Lan Ha Bay – The green gem of Northern Vietnam

Lan Ha bay is an absolute must visit destination when you travel to Cat Ba Island. Get ready to explore all the epic spots you cannot miss when visiting Lan Ha bay with Beka Travel!

Where is Lan Ha Bay

Located in Hai Phong province right next to Ha Long Bay and wrapping around the entire Cat Ba island Lan Ha bay is a stunning natural masterpiece. Covering 70 square kilometers it features 366 islands in incredibly beautiful shapes. It boasts 139 pristine sandy beaches that are perfect for chilling and swimming. In 2020 Lan Ha bay was officially recognized as one of the most beautiful bays globally. Let us dive into what makes this place so outstanding!

Lan Ha Bay – The green gem of Northern Vietnam

Best Time to Visit Lan Ha Bay

Northern Vietnam has four distinct seasons. From April to June is the most vibrant time. The sky is clear and the water is calm making it perfect for sightseeing and swimming in Lan Ha bay. Autumn brings bluer skies and a quieter vibe ideal for relaxing though you should watch out for occasional storms. You can visit Lan Ha bay at any time of the year depending on your personal schedule and vibe.

Top Attractions in Lan Ha Bay

Cai Beo Floating Village

This is your first stop near Beo wharf. It is one of the largest and oldest floating villages in the country. You will see around 300 floating fish cages providing fresh seafood for Cat Ba town. Surrounded by rocky mountains it is super safe from rough seas. Visitors can even watch locals feeding the fish which is a super unique experience.

A fishing village in Lan Ha Bay.

Monkey Island (Cat Dua Island)

Just 1.5 kilometers from town Monkey Island has two gorgeous wild beaches named Cat Dua 1 and Cat Dua 2. You can swim in the clear blue water watch the playful monkeys and catch a breathtaking sunset over Lan Ha bay.

Dark and Bright Cave

Also known as Ca Cave this spot is perfect for kayaking. Surrounded by limestone mountains it feels like getting lost in a fairyland. Paddle through the cave arches on a sunny day to see hidden coral reefs of all shapes and sizes.

Ba Trai Dao Beach

This area features over 30 natural white sand beaches at the base of small islands. Shaped like three peaches it is a top spot to relax swim and kayak. Thanks to its unspoiled scenery it even served as a filming location for the blockbuster Kong Skull Island.

Ba Trai Dao Beach, famous for having the clearest seawater in Lan Ha Bay.

Epic Activities on Lan Ha Bay

Kayaking in Lan Ha Bay

Kayaking is the best way to truly feel the water. You can paddle through Dark and Bright Cave or around Ba Trai Dao. Kayak rentals are around 50000 VND but if you book a package tour with Beka Travel you will not need to spend extra money to hire one.

Experience kayaking in Lan Ha Bay.

Swimming in Lan Ha Bay

You definitely should not miss this activity. Jump straight from the boat into the cool water! The wild sandy beaches hold fascinating seashells and fossilized corals making the experience even more authentic.

Where to Stay in Lan Ha Bay

Authentic 2 Day 1 Night Homestay in Viet Hai Village

If you want a real local experience our 2 day 1 night homestay in Viet Hai village is the ultimate choice. Tucked away in the national park this experience lets you cycle around the peaceful village connect with locals and enjoy a genuine island lifestyle.

Fisherman Floating Houses and Island Resorts

You can also stay in a floating house to fish for squid at night or chill at a beachfront resort right at the foot of the islands like Nam Cat Island or Freedom Beach.

What to Eat in Lan Ha Bay

• Local fish soup: Made from fresh sea fish with a sweet and sour taste from pineapple and tamarind.

• Grilled dried squid: Perfect to eat while drinking a cold beer on the boat.

• Steamed crab and mantis shrimp: Fresh sweet and cooked perfectly with beer and lemongrass.

• Raw fish salad: A unique local dish mixed with galangal and chili served with local herbs.

Book Your Lan Ha Bay Adventure

Whether you want a full day boat trip or a 2 day 1 night adventure Beka Travel has you covered. If you go on your own you have to worry about chartering a private boat buying tickets and organizing everything. By booking a tour with us you get the best service and a perfectly planned itinerary so you can just focus on having an amazing time on Lan Ha bay.