands dotted amidst the emerald waters. In the distance are Hai Phong Port to the north, Ha Long Bay to the east, and the Cat Ba archipelago stretching to the south – all creating a majestic natural panorama rarely found elsewhere.

The most ideal moment for photography and sightseeing is from 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM, when the afternoon sun gilds the water surface and bathes the limestone mountain ranges in golden light. 

The fortress is also equipped with resting areas with stone benches and vending machines, offering a gentle relaxing space amidst fresh nature. However, as the path up to the fortress is quite steep, you should prepare sports shoes and bring drinking water for a more comfortable and complete journey.

14. Night swimming under a starry sky

14.1. Safe beaches for night swimming

Cat Ba at night is not only romantic but also offers a unique sea bathing experience under the starry sky. If you want to immerse yourself in the gentle sea water in a quiet atmosphere, start at Cat Co 1 beach – which is equipped with lighting systems from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM and has a 24/7 on-duty rescue team. The beach has a gentle slope depth, with water 1–1.5m deep extending about 100m offshore, making it very safe for both adults and children. The evening water temperature ranges from 24–26°C, providing a warmer, more comfortable feeling than during the day.

Bài Cát Cò 1 - Bãi biển an toàn cho tắm đêm

Cat Co 1 Beach - Safe beach for night swimming (Photo: Collected)

 

For those who love tranquility, Cat Co 2 Beach is an ideal choice. With little artificial light, this place allows you to admire the sparkling starry sky, especially on moonless nights. However, as there are no lifeguards at night, you should go in groups and bring personal flashlights. Gentle waves, fine sandy bottom, and no reefs help ensure relative safety.

If you want to find a pristine feeling, try Van Boi Beach – a wild and beautiful corner amidst nature. With no electric lights, the night sky here opens up a brilliant dome of stars with the Milky Way clearly visible. But to ensure safety, you should only swim in shallow waters near the shore and always go in groups of at least 3 people.

14.2. Unique experience with a floating bar on the sea

One of the unmissable highlights when night falls is Sea Bar Floating – a unique floating bar located off Cat Co 1 Beach, about 200m from the shore. Operating from 7:00 PM to midnight, Sea Bar is designed on a 150m² floating platform, fully equipped with bar stools, round tables, sound, and vibrant lighting. You can swim or kayak for free to get here.

The menu includes tropical cocktails (120,000–180,000 VND), cold beer (45,000 VND), soft drinks (25,000 VND) along with some light snacks like french fries, crispy fried chicken wings. On Friday and Saturday evenings, a DJ will liven up the atmosphere with chill-out music from 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM – a relaxing music party in the middle of the ocean.

If you are looking for a more relaxed space, Sunrise Bar at Cat Co 3 Beach will be a reasonable choice. With a traditional beachfront bar style, this place is open 24/7, has loungers right by the water's edge and foot massage service (150,000 VND/30 minutes). Watching stars, listening to the waves, and sipping drinks at affordable prices (20–30% cheaper than Sea Bar Floating) – this is a paradise for young groups who love relaxation without spending too much.

15. Challenge with adventurous water sports

15.1. Windsurfing and jet skiing in Lan Ha Bay

Lướt ván buồm và moto nước tại Vịnh Lan Hạ

Windsurfing and jet ski at Lan Ha Bay (Photo: collection)

Lan Ha Bay is not only famous for its peaceful beauty but also a paradise for sea sports enthusiasts. Thanks to stable northeast winds of 15–20 km/h from October to March, it is ideal for windsurfing activities. The sea sports center in Cat Ba rents windsurfing boards for 200,000 VND/hour, including life jackets and basic technical guidance. Beginners should try learning for 1–2 hours on shore before going out to sea.

The dedicated windsurfing area is located 300m from the beach to ensure safety. The average depth is 3–8m, with a fine sand bottom, free of reefs or seaweed. During the strong wind season (November to February), waves of 0.5–1m create an interesting challenge for experienced athletes.

Alongside this, jet skiing is also an activity chosen by many tourists. Rental prices are 500,000 VND/30 minutes or 800,000 VND/hour. Minimum requirements: the operator must be 16 years old or older and able to swim. Each jet ski is equipped with GPS tracking and an emergency communication system. Operating hours are from 8:00 to 17:00 – an ideal time to enjoy the speed while ensuring safety in a sea area with few boats.

15.2. Cliff jumping at coastal cliffs

If you are the adventurous type and not afraid of challenges, cliff jumping – jumping from cliffs into the sea – is an unmissable experience. At Sang Cave , cliffs ranging from 8–12m high with water depths of 15–20m create a perfect jumping spot. Each jump is thoroughly checked by a dive team to ensure absolute safety.

Monkey Island is also a popular destination with three different heights: 5m for beginners, 10m for experienced individuals, and 15m for those who want to push their limits. Each jumping spot is clearly marked and supported by professional instructors. The participation fee is 150,000 VND/person, including a life jacket, technical guidance, and insurance.

To ensure safety, participants must follow basic techniques such as keeping legs straight, hugging the chest, and looking straight ahead. Requirements: must be able to swim, have no heart conditions, and be between the ages of 14 and 55. Each person should jump a maximum of 3 times per day to avoid exhaustion. This is certainly one of the activities that leaves the most profound impressions during your exploration journey of Cat Ba.

So, you have the answer to the question “What to play in Cat Ba?” – from charming beaches, adventurous sports activities to romantic night bathing experiences or enjoying cocktails at a floating bar in the middle of the sea. Cat Ba is not just a resort destination, but also a place to explore, challenge yourself, and enjoy every vibrant moment. Whether you travel with family, friends, or alone, this beautiful island always has interesting things awaiting you. Come and feel the unique rhythm of life in Cat Ba!