Lan Ha Bay

Lan Ha Bay – The Emerald Gem of Cat Ba Island

Lan Ha Bay is a stunning gift from nature, boasting over 100 small, secluded beaches often described as “emerald straits.” Many of these sandy stretches lie nestled between limestone karsts, offering calm waters without large waves, making them ideal for visitors who enjoy swimming. In May 2020, the World’s Most Beautiful Bays Club certified Lan Ha Bay as one of the most beautiful bays in the world. This is an unmissable destination for anyone visiting Cat Ba Island.

Best Time to Visit

Lan Ha Bay experiences all four distinct seasons typical of northern Vietnam. Generally, the period from May to August marks summer, with calm seas, clear skies, abundant sunshine, and gentle breezes. This is the ideal time for swimming, cruising, and exploring the bay, and also the peak season for tourists.
From September to November, the bay becomes peaceful and tranquil, perfect for those seeking a quiet retreat. The weather is cool, and swimming is still possible during this time.
For the rest of the year, visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking in the surrounding forests and soaking in the fresh air.

Getting to and Exploring Lan Ha Bay

Transportation
The primary way to explore Lan Ha Bay is by boat. Visitors must first travel to Cat Ba Island and then purchase tickets for a boat trip at Ben Beo Port, located in the center of the island, to begin their journey through the bay.
For groups, hiring a private boat is a flexible option that allows you to customize your itinerary and schedule. For ticket prices and boat rental details, please contact Indochina Today Travel (DGB Travel) for more information.

Popular Lan Ha Bay Routes

Below are some of the most popular tour routes chosen by travelers:
Route 1: Ben Beo – Fishing Village – Monkey Island.
Route 2: Ben Beo – Monkey Island – Turtle Island – Viet Hai Port – Ba Trai Dao Islet – Dark Cave – Bright Cave.
Route 3: Ben Got – Gia Luan – Tra Bau – Ong Cam Lagoon – Dark Cave – Bright Cave.
Route 4: Cat Ba Tourism Center Port – Cat Ong Island – Thien Ung Pagoda.
Each route offers visitors the chance to experience the pristine beauty and peaceful atmosphere of Lan Ha Bay while discovering unique attractions.

For further information or assistance with ticket bookings, please don’t hesitate to contact Indochina Today Travel (DGB Travel) for the best advice and service!

Accommodation Options in Lan Ha Bay

Lan Ha Bay offers a variety of accommodation choices, from luxury resorts on Cat Ba Island to unique retreats and overnight cruises. Here are some excellent options to consider:

Staying on Cat Ba Island

In the past, small islands in Lan Ha Bay featured informal lodging options. However, to protect the marine ecosystem, these accommodations were removed by late 2022. Today, visitors can stay at hotels on Cat Ba Island, many of which offer spectacular views of Lan Ha Bay.
Top Recommendations:

Flamingo Cat Ba Beach Resort
Situated at Cat Co 1 and Cat Co 2 beaches, this resort features three modern buildings with amenities like a skywalk, all-season swimming pools, water slides, water sports activities, and event spaces.
Hôtel Perle d’Orient Cat Ba – MGallery
Known as the most luxurious boutique hotel in the area, this property blends elegant Asian-inspired design with panoramic views of Lan Ha Bay. Each room includes a private balcony, and facilities include a rooftop pool, spa services, a private beach, restaurants, and bars.

Freedom Island Retreat

Freedom Island Retreat is one of the rare accommodations located on Tự Do Island in the heart of Lan Ha Bay. The retreat is renowned for its unique two-faced beach, separated by a narrow sandbank. Guests can enjoy different scenic views by simply moving between the two beaches. This location is especially popular with international tourists and nature lovers seeking an off-the-grid experience.

Overnight Cruises on Lan Ha Bay

For those looking to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of Lan Ha Bay, overnight cruises are an unforgettable option. These luxury cruises come equipped with modern amenities and offer itineraries ranging from 2 days 1 night to 3 days 2 nights.
Recommended Cruises:

Heritage Cruises Binh Chuan
Mon Cheri Cruise
Scarlet Pearl Cruise
Stellar of the Seas
Paradise Grand Cruise

Onboard, travelers can enjoy activities like kayaking, exploring caves, fine dining, and taking in breathtaking sunsets.

