From Bali To Santorini, I Still Choose Cat Ba Island (Vietnam) As The Most Worthwhile Place To Return

I've chased paradise across the globe - from the powdery white sands of the Maldives and the deep blue waters of Bora Bora to the vibrant tropical islands of Thailand. Yet all these celebrated destinations blurred into watercolor memories the moment I first glimpsed Cat Ba’s ethereal landscape - Vietnam’s best-kept secret that defines comparison.

I arrived in Cat Ba on a morning in August last year, just as the sun began to rise, casting its first golden rays over the majestic limestone cliffs of Lan Ha Bay. This was the perfect time to explore clear blue skies, gentle sunshine, and a calm sea as smooth as glass. The locals told me that summer, from April to September, is the best season to experience Cat Ba at its finest. During these golden months, the waters transform into crystal pools, beaches become silken ribbons of white, and the island's dramatic landscapes emerge in their full, breathtaking glory. It’s also the ideal time for outdoor adventures, from swimming and kayaking through Lan Ha Bay to enjoying the island’s vibrant nightlife.

My journey began suspended between sky and sea – a cable car journey that compressed time into fifteen exhilarating minutes. From above, Cat Ba revealed itself as nature's masterpiece - a canvas where fifty shades of green dissolve seamlessly into infinite blues, creating a living artwork that no human hand could replicate.

While Ha Long Bay has long been a favorite among international travelers, I'm sure that Lan Ha Bay is a hidden gem, retaining its untouched beauty. Embracing the local spirit, I opted for a kayak to explore this serene bay. Rowing gently, I let the calm waters guide me. The locals advised that to truly appreciate Lan Ha Bay's beauty, one should row slowly, listening to the rhythmic splash of the oar against the tranquil surface, and admire the towering, moss-covered limestone cliffs that stand like natural guardians of this peaceful sea.

I sneaked through the hidden valleys, where sunlight barely pierced, illuminating only a strip of the emerald water. Occasionally, I found myself squeezing through low-ceilinged caves, spaces just wide enough for my kayak to glide through. Each part of the journey revealed nature's wonders, and along the way, locals greeted me from their modest boats, their warm smiles and friendly waves adding to the sense of belonging. Everything here, from the people to the landscape, exuded breathtaking beauty.

I dedicated a day to trekking through Cat Ba National Park, a lush expanse of verdant forests, fresh air, and a serene atmosphere. Among ancient trees reaching toward heaven, I experienced the rarest of privileges - glimpsing a Cat Ba langur - one of the world’s most endangered primates with fewer than 80 individuals left on Earth.

In the afternoon, I boarded a cruise, sipping on a cocktail while basking in the sunset over Lan Ha Bay. As the sun gradually descended behind distant mountain ranges, painting the sky in vibrant hues of orange, a profound sense of tranquility washed over me. Later, I strolled along the beach under a starlit sky, listening to the gentle lapping of waves - a reminder that such authentic experiences are what make a journey truly memorable.

No tales of Cat Ba would be complete without indulging in the local cuisine. The aroma of grilled geoduck clams with scallion oil, the crispiness of salt-roasted mantis shrimp, and the flavorful sweet and sour horseshoe crab salad…all bring the flavor of the ocean into each dish. Whether dining in a luxury or a seaside restaurant, the seafood in Cat Ba is consistently fresh and delectable.

Cat Ba still retains its pristine charm, but I sense that it won't be long before this place becomes the new generation destination. Signs are emerging: luxury cruises, luxury resorts, and growing interest from international travelers.

I've traveled to many places, but none have captivated me and made me yearn to return like Cat Ba Island. If you're seeking a new seaside paradise, now is the perfect time to explore. Are you ready to be enchanted by Cat Ba Island?