Tra Bau Fishing Village: A peaceful escape in Lan Ha Bay

1. Overview of Tra Bau Fishing Village 

Tra Bau Fishing Village is a hidden gem in the heart of Lan Ha Bay, located just off Cat Ba Island. Unlike the bustling tourist hubs of Ha Long Bay, Tra Bau remains quiet and unspoiled, offering travelers a glimpse into authentic local life. Here, you’ll find:

• Towering limestone karsts rising dramatically from the emerald sea.
• Crystal-clear waters for a swim or paddle.
• Floating wooden houses and fish farms where local fishermen live and work.

Tra Bau Fishing Village

What makes Tra Bau unique is its tranquil atmosphere. Far from crowded routes, it’s the kind of place where you can kayak undisturbed, watch fishermen mend their nets, or simply float and take in the natural beauty. For those seeking a genuine cultural experience paired with stunning scenery, Tra Bau Fishing Village is the perfect stop.

2. How to get to Tra Bau

Reaching Tra Bau Fishing Village is an adventure in itself. The journey typically goes as follows:

• From Hanoi: Take a bus or private car (2–2.5 hours) to Hai Phong, then a speedboat or ferry to Cat Ba Island. Total travel time: around 3–3.5 hours.
• From Hai Phong: Direct speedboats connect Hai Phong to Cat Ba in about 45 minutes.

Take a wooden boat to Tra Bau Fishing Village

Once you arrive in Cat Ba Town:

• Board a boat or a small wooden sampan for a 20–25 minute ride across Lan Ha Bay to Tra Bau.
• Many travelers prefer booking a day cruise or overnight tour, as these often include Tra Bau as a highlight along with other attractions.

3. Top experiences in Tra Bau

3.1 Kayaking & SUP

Paddling through Tra Bau’s calm waters is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have in Lan Ha Bay. Whether you choose kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), the journey takes you past towering limestone cliffs and into quiet lagoons where few boats ever go. 

Along the way, you may discover small caves that can only be reached by water, adding a sense of adventure to the trip. The setting is tranquil, the water is clear, and the atmosphere feels far removed from the crowds—making Tra Bau one of the most peaceful and scenic places in Lan Ha Bay to enjoy paddling at your own pace.

Kayaking on Lan Ha Bay

3.2 Fishing & Clam Harvesting

Fishing and clam harvesting in Viet Hai Village offer a chance to step into the daily life of local fishermen. You can join them as they cast nets or set traps in the quiet waters, then try your hand at collecting clams or oysters along the shore. The experience often ends with a simple but unforgettable sea-to-table meal, where you cook and enjoy the fresh catch of the day, turning your efforts into a rewarding dining experience.

Collecting snails at Tra Bau Fishing Village

3.3 Swimming

The waters around Tra Bau are calm and refreshingly clear. Perfect for families with kids looking for safe swimming spots.

3.4 Fun & Games on Floating Platforms

Some tours in Tra Bau Village add a playful twist to the experience with fun and games on floating platforms. Visitors can take part in lighthearted team-building activities on rafts, join social games designed for groups of friends, or even dress up in traditional fisherman gear for unique photo sessions. These activities bring an element of joy and bonding, making the day not only adventurous but also memorable.

Enjoy fun games at Tra Bau Fishing Village

3.5 Visiting the Floating Village

Visiting the floating village is a must for travelers who love cultural exploration. Here, you can stroll through floating fish farms, observe daily routines on the water, and engage in conversations with local fishermen to learn about traditional aquaculture practices. The experience offers a rare glimpse into how communities adapt and thrive in a life far removed from modern conveniences, creating a truly authentic and eye-opening journey.

Relaxing on Tra Bau Village

4. Best time to visit Tra Bau Fishing Village 

Timing is key to making the most of Tra Bau:

• Dry season (April–October): Calm seas and sunny skies make it ideal for kayaking, swimming, and photography.
• Early morning or late afternoon: The light is soft, creating the best conditions for photos and a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Avoid stormy seasons: Late summer and autumn can bring heavy rain or rough seas—always check the forecast before your trip.
• Low season benefits: Visiting outside peak summer months means fewer boats and a more peaceful experience.

Overnight cruise on Lan Ha Bay 

5. Travel tips for visitors 

To make your visit smooth and enjoyable, keep these in mind:

• Pack swimwear, a hat, sunscreen, and a waterproof camera.
• Always wear a life jacket when kayaking or joining water activities.
• Book your tour in advance, especially during summer or public holidays.
• Respect the environment: do not litter, avoid touching coral reefs, and support local fishermen responsibly.

6. Nearby attractions to Tra Bau Fishing Village 

• Viet Hai Village: A small, traditional village hidden in Cat Ba National Park. Ideal for cycling, trekking, and experiencing rural Vietnamese life.
• Cai Beo Fishing Village: One of the oldest floating fishing villages in Vietnam, offering a deeper look into the country’s seafaring heritage.
• Ba Trai Dao Beach: Famous for its three small sandy coves surrounded by limestone mountains, perfect for swimming and kayaking.
• Dark & Bright Cave: A must-see spot for kayakers, featuring a scenic waterway that opens into a hidden lagoon.

7. Conclusion

Tra Bau Fishing Village is more than just a stop on the map—it’s a rare chance to slow down, connect with local life, and enjoy Lan Ha Bay at its most authentic. With its calm waters, floating homes, and hands-on activities, it offers a refreshing alternative to the crowded routes 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