Sunset Over Lan Ha Bay - A stunning sunset painting the sky and waters of Lan Ha Bay — Sunset Over Lan Ha Bay – A stunning sunset painting the sky and waters of Lan Ha Bay

Staying in Viet Hai Fishing Village

For travelers seeking tranquility and a closer connection to nature, Viet Hai Fishing Village is an ideal destination. Located amidst the serene landscapes of Cat Ba National Park, the village offers a selection of rustic homestays, such as:

Viet Hai Lan Homestay
Lotus Homestay
Whisper Nature Bungalow
Long Phuong Guesthouse

These accommodations provide a peaceful and authentic experience, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

What to Do in Lan Ha Bay: A Complete Guide

Cat Ba National Park

Cat Ba National Park, located in Cat Hai District, is one of Vietnam’s largest special-use forests. This park is a haven for diverse ecosystems, including marine life, terrestrial forests, and mangroves, as well as home to many rare plant and animal species. In 2004, Cat Ba National Park was recognized by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve. Visitors can enjoy various activities such as mountain climbing, trekking, or exploring the park by bicycle or motorbike, all while taking in breathtaking views of its lush landscapes.

Viet Hai Village

Situated within the boundaries of Cat Ba National Park and close to Lan Ha Bay, Viet Hai Village offers a unique experience in harmony with nature. Accessible by forest trails or by boat through the bay, this village is an emerging ecotourism destination. Popular activities include cycling and trekking tours, which provide visitors with a chance to immerse themselves in the pristine beauty of the area.

Monkey Island

Monkey Island, nestled in the heart of Lan Ha Bay, is the second-largest island in the Cat Ba archipelago. Once called “Cat Dua Island” due to its abundance of wild pineapple trees, the island is now home to more than 20 monkeys. These friendly yet sometimes mischievous creatures are a highlight for visitors. Be sure to exercise caution while interacting with them to avoid any unexpected surprises!

Luon Cave

Luon Cave is a must-visit destination for kayaking enthusiasts. Surrounded by a cluster of small islands, the cave features a wide entrance about 4 meters tall, 3 meters wide, and 100 meters long, leading to a tranquil brackish lake encircled by mountains. This serene spot is ideal for kayaking, offering visitors the chance to marvel at the stunning natural scenery up close.

Van Boi Beach

Van Boi Beach is renowned for its pristine natural beauty, soft white sands, and crystal-clear waters. It’s the perfect spot for activities like kayaking, swimming, or simply relaxing in a peaceful and quiet environment. The stunning views make it a favorite for beach lovers and adventurers alike.

Cai Beo Fishing Village

Recognized as a national heritage site in 2009, Cai Beo Fishing Village is one of the largest and oldest fishing villages in Vietnam. The village is known for its floating houses and aquaculture practices, such as fish farming in floating cages. Visitors can reach the village from Cat Ba Island, just 20 kilometers away, and enjoy the sight of vibrant floating homes scattered across the bay.

Dark and Bright Caves

The Dark and Bright Caves are fascinating natural wonders located on the water, stretching 70 meters through the mountain. Visitors can explore the caves by bamboo boat or kayak, making it a popular stop on many Lan Ha Bay tours. The stunning surroundings and tranquil ambiance make it an unforgettable experience.

Adventure Sports in Lan Ha Bay

For thrill-seekers, Lan Ha Bay offers plenty of adventure sports. Sea climbing around Cat Ba features dozens of challenging climbing spots on the islands and cliffs. Kayaking and swimming are also popular activities in the area. Tourists can rent kayaks or join guided tours to explore the bay’s serene and safe areas, such as the Dark and Bright Caves, Luon Cave, and Ba Trai Dao Beach.

Lan Ha Bay promises a wide range of activities for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those seeking peace and relaxation. Whether you’re exploring caves, cycling through villages, or kayaking in tranquil waters, this destination offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler.
Dining in Lan Ha Bay
Lan Ha Bay’s cuisine is renowned for its fresh and flavorful seafood, particularly specialties such as horseshoe crabs, geoducks, grouper fish, mantis shrimp, prawns, and a variety of shellfish. Visitors can savor these delicacies at local restaurants or purchase them as gifts to take home.
In the past, Lan Ha Bay featured numerous floating seafood farms where tourists could enjoy freshly prepared meals on-site. Nowadays, most dining experiences take place at restaurants on Cat Ba Island or involve self-organized BBQ parties on picturesque beaches like Monkey Island or Freedom Island.
Important Tips:

Always confirm prices before purchasing seafood, especially during the peak season from May to August.
Swim only at designated beaches, and wear a life jacket when swimming far from shore to ensure safety.

For detailed information and tour bookings, please contact Indochina Today Travel (DGB Travel)