13 Romantic Things to Do for Couples in Cat Ba You Can’t Miss (2024 Guide)
12 September 2024
Planning a romantic getaway? Well, Cat Ba Island is just about an ideal spot that melds adventure and relaxation with breathtaking views of nature. Name it, and couples will do it in Cat Ba, from exploring the most secluded beaches to enjoying luxurious cruises across the bay of Lan Ha. This guide will take you through the most unforgettable experiences, from relaxing with a view of the setting sun to participating in thrilling activities. Check for further information on the best places to stay and travel tips at Roza Palace, where you can find everything for your great stay on Cat Ba Island.
1. Rooftop Sunset Viewing at Roza Palace
For couples seeking a romantic and tranquil experience in Cat Ba, the rooftop terrace at Roza Palace offers an unbeatable spot for sunset viewing. Nestled in the heart of the island, Roza Palace provides breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes. As the sun sets over the horizon, the rooftop transforms into a serene haven where couples can enjoy the golden hues of the sky while unwinding in the peaceful ambiance. With comfortable seating and an elevated vantage point, it’s an ideal place to share a special moment while taking in the natural beauty of Cat Ba.
Visitor’s Tip: Arrive early to secure the best seats and enjoy a refreshing drink from the bar while waiting for the sunset. The views are particularly stunning on clear evenings, so check the weather forecast beforehand!
- WHERE: 255 1/4 Street, Cat Ba Island, Vietnam
- WHO: +84 983 961 280
- Website
- VIEW ON GOOGLE MAPS
2. Lan Ha Bay Private Cruise
Lan Ha Bay is a gentle alternative to the busier Halong Bay, featuring scenic cruises that allow couples to virtually have it all to themselves, with vistas of limestone karsts, crystal-clear waters, and romantic sunsets. Whether doing a full-day or half-day cruise, Lan Ha Bay is a tranquil and elegant retreat. Enjoy your seafood lunch onboard for an unforgettable experience with your special someone.
Visitor’s Tip: You should book the sunset cruise, and it would be a truly magical experience. The view was phenomenal, and less crowded as compared to Halong Bay.
- WHERE: Lan Ha Bay, Cat Ba Island, Hai Phong, Vietnam
- WHO: +84 983 961 280
- Website
3. Cannon Fort Viewing
Cannon Fort provides an extraordinary panorama to see Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay. This historical site should be included in a couples’ getaway itinerary as one gets great views and a sense of history. This is an excellent spot for romantic walking and finding some quiet environments away from the noisier parts of the island. You can even enjoy a coffee at the on-site café while taking in the view.
Visitor’s Tip: “Go in early morning to avoid crowd and have the fort to yourself for a peaceful experience.”
- WHERE: Cannon Fort, Cat Ba Island, Hai Phong, Vietnam
- WHO: +84 313 888 999
- Website
4. Relax at Tung Thu Beach
Tung Thu Beach stands out as one of the most beautiful beaches on Cat Ba Island and offers an ideal site for couples seeking some quiet time on a beach that is less crowded. The soft sand and gentle waves, along with the absence of crowds of tourists, make the location perfect for a peaceful day by the sea. Couples can sit down, swim, or simply enjoy the beauty of this more secluded part of the island.
Visitor’s Tip: “Go in the off-season and have the most quiet time. Snacks to go because the surrounding facilities are scarce.”
- WHERE: Tung Thu Beach, Cat Ba Island, Hai Phong, Vietnam
- WHO: N/A
- Website: N/A
5. Ngu Lam Peak Hike
For all the adventurous loving couples on Cat Ba Island, hiking to Ngu Lam Peak is a must-do activity. This hike takes approximately 45 minutes, with great views of the lush, green mountains and valleys. The trek is moderately easy, perfect for those couples who enjoy nature and just a bit of exercise while exploring the island.
Visitor’s Tip: “Bring plenty of water, especially if doing the hike in the summer months. The view from the top is worth the effort!”
- WHERE: Ngu Lam Peak, Cat Ba National Park, Cat Ba Island, Hai Phong, Vietnam
- WHO: +84 983 961 280
- Website: N/A
6. Floating Restaurants on Lan Ha Bay
Indeed, floating restaurants in Lan Ha Bay offer a whole new eating experience. They serve seafood dishes that have just been caught from the waters around you. You will enjoy a romantic dinner with your loved one while gently floating on the calm waters of the bay. Be sure to try the local specialties such as grilled shrimp and fresh crab.
