Most travelers seeking a few days of relaxation on Cat Ba Island are naturally drawn to its three renowned beaches: Cat Co 1, 2, and 3, owing to their proximity to the town center, lively waves, and scenic vistas. In contrast, Tung Thu Beach possesses a distinct and serene charm of its own. Its crystalline waters shimmer like jade, kissed by gentle, whispering waves, while the graceful curve of its sandy shore is embraced by majestic, verdant mountains.

Where is Tung Thu Beach Located?

Ranked fifth among the thirteen most breathtaking beaches in the Hai Phong region, Tung Thu Beach rests gracefully along the edge of the Cat Ba forest, merely 2 kilometers from the bustling heart of Cat Ba town. Tucked away within a meticulously planned urban enclave, the beach offers a picturesque setting framed by rugged mountains and partially canopied by lush greenery that provides natural, soothing shade.
Opened to the public in 2010, Tung Thu is a public beach welcoming all visitors completely free of charge. Furthermore, as part of the esteemed Cat Ba Amatina development project completed and inaugurated in 2011, the beach has been impeccably master-planned. It seamlessly combines natural beauty with synchronized, professional tourism and resort services. Often celebrated as the “Maldives of Cat Ba Island,” Tung Thu mesmerizes with its endless golden sands, turquoise waters, and pleasantly refreshing microclimate.

How to Get to Tung Thu Beach

Tung Thu Beach is a distinguished coastal gem on Cat Ba Island, situated less than 2 kilometers from the island’s vibrant center. Reaching this idyllic destination involves a two-stage journey: traveling from your point of origin to Cat Ba Island, and subsequently making your way from the island to the beach.

Stage 1: Traveling from Your Location to Cat Ba Island

To arrive at Cat Ba, you must first make your way to Got Pier to board the ferry to the island. Ferry tariffs vary depending on your mode of transport. According to the Got – Cat Ba ferry schedule and pricing for 2023, the applicable rates are as follows:

Got - Cat Ba Ferry.jpg

Got – Cat Ba Ferry.jpg

  • Foot passengers: 12,000 VND per person/trip
  • Bicycle or pedicab passengers: 12,000 VND per person/trip
  • Motorcycle passengers: 45,000 VND per vehicle/trip
  • Automobiles under 9 seats (excluding driver and passengers): 190,000 VND per vehicle
  • Passenger vehicles from 9 to under 24 seats: 210,000 VND per vehicle
  • Passenger vehicles from 24 to under 32 seats: 240,000 VND per vehicle
  • Passenger vehicles of 32 seats and above: 330,000 VND per vehicle
  • Alternatively, high-speed hydrofoils are available from Benh Wharf in Hai Phong or Tuan Chau Marina in Quang Ninh, with ticket prices ranging from 150,000 to 250,000 VND per guest.

Important Schedule Notes for Traveling to Cat Ba by Ferry

  • According to the ferry operator’s timetable, approximately 23 to 26 fixed daily trips are scheduled, alongside supplementary voyages during peak congestion periods.
  • During summer, ferry operations commence at 4:30 AM and conclude at 6:30 PM. In winter, services run from 5:00 AM until 6:30 PM.
  • Each ferry crossing takes approximately 25 minutes, with departures scheduled every 30 minutes.

Additionally, travelers may opt for high-speed boats departing from Benh Wharf (Hai Phong) or Tuan Chau Harbor (Quang Ninh) directly to Cat Ba, with fares varying between 150,000 and 250,000 VND per passenger.

Stage 2: Journeying from Cat Ba Island to Tung Thu Beach

Tuan Chau - Cat Ba Ferry Fares

Tuan Chau – Cat Ba Ferry Fares

From the center of Cat Ba town, simply follow the route from Cai Vieng Ferry Terminal toward Cat Tien, turn onto Road 1/4, and proceed into Tung Dinh Street. From there, turn onto Tung Thu Street, where the stunning beach will immediately come into view. The transit time takes a mere 5 to 10 minutes.

What to Experience at Tung Thu Beach?

Thoughtfully master-planned, Tung Thu Beach offers a rich array of aquatic and shore-based activities that no discerning visitor should miss.

1. Admiring the Scenery of Tung Thu Beach

Tung Thu Beach is an absolute sanctuary of tranquility, particularly ideal for families traveling with young children. Unlike the spirited waves of Cat Co or other island beaches, the waters here are remarkably calm and gentle, allowing you to swim and play with absolute peace of mind. The coastline boasts exceptionally soft, golden sands that stretch endlessly, inviting leisurely strolls, sunbathing, or sandcastle building with your little ones. Accompanied by a refreshing, salt-kissed ocean breeze, breathing in the pristine air here is an exercise in pure rejuvenation.

Tung Thu Beach Scenery

Tung Thu Beach Scenery

Tung Thu Beach also offers a profoundly romantic setting for witnessing breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over the horizon. Lose yourself in the cool, rolling waves while absorbing the warmth of the early morning light as the sun gently ascends. You will be captivated by the dramatic transformation of the sky from deep obsidian to luminous gold and amber—a testament to the renewing power of nature and an exquisitely romantic vista.

2. Engaging in Beachfront Activities

For enthusiasts of exhilarating maritime adventures, Tung Thu Beach is an exceptional choice. Indulge your passion for water sports such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and water volleyball. Spanning over 4 hectares, the beach offers abundant space for you to curate your ideal getaway, whether traveling solo or in the company of family, friends, or colleagues.

Kayaking at Tung Thu Beach

Kayaking at Tung Thu Beach

Additionally, visitors can arrange private picnics or beachside camping excursions, creating intimate, heartwarming memories with loved ones as you share stories around a crackling campfire.

3. The Open-Air Amphitheater

Tung Thu Beach is celebrated not only for its stunning natural splendor but also for its distinctive architectural features. Most notable is its unique seaside open-air amphitheater—the only one of its kind on Cat Ba Island. Situated within the resort complex, this expansive venue is equipped with state-of-the-art lighting and acoustic systems, boasting an impressive architectural design that makes it the ultimate location for hosting prestigious guest events.

Essential Tips for Your Visit

  • Best Time to Visit: The ideal period to explore Tung Thu Beach spans from April to October, when Northern Vietnam enjoys sunlit weather perfectly suited for swimming and coastal leisure. Nevertheless, it is always wise to monitor weather forecasts in advance to avoid tropical storms that may disrupt travel plans. Furthermore, try to bypass weekends and major public holidays when the beach experiences peak crowds and elevated pricing. Seasoned travelers recommend visiting during weekdays or toward the shoulder of the season (September – October), when the shores are pleasantly tranquil and rates are more favorable.
  • Accommodations: Tung Thu Beach offers a diverse spectrum of lodging options catering to varied preferences and budgets, ranging from luxury hotels, guesthouses, and upscale resorts to intimate homestays, private bungalows, and campsites. Highly recommended hotels near Tung Thu include Ciao Cat Ba Hotel, Cat Ba View Hotel, and Dung Lai Hotel 173, all renowned for their strategic locations, impeccable cleanliness, and attentive hospitality, with room rates averaging 200,000 – 500,000 VND per night. For travelers seeking an immersive, nature-bound experience, local homestays or bungalows provide a peaceful, atmospheric retreat for 100,000 – 300,000 VND per night.
  • Dining: A culinary journey to Tung Thu Beach is incomplete without savoring the exceptionally fresh seafood and signature specialties of Cat Ba Island. Delicacies such as grouper, mackerel, sweet snails, and sea crabs can be relished at premier oceanfront establishments like Moonia Restaurant, which offers an airy, immaculate, and sophisticated dining ambiance.