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Cat Ba Market: A seafood paradise on Cat Ba Island

22/05/2025

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Cat Ba Market offers an immersive dining experience, where street foods and local eats come together in a lively, community-centered atmosphere.

1. Where is Cat Ba Market? How to get there?
2. What to find at Cat Ba Market?
3. Tips for visiting Cat Ba Island Market

1. Where is Cat Ba Market? How to get there?

Cat Ba Market (also known as Cat Ba Seafood Market) lies at the center of Cat Ba Town on Cat Ba Island, Hai Phong. It is a central hub of seafood for both locals and tourists, offering a snapshot of daily life.

To reach Cat Ba Island, you can take a ferry or speedboat ride from Hai Phong or Ha Long. If you are already in Cat Ba Town, getting to the market is super easy. Simply follow 1 Thang 4 Street in the direction of Cat Ba National Park. Keep going straight and you will soon see Cat Ba Market.

Cat Ba Island Market is an essential stop for anyone looking to experience the local culture (Source: Collected)

Explore: How to get to Cat Ba Island? All you need to know

2. What to find at Cat Ba Market?

This lively marketplace is a sensory delight. From the scent of the sea to sizzling street food, Cat Ba Market offers a taste of local life that is as authentic as it is delicious.

2.1. Seafood

At Cat Ba Seafood Market, local fishermen bring in their morning catches, from crabs, clams, and prawns to lobsters, squid, and fish. The seafood here is incredibly fresh, with most still alive in tanks. Buyers can choose their seafood and have it cooked on the spot at nearby eateries. The prices are affordable, and the quality is unbeatable.

2.2. Meat

The meat section of this market in Cat Ba offers pork, chicken, and sometimes even goat meat. These are staples for the locals preparing family meals or running food businesses.

2.3. Fruits and vegetables

Another vibrant corner of Cat Ba Market is the produce area, packed with seasonal fruits, herbs, and vegetables. From mangoes to dragon fruits, the colors and aromas here are irresistible.

2.4. Street food and local eats

A highlight of Cat Ba Local Market is its bustling food court located on the second floor. This area is a haven for street food lovers, offering an array of freshly prepared dishes that showcase the island’s culinary diversity. From grilled oysters with scallion oil and steamed clams with lemongrass to crispy squid cakes, the options are both delicious and affordable. What makes this food court particularly special is its welcoming vibe. The open-air environment is lively yet relaxed, with the aroma of sizzling seafood filling the air.

The food court of Cat Ba Market (Source: Collected)

2.5. Specialty goods

At the specialty section, you can pick up dried squid, anchovies, or fish sauce to take a piece of Cat Ba Island home. It is also a great spot for finding handmade souvenirs.

Discover: Things to do in Cat Ba: Top 15+ experiences not to be missed

3. Tips for visiting Cat Ba Island Market

3.1. Best time to visit

Cat Ba Market is open daily from 9 AM to 9 PM. The best times to visit are lunch or dinner hours when the food court is at its liveliest. These peak hours offer the best selection of freshly cooked dishes, ideal for those looking to enjoy a flavorful meal.

It is also worth considering the weather in Cat Ba Island, which can influence the market experience. Sunny days make for a more comfortable visit, especially if you plan to explore nearby attractions after your meal. Avoid visiting during heavy rain, as the open-air layout of the market can become slippery.

3.2. Things to note

Before heading to Cat Ba Market, it is helpful to keep a few practical tips in mind to make the most of your visit:

Be ready to bargain, especially for dried food and souvenirs.
Carry cash, as most vendors do not accept card payment.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the market floor can be slippery.
Be mindful of hygiene. Stick to food stalls with clean cooking areas.

Lunchtime is perfect for enjoying a hot meal at Cat Ba Market (Source: Collected)

3.3. Nearby attractions

Cat Ba Market is not the only highlight on the island. Near the market, you will find a variety of attractions that showcase the natural beauty and cultural richness of Cat Ba:

Tung Thu Beach (700 meters away): A peaceful beach perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
Cat Ba Night Market (1.9 kilometers away): Offering local crafts, snacks, and souvenirs in a lively evening setting.
Cat Co Beach (3 kilometers away): A trio of scenic beaches (Cat Co 1, 2, and 3) with white sand and calm water.
Cai Beo Floating Village (3 kilometers away): One of Vietnam’s oldest fishing villages, ideal for boat tours.

Cat Ba Market is a true gem for those visiting Cat Ba Island – a place where flavor, culture, and community meet. And Vietnam has much more to offer. After exploring Cat Ba, you can head south for unforgettable adventures at sought-after tourist destinations like Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, and Hoi An.

While you are in these cities, make time to visit VinWonders – Vietnam’s top brand known for its large-scale entertainment complexes. From themed attractions to wildlife safaris, VinWonders brings the fun for all ages. For a relaxing stay, the resorts and hotels of Vinpearl offer premium accommodations, ideal for unwinding after a day of adventure.