Fodor's Expert Review Lan Ha Bay
Cat Ba Island
Fodor's Choice
Although it is technically and geologically an extension of Halong Bay, the 300 or so karst islands of Lan Ha Bay feel somewhat removed from tourist traffic. Lying south and east of Cat Ba Town, they are too distant for most of the tour boats that leave from Halong City to reach. Therefore visitors here, mostly on itineraries arranged in Cat Ba Town, can enjoy the sense of peace and isolation that Halong Bay has arguably lost. Sailing, snorkeling, and kayaking are popular activities here. Lan Ha Bay also possesses several idyllic beaches such as Hai Pai Beach (also known as Tiger Beach), and day tours are cheap, starting at 360,000d.
