Discover Cai Beo Floating Village in Cat Ba, Vietnam’s oldest fishing hub. Explore ancient culture, kayak through floating houses, and enjoy authentic local life.
1. Introduction to Cai Beo floating village
Hidden in the calm waters of Lan Ha Bay, Cai Beo floating village is one of the oldest fishing communities in Vietnam. Just a short ride from Cat Ba town, this unique destination offers travelers a glimpse into a way of life that has existed for thousands of years. Instead of modern high-rises or bustling markets, you’ll see wooden houses floating on the emerald water, colorful boats drifting by, and fishermen tending to their fish farms.
Cai Beo floating village on Lan Ha Bay
Visiting Cai Beo is not just about sightseeing, it’s about stepping into a living museum of culture and history. Here, you’ll find a blend of natural beauty and authentic traditions that make it a highlight for anyone exploring Cat Ba.
2. Where is Cai Beo floating village?
Cai Beo floating village location is right next to Cat Ba town, inside the stunning Lan Ha Bay. It’s extremely easy to reach:
- From Cat Ba harbor, you can hop on a small boat or kayak just 2 km away.
- A short 10–15 minute ride will bring you into the heart of the floating village.
- Most boat tours in Lan Ha Bay include Cai Beo as a stop.
Floating houses on the bay
Once you arrive, you’ll be surrounded by rows of floating wooden houses, fish cages below the water, and tranquil scenery. The water reflects shades of emerald and turquoise, creating postcard-perfect views. Cai Beo’s convenient location makes it one of the easiest cultural attractions to add to your Cat Ba itinerary.
3. History & cultural significance of Cai Beo floating village
Cai Beo is often referred to as the oldest floating village in Vietnam, with roots dating back more than 2,000 years. Archaeologists have found traces of ancient tools, pottery, and evidence that people have lived here since prehistoric times.
Fishermen catching fish at sea
Today, Cai Beo is home to hundreds of fishing families who continue to preserve the traditional lifestyle of their ancestors. They live in floating wooden houses, raise fish in sea cages, and travel primarily by boat. The village is not just a tourist attraction—it’s a living example of Vietnam’s maritime culture.
For many travelers, Cai Beo is a fascinating window into an ancient way of life that still thrives in the 21st century. Visiting here helps support the community and contributes to keeping this cultural heritage alive for future generations.
4. What to do in Cai Beo floating village
There’s no shortage of things to do in Cai Beo. While the pace of life here is slow and peaceful, it’s filled with unique experiences:
Kayaking to explore Cai Beo floating village
- See the floating houses: Each home is built on wooden rafts, complete with small gardens, pets, and fishing gear.
- Learn about fish farming: Villagers raise grouper, squid, and snapper in underwater cages, and many are happy to show you how it works.
- Kayaking & boat rides: Paddle through the calm waters to get closer to daily life.
- Photography: Capture stunning shots of colorful boats, friendly locals, and panoramic views of Lan Ha Bay.
Cai Beo is not a place for noisy entertainment—it’s a destination for authentic cultural encounters and serene landscapes.
5. How to visit Cai Beo floating village
Autumn on Lan Ha Bay
- By boat or kayak: Depart directly from Cat Ba harbor. Local boats charge affordable prices, and many day tours include Cai Beo.
- Best time to visit: The dry season (October to April) offers calm seas and clear skies, perfect for photography and kayaking. Early morning is best to avoid crowds and enjoy soft sunlight.
- Guided tours: You can book a tour that combines the village with Lan Ha Bay or Monkey Island.
6. Travel tips for foreign visitors
To make the most of your trip to Cai Beo floating village, keep these tips in mind:
Exploring Cai Beo floating village
- Go early in the morning for calm weather and fewer crowds.
- Respect locals’ privacy—always ask before taking photos of people.
- Bring essentials: sunscreen, hat, water, and a waterproof bag for your camera.
- Support the community: buy seafood directly from villagers or use their boat services.
- Combine attractions: Cai Beo pairs well with Lan Ha Bay cruising, Viet Hai village trekking, or Monkey Island.
7. FAQs about Cai Beo floating village
Q: How old is Cai Beo floating village?
Archaeological evidence suggests people have lived here for over 2,000 years, making it among the oldest floating villages in Vietnam.
Q: Can I stay overnight in Cai Beo?
No. There are no homestays in the floating village itself, but you can stay in Cat Ba town nearby.
Q: How to combine Cai Beo with Lan Ha Bay tour?
Most Lan Ha Bay cruises include Cai Beo as a stop, making it easy to enjoy both in one day.
Cai Beo floating village
8. Conclusion
Cai Beo floating village is more than just a sightseeing spot—it’s a living piece of history where tradition, culture, and natural beauty come together. As one of the oldest fishing villages in Vietnam, it offers travelers a rare chance to connect with local life on the water while surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of Lan Ha Bay.
If you’d like to explore Cat Ba Island, feel free to contact Cat Ba Du Ky Travel at +84 989 745 338 for travel advice. You can also check out our full-package Cat Ba tours below:
- Lan Ha Bay - Ha Long Bay 1 Day Boat Tour From Cat Ba
- Night Kayaking Tour With Bioluminescence Plankton On Lan Ha Bay
- Cat Ba National Park - Trung Trang Cave Half Day Trekking Tour
- Lan Ha Bay - Ha Long Bay 2 Days 1 Night Cruise From Cat Ba Island
- Ha Long Bay - Lan Ha Bay - Cat Ba Island 3 Day 2 Night Tour From Hanoi