Visitor’s Tip: “Book in advance by calling ahead to set the time and to organize the pick-up and transportation from the pier to the floating restaurant.”
- WHERE: Varies by restaurant
- WHO: N/A
- Website: N/A
7. Exploring Historic Hospital Cave
The Hospital Cave is an astonishing historical site built during the Vietnam War. It was a secret and bomb-proof hospital and safe house for soldiers. Today, it shows couples how this treasure trove unravels its fascinating history amidst cool interiors with picture-postcard surroundings. A great stop for a couple who loves history and unique experiences.
Visitor’s Tip: “Bring a flashlight to view parts of the cave that are dark, and if possible try to take a guided tour to appreciate its complete historical significance.”
- WHERE: Hospital Cave, Cat Ba Island, Hai Phong, Vietnam
- WHO: +84 983 961 280
- Website
8. Visit Viet Hai Village
Viet Hai is a quiet and traditional village in the middle of Cat Ba National Park. For a couple, this means having a nice ride on the bikes or going on a short hike to reach the village and see the serenity of the local life that dwells in it. It is really an ideal destination to get along with the cultural aspect of Cat Ba Island with all the natural beauty in the surroundings.
Visitor’s Tip: “Rent a bike at the entrance of Cat Ba National Park and enjoy an effortless ride through lush landscapes before reaching the village.”
- WHERE: Viet Hai Village, Cat Ba National Park, Cat Ba Island, Hai Phong, Vietnam
- WHO:+84 983 961 280
- Website
9. Cat Co Beaches (Cat Co 1, 2, 3)
Among the hottest destinations that most couples go to in Cat Ba Island are the Cat Co Beaches. Crystal-clear waters on the beaches, along with white sandy shores, plus a fine sunset make up a perfect day at the beach. Accessibility is great in Cat Co 1 and 2 for swimming, while Cat Co 3 is quieter and ideal for couples since it is private.
Visitor’s Tip: “Come in the very morning when nobody is crowding yet. Bring towel and sun protector!”
- WHERE: Cat Co Beaches, Cat Ba Island, Hai Phong, Vietnam
- WHO: +84 983 961 280
- Website
10. Cat Ba National Park Hiking
Cat Ba National Park is a haven for nature lovers, and it comes highly recommended as an adventure-filled day outdoors for any couple. With the park’s dense forests, limestone mountains, and valleys all hosting a number of wildlife, there are hiking trails offered. Serene hikes can be taken here and one can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this park.
Visitors’ Tip: “Wear sturdy shoes and bring mosquito repellent if visiting during the summer months. The park’s trails are well-marked but it is a good idea to have a map.”
- WHERE: Cat Ba National Park, Cat Ba Island, Hai Phong, Vietnam
- WHO: +84 983 961 280
- Website
11. Visit Ben Beo Harbor
The most significant port on Cat Ba Island is Ben Beo, from which a number of tours take off with regards to boats and fishing trips. It is at this place that couples are able to walk along the harbour and join for a tour around nearby islands, either Lan Ha Bay or floating villages, but all activities in one space make it a perfect spot for couples willing to go on an island-hopping activity.
Visitors’ Tip: “Book a tour early through one of the many local tour agencies, because during high season the tours fill up fast. Be sure to bargain a little for an even better price!”
- WHERE: Ben Beo Harbor, Cat Ba Island, Hai Phong, Vietnam
- WHO: +84 983 961 280
- Website: N/A
12. Explore Monkey Island
Only a very short boat ride from Cat Ba, Monkey Island is one of the more fun and adventurous stops for couples. The island is aptly called so because of the frolicking monkeys that play along its beaches, affording a rather singular experience. Couples can take a swim, hike up to the viewpoint for a panoramic view, or simply sit on the beach and watch the monkeys cavort with visitors.
Tips for Visitors: “Be careful with the monkeys; keep your stuff very well hidden, for they just love to snatch things from naive tourists!”
- WHERE: Monkey Island, Lan Ha Bay, Cat Ba Island, Hai Phong, Vietnam
- WHO: +84 983 961 280
- Website: N/A
13. Lan Ha Bay Kayaking
Kayaking through the bay of Lan Ha is highly recommended to all water-loving couples because of its tranquil environment brought about by calm waters and apparent limestone format. With this, couples will have the chance to enter hidden lagoons, paddle to certain caves, or even stop at some seclusive beaches for private time. This is a great way to experience the closeness of natural beauty that surrounds the bay.
