Cai Beo Fishing Village: Oldest Floating Village in Cat Ba

Cai Beo Fishing Village serves as a timeless symbol of Northern Vietnam's coastal heritage and prehistoric roots. Visitors can explore floating houses and enjoy fresh seafood amidst stunning limestone scenery. At Paradise Vietnam, we invite you to discover the serene beauty and rich history of this legendary destination.

1. Overview of Cai Beo Fishing Village

Cai Beo Fishing Village holds the prestigious title of the oldest floating village in Vietnam. It rests within the emerald waters of Lan Ha Bay, which belongs to the Cat Ba Archipelago in Hai Phong. This location provides a natural shelter for hundreds of families who have lived on the water for thousands of years. The village represents a unique and sustainable cultural heritage that survives in the modern era.

Cai Beo floating village is home to 300 families that earn their living from fish farming

1.1. Location of Cai Beo

• Geographically, the archaeological site of Cai Beo Fishing Village is nestled in a limestone valley along the coast, approximately 1.5 kilometers southeast of the Cat Ba town center in Hai Phong city.
• The core area of the Cai Beo Fishing Village archaeological site covers roughly 18,000 square meters and sits 3.5 meters above sea level. 
• The natural topography surrounding Cai Beo Fishing Village features the Ang Tham and Bu Nau mountain ranges, which provide a sheltered, wind-protected marine environment ideal for long-term human settlement.

1.2. Origin of Cai Beo Fishing Village's name

• The origins of Cai Beo Fishing Village trace back to the Middle Holocene epoch, functioning as an active maritime settlement between 7,000 and 5,000 years Before Present (BP).
• The historical significance of Cai Beo Fishing Village was first brought to global attention in 1938 when French archaeologist Madeleine Colani discovered the site, initially naming the location "Baie des Pêcheurs" (Bay of Fishermen).
• Subsequent excavations by Vietnamese researchers have unearthed thousands of artifacts at Cai Beo Fishing Village, including grinding stones, pottery, and "Bac Son style" stone axes, revealing the early transition of indigenous populations from hunting and gathering to organized marine exploitation.

1.3. Development of Cai Beo Fishing Village

• Throughout its extensive history, Cai Beo Fishing Village has evolved from a prehistoric archaeological site into a thriving modern maritime community. Currently, Cai Beo Fishing Village is home to approximately 300 households that reside in interconnected floating wooden houses, typically ranging from 15 to 30 square meters in size.

• Instead of relying solely on traditional net fishing, the modern residents of Cai Beo Fishing Village have developed advanced aquaculture practices, raising high-value marine species like grouper and cobia in floating cages
• Since receiving access to electricity and clean water in 2015, Cai Beo Fishing Village has also successfully expanded its economic development into sustainable eco-tourism, offering homestays and guided boat tours.

1.4. Significance of Cai Beo Floating Village

The primary significance of Cai Beo Fishing Village lies in its status as the earliest known distinctive prehistoric coastal culture in the Northeast region of Vietnam.
Archaeologically, the material findings at Cai Beo Fishing Village are considered the direct precursor and foundation for the subsequent Ha Long Culture
In recognition of its outstanding historical, cultural, and archaeological value, the Vietnamese government officially designated Cai Beo Fishing Village as a National Historical and Cultural Relic in 2009.
Today, Cai Beo Fishing Village stands as a living museum, offering profound insights into the adaptation and survival of early human civilizations in the Gulf of Tonkin

2. How to get to Cai Beo Fishing Village

Traveling to Cai Beo Fishing Village is a simple and quick journey from the main island. You can reach the village by hiring a local boat or a traditional wooden junk. Most travelers start their trip from the southeastern side of Cat Ba Town. The harbor sits only 1.5 kilometers away from the town center.

The boat trip offers a short but scenic transition from the bustling land to the quiet bay. You should keep the following travel details in mind for your visit:

• Transportation: Hire a private boat or join a small group tour at the pier.
• Cost: The boat rental usually costs around 200,000 VND per trip.
• Travel Time: The ride takes only 5 minutes to reach the heart of the village.
• Accessibility: You can easily walk or take a quick electric car ride to the harbor.

3. Top 3 things to do at Cat Beo Fishing Village

Visitors can enjoy many engaging activities while exploring the peaceful waters of Cai Beo Fishing Village. These experiences allow you to connect deeply with the local culture and the natural environment.

3.1. Visit fish farms

You can take a boat tour to explore floating fish farms and colorful houseboats in the hidden corners of the village. Hiring a private motorboat gives you the flexibility to stop at individual homes for a more intimate experience. This quiet exploration offers great insight into a way of life that has remained unchanged for many generations.

