The white-sand Cat Co beaches (simply called Cat Co 1 and Cat Co 2) make a great place to lounge around for the day. They are about 1 km southeast from Cat Ba town over a steep headland; and can be reached on foot or by motorbike (about 3000d). There is a 7000d entry fee to the beaches.

The two beaches are separated by a small hillock that can be climbed over in about 20 minutes. Most; however; take the easier route along a new; 700m; wooden seaside walkway around the mountain. Cat Co 2 is the less busy and more attractive of the two; and also offers simple accommodation and camping.

On weekends the beaches fill up with Vietnamese tourists and become messy with litter; but during the week the crowds diminish.

The main beaches; apart from those at Cat Ba town itself; are Cai Vieng; Hong Xoai Be and Hong