Monkey Island Cat Ba: Travel Guide & Top Things to Do

Monkey Island Cat Ba (Cat Dua Island), located just off the coast of Cat Ba Island in the breathtaking Lan Ha Bay, offers emerald waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and peaceful beaches. Named after the wild monkeys that freely roam the island, it delights visitors with both natural beauty and lively wildlife. Beyond the views, travelers can hike scenic trails, snorkel in clear waters, or unwind on quiet shores—making it an ideal getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

What Is Monkey Island Cat Ba: A Travel Guide

Just off the coast of Cat Ba Island lies a little-known gem that feels worlds away from the bustle of town – Monkey Island. With its quiet beaches, mischievous monkeys, and rugged limestone hills, this tiny island offers a refreshing mix of nature, adventure, and charm. Whether you’re coming for the cheeky wildlife or the sweeping views over Lan Ha Bay, Monkey Island invites you to slow down, breathe in the salty breeze, and embrace the wild side of your Cat Ba journey.

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Why It’s Called Monkey Island?

The name Monkey Island comes from the group of wild monkeys that live freely on the island. These monkeys, mostly macaques, have become a signature part of the experience for visitors. They often wander near the beach and around the small resort, looking for food or simply observing tourists with curious eyes.

The island however, didn’t have this name long ago- it was called Cat Dua Island, meaning “Pineapple Island,” because of the many wild pineapple plants that used to grow here. Over time, as the monkeys became more well-known and popular with tourists, the island naturally took on its new, more memorable name: Monkey Island.

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How to get to Monkey Island?

Monkey Island is located about 2 kilometers from Cat Ba town and roughly 45 kilometers from Hai Phong city. It sits quietly in Lan Ha Bay, surrounded by emerald water and limestone cliffs. Though close in distance, reaching the island involves a few steps, especially if you’re coming from Hanoi.

From Hanoi

The journey begins with a trip to Hai Phong. The most convenient option is to take a tourist bus or limousine van, which costs around 250,000 to 350,000 VND (about 10 to 14 USD) per person and takes around 2.5 hours. Some services include hotel pickup and drop-off, making the trip smooth and easy.

You can also travel by train to Hai Phong for a slightly cheaper fare, then continue by taxi or local bus.

From Hai Phong

Travelers can reach Cat Ba Island in two main ways. The fastest is by hydrofoil (speedboat), which takes about 45 minutes and costs around 220,000 VND (about 9 USD) per person.

A cheaper option is by road and ferry: first, cross the Tan Vu – Lach Huyen Bridge to Cat Hai Island, then take two ferries to reach Cat Ba. This route takes about 2 hours, with ferry fees as low as 11,000 + 6,000 VND (under 1 USD), though local transport adds a bit more.

From Cat Ba town

Head to Ben Beo Harbor, just a few minutes away. Boats to Monkey Island take 10-20 minutes. A shared boat costs 80,000-100,000 VND (about 3-4 USD), while private boats range from 500,000-1,500,000 VND (20-60 USD), depending on size and time.

During low tide, you may need a small tender boat for the final stretch, costing an extra 10,000 VND (less than 0.5 USD).

Things to do in Monkey Island (off the coast of Cat Ba)

1. Watch the monkeys up close

The island’s playful monkeys are everywhere – climbing trees, exploring rocks, and sometimes coming right up to visitors. They’re fun to observe, but be careful with your food and bags, as they’re known to snatch anything that catches their eye.

2.Hike to the island viewpoint

A short, rocky trail leads up one of the hills on the island. The path is steep and a bit sharp underfoot, but the reward is a wide, breathtaking view of the sea and nearby islands. Wear proper shoes and take your time – the top offers a perfect spot to rest and take in the scenery.

3. Go kayaking around the island

Kayaks are available for rent at the beach or as part of a tour. Paddling along the calm shoreline lets you explore hidden corners and take in the quiet beauty of the area at your own pace.

4. Swim and relax on the beach

Monkey Island has a peaceful stretch of sand where you can swim, sunbathe, or simply sit and listen to the waves. It’s not crowded, and the gentle water makes it a great spot to cool off after a hike.

5. Try cliff jumping (only if it’s safe)

There are some low rocky ledges near the side of the island where adventurous travelers sometimes jump into the sea. This is not an official activity, so check the tide and water depth carefully before trying – safety always comes first.

6. Wake up to sunrise or enjoy a quiet sunset

If you stay overnight, you’ll experience the island in its quietest moments. Watch the sun rise slowly over the horizon or sit by the water as the day fades into soft evening light. No crowds, no noise – just nature and the sound of waves.