Taking a sightseeing tour and visiting fish farms and local families in Cai Beo Floating Village

Many local families happily welcome visitors to help them understand the daily routines of life on the sea. You should offer a small gift of around 100,000 VND as a token of appreciation for their warm hospitality. Interacting with the fishermen allows you to immerse yourself fully in the authentic atmosphere of the Cai Beo Fishing Village.

3.2. Enjoy fresh seafood at floating restaurants

Dining at a floating restaurant in the calm waters of Lan Ha Bay is a truly memorable experience. You can enjoy a delicious seafood dinner while watching the magical sunset over the emerald water. These restaurants serve freshly caught items like grilled fish and steamed clams harvested just hours before your meal.

Visit floating restaurants in Cai Beo Village to enjoy fresh seafood

The open-air setting provides a cool breeze and a panoramic view of the entire bay area. This unique culinary experience captures the true essence of living in a traditional floating community. It remains the perfect way to unwind after a long day of exploring the limestone karsts and caves.

3.3. Take a fishing trip

You should join a guided fishing trip with experienced local captains for a truly authentic adventure. You will try traditional methods like using a rod or casting a net just like the locals. This hands-on activity provides a fun and educational look at the primary trade of the Cai Beo Fishing Village.

Taking a fishing trip with locals from Cai Beo Floating village

This activity is perfect for families because it offers a safe and educational way to connect with the sea. Life jackets are provided to ensure the safety of all participants during the journey. The peaceful setting of the bay makes this trip both a relaxing and memorable part of your vacation.

4. Top Attractions to Explore near Cai Beo Fishing Village

Beyond the ancient charm of Cai Beo Fishing Village, Lan Ha Bay also offers many other breathtaking spots for exploration. To experience these in ultimate luxury, Paradise Grand - one of the most sophisticated Paradise Vietnam overnight cruises, offers a wonderful itinerary through top attractions in Lan Ha Bay:

• Frog Pond (Ao Ech): This pristine area is a famous spot for kayaking and swimming because of its calm, emerald waters. It is known for its quiet beauty and tranquil atmosphere, providing a perfect escape from the busier parts of the bay.
• Viet Hai Fishing Village: This secluded village sits deep within Cat Ba National Park, offering a rare look at traditional local life. It is the perfect place for cycling tours where you can enjoy lush greenery and a peaceful, rural environment.
• Dark and Bright Cave: This poetic location features a unique cave system that leads to a hidden, enclosed lake. You can explore this wonder by kayak or bamboo boat to witness massive stone walls and stunning natural formations.
• Ba Trai Dao (Three Peaches Beach): This area is famous for its three small limestone mountains that resemble giant peaches resting on the water. It features crystal-clear beaches and white sands, making it an ideal spot for sunbathing or swimming in a private, natural setting during our summer itinerary.

Paradise Grand is a 5-star cruise featuring 39 luxury cabins and one of the largest sundecks in the region. It is the top choice for travelers who seek a luxurious and tranquil experience while still staying connected to nature

Onboard, guests can enjoy fine dining at the La Espacia Restaurant, relax in the panoramic Jacuzzi on the sundeck, or indulge in world-class spa treatments. These activities ensure you don't just see the spots near Cai Beo Village, but truly live theirs wonder.

5. Tips for visiting Cai Beo Fishing Village

Preparation helps you enjoy a smooth visit to this historic floating community. You should follow a few local guidelines to respect the residents and protect the environment.

• Bring Cash: Most boat operators and local stalls only accept Vietnamese Dong.
• Wear Sun Protection: Apply sunscreen and wear a hat to shield yourself from the strong bay sun.
• Respect Privacy: Ask for permission before taking close-up photos of the locals or their homes.
• Environment First: Do not throw plastic or trash into the water to keep the village clean.
• Dress Comfortably: Wear light clothing and non-slip shoes for safe movement on the wooden boats.

6. When is the best time to visit Cai Beo Fishing Village?

The best time to visit Cai Beo Fishing Village is generally during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild and the sea is perfectly clear. Additionally, the broader window from April to October is highly recommended due to stable, sunny conditions with temperatures comfortably ranging between 25-32°C

If you want to experience Cai Beo Fishing Village in an authentic way, join us to meet and interact with local families. You will have the unique chance to see traditional fishing boats returning with a bountiful catch, a rare sight that many other tours do not offer. We invite you to book a specialized tour with Paradise Vietnam to ensure a deep and meaningful connection with this ancient floating community.