Top 5 Cat Ba Beaches You Must Visit in 2025

Explore the top 5 Cat Ba beaches with soft sand, clear waters, and hidden coves. Find the best spots, activities, and travel tips for an unforgettable island getaway.

1. Introduction to Cat Ba Beaches

Cat Ba Island, the largest island in Vietnam’s Lan Ha Bay, is a true tropical escape for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. Famous for its lush limestone mountains, vibrant national park, and charming harbor town, Cat Ba also offers some of the most beautiful beaches in northern Vietnam. The Cat Ba beaches are known for their clear turquoise waters, soft white sand, and dramatic cliffs rising right from the sea. Unlike the often-crowded Halong Bay, Cat Ba feels more laid-back and still preserves its natural charm.

Here, visitors can enjoy not just swimming and sunbathing, but also kayaking, snorkeling, and exploring hidden coves scattered across the bay. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most famous beaches on the island, highlight exciting activities, and share practical travel tips to make the most of your Cat Ba beach experience.

2. Top 5 Cat Ba Beaches you must visit

Cat Co 1 beach

Cat Co 1 Beach

Cat Co 1 is the most popular beach in Cat Ba, located just a short walk from the town center. It’s lively, energetic, and always buzzing with activities, making it a favorite among groups of friends and young travelers. The sandy shoreline stretches widely, with calm waves ideal for swimming. However, because of its popularity, it tends to get crowded during weekends and summer holidays. If you don’t mind the crowds, this beach is the perfect place to experience the vibrant energy of Cat Ba.

Cat Co 2 beach

Cat Co 2 Beach

Just a few minutes away, Cat Co 2 offers a quieter escape. With its fine white sand and crystal-clear water, it’s often considered the most picturesque among the three Cat Co beaches. The peaceful atmosphere makes it ideal for relaxation, sunbathing, or capturing Instagram-worthy photos. Couples and solo travelers often prefer Cat Co 2 for its calmness and natural beauty.

Cat Co 3 beach

Cat Co 3 Beach

Located a bit farther from town, Cat Co 3 is surrounded by resorts that provide stunning views of the bay. The water here is deeper and bluer, creating a more dramatic setting for swimming. With its modern facilities and more luxurious vibe, Cat Co 3 is well-suited for couples and travelers looking for comfort. A unique feature is that all three Cat Co beaches are connected by a scenic wooden walkway carved along the cliffs.

Tung Thu beach

Tung Thu Beach

Tung Thu Beach is a newer, artificial beach designed for both relaxation and recreation. It’s wide, clean, and equipped with modern amenities, making it a great option for families and larger groups. Thanks to its spacious layout, Tung Thu is also a popular spot for team-building activities and outdoor events.

Ba Trai Dao beach

Other Hidden Beaches in Lan Ha Bay

For those seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences, Lan Ha Bay is dotted with secluded beaches accessible by boat or cruise.

Monkey Island Beach is famous for its playful monkeys and panoramic viewpoint.
Ba Trai Dao Beach (Three Peaches) is loved for its crescent-shaped sandy coves.
Van Boi Beach is a tranquil escape surrounded by emerald waters.

Exploring these hidden gems offers a sense of adventure you won’t find on the main beaches.

3. Things to do at Cat Ba Beaches

Beach activities

A trip to Cat Ba beaches is not just about lying on the sand—it’s about embracing the island lifestyle. Swimming and sunbathing are, of course, the most popular activities, with calm waters perfect for cooling off on a hot day. For adventure seekers, kayaking and snorkeling reveal the stunning underwater world and hidden caves along the limestone cliffs.

If you enjoy staying active, many beaches offer space for volleyball, paddleboarding (SUP), or simply enjoying a book under a parasol. Don’t miss the magical sunsets that paint the sky orange and pink, a moment best enjoyed with a chilled drink in hand. In the evening, Cat Ba town comes alive with beachside bars and casual restaurants, offering the perfect way to wrap up a day by the sea. Whether you crave excitement or serenity, Cat Ba beaches deliver a balanced mix of both.

4. Travel tips for visiting Cat Ba Beaches

Kayaking on the sea

Best times: The best seasons to visit Cat Ba beaches are spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October), when the weather is warm, sunny, and stable.
Avoid peak crowds: Summer (July–August) can be hot and crowded, especially on weekends and Vietnamese public holidays. Winter (November–March) is cooler and less suitable for swimming.
Bring proper gear: Pack reef shoes for rocky areas and use eco-friendly sunscreen to protect the fragile marine environment.
Best photography times: Early mornings and late afternoons provide the softest natural light and help you avoid harsh midday sun.
Explore hidden beaches: For a more exclusive experience, consider booking a Lan Ha Bay cruise to access secluded beaches and coves away from the crowds.
Relax and enjoy: With a little planning, your beach trip in Cat Ba can be both relaxing and unforgettable, whether you’re swimming, kayaking, or just soaking in the views.

5. FAQ about Cat Ba Beaches

Q: Which is the most beautiful beach in Cat Ba?
The Cat Co trio—Cat Co 1, 2, and 3—are the most famous, each offering a different vibe. Cat Co 2 is often praised as the most scenic for its tranquility and fine white sand.

Q: Can you swim at Cat Ba beaches year-round?
Yes, swimming is possible most of the year, but the best months are from April to October. Winter can be chilly, and the sea may not be comfortable for swimming.

Q: Is Cat Ba better than Halong for beach activities?
Halong Bay is world-famous for cruising and sightseeing, but it has fewer natural beaches. Cat Ba, on the other hand, combines dramatic landscapes with sandy shores, making it the better option if beach time is a priority.

Relaxing on Cat Ba beaches

Conclusion

Cat Ba beaches offer stunning scenery, clear waters, and soft white sand. From lively shores to hidden coves, there’s a beach for every traveler. Swim, kayak, or simply relax and enjoy the views. Make sure to include Cat Ba in your Vietnam itinerary for an unforgettable beach experience.

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: