Lan Ha Bay

Cat Ba Island, Vietnam

Featuring flat water, sea caves, and hidden lagoons that are less crowded than Halong Bay and more accessible from Cat Ba.

Places in Lan Ha Bay

Cannon Fort A historic fort offering breathtaking sunset views over Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay.

Best time to visit: March, April, September, and October are the most recommended months for mild weather and calm seas.
Getting around: Most hotels and hostels are located on the waterfront, with Lan Ha Bay tours and Monkey Island reached by boat, and Cannon Fort a short climb above town for sunset views.
Currency: Vietnamese Dong (₫)
Language: Vietnamese. English is common in tourism.
Timezone: ICT (UTC+7)
Current trends: Cat Ba Island's hospitality scene continues to develop beyond backpacker hostels, with the cocktail and DJ format in beach clubs just starting to land in 2026, while Lan Ha Bay's kayaking and hidden lagoons remain the island's core draw as a less crowded alternative to Halong Bay.

Cat Ba town waterfront — Home to most hotels and hostels, including Central Backpackers Hostel with its swimming pool and happy hour.
Cannon Fort district — Home to Cannon Fort, offering breathtaking sunset views over the island.