Nestled in the Gulf of Tonkin, the Cat Ba Archipelago, often referred to as the "Emerald Island," is rapidly transforming into a premier international destination. With its breathtaking blend of ancient forests and crystalline waters, Cat Ba is no longer just a weekend retreat but a symbol of sustainable development and the harmonious coexistence of humanity and nature.
Photo: A view of Cat Ba Island (Source: http://Cathai.haiphong.gov.vn)
A New Global Stature
Cat Ba’s allure has reached new heights following its recognition by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage site, an honor shared with the neighboring Ha Long Bay. This international status has significantly enhanced the island's competitive edge on the global tourism map. The archipelago’s incredible biodiversity, most notably the rare Cat Ba Langur, has even captured the attention of international media, featuring prominently in documentaries by Belgian television.
Statistically, the island’s popularity is booming. In 2025, Cat Ba welcomed over 4.5 million visitors, with a notably increasing proportion of international travelers. By the first half of 2026, the island continued its strong momentum, serving over 2.5 million guests, including more than 583,000 international tourists. This surge generated an impressive revenue of over 2,771 billion VND from accommodation and dining services alone.
The "Green" Strategic Shift
Photo: A Cat Ba Island – Cross Road (Source: http://Cathai.haiphong.gov.vn)
Moving away from mass tourism, Cat Ba is resolutely implementing a green tourism strategy, prioritizing ecological conservation and the quality of the visitor experience. A cornerstone of this "greening" process is the decisive reduction of aquaculture cages in the bays to restore the pristine beauty and water quality of the heritage site.
Hai Phong City has officially issued a Green Tourism Criteria set to provide a clear roadmap for businesses and residents. Today, tourism establishments on the island have actively committed to eliminating single-use plastics—a move highly praised by international travelers. Visitors like Anna Müller from Germany have expressed delight at the feeling of living amidst pure nature, free from noise and plastic waste.
Diverse Experiences: From Deep Forests to Silver Seas
Cat Ba offers unique four-season experiences for every type of traveler. Adventure seekers can challenge themselves with trekking tours through the National Park or join marathons and sports events organized on the island. For those who prefer vertical challenges, Butterfly Valley has been described by National Geographic Traveller as a "paradise for climbers," featuring dramatic limestone cliffs and winding caves.
Viet Hai Village serves as a model for community-based green transition. In this tranquil village, the traditional landscape is meticulously preserved, and motor vehicles are strictly limited. Visitors can explore the area by electric car, bicycle, or on foot to fully inhale the fresh, unpolluted air.
Beyond its scenic bays and turquoise beaches, Cat Ba is enhancing its nightlife, cultural festivals, and culinary scene. Local delicacies, such as the famous "Grilled Cat Ba Squid with Salt and Chili," remain a top choice for food enthusiasts.
Smart Infrastructure and Seamless Connectivity
To meet the standards of a modern international destination, the Cat Hai district has accelerated its digital transformation. A network of 58 free Wi-Fi hotspots has been installed and operated in public areas, including piers, squares, parks, and administrative centers. This infrastructure allows tourists to easily access digital utilities, look up information, and share their experiences in real-time.
Furthermore, a green transportation roadmap is being prioritized. The use of cable cars and electric vehicles is encouraged to reduce the burden on road infrastructure and lower carbon emissions, ensuring the "Emerald Island" remains green and clean.
Accessibility to Cat Ba is also set for a future revolution. The city is fast-tracking the Hanoi – Quang Ninh High-Speed Railway Project, which includes a section through Hai Phong. Once completed in 2028, this project will further streamline the journey for domestic and international visitors traveling from the capital.
Towards a National Tourism Area in 2026
With synchronized solutions ranging from administrative reform to infrastructure investment, Cat Ba is on track to officially become a National Tourism Area by 2026. Local authorities are committed to standing alongside businesses and residents, fostering an environment where every citizen acts as a "green tourism ambassador"—hospitable, safe, and civilized.
Cat Ba invites you not just to visit, but to participate in a journey of preserving the world’s most precious heritage values. Come and feel the vitality of the ancient forests, the vastness of the sea, and the warmth of the people on the "Emerald Island".