Are you planning a beach trip but don’t know where to go? Lan Ha Bay, with its pristine and majestic beauty, is a wonderful suggestion. Start planning now!
Have you ever dreamed of exploring a bay with hundreds of large and small islands, with smooth white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters? Lan Ha Bay will offer you such amazing experiences. Let’s explore Lan Ha Bay together through this A-Z travel guide for those visiting for the first time.
1. Overview of Lan Ha Bay, Cat Ba Island
Lan Ha Bay, a precious gem in the heart of the East Sea, is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature and exploration. Located to the east of Cat Ba Island, the bay boasts a pristine and majestic beauty with hundreds of large and small islands, mysterious caves, and long stretches of white sandy beaches.
Visitors here have the opportunity to explore a diverse ecosystem, experience the local lifestyle, and enjoy exciting activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and trekking. With a tropical monsoon climate, Lan Ha Bay offers different experiences throughout the seasons.
If you are looking for a place to relax, explore, and enjoy natural beauty, Lan Ha Bay is definitely a perfect choice.
Tổng quan về vịnh Lan Hạ Cát Bà
2. The Best Time to Travel to Lan Ha Bay
Lan Ha Bay experiences four distinct seasons like Northern Vietnam, each offering its own unique beauty and experiences.
Vibrant Summer (May – August): With bright golden sunshine and deep blue seas, this is the ideal time to immerse yourself in the cool waters, explore the bay by cruise, and enjoy vibrant outdoor activities. However, this is also the peak season, so travelers should book accommodations in advance.
Romantic Autumn (September – November): Lan Ha Bay in autumn resembles a watercolor painting with a clear blue sky and calm seas. The cool, pleasant atmosphere is perfect for enjoying romantic sunset evenings on a cruise or simply strolling along the beach.
Warm Winter (December – February): Although it is winter, the climate in Lan Ha Bay remains quite warm. This is a great time to explore the pristine forests, breathe in the fresh air, and savor delicious seafood.
Fresh Spring (March – April): As spring arrives, Lan Ha Bay dons a new outfit. The trees sprout fresh leaves, and the sea becomes even bluer. This is the perfect time to explore the untouched islands and enjoy the fresh atmosphere of the mountains and forests.
Thời điểm thích hợp để du lịch vịnh Lan Hạ
3. How to Get to Lan Ha Bay?
To reach the pristine beauty of Lan Ha Bay, you need to travel to Cat Ba Island. From the center of the island, you can easily find Ben Beo – the departure point for boats exploring the bay.
Public Boats:
- Cost-effective: The fare for public boats is quite affordable, starting from 80,000 VND per adult and 40,000 VND per child for a one-way trip.
- Flexible: You can choose from short or long day tours depending on your preferences and time.
- Connect with fellow travelers: This is a great opportunity to meet and socialize with new companions.
Private Boat Rentals:
- Privacy and Comfort: If you are traveling in a large group, renting a private boat will give you more privacy and flexibility in choosing your itinerary.
- Variety of Options: There are many types of boats available at different price levels, from small boats to large, luxurious ones.
- Pricing: The rental price depends on the number of people, type of boat, and rental duration. Typically, for a group of 10-20 people, the rental price ranges from 1.6 million to 5 million VND. For a group of 25-50 people, the rental price can be from 2.2 million to 7 million VND.
Some Tour Routes in Lan Ha Bay:
- Route 1: Ben Beo – Fishing Village – Monkey Island
- Route 2: Ben Beo – Monkey Island – Turtle Island – Viet Hai Village – Ba Trai Dao Island – Dark Cave – Light Cave
- Route 3: Ben Got – Gia Luan – Tra Bau – Ang Ong Cam – Dark Cave – Light Cave
- Route 4: Cat Ba Tourism Center Pier – Cat Ong Island – Thien Ung Pagoda
Di chuyển đến vịnh Lan Hạ thế nào?
4. Some Accommodation Options When Traveling to Lan Ha Bay
Lan Ha Bay was once famous for its spontaneous resorts on small islands. However, to protect the precious marine ecosystem, these resorts have been relocated. Nowadays, travelers have a wider variety of accommodation options, ranging from luxury resorts to budget homestays, suitable for all needs and budgets.