7. Take a local boat to explore nearby waters

From the island, you can hire a small boat to visit nearby beaches or just drift along the coast. It’s a gentle way to enjoy the sea and see more of the surroundings without leaving the calm atmosphere behind.

8. Play volleyball or beach games

A volleyball net is often set up near the resort area. Travelers from different backgrounds easily connect over a casual game. It’s lighthearted fun and a good way to stretch after a lazy afternoon by the sea.

9. Enjoy a seafood meal or drink by the water

The resort on the island offers simple meals and drinks, often with fresh seafood and cold beer. Sitting by the sea with a plate of local food and a light breeze – it’s one of the best ways to take in island life.

More activities to do beyond Monkey Island

10. Lan Ha Bay

Just beyond the shores of Monkey Island stretches a stunning seascape of emerald water, limestone karsts, and hidden coves. Less crowded than its famous neighbor, Ha Long Bay, Lan Ha offers a quieter, more intimate experience. Visitors can kayak through sea arches, swim in crystal-clear lagoons, or take boat cruises that weave through floating villages and untouched beaches. It’s a must for anyone seeking beauty and calm away from the crowds.

11. Cat Ba National Park

A short drive from Cat Ba town, this lush national park is perfect for nature lovers. Hiking trails wind through dense tropical forest, limestone mountains, and peaceful valleys. The trek to Ngu Lam Peak rewards visitors with sweeping views over the island’s wild green heart.

12. Hospital Cave

Hidden inside a limestone cliff, this historical cave once served as a secret hospital during the Vietnam War. It’s cool, quiet, and surprisingly spacious inside, with narrow corridors, stone beds, and eerie echoes that bring history to life.

13. Cai Beo Floating Village

On the way to Monkey Island, boats pass through Cai Beo – one of the oldest floating fishing villages in Vietnam. Dozens of wooden houses float gently on the water, surrounded by fishing nets and colorful boats. It’s a peaceful place to see a way of life that still flows with the tides.

14. Cat Co Beaches

Just a few minutes from Cat Ba town, Cat Co 1, 2, and 3 are three charming beaches connected by cliffside walkways. Each has its vibe – from lively swimming areas to quiet corners ideal for sunbathing or a sunset walk.

15. Trung Trang Cave

This cave is the largest on Cat Ba Island and offers a dramatic underground world of sharp stalactites, echoing chambers, and winding stone paths. It’s an easy stop on the way to the national park and adds a little mystery to your island journey.

16. Canon Fort (also known as Cat Ba Fortress)

Perched high above Cat Ba town, this old military site offers panoramic views of the sea, mountains, and harbor below. The concrete bunkers and rusting cannons are reminders of the island’s strategic past, while the hilltop café is a great spot to rest.

17.Viet Hai Village

Tucked deep within the national park and reachable by boat or bike, Viet Hai is a small, quiet village surrounded by jungle and limestone cliffs. Visitors can cycle through peaceful rice fields, chat with locals, and enjoy a slower pace of life.

Tips and advices before visiting Monkey Island

When’s the best time to visit the island

Monkey Island is best toi visit from April to October, when the weather is warm and the sea is calm. May to July is sunny but busy, while late September to early October offers fewer crowds and pleasant conditions. The cooler months (November–March) are less ideal due to cold water and occasional rain.

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What’s the entrance fee

80,000 VND per person (about 3 USD), with children under 1.2 meters often entering for free. On low tide days, a short transfer by small boat may add an extra 10,000 VND.

Pack light but smart

Sunscreen, mosquito repellent, a refillable water bottle, and a hat go a long way here. There are limited shops on the island, so don’t count on buying anything once you arrive.

Bring cash with you

Some places accept cards in Cat Ba town, but on Monkey Island, it’s best to have enough Vietnamese dong for small purchases or boat rides.

Check out the boat departure time

Plan your return trip before sunset. If you’re not staying overnight, make sure you arrange a round-trip boat in advance from Ben Beo Harbor.

No Wifi, Internet on the island

There’s little or no internet signal on the island. Make sure stay connected or inform your family or friends before departing to the island.

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Final thought: Is Monkey Island in Cat Ba worth the time?

Monkey Island may be small, but it offers a peaceful escape from the busy world, where monkeys roam freely, the sea stays calm, and time seems to slow down. Whether you come for a few hours or spend the night, the island leaves a quiet mark. It’s not just about what you do here, but how it feels: simple, wild, and wonderfully still. For those exploring the north of Vietnam, a visit to Monkey Island adds a gentle pause, one that’s worth every step of the journey.