Top night experiences not to be missed in Cat Ba

These include kayaking through bioluminescent waters, night squid fishing, a jetski fireworks show, and a unique night market inspired by cardboard designs.

Admiring bioluminescence at Lan Ha Bay

James Curtis, an English travel blogger, shared his awe of kayaking through the bioluminescence of Lan Ha Bay, describing the experience as floating "through a galaxy." He had previously associated bioluminescence with places like the Maldives or Puerto Rico, but discovered it in Vietnam, which is one of the few places where this natural phenomenon can be experienced.

Lan Ha Bay is one of the few places in Vietnam where the bioluminescence phenomenon can be experienced. Photo courtesy of Cat Ba Local

The glowing blue light, created by plankton when disturbed, can be seen clearly in the calm waters of Lan Ha Bay from April to September.

The kayaking experience begins at 7-8 p.m., where visitors paddle through sheltered waters, leaving a trail of pale blue light with every stroke.

Tourists often compare this mesmerizing scene to the night forests of Pandora from the "Avatar" movie.

Night squid fishing

Night squid fishing in Cat Ba is a popular activity among foreign tourists, particularly from March to June when squid gather closer to shore. The calm sea and gentle waves create the ideal conditions for fishing, and the experience involves simple hand paddles and net fishing under a sky illuminated by the soft glow of lights. Tourists can enjoy a taste of fresh squid or hot congee while on the boat, providing a truly "Vietnamese" experience.

Night squid fishing is a nighttime experience beloved by many foreign tourists. Photo courtesy of Hai Le Cao

Louis, a tourist from France, shared, "I never imagined sitting on a small boat at night, fishing for squid in Vietnam. Even though I didn't catch any, eating hot congee on the boat while watching the night sea was unforgettable."

Jet ski fireworks show

Cat Ba is becoming more vibrant with the introduction of large-scale entertainment like the "Symphony of the Green Island" jet ski fireworks show. With an investment of nearly VND200 billion (US$7.7 million), this spectacular event features 20 jet ski performers simultaneously shooting fireworks, aiming for a Guinness World Record. The show tells the legend of the Cat Ba crane fairy through light, sound, fire, water, and extreme sports performances, without any CGI or post-production effects.

The "Symphony of the Green Island" show will aim to set a record on the opening night of May 23. Concept image by Sun Group

Cardboard-inspired night market

The VUI-Fest night market, opening on May 16, promises to offer a unique twist to Cat Ba's nightlife. Designed with a "green living" spirit, the market uses recycled materials like cardboard to create stalls that combine culinary, artistic, and community spaces. One of the key highlights will be the "Mini Hai Phong Food Tour," featuring dishes from the port city such as crab noodle soup, crab spring rolls, and spicy fish noodles, bringing local food culture to Cat Ba in an open seaside space.

People watch fireworks from a restaurant. Photo courtesy of Minh Quan

Alongside the market, visitors can enjoy lavish dinners at restaurants like The Sea Beach Club and The Forest Beach Club, offering views of the fireworks show and a festive atmosphere with craft beer and local delicacies.