Cat Ba is unusual in northern Vietnam because the obvious tourist activity — overnight cruising — is only one option among many. The island has a full national park with hiking and primate-spotting, a string of small beaches just out of town, a cluster of climbing crags now famous on the regional climbing circuit, and easy boat access into Lan Ha Bay, the quieter southern half of Halong. Most independent travellers stay two or three nights and combine a kayak day, a hike, and a beach afternoon.