Tucked away in the heart of Lan Hạ Bay, Van Boi Beach reveals a timeless escape, where the hustle of modern life fades into the whisper of waves and the song of wind. This secret beach captivates with its peaceful atmosphere, pristine nature, and crystalline waters. Between immaculate white sand, colorful seabeds, and mountainous landscapes as a backdrop, Van Boi invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with what truly matters. This sanctuary of tranquility delights both those seeking pure relaxation and lovers of gentle adventure.

Where is Van Boi Beach Located?

Van Boi Beach is a peaceful stretch of sand nestled within the Lan Hạ Bay system in northern Vietnam. It belongs to the island district of Cát Bà, in Hải Phòng Province. Located approximately 3 km from Cát Bà's center, 44 km from Hải Phòng city, and 168 km east of Hanoi, this isolated beach sits on a small islet facing Turtle Island and remains well off the beaten tourist path.

Characteristics

Van Boi Beach is a small slice of paradise, roughly 50 meters long. It attracts visitors with its unspoiled setting, blending fine white sand, crystalline turquoise waters, verdant cliffs, and rugged rock formations. Upon arrival, the water's transparency impresses immediately: the seafloor, rocks, and colorful coral reefs dancing beneath gentle waves are all clearly visible.

Free from intrusive tourist infrastructure, this virgin beach retains a wild character, enhanced by lush vegetation and pure air. Van Boi remains a hidden pearl of Lan Hạ Bay—a rare place where nature still reigns supreme.

What to Do at Van Boi Beach?

Rest and Swimming in a Serene Setting

Van Boi is first and foremost a refuge of tranquility, ideal for those seeking renewal through nature. With calm, shallow waters, it's perfect for swimming. Stretched across white sand or with feet in the limpid water, you savor a rare moment of peace, punctuated only by the gentle lapping of waves. It's the perfect place to read or simply let time drift by.

Explore an Untamed Natural Landscape

Van Boi Beach nestles within an environment that remains intact: sculpted cliffs, undulating mountains, verdant forests, and rocks emerging from turquoise waters create a harmonious whole. At dawn, golden sunlight illuminates rocky hills and smooth sand. At dusk, the glow of sunset dances across the sea, offering a poetic and soothing spectacle. When the tide is low, it's even possible to walk to nearby Turtle Island.

Water Activities and Snorkeling

Beyond swimming, Van Boi offers an immersive marine experience. Clear, shallow waters reveal magnificent coral reefs teeming with colorful fish even from the surface. The more adventurous might attempt scuba diving, while others prefer simply floating at the surface with mask and snorkel. The soft sand also invites leisurely strolls, sunbathing, or photographing breathtaking seascapes.

Kayaking and Bay Exploration

Kayaking is one of Van Boi's signature activities. From the beach, you can:

• Paddle gently across the tranquil waters of Lan Hạ Bay
• Navigate between towering cliffs
• Discover hidden caves
• Reach nearby floating villages such as Van Gia or Monkey Island

It's an active yet peaceful way to explore the surroundings and feel immersed in a pristine marine world.

An Evening by the Sea

After a full day, Van Boi remains magical as dusk falls. In the evening, you can organize a beach bonfire, gaze at the starlit sky, or simply listen to the sea breeze while savoring the moment. The atmosphere stays intimate, conducive to encounters and shared memories.

Savor Ultra-Fresh Seafood

A stay at Van Boi isn't complete without experiencing local cuisine. On-site, visitors can enjoy a fresh seafood barbecue, with newly caught products: tiger prawns, crabs, clams, cobia, octopus, oysters, or lobsters, grilled right on the beach.

How to Get There?

By Private Car and Ferry

From Hanoi, head toward Hải Phòng, then reach Đình Vũ dock to take a ferry to Đồng Bài on Cát Bà Island. From there, a land transfer gets you to the port or boarding zones for Van Boi. Ferries run from 5 AM to 5 PM, with departures every hour.

By Bus

Buses regularly depart from Hanoi's main stations—Giáp Bát, Mỹ Đình, or Gia Lâm—heading to Hải Phòng, then onward to Đồng Bài before continuing by boat to Lan Hạ and Van Boi.

By Train

Take a train from Hanoi Station or Long Bien Station to Hải Phòng. Once there, board a fast ferry to Cát Bà, disembark at Cái Viềng, then continue by vehicle to Bèo Port.

By Plane

For those traveling from southern or central Vietnam, flying to Cát Bi Airport (Hải Phòng) is the quickest option. From there, take a taxi to Bến Bính pier, then a fast ferry will take you to Cát Bà.

From Cát Bà

Van Boi is accessible only by sea, departing from Bèo Port in Cát Bà. The journey takes 30 minutes by private boat or water taxi. You can also reach the beach by kayak for a sporty, immersive exploration of Lan Hạ Bay.

Organized Cruises

Some organized bay cruises include Van Boi in their itineraries, often combining the beach with visits to Cái Bèo Floating Village or Monkey Island.

When to Visit?

Van Boi can be visited year-round thanks to its tropical climate, but the best periods are spring (February to April) and autumn (September to November). These seasons are ideal for water activities, with mild weather, minimal rain, and temperatures between 19°C and 29°C.

The dry season, May to September, offers clear skies and warm waters (reaching 31.5°C in July), perfect for snorkeling and relaxation. However, it's also peak season with more tourists and higher prices.

Winter (December to February), cooler at 16°C to 23°C, offers a calm and restful alternative.