1. Why experience Cat Ba at night?
Cat Ba by day is poetic with blue seas, golden sun, and a gentle pace of life, but when night falls, the island takes on a completely different appearance. No longer the familiar tranquility, Cat Ba at night becomes vibrant with lights from new urban areas, coastal streets, restaurants – bars, and especially the central square, always bustling and full of life.
For many tourists, it is this interesting contrast that makes Cat Ba at night an indispensable experience in their island exploration journey: a place where you can start your evening with fragrant seafood, continue with a seaside spot shimmering with lights, and end with lively melodies at a poolside bar. Cat Ba at night is not only beautiful but also lively, youthful, and attractive enough to captivate anyone who has experienced it.
2. How to get to Cat Ba Island
2.1. From Hai Phong center to Cat Hai
To get to Cat Ba, tourists first need to travel from Hai Phong center to Cat Hai district. You can choose a car, taxi, or local bus, with a popular route of about 40–50 km, taking 1–1.5 hours depending on traffic conditions. Along the way, you will cross large bridges and winding roads along the river, offering a convenient and relaxing experience.
2.2. From Cat Hai to Cat Ba Island
Tourists can quickly travel to Cat Ba Island by cable car. (Source: Collected)
From Cat Hai, tourists can travel to Cat Ba Island by the modern 3-wire Sun World Cat Ba cable car, a quick means that saves time and simultaneously allows you to admire the entire beautiful Lan Ha Bay from above. It only takes about 15 minutes to set foot on the island.
Alternatively, if you want to experience the sea and enjoy the fresh air, tourists can also choose a boat or ferry, with a travel time of about 45–60 minutes, which is both convenient and offers an experience close to nature.
3. Special entertainment activities in Cat Ba at night
3.1. Explore Cat Ba Night Market
Cat Ba Night Market is a must-visit destination where you can shop for unique souvenirs and handicrafts, and enjoy rich local cuisine such as fresh seafood, grilled bread, fried fermented pork rolls, or tropical fruit juices. Not only cuisine, but the market Cat Ba at night also offers exciting entertainment games and street experiences, allowing you to fully feel the island's nightlife.
Attractive grilled seafood dishes at Cat Ba night market. (Source: Collected)
3.2. Strolling, checking in at the central square and coastal strip
After visiting the night market, you can stroll along the streets around the central square and the coastal strip. The streets shimmer with lights, the open and airy space by the sea, along with small cafes and bars, create an ideal setting for check-ins, photos, and relaxation. This is also an opportunity to enjoy the peaceful yet dynamic rhythm of life in Cat Ba at night.
3.3. Night squid fishing
Another characteristic experience that many tourists love is night squid fishing. You can join local fishermen or rent a small boat, enjoy the feeling of closeness to the sea, feel the cool air, and savor your catch right on the boat. This activity not only brings joy but also offers a unique cultural experience of the island's fishing life.
4. Coastal cuisine and relaxation in Cat Ba at night
4.1. The Forest Beach Club and The Sea Beach Club restaurants
Located by Cat Ba beach, the two prominent restaurants, The Forest Beach Club and The Sea Beach Club, offer an unforgettable coastal dining experience. The menu here focuses on fresh seafood, paired with Sun Kraftbeer craft beer – a perfect choice for those who want to savor the island's distinctive flavors.
The open sea-facing space, soft lighting, and the sound of gentle waves create an ideal relaxing setting for dinner or gatherings with friends.
4.2. Cafes and bars with sea views at night
If you want to sip drinks and admire Lan Ha Bay at night, Cat Ba offers many luxurious cafes and bars with impressive sea views, suitable for both groups of friends and couples:
4.2.1. Lan Ha Sky Bar
Visitors can admire the sparkling Cat Ba at night from Lan Ha Sky Bar. (Source: Collected)
Located on the 17th floor of the Flamingo Grand building, Flamingo Cat Ba Resorts, Lan Ha Sky Bar offers a 360° view embracing Lan Ha Bay, providing a sense of luxury and spaciousness. In the evening, the place sparkles under the lights and chill music, where visitors can enjoy cocktails, spirits, and exquisite drinks.
4.2.2. MGallery Skybar Coffee
Located within the MGallery Cat Ba resort, MGallery Skybar Coffee combines luxurious Indochine space with a stunning view of Lan Ha Bay and majestic limestone mountains. The ideal time to visit is at sunset, when the orange sunlight covers the sea, creating a vibrant and emotional scene.
4.2.3. Tsunami Cafe & Camping
Located at 243 Cai Beo street, Tsunami Cafe & Camping offers a nature-friendly style, combining an outdoor cafe with a unique camping area. The spacious sea-facing – mountain-facing space creates a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for large groups, team-building, or visitors who want to experience a youthful, fresh cafe style.
5. Tips for playing in Cat Ba at night
The evening in Cat Ba is cool, so visitors should bring a light jacket. (Source: Collected)
To fully experience Cat Ba at night, you should note some useful tips, from preparing outfits and equipment to choosing accommodation and beautiful photo spots.
Choose outfits and prepare equipment: Prioritize light, comfortable, and easy-to-move-in clothing, especially if participating in outdoor activities or walking along the coast. Don't forget to bring a light jacket or a scarf, as the temperature can drop at night and the sea breeze is cool. If you want to capture memorable moments, prepare a camera or phone with a good night mode, a compact tripod, or a gimbal for smooth video recording.
Cat Ba at night is a perfect combination of cuisine, entertainment, and romantic sea scenery. Whether you want to enjoy fresh seafood, experience the bustling atmosphere of the night market, or relax with a cup of coffee by the sea, Cat Ba can meet your needs. Take time to explore and experience Cat Ba at night to make your trip more complete and memorable.