Luxury Resorts:
- Flamingo Cat Ba Beach Resort: With a prime location right on Cat Co beach, this resort offers guests a high-class vacation experience with modern rooms and a variety of recreational facilities such as a swimming pool, spa, and restaurant. The average room rate starts from 2 million VND per night.
- Hôtel Perle d’Orient Cat Ba – MGallery: A luxurious boutique hotel with an Asian style, providing a peaceful and private retreat. All rooms have sea-view balconies, along with premium services such as a restaurant, bar, and spa. Room rates start from 3.5 million VND per night.
Cruise Experiences:
- Luxury Cruises: Cruises like Heritage Cruises Binh Chuan, Mon Cheri, and Scarlet Pearl are perfect for those who want to enjoy a high-end vacation at sea. With modern amenities and professional services, guests will fully explore the beauty of Lan Ha Bay. Tour prices typically range from 2.5 million VND per person per night.
- Exploration Cruises: If you love adventure and want to experience life at sea, smaller cruises are a suitable choice. You can participate in activities such as fishing, snorkeling, and exploring pristine islands.
Homestays in Viet Hai Fishing Village:
- Peaceful Environment: Viet Hai fishing village is an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility and a chance to immerse themselves in the local lifestyle. Homestays here are usually affordable, ranging from 200,000 to 700,000 VND per night.
- Unique Experiences: You can engage in activities such as fishing trips, enjoying fresh seafood, and exploring the mangrove forests.
Một số địa điểm lưu trú khi du lịch vịnh Lan Hạ
5. What to Do in Lan Ha Bay, Cat Ba?
Cat Ba National Park
Cat Ba National Park, one of the most precious nature reserves in Vietnam, is an ideal destination for those who love exploration and want to immerse themselves in pristine nature. With its rich and diverse ecosystems, including mangrove forests, limestone mountain forests, and marine ecosystems, this national park is home to many rare species of flora and fauna.
Here, you can:
- Explore Trekking Routes: The diverse trekking paths, ranging from short trails to long expeditions, will take you through stunning natural landscapes, across pristine forests, and up to high peaks.
- Enjoy Scenic Views from Above: Standing on top of Ngu Lam Peak, you will be able to admire the panoramic view of the national park with its rolling mountains, lush green forests, and the expansive Lan Ha Bay.
- Discover Caves: The cave system within the national park holds many wonders, featuring diverse stalactites and unique ecosystems.
- Observe Wildlife: With a bit of luck, you might encounter rare wildlife such as monkeys, birds, and butterflies.
- Visit Viet Hai Village: After your exploration journey, you can visit Viet Hai village, a small peaceful village nestled in the mountains, to experience the local people’s way of life.
Vườn Quốc gia Cát Bà
Viet Hai Village
Nestled deep within Cat Ba National Park, Viet Hai Village is like a hidden gem surrounded by mountains and the sea. To reach this peaceful village, you can choose between two paths: through the lush green forests or across the picturesque Lan Ha Bay.
In the past, due to its rugged terrain and difficult access, Viet Hai was almost completely isolated from the outside world. However, now the village has gradually revealed its pristine beauty and has become an attractive destination for travelers. For those who love to explore nature and seek tranquility, Viet Hai is a perfect choice.
Why Visit Viet Hai:
- Explore Pristine Nature: Viet Hai is an ideal place to immerse yourself in nature, enjoy the fresh air, and discover stunning landscapes.
- Experience Village Life: You can visit local homes, savor fresh seafood dishes, and learn about the daily lives of the local people.
- Biking and Trekking Tours: The trails around the village are perfect for biking and trekking enthusiasts. You can explore freely or join guided tours.
Làng Việt Hải
Monkey Island
Located in the heart of Lan Ha Bay, Monkey Island (formerly known as Cat Dua Island) is one of the must-visit attractions when traveling to Cat Ba. With a considerable area and diverse ecosystems, Monkey Island is not only home to dozens of playful monkeys but also boasts beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters.
