About Lan Ha Bay
Lan Ha Bay is a karst bay south and east of Cat Ba Island in Cat Hai District, Hai Phong, Vietnam. Part of the Cat Ba Archipelago adjoining Ha Long Bay, it comprises around 400 limestone islets, emerald waters, secluded beaches and floating fishing villages. Inscribed as part of the Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is known for scenic cruises, kayaking and a less crowded alternative to Ha Long Bay.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect an emerald bay dotted with about 400 limestone karsts and islets, calm waters, hidden lagoons, small sandy beaches and floating fishing villages such as Cai Beo. Access is by boat from Cat Ba Island or Hai Phong. Typical visits involve day cruises or overnight cruises, kayaking through caves and lagoons like Dark and Bright Cave, swimming at beaches such as Ba Trai Dao, sightseeing and photography of karst scenery within the Cat Ba Biosphere Reserve.
Key highlights
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Around 400 limestone karsts and islets with emerald water and lagoons
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Cai Beo Floating Village - one of Vietnam's oldest floating villages
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Kayaking through Dark and Bright Cave (Hang Sang Toi) and calm lagoons
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Secluded beaches including Ba Trai Dao (Three Peaches) Beach
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Part of Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago UNESCO World Heritage Site and Cat Ba Biosphere Reserve
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Less crowded cruising alternative to Ha Long Bay with overnight cruise options
History of Lan Ha Bay
Lan Ha Bay lies within the Cat Ba Archipelago, home to the Cai Beo archaeological site dating back about 7,000 years, evidencing early fishing cultures. The bay is part of the Cat Ba Biosphere Reserve and since 2023 part of the Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago UNESCO World Heritage Site for its karst geomorphology.
Culture & Context
The bay sustains traditional floating fishing villages, notably Cai Beo Village, where fishing communities live on floating houses and maintain aquaculture and fishing traditions characteristic of northern Vietnam's coastal culture.
Route
| By air |
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