Cat Ba Island is a large island near Halong Bay in Vietnam. The initial intention of coming here was to find a Southeast Asian island for a holiday, not wanting to go to popular places like Phu Quoc or Nha Trang with many East Asian tourists, so I chose this less-known island. I didn’t expect that in January, one would need to wear a down jacket on a Southeast Asian island, and even more surprising was that this island, which has no recognition in China, was filled with a large number of European and American backpackers even during the off-season.
Highlights:
– Stunning scenery: Known as the “Guilin on the Sea,” it features karst peaks rising from the sea. A boat tour feels like traveling through a painting.
– Numerous activities: Sunbathing, hiking, cycling, caving, kayaking, and beachcombing; there’s no chance of getting bored!
Transportation: From Hanoi to Cat Ba Island, it takes 3 hours by bus, or you can take a bus from other major cities.
Tickets: Available on Vexere, 12GO, Bookaway, etc.
Accommodation: I stayed in a five-star Flamingo mountain view room, costing over 400 RMB per night, with three beautiful crescent-shaped beaches. Foreign backpackers usually stay in hostels or homestays, which are plentiful and cheap on the island.
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: Arrival
You can stroll around the town, relax on the beach, or if you’re adventurous, rent a motorcycle to ride around the island. In the evening, enjoy some seafood, and then have a beer and chat at a bar like the foreigners do. The beach below my hotel was great for beachcombing, with many hermit crabs, sea snails, and barnacles on the rocks, making it very interesting.
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: “Guilin on the Sea” Day Tour
* I booked a day tour, using GetYourGuide, for 700,000 VND. The group was all foreigners, but you could also book through a local travel agency with similar prices.
* A boat tour of Lan Ha Bay, where the scenery is breathtaking, and you can swim freely in the sea! 
* Kayaking between the karst peaks, feeling like an explorer!
* Lunch on the boat with Vietnamese cuisine, which was quite tasty! 
* In the afternoon, visit Monkey Island to play with the cute little monkeys! 
* A 7km bicycle ride through the countryside on the island! 
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: Hiking Adventure
* You can join a tour for a hike in the national park, trekking through the tropical rainforest, breathing fresh air, and feeling completely refreshed! 
* Climb to the top of the mountain and overlook the entire Cat Ba Island, with a sense of great accomplishment! 
* In the afternoon, explore caves, which is both mysterious and exciting, making you feel like an adventurer! 
In summary, Cat Ba Island is suitable for those who prefer less crowded, niche destinations and are interested in outdoor activities and natural scenery! Lower your expectations regarding Vietnam’s infrastructure, and you’ll be happier.
I totally get why you were drawn to Cat Ba Island – it sounds like the perfect escape from the usual tourist crowds. The weather in January seems quite unexpected for a Southeast Asian island, but that just adds to its charm! It’s interesting how some hidden gems remain unknown even in places like China. I’d love to explore it someday!
Cat Ba Island sounds like a unique escape! I can totally relate to wanting to avoid crowded tourist spots. It’s interesting how it feels more like a hidden winter retreat than a typical Southeast Asian island. I’d love to know more about what there is to do there besides enjoying the quieter atmosphere.
Cat Ba sounds amazing! It’s cool to hear about an undiscovered gem like this. I’d love to visit and explore its hidden charms myself.