Enjoy stunning ocean views and green hills along the Cat Ba Coastal Road — Vietnam’s most scenic route connecting Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Town, perfect for a day trip.
1. Introduction to Cat Ba Island Coastal Road
Nestled in the heart of Lan Ha Bay, Cat Ba Island is known as the “green pearl” of the Gulf of Tonkin. It’s a paradise of limestone mountains, turquoise waters, and untouched natural beauty.
Among its many attractions, the Cat Ba Island coastal road stands out as one of the most scenic routes in Northern Vietnam. This stunning road winds along the cliffs, offering endless ocean views and a refreshing breeze from the sea.
Cat Ba Island Coastal Road
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know — from where the road is, how to get there, the best viewpoints to stop at, and a few travel tips to make your journey smooth and unforgettable.
2. Overview of Cat Ba Island Coastal Road
The Cat Ba coastal road stretches from the Cat Ba Town center all the way to Phu Long – Gia Luan in the north of the island.
The beauty of Cat Ba Island Coastal Road
- The road runs along the mountainside and the coastline, giving you breathtaking panoramic views of Lan Ha Bay and limestone karsts rising from the sea.
- It’s part of a newer route built to better connect the island, improving access between the ferry pier (Cai Vieng) and the town center.
- If you arrive at Cat Ba by ferry from Hai Phong, you’ll automatically travel through this coastal road — and you’ll quickly understand why it’s so famous.
Smooth, clean, and winding gracefully through hills and beaches, it’s a dream route for both nature lovers and photographers.
3. How to get Cat Ba Island Coastal Road
To explore the Cat Ba coastal road, you first need to reach Cat Ba Island:
The Cat Ba entrance gate shaped like a langur’s head
- From Hanoi: Take a bus to Hai Phong (about 2 hours), then a ferry to Cat Ba Island.
- From Ha Long: Speedboat or ferry to Cat Ba Town (45–60 minutes).
Best time to go: early morning for the calm atmosphere, or late afternoon for magical sunset views over Lan Ha Bay.
4. Top experiences along the coastal road
Driving the Cat Ba coastal road isn’t just about getting from point A to B — it’s about soaking in every curve and view. Here are some must-try experiences:
The coastal road around the island is incredibly romantic
- Cycling: Rent a bike and enjoy a slow-paced ride through stunning scenery.
- Motorbike adventure: Cruise along the winding road, stop at hidden viewpoints, and feel the ocean breeze.
- Sunset watching: Several spots along the route overlook Lan Ha Bay — the colors at dusk are unforgettable.
Each turn of the road reveals new perspectives — turquoise coves, forested cliffs, and fishing boats dotting the horizon.
5. Travel tips for visitors
The coastal road leading to Cat Ba National Park
To make the most of your ride along the Cat Ba coastal road, keep these tips in mind:
- Safety first: The road is generally safe, but be cautious on sharp turns and during rainy weather.
- What to bring: water, sunscreen, a camera, and some cash (few ATMs along the way).
- Nearby attractions: Combine your trip with visits to Cat Ba National Park, Kim Giao Forest, or Viet Hai Village for a full nature experience.
Even a short drive can turn into an adventure if you take time to stop, breathe, and enjoy the island’s peaceful rhythm.
6. Recommended itinerary
Here’s a simple itinerary for a half-day or one-day trip along the coastal road:
Cat Ba coastal road
Morning:
- Rent a motorbike in Cat Ba Town.
- Start the ride toward Gia Luan.
- Stop at Lan Ha Bay viewpoint for photos.
Noon: Enjoy lunch at a seaside restaurant or bring a picnic to relax by the road.
Afternoon:
- Continue north to Gia Luan.
- Take short stops to admire the ocean and limestone cliffs.
- Head back toward town, catching the sunset view over the bay on your return.
Cat Ba coastal road
7. FAQs about Cat Ba Coastal Road
Q1: Where does the Cat Ba coastal road start and end?
It runs from Cat Ba Town to Gia Luan ferry port in the north of the island.
Q2: Is it safe to drive a motorbike here?
Yes. The road is new and well-maintained — just drive carefully around bends.
Q3: How long does it take to ride the whole road?
Around 45 minutes to 1 hour without stops. Expect longer if you pause for sightseeing.
Q4: Are there cafes or rest stops along the way?
A few small cafes and viewpoints offer drinks and local snacks.
Q5: What’s the best time for photography?
Sunrise for soft light over the mountains, and sunset for glowing golden views over the bay.
8. Conclusion
The Cat Ba Island coastal road is one of the best ways to experience the island’s natural beauty. The route offers open sea views, quiet mountain curves, and easy stops for photos or short breaks. Whether you ride a motorbike, cycle, or take a car, it’s a simple and enjoyable trip that fits easily into any Cat Ba itinerary.
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
