Kayak and beach-hop around Lan Ha Bay & Cat Ba Island
A guided kayaking and beach-hopping experience through Lan Ha Bay and around Cat Ba Island — explore limestone karsts, hidden coves, floating fishing villages, and quiet sandy beaches. This trip combines active paddling with relaxing beach stops, swimming, snorkelling (optional), and local seafood tasting. Suitable for intermediate paddlers and first-timers with a short safety briefing.
Location
Lan Ha Bay & Cat Ba Island, Hai Phong, Vietnam
Duration
Options: Half-day (4–5 hours), Full-day (8–10 hours), or Overnight 2D/1N
Best Time to Visit
Best months: March–May and September–November (milder temperatures, calmer seas). Peak season: June–August (warm, busier). Avoid rough weather in winter monsoon months (December–February) and watch for typhoon season (July–October).
Pricing
Shared day-trip: USD 45–70 (≈ VND 1,050,000–1,650,000) per person. Private kayak trip / small group: USD 90–150 (≈ VND 2,100,000–3,500,000). Overnight 2D/1N kayak + boat cruise packages: USD 120–220 (≈ VND 2,800,000–5,100,000) per person. Equipment (kayak, life jacket, paddles) normally included; meals and transfers may vary by operator.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Paddle through dramatic limestone karsts and sea caves
Visit secluded sandy beaches and hidden coves for swimming and sunbathing
Explore floating fishing villages and see local aquaculture
Snorkelling over rocky seabeds (equipment optional)
Picnic or seafood lunch on a quiet beach or local restaurant on Cat Ba
Opportunity to combine with an overnight boat cruise to see sunset and sunrise over the bay
Guided routes suitable for beginners after a safety briefing
Itinerary
Pick-up from Hanoi (optional) / transfer to Tuan Chau or Ben Beo pier; board boat to Lan Ha Bay
Transfers depend on operator; expect 2–3 hour drive from Hanoi or short transfer from Cat Ba Town.
Scenic cruise and orientation; safety briefing and kayak fitting
Listen to briefing, check life jacket fit and practice basic strokes in calm water.
First kayaking leg — paddle among karsts, visit a sea cave (if accessible) and stop at a secluded beach
Guide will lead; shore stop for swimming/snorkelling and beach picnic or lunch.
Continue beach-hopping and visit a floating fishing village or Viet Hai village (Cat Ba)
Opportunity to learn about local life, buy snacks, or walk short trails if on Cat Ba.
Optional second kayaking leg or relax on deck; light snacks and tea on board
Return cruise towards pier; sunset or late-afternoon light excellent for photos.
Arrive pier and return transfer to Cat Ba town or Hanoi (depending on package)
Overnight option: board an overnight boat or check into Cat Ba accommodation for 2D/1N trips.
Safety Requirements
Wear a properly fitted life jacket at all times while on the water
Basic swimming ability recommended; disclose any medical conditions to guide
Follow the guide’s instructions for tidal/current conditions and entry/exit points
Avoid kayaking in bad weather or rough seas — operators will cancel or reschedule if unsafe
Bring seasickness medication if prone to motion sickness
Keep a safe distance from boats and local traffic in busy channels
Tips
Bring a waterproof dry bag, spare clothes, and quick-dry layers
Wear reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and polarized sunglasses — sun exposure can be intense
Water shoes or sandals with straps are useful for rocky beaches and caves
Carry cash (VND) for refreshments, tips, or entry to Viet Hai village
Bring a reusable water bottle — many operators provide refills but check beforehand
Use a waterproof phone case or camera and protect electronics from saltwater
If you have limited kayaking experience, choose a guided or tandem kayak option
Respect local communities: do not litter, avoid touching coral, and ask before photographing people