Đảo Khỉ
Luon Cave
Luon Cave is a masterpiece of nature, hidden among the vast archipelago of Lan Ha Bay. The entrance to the cave serves as a bridge between the outside world and a mysterious inner space, measuring about 4 meters wide, 3 meters high, and 100 meters long. As visitors paddle through the cave entrance, they will be surprised by a large brackish water lake surrounded by towering cliffs.
On the cliffs surrounding the lake, visitors can find fossilized freshwater shells, which tell stories about the ancient past of this land.
Hang Luồn Hang Luồn
Ancient Fishing Village of Cái Bèo
Nestled at the foot of a majestic mountain range, Van Boi Beach is like a hidden gem amidst the pristine nature of Lan Ha Bay. With its long stretches of fine white sand, crystal-clear waters, and tranquil atmosphere, this place is an ideal destination for those who wish to enjoy untouched beauty and seek peace and quiet.
Làng chài cổ Cái Bèo
Bright Cave – Dark Cave
Located about 12 km from Ben Beo, Bright Cave – Dark Cave is one of the most attractive destinations in Lan Ha Bay. With a length of approximately 70 meters, this cave runs through the mountain and is completely above water, resembling a mysterious maze that draws visitors in for exploration.
To fully appreciate the beauty of Bright Cave – Dark Cave, visitors often choose to kayak or use small boats. The feeling of freely exploring every little corner of the cave, admiring the magical stalactites, and listening to the gentle sound of the waves will surely be an unforgettable experience.
Hang Sáng – hang Tối
6. What to Eat in Lan Ha Bay, Cat Ba?
When visiting Lan Ha Bay – Cat Ba, you not only immerse yourself in the stunning natural scenery but also enjoy some of the freshest seafood. The cuisine here offers an unforgettable experience for any traveler.
Fresh and Diverse Seafood:
- Specialty Seafood: Local specialties include sea urchins, geoduck clams, grouper, mantis shrimp, prawns, and various types of snails, which are the main ingredients that create the distinct flavors of the coastal cuisine.
- Affordable Prices: You can easily find fresh seafood at reasonable prices. A pair of sea urchins usually costs between 500,000 to 700,000 VND, while a kilogram of geoduck clams is priced around 200,000 to 250,000 VND.
Ways to Enjoy Seafood:
- On Floating Houses: In the past, visitors often enjoyed fresh seafood right on floating houses in the bay. However, this practice has become less common today.
- On Cat Ba Island: There are many restaurants and eateries on Cat Ba Island serving delicious seafood dishes with a variety of cooking styles.
- BBQ on the Beach: You can buy your own seafood and organize a BBQ party right on beautiful beaches like Monkey Island or Freedom Island. This is a fun and memorable experience.
Some Signature Dishes You Should Try:
- Grilled Oysters with Scallion Oil: A simple yet incredibly appealing dish that retains the sweet flavor of the oysters.
- Salted Green Crab: Salted crab is fragrant and has firm, sweet meat.
- Grilled Squid: Fresh squid grilled to perfection, served with green chili salt.
- Steamed Grouper: Steamed grouper preserves its natural sweetness and has firm flesh.
Ăn gì ở vịnh Lan Hạ Cát Bà?
7. Some Tips When Traveling to Lan Ha Bay
- Prepare Personal Items: Sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, jackets, swimsuits, towels, etc.
- Protect the Environment: Do not litter and avoid damaging coral reefs.
- Safety When Participating in Sea Activities: Always wear a life jacket during sea activities and follow the guidance of your instructor.
- Bargain When Shopping: If buying seafood or souvenirs, you should bargain to get the best price.
Some Other Tips:
- Book Hotel Rooms in Advance: Especially during peak season, it is advisable to book your hotel room in advance to ensure accommodation.
- Bring Cash: Some places on the island may not have ATMs.
- Download Offline Map Applications: To avoid getting lost, you should download offline map applications before your trip.
Lan Ha Bay – Cat Ba will surely provide you with unforgettable experiences. With its pristine beauty, clear beaches, delicious seafood, and the friendliness of the local people, this place promises to be an ideal destination for your vacation.
Một số lưu ý khi du lịch vịnh Lan Hạ
Don’t hesitate any longer; start planning your trip today and explore all the wonderful things that Lan Ha Bay has to offer!
Source: bachhoaxanh online newspaper
