Vietnam’s Cát Bà Island Named One of Southeast Asia’s Best by National Geographic

Vietnam’s Cát Bà Island Named One of Southeast Asia’s Best by National Geographic

The American travel magazine praises Cát Bà as a paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

Hải Phòng, Vietnam 
Cát Bà Island has been recognized by National Geographic Traveller (U.S.) as one of the eight most amazing islands to explore in Southeast Asia. The magazine calls it a “playground for climbers, cave explorers, and adventurers who love limestone cliffs rising from the sea.”

A Highlight of Southeast Asia’s Islands

In its list of the region’s best islands, National Geographic wrote:

“From the multicultural food scene in Penang (Malaysia) to the dramatic limestone cliffs of Cát Bà (Vietnam), Southeast Asia’s islands offer endless adventures.”

Cát Bà lies south of Hạ Long Bay and consists of 367 islands covering over 260 square kilometers. The main island is the most popular, known for its emerald waters and towering limestone peaks.

Many tourists stay for just one day before moving to nearby islets, while adventure lovers remain longer to explore cliffs, caves, and quiet coves.

A Paradise for Climbers and Kayakers

Cát Bà’s limestone formations make it a world-class climbing site. The Butterfly Valley area, with sea-facing cliffs and caves, offers routes for all skill levels. It is also famous for deep-water soloing, a daring style of rope-free climbing above the sea.

Those seeking calmer experiences can hike to Ngự Lâm Peak for panoramic views. Others choose to kayak at night among glowing bioluminescent waters — one of Cát Bà’s most magical sights.

Rising Global Recognition

Cát Bà is gaining global attention on travel platforms. On Agoda, it ranks among Vietnam’s most searched destinations in early 2025. On TripAdvisor, travelers praise Lan Hạ Bay’s untouched beauty, the biodiversity of Cát Bà National Park, and the island’s peaceful charm.

Actor Leonardo DiCaprio once shared a video of Lan Hạ Bay on Instagram, calling it “a paradise” in 2020.

Other Islands in National Geographic’s List

The magazine also mentioned other Southeast Asian gems:

• Koh Chang (Thailand): Known for white sand beaches and quiet bays.
• Penang (Malaysia): A cultural hub famous for its blend of Chinese and Indian cuisine.
• Komodo (Indonesia): Home to Komodo dragons, now limiting visitors to protect nature.
• Panay (Philippines): The birthplace of the vibrant Ati-Atihan Festival.
• Isla Verde (Philippines): A diver’s paradise with over 1,700 fish species and 300 corals.
• Java (Indonesia): Renowned for sacred temples like Borobudur and Prambanan.
• Don Khong (Laos): A peaceful “inland island” on the Mekong River, perfect for cycling.

National Geographic recommends visiting these islands during the dry season (December to April). The rainy season (May to October) offers lower airfares and cheaper stays.