Archaeological studies have shown that humans have been living in Cat Ba for approximately 6,000 years. In 1938, French archaeologists discovered the Cai Beo site, a culture belonging to the Ha Long civilization that dates back 4,000 to 6,500 years. Artefacts such as stone axes, spearheads, animal bones, and shells found there prove that the Cai Beo inhabitants were among the first to settle in the northeastern coastal region of Vietnam, possessing advanced skills in fishing, hunting, and tool making. This suggests that Cát Bà could be one of the earliest human settlements in the area.

During the feudal period, Cat Ba was recorded as a land of abundance and beauty. According to the “Đai Nam nhất thống chí,” it was described as a wealthy coastal area with abundant fish and shrimp, magnificent natural scenery, and a peaceful life for the fishing villagers. Due to its strategic location within the Ha Long Archipelago, Cat Ba became an important stop for ships on maritime trade routes, a place for exchanging goods and obtaining fresh water before continuing their journey. In addition to its economic value, Cat Ba also held significant military importance in Vietnamese history. In 1750, the peasant rebel leader Nguyen Huu Cau chose this location as his base to fight against the Trinh dynasty’s feudal regime. Thanks to its rugged terrain, with many natural caves, he was able to organize his forces here, marking a significant chapter in the history of the feudal peasant uprisings.

During the two resistance wars against French colonialism and American imperialism, Cat Ba continued to demonstrate its strategic importance. In the resistance against the French, many caves on the island were used as secret military bases, serving as shelters and operational hubs for revolutionary forces. The rugged terrain enabled the people and soldiers of Cat Ba to carry out effective resistance activities, contributing to the nation’s overall victory.

During the Vietnam War against the Americans, Cat Ba became a target of numerous airstrikes from U.S. aircraft and warships. To counter this, many caves were transformed into shelters and field hospitals, with notable examples being Quan Y Cave and Than Cong Fortress. Today, these sites are not only historical relics but also popular tourist attractions, drawing visitors eager to learn about Cat Ba’s heroic past.

Today, Cat Ba is not only famous for its stunning natural scenery but also holds several important distinctions. In 2004, UNESCO designated the Cat Ba archipelago as a World Biosphere Reserve, recognizing its unique biodiversity and ecosystems. In 2013, the Vietnamese government classified Cat Ba as a National Special Heritage Site, highlighting its historical value and remarkable natural beauty. Most notably, on September 16, 2023, the Ha Long Bay-Cat Ba Archipelago was officially recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage site, marking a new milestone in its efforts to preserve and promote its natural values. Looking to the future, Cat Ba is focusing on developing an eco-tourism model and sustainable growth, with the goal of becoming a green destination that aims for net-zero emissions. Protecting the marine ecosystem, minimizing the impact of tourism on the environment, and promoting the use of renewable energy are among its top priorities. Thanks to these efforts, Cat Ba is increasingly establishing itself as a leading eco-tourism destination where visitors can enjoy the beauty of nature while contributing to the protection and preservation of this precious heritage for future generations.