- 1. Overview of the weather in Cat Ba Island
- 2. Weather in Cat Ba Island by month
- 3. Top things to do in Cat Ba based on the weather
- 3.1. Visit temples and pagodas in January & February
- 3.2. Experience festivals in March
- 3.3. Go squid fishing in April
- 3.4. Take photos with vibrant red flamboyant flowers in May
- 3.5. Experience the tourist season in June & July
- 3.6. Welcome autumn in Cat Ba Island in August
- 3.7. Go swimming and kayaking in Lan Ha Bay in September & October
- 3.8. Relax in the blooming Pampas Grass Garden in November & December
1. Overview of the weather in Cat Ba Island
Cat Ba Island has a tropical monsoon climate, with a hot and humid summer accompanied by heavy rainfall from May to October, and a cooler, drier winter from November to April. The island’s average temperature ranges between 25°C and 28°C. As a coastal area, Cat Ba’s climate is strongly influenced by the sea, making summers and winters milder compared to inland regions. Each month in Cat Ba brings unique weather patterns in temperature, rainfall, and humidity, providing favorable conditions for various tourist activities throughout the year.
2. Weather in Cat Ba Island by month
Below is a month-by-month overview of the weather in Cat Ba Vietnam so you can prepare for your visit to this beautiful island.
2.1. In January
In January, Cat Ba experiences the winter season with mild temperatures and moderate rainfall, averaging about 53 millimeters of precipitation. Daytime temperatures typically hover around 20°C, which drop to around 16°C at night. The average humidity is 80%.
2.2. In February
Similar to January, February is also part of the winter season in Cat Ba. The average temperature ranges from 17°C to 20°C. February is the driest month, with just 39 millimeters of rainfall and an average humidity of around 86%.
2.3. In March
March brings warmer temperatures to Cat Ba, which average between 19°C and 23°C. The island sees moderate rainfall with about 53 millimeters of precipitation. The humidity increases to 88%, making the air feel more moist than in previous months.
2.4. In April
April marks a gradual increase in temperatures, with averages between 23°C and 26°C, signaling the onset of hotter weather. Rainfall also increases, with an average of 61 millimeters of precipitation for the month. The humidity remains high at 87%.
2.5. In May
May marks the beginning of the hot and rainy summer season on Cat Ba Island. Average temperatures range from 26°C to 29°C with approximately 190 hours of sunshine. Heavy rainfall is typical, averaging around 190 millimeters, and humidity averages 84%.
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2.6. In June
June continues the summer trend with very high temperatures, often around 32°C, and heavy rainfall, averaging 237 millimeters. The humidity remains relatively high at 84%.
2.7. In July
July is one of the hottest and rainiest months on Cat Ba Island. Temperatures range from 28°C to 33°C, with frequent heavy rains. The average humidity is 84%, and rainfall peaks at around 316 millimeters.
2.8. In August
Similar to July, the weather in Cat Ba Island in August experiences very high temperatures ranging from 27°C to 31°C. It is the month with the highest average rainfall, about 415 millimeters. The humidity also increases to 86%.
2.9. In September
Towards the end of summer, September still sees relatively high temperatures ranging from 27°C to 31°C. Rainfall decreases significantly to about 330 millimeters. The humidity averages 83%.
2.10. In October
October brings more comfortable weather to Cat Ba, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 29°C. The average rainfall decreases further to 144 millimeters and the humidity drops to 79%.
2.11. In November
November marks the start of the cooler and drier winter season in Cat Ba. The average temperatures range from 22°C to 26°C. Rainfall is moderate, averaging 63 millimeters. The average humidity is 76%.
2.12. In December
The weather in Cat Ba Island in December is pleasant with average temperatures of around 22°C during the day and about 18°C at night. Rainfall remains moderate, averaging around 47 millimeters. The humidity remains at 76%.
3. Top things to do in Cat Ba based on the weather
You can visit Cat Ba Island at any time of the year, as each month offers unique weather patterns and exciting activities. Let’s explore what Cat Ba has to offer throughout the year!
3.1. Visit temples and pagodas in January & February
During the early spring months, visiting temples and pagodas is a popular activity. In January and February, Cat Ba’s weather is cool with less rain and fewer tourists, making it an ideal time to explore spiritual sites like Ang Van Temple, Linh Quang Pagoda, and Ba Chua Goi Temple. You can enjoy the serene beauty and learn about the local culture while seeking blessings for the new year.
3.2. Experience festivals in March
March offers dry weather perfect for immersing yourself in lively traditional festivals. A notable event is the Cat Ba Fishing Village Festival on March 31st, featuring art performances and dragon boat racing. March is also when the island blooms with vibrant red cotton tree flowers, orange blossoms, grapefruit flowers, and lychee flowers, filling the air with fragrant scents along roadsides and mountainsides.
3.3. Go squid fishing in April
April’s weather in Cat Ba Island is ideal for squid fishing. You can experience the life of the local fishermen by renting a small boat, cruising on Lan Ha Bay, admiring the sunset, and going squid fishing at night. You can even enjoy delicious dishes made from those freshly caught squid.
3.4. Take photos with vibrant red flamboyant flowers in May
As May marks the beginning of summer on Cat Ba Island, it is an ideal time to visit before the intense heat and heavy rain set in. Activities include swimming, kayaking, and capturing photos with the vibrant red flamboyant flowers that color the streets of the town center.
3.5. Experience the tourist season in June & July
June and July are the peak months for tourism in Cat Ba, with hot sunny days interspersed with refreshing showers. It is perfect for immersing yourself in the cool waters of beautiful beaches in Cat Ba. However, there may be storms, so it is important to check the weather forecast before planning your trip. Due to high demand in the tourist season, it is advisable to book accommodation and transport in advance.
3.6. Welcome autumn in Cat Ba Island in August
August brings cooler temperatures and frequent rains, which might not be ideal for swimming. However, this is a great time to escape the bustle of city life and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of Cat Ba. You can take leisurely walks along the beaches, admire the lush mountains, savor fresh seafood, and breathe in the fresh air.
3.7. Go swimming and kayaking in Lan Ha Bay in September & October
As autumn arrives in September and October, the weather in Cat Ba becomes cooler with less rain and calmer seas. This is an excellent time for swimming and kayaking, especially in Lan Ha Bay. Here, you can gaze at the azure sky, admire the shimmering sunsets and sunrises over the sparkling bay, and enjoy the warm, gentle waves that wash away life’s worries.
3.8. Relax in the blooming Pampas Grass Garden in November & December
The transition to winter with cool, dry days is a great time to visit Cat Ba. You will be awed by the dreamy blooming Pampas Grass Garden that adorns the paths from the ferry terminal to the town center. Additionally, this weather is perfect for camping and trekking through the forests. Just be prepared for occasional cold spells by bringing some warm clothing.
The weather in Cat Ba Island offers diverse experiences year-round. Whether you are into the island’s cool, dry winters or its warm, rainy summers, understanding the weather helps you make the most of your visit. Each season brings its own charm, promising unforgettable moments.
Cat Ba Island is just one of the many attractions in Hai Phong. Don’t miss out on Vinpearl Horse Academy Vu Yen, Vietnam’s first international-standard equestrian center. Here, you can experience a variety of activities, from touring the stables with over 100 rare horses to participating in equestrian training and enjoying cultural horse-related events. Nearby, Vinpearl Golf Hai Phong offers a unique golfing experience with 36 holes spread across two distinct courses: the challenging Marsh Course and the scenic Lake Course.