Escape the busy Cat Ba center and unwind at Tung Thu Beach, a hidden gem with clear waters, soft sand, and peaceful vibes perfect for a quiet seaside retreat.
1. Introduction to Tung Thu Beach
Cat Ba Island, nestled in the heart of Lan Ha Bay, is one of northern Vietnam’s most beloved beach destinations. While most travelers head straight to the famous Cat Co beaches, there’s a quieter, more secluded spot waiting to be explored – Tung Thu Beach.
Just a few minutes from Cat Ba Town, Tung Thu offers a perfect escape for those who love peace, nature, and a touch of local charm. It’s not just another beach, it’s where you can unwind and enjoy the island’s authentic atmosphere without the crowds.
Tung Thu beach in Cat Ba island
2. Overview of Tung Thu Beach
Located only 2 km from Cat Ba Town’s pier, Tung Thu Beach is easy to reach.
- Scenery: The beach is embraced by towering limestone mountains, with fine white sand and clear turquoise water.
- Vibe: Calm, clean, and peaceful – ideal for relaxing after a day of island adventures.
- Crowd level: Far less crowded than Cat Co beaches, making it a great choice for couples, families, or solo travelers looking for quiet time.
In short, if the Cat Co beaches feel too busy, Tung Thu is your private slice of paradise.
Overview of Tung Thu beach
3. How to get to Tung Thu Beach
Reaching Tung Thu Beach is simple and scenic:
From Cat Ba Town:
- Walk or rent a bicycle – it takes around 10–15 minutes.
- By motorbike – only about 5 minutes following the paved coastal road with sea views.
From hotels farther away: You can take a taxi or ride a motorbike along the main road toward the town center, then follow signs to “Tung Thu Beach.”
The peaceful beauty of Tung Thu beach
The road is well-marked and smooth, passing small local houses and glimpses of the bay – a beautiful little journey before you even reach the sand.
4. Things to do at Tung Thu Beach
4.1. Swimming and sunbathing
The water here is shallow, clean, and calm – perfect for both beginners and families with kids.
Find a quiet corner, stretch out your towel, and let the sound of the waves lull you into relaxation. It’s an ideal spot for reading, meditating, or simply soaking up the sun.
4.2. Kayaking and SUP
- Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard (SUP) in Cat Ba Town.
- Paddle along the coastline to Tung Thu and explore limestone cliffs up close.
- For those craving a bit more adventure.
Check in at Tung Thu beach
4.3. Photography and relaxation
Tung Thu Beach is one of the most photogenic spots on Cat Ba Island. The limestone cliffs rise dramatically behind the soft white sand, creating a striking natural backdrop. As the day goes on, the crystal-clear water mirrors the afternoon light, while the setting sun bathes the entire bay in warm golden and orange hues. Whether you’re an avid photographer or simply someone who loves beautiful scenery, Tung Thu is the kind of place that makes you want to enjoy the moment.
5. Facilities and services in Tung Thu
Though Tung Thu Beach remains peaceful and unspoiled, it still offers enough facilities for a pleasant and convenient visit:
- Local cafes and seafood restaurants: A few small eateries along the beach serve freshly prepared seafood, snacks, and cold drinks — perfect for relaxing after a swim.
- Public showers and restrooms: Clean and easy to access, allowing visitors to freshen up comfortably before heading back to town.
- Parking area: Space is available for both motorbikes and bicycles, ideal for those exploring Cat Ba on their own.
6. Best time to visit Tung Thu Beach
Tung Thu Beach can be visited year-round, but certain months and times of day will give you the most rewarding experience:
Best time to visit Tung Thu beach
- Best months: From April to October, when the weather is warm, sunny, and perfect for swimming. The sea is calm and clear, creating ideal conditions for both relaxation and water activities.
- Avoid peak storm season: July and August may bring occasional tropical showers or rougher seas. If you travel during this time, it’s best to check the weather forecast before planning a beach day.
- Ideal time of day: Visit in the early morning to enjoy a peaceful swim and the soft light of sunrise, or come in the late afternoon when the sun begins to set, casting golden reflections on the water.
7. Nearby attractions to the beach
If you have more time, combine your beach visit with nearby attractions:
- Cat Co 1–2–3 Beaches: The main beaches of Cat Ba, more developed with beach bars and water sports. A good contrast to Tung Thu’s tranquility.
- Cat Ba National Park: About 30 minutes from the town. Perfect for trekking, spotting wildlife, and discovering the island’s lush jungle.
- Hospital Cave: A fascinating historical site used during the Vietnam War, carved right into the limestone mountain.
- Trung Trang Cave: A massive natural cave with stunning stalactites and a cool temperature – ideal for an afternoon adventure.
Swimming at Tung Thu beach
8. Travel tips for visitors
Before heading to Tung Thu Beach, keep these in mind:
- Bring water, sunscreen, and a reusable trash bag.
- Avoid littering – the beach’s charm lies in its cleanliness.
- Don’t swim too far if you’re alone or during strong tides.
- Rent a motorbike for easy access to different beaches and viewpoints on Cat Ba Island.
9. FAQs about Tung Thu Beach
Q1. Is there an entrance fee for Tung Thu Beach?
→ Usually free, unless you’re using resort facilities nearby.
Q2. Can I camp at Tung Thu Beach?
→ Yes, but ask for permission from local authorities or nearby resorts first.
Q3. Is the beach crowded?
→ Not at all! It’s much quieter than the main beaches, especially in the morning or on weekdays.
Q4. Is swimming safe here?
→ Yes, the water is calm and clean, but always watch for deeper areas and follow local safety advice.
10. Conclusion
It’s close to town, easy to reach, and offers that rare blend of scenic beauty and tranquility. Whether you want to swim, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the island’s slower rhythm, Tung Thu gives you the perfect balance between comfort and nature.
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
