Where is Viet Hai Village?

Viet Hai Village Cat Ba is an ancient fishing village nestled in Cat Ba National Forest, with an area of about 141 hectares, and is home to 70 households.

Surrounded by mountains, forests, and the sea, Viet Hai Cat Ba is almost isolated from the bustling and busy tourist area on Cat Ba Island.

Thanks to its pristine natural landscapes and friendly and hospitable people, Viet Hai Fishing Village Cat Ba has attracted many domestic and international tourists.

If you have the opportunity to set foot here, you will really have an unforgettable experience. Through this article, let's learn about the ancient fishing village of Viet Hai.

How to get to Viet Hai Village Cat Ba?

To go to Viet Hai Village Cat Ba, you have 2 great routes to choose from:

Take the boat from Beo Wharf to Lan Ha Bay.
Trek through Cat Ba National Forest.

1. By Boat from Cai Beo Pier

From Cai Beo Pier in Cat Ba Town, travelers can take a boat or ferry through Lan Ha Bay to reach Viet Hai Pier.

Lan Ha Bay entrance ticket: around 80,000 VND
Boat ticket: about 50,000 VND per person
Private tender: 200,000 VND (one way)
6-seat speedboat: 800,000 VND (one way)

The ride takes about an hour, offering breathtaking views of Lan Ha Bay’s limestone cliffs and floating fishing villages. From Viet Hai Pier, you can continue by bicycle or electric buggy for 4 km to reach the village center.

Many Lan Ha Bay tours and Cat Ba day trips include a stop at Viet Hai Village, combining kayaking, swimming, and exploration of local culture — perfect for those who want a mix of relaxation and adventure.

Viet Hai Pier

Book a day tour to Lan Ha Bay to explore Viet Hai Fishing Village with activities like kayaking, swimming, boat slides, bay jumping, cycling, and fish massage.

Book a bus & tour

Serenity Grandeur Cruise

2. By Trekking Through Cat Ba National Park

If you’re into adventure, hiking from Cat Ba National Park gate to Viet Hai is a fantastic experience.

Buy a ticket (160,000 VND/person) and start a 12 km jungle trek through lush tropical forest, limestone caves, and natural streams until you reach the village.

This trek is moderately challenging, so it’s best for travelers with decent fitness.

You can hire a local guide at the park entrance for safety and navigation — they also share stories about the wildlife and history of Cat Ba Island.

Trekking Cat Ba National Park to Viet Hai Village

The 2 routes to Viet Hai fishing village Cat Ba above are both very beautiful, and each route is a completely different experience, so I think you should try both routes.

I had a trip through the forest to Viet Hai village in Cat Ba and back to Cat Ba town by waterway through Lan Ha Bay; it was a wonderful experience for me.

In particular, the sea route is often much simpler than the route through the national forest.

Top Things to Do in Viet Hai Village

1. Experience Local Village Life

In Viet Hai Fishing Village, time seems to slow down. Locals are kind, open, and incredibly honest — many homes stay unlocked even at night.

You can walk freely around the village, chat with families, and see how they grow vegetables, raise chickens, and repair fishing nets.

Once isolated for decades, Viet Hai Village Cat Ba now thrives as a model of community-based tourism, balancing development with traditional culture and environmental protection.

Coming to Viet Hai fishing village, visitors can participate in plowing fields

2. Cycle Around the Village

Cycling is the best way to explore Viet Hai Village. Rent a bicycle or an electric buggy and ride through rice fields, bamboo paths, and ancient banyan trees.

The route is quiet, flat, and full of scenic photo spots — perfect for a peaceful Viet Hai biking tour.

3. Try the Famous Fish Massage

This quirky local activity is a must-try! Dip your feet in a clear stream and let hundreds of tiny fish gently nibble at your skin. It’s surprisingly relaxing — a natural spa treatment found only in Viet Hai Cat Ba.

4. Live Like a Local

You can join daily farming or fishing activities: plant rice, cast fishing nets, or feed livestock with villagers.

This immersive experience makes Viet Hai Fishing Village one of the most authentic eco villages in Vietnam and a highlight of any Cat Ba trekking tour.

5. Accommodation and Local Food

Viet Hai Fishing Village offers several homestays and eco-lodges, most built with bamboo, wood, and stone, blending perfectly with nature.

The rooms are simple yet cozy, ideal for travelers who love rustic charm and local experiences.

Meals here are homemade and organic — fresh vegetables from the garden, free-range chicken, and locally caught fish. Dining in Viet Hai Village feels like sharing a family meal rather than visiting a restaurant.

Travel Tips for Visiting Viet Hai Fishing Village

Best time to visit: March - May or September–November (cool, dry weather).
What to pack: Trekking shoes, mosquito spray, hat, and camera.
Hire a guide for jungle trekking - it’s safer and more informative.
Stay overnight for the full experience - sunsets and starlight here are unforgettable.
Respect local customs: Always ask before photographing people or homes.

FAQs – Viet Hai Fishing Village Travel Guide

1. How can I get to Viet Hai Village from Cat Ba Town?

You can reach Viet Hai Village Cat Ba by boat from Cai Beo Pier, which takes about one hour and passes through scenic Lan Ha Bay.

Alternatively, you can hike around 12 km through Cat Ba National Park for a more adventurous experience. Many visitors combine both routes - one way by boat, the other by trekking.

2. What activities can travelers do in Viet Hai Fishing Village?

Visitors can enjoy cycling through the countryside, joining local fishermen, trying the fun fish massage, or trekking through the surrounding forest trails.

Staying overnight in a homestay is also a great way to experience authentic local life and Vietnamese hospitality.

3. Are there homestays or places to stay in Viet Hai?

Yes. Viet Hai Fishing Village has several cozy homestays and eco-lodges built from natural materials like wood and bamboo.

These offer simple but comfortable accommodation, with homemade meals using local ingredients. Advance booking is recommended during weekends and holidays.

4. Why should I visit Viet Hai Fishing Village?

Because Viet Hai Fishing Village represents the peaceful, authentic side of Cat Ba Island, it is a perfect escape from the busy tourist zones.

It combines nature, culture, and tranquility, offering visitors a genuine glimpse into the life of a small Vietnamese fishing community surrounded by stunning scenery.

5. What is the best time to visit Viet Hai Village?

The best time to visit Viet Hai Village is from March to May and September to November, when the weather is cool, dry, and ideal for both boat trips and trekking through the national park.

6. Is it safe to trek to Viet Hai Village through the forest?

Yes, it’s safe if you’re well-prepared and physically fit. The trail can be challenging, especially after rain, so wearing proper shoes and hiring a local guide is highly recommended. Always bring water, insect repellent, and a fully charged phone.

7. How long should I spend in Viet Hai Cat Ba Island?

A half-day trip is enough for sightseeing, but to fully experience the atmosphere - local food, biking, and stargazing - it’s best to stay overnight.

The calm evenings in Viet Hai Fishing Village are truly magical and unlike anywhere else on Cat Ba Island.

8. Can I visit Viet Hai Village on a Lan Ha Bay cruise?

Yes. Many Lan Ha Bay cruises and day tours include a stop at Viet Hai Village. These tours often combine kayaking, swimming, and cycling, making it a perfect mix of relaxation and cultural exploration.

9. What makes Viet Hai unique compared to other destinations in Cat Ba?

Unlike the bustling Cat Ba Town or crowded beaches, Viet Hai Fishing Village remains untouched, eco-friendly, and community-based.

It’s a place where modern tourism coexists peacefully with traditional life - a true hidden gem for nature lovers and culture seekers.

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Viet Hai Village - Rustic beauty at Cat Ba Island