Visitor’s Tip: “If you are new in town, then book a guided kayak tour. Those guys know the best-hidden spots, which aren’t filled with visitors.”
- WHERE: Lan Ha Bay, Cat Ba Island, Hai Phong, Vietnam
- WHO: +84 983 961 280
- Website: N/A
Things to Do for Couples in Cat Ba | TLDR Comparison Chart
| Place | Popularity | Miles/Kilometers Away (from Roza Palace) |
| Lan Ha Bay Private Cruise | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 1.2 miles / 2 km |
| Cannon Fort | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 0.9 miles / 1.5 km |
| Tung Thu Beach | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 1.5 miles / 2.4 km |
| Ngu Lam Peak Hike | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5.6 miles / 9 km |
| Floating Restaurants | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 2.8 miles / 4.5 km |
| Hospital Cave | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 3.1 miles / 5 km |
| Viet Hai Village | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 8.7 miles / 14 km |
| Cat Co Beaches (1, 2, 3) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 1.2 miles / 2 km |
| Cat Ba National Park | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 6.2 miles / 10 km |
| Ben Beo Harbor | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 1.6 miles / 2.6 km |
| Monkey Island | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 3.7 miles / 6 km |
| Kayaking in Lan Ha Bay | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 1.2 miles / 2 km |
FAQs: Things to Do for Couples in Cat Ba
1. What is the best time to visit Cat Ba Island for couples?
The best time to visit Cat Ba Island for couples is from September to November and then from March to May. This is the time when the weather is much friendly, and you can easily participate in various outdoors, such as hiking, kayaking, or beach trips, without suffering so much from the strong summer heat or the heavy rain. Visiting outside of peak tourist season ensures a more intimate and peaceful experience.
2. How to get to Cat Ba Island from Hanoi?
Starting from Hanoi to Cat Ba Island, one can take a shuttle bus or private car to Got Pier and then take the ferry up to Cat Ba Island. In total, it takes approximately 3.5 hours, which makes for a very easy day trip or multi-day get-away. Quite a number of transport providers, such as Cat Ba Express, offer hassle-free transfers for couples.
3. What are the most romantic activities for couples on Cat Ba Island?
Some of the most romantic things that couples can do include a private cruise around Lan Ha Bay, enjoying the sunset at Tung Thu Beach, and visiting the scenic views at Cannon Fort. Couples enjoy fresh seafood at a floating restaurant or take a leisurely kayak excursion to hidden lagoons in Lan Ha Bay.
4. Would Cat Ba Island be a good alternative to Halong Bay for couples?
Yes, Cat Ba Island is a very good alternative to Halong Bay for a couple's holiday. Indeed, it offers the same breathtaking sceneries of limestone karst, but is much less crowded and thus more silent and romantic. The couples will be able to explore Lan Ha Bay, far less touristy than Halong Bay, with the possibility to get private boat tours, quieter beaches.
5. How many days does a couple need on Cat Ba Island?
Couples can only have a good romantic holiday on Cat Ba Island if they at least spend 2 to 3 days there. The time will suffice for being on the beaches, making a visit to Cat Ba National Park, taking a boat trip around Lan Ha Bay, or relaxing in some of the luxurious resorts or boutique hotels on the island.
6. Does Cat Ba Island have luxury facilities for couples?
Yes, most of the high-class hotels in Cat Ba Island are couple-friendly, such as Hotel Perle d'Orient Cat Ba - MGallery and Flamingo Resort. The rooms at the mentioned hotels have sea views, private balconies, and extra amenities for spending a honeymoon or going on a romantic vacation.
Wrapping Up Your Romantic Getaway to Cat Ba
From adventure to relaxation, or both, Cat Ba Island indeed has something in store for every couple. You can sport kayak in hidden lagoons or catch the sunset on an isolated beach; remember, options for collecting lifelong memories with your loved one are galore. Some attractions, locations, and operating hours are subject to change based upon events, weather, or other unforeseen circumstances. Many times, good planning can mean the difference between an enjoyable visit and one that is frustrating.
When it comes to the best stay on Cat Ba Island, Roza Palace represents the best mixture of luxurious comfort with all kinds of conveniences at the fingertips. With a great location and stunning views, together with world-class amenities, it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of exploration. Sipping cocktails by the pool or relaxing in a romantic mountain-view room, Roza Palace surely tops the list for couples visiting Cat Ba.
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