The viewpoints on Cat Ba Cat Ba Island are offering stunning panoramas of the surrounding landscapes. From the top of these viewpoints, you can see the turquoise waters of Lan Ha Bay, the lush greenery of Cat Ba National Park, and the picturesque fishing villages dotting the coastline. Some of the viewpoints are easily accessible by motorbike or car, while others require a bit of hiking or rock climbing to reach. Each viewpoint offers a unique perspective on the island’s natural beauty and is definitely worth the visit for those who want to experience the best of Cat Ba.
1. Cannon Fort
Cannon Fort on is considered the best viewpoint on Cat Ba Island because it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. From the top of the fort, you can see the stunning turquoise waters of Cat Ba Island, the rugged karst mountains, and the bustling town of Cat Ba below.
You can also see the Cat Ba National Park, with its lush green forests and diverse wildlife. It’s a great place to catch the sunrise or sunset, and to take in the beauty of the island from above. Additionally, the fort itself is a historical landmark, and you can learn about its significance during the Vietnam War.
2. Ngu Lam Peak
This viewpoint in Cat Ba is located in the heart of Cat Ba National Park and offers breathtaking views over the park’s lush forests, limestone cliffs, and valleys. Ngu Lam Peak is also the highest point on Cat Ba Island, located in the center of the island and towering at 322 meters above sea level.
To get there, you can hire a motorbike or join a guided tour to explore the park and learn more about the local flora and fauna. The hike to the top takes about 45 minutes to an hour and is moderately challenging. The road is quite steep and rocky, but the views from the top are absolutely breathtaking, offering a panoramic view of the whole island and the surrounding waters. On a clear day, you can even see all the way to Halong Bay. It’s definitely worth the effort to hike up to the summit for a unique and unforgettable experience.
3. Butterfly Valley
Butterfly Valley is the best place for rock climbing on Cat Ba. And what is more amazing than having stunning views of Halong Bay while hanging high on a cliff.
While rock climbing is an option for some parts of the valley, there is also a viewpoint accessible by foot and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding limestone mountains and the valley below. The hike up to the viewpoint is steep and challenging, but the views from the top make it worth the effort.
It takes about 30 to 45 minutes to reach the climbing areas and the viewpoint from Cat Ba Town by either motorbike or taxi. Alternatively, you can arrange a guided tour that includes transportation and climbing equipment rental.
4. Monkey Island viewpoint
The Monkey Island viewpoint, although technically not on Cat Ba Island itself, is situated nearby. You can easily reach this viewpoint by taking a boat from Cai Beo port, which is in close proximity to Cat Ba Town, to Monkey Island. From the viewpoint, you can enjoy a picturesque vista of the small island, as well as panoramic views of Cat Ba Island and the surrounding islands of Lan Ha Bay.
Unofficial viewpoints on Cat Ba
There are some unofficial viewpoints on Cat Ba Island that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. You can expect to see breathtaking views of the sea, beaches, forests, and mountains. These viewpoints may require some hiking or climbing to reach, but the effort is usually worth it for the unforgettable views.
- Hôtel Perle d’Orient Cat Ba – This resort is located on a hillside overlooking Cat Ba Town and the bay. Many of the rooms have balconies with stunning views, and there is also a rooftop bar and restaurant with panoramic views.
- Cat Ba Coastal Road: This road runs along the eastern coast of the island and offers panoramic views of the ocean and nearby islands.
- Cat Ba Town: There are several places that offer great views, including the harbor and the top floors of some hotels and restaurants or at this Cat Ba War Memorial.
There are (radar) towers scattered around Cat Ba Island that some adventurous travelers choose to climb for the stunning views they offer. However, it’s important to exercise caution as some of these towers may be old and climbing them may not be legally permitted and might be potential dangers.
