This guide covers what you actually find on Monkey Island, how to get there without getting scammed, and whether it is worth your time in 2026.
What is Monkey Island Cat Ba?
Monkey Island’s official name is Dao Khỉ. It is a small limestone island in Lan Ha Bay, part of the Cat Ba Archipelago. The island gets its name from the monkeys that live there. These are macaques, not the critically endangered Cat Ba langur. The langur lives on the mainland of Cat Ba Island, primarily within Cat Ba National Park. Confusing the two is a common mistake.
The island functions as both a tourist attraction and a conservation area. In practice, the conservation side is minimal. The monkeys are wild but have learned to associate humans with food. This creates the central tension of visiting: you come to see monkeys, but the monkeys see you as a snack delivery service.
Pro tip: If you want to see the actual Cat Ba langur, visit the Cat Ba Langur Conservation Center or join a ranger-led trek in Cat Ba National Park. Do not expect to see them on Monkey Island.
Where is Monkey Island and how do you get there?
Monkey Island is located in Lan Ha Bay, southeast of Cat Ba Town. The boat ride takes 25-40 minutes depending on the vessel and weather.
There are three main ways to visit:
1. Book through a hotel or tour agent in Cat Ba Town
This is the most common option. Hotels and agents sell group tours that include boat transfer, entry fee, and 2-3 hours on the island. Prices range from 300,000 to 500,000 VND ($12-20) per person. The catch is that boats often wait until full before departing. You might wait 30 minutes or more at the harbor.
2. Arrange a private boat from Ben Beo harbor
Walk to Ben Beo harbor (15 minutes from Cat Ba Town center) and negotiate directly with boat drivers. A private boat costs 1,000,000 to 1,500,000 VND ($40-60) for a round trip. This gives you flexibility on timing. You can stay longer or leave earlier than group tours allow.
3. Join a larger Lan Ha Bay tour that includes Monkey Island
Many full-day Lan Ha Bay tours stop at Monkey Island for 1-2 hours as part of a longer itinerary that includes kayaking, swimming, and lunch. These tours cost 500,000 to 800,000 VND ($20-32) per person. The downside is limited time on the island.
Warning: Confirm the price includes the return trip and park entry fee. Some boat drivers quote a low price then add fees at the harbor. Get everything in writing or on a phone note.
For more on getting around Cat Ba Island generally, see our guide on How to get around Cat Ba Island.
How much does it cost to visit Monkey Island?
The table below breaks down the real costs for 2026.
| Expense | Cost (VND) | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group tour boat | 300,000-500,000 | $12-20 | Per person, includes return |
| Private boat | 1,000,000-1,500,000 | $40-60 | Per boat, up to 4-6 people |
| Park entry fee | 40,000 | $1.60 | Paid at island, sometimes included in tour |
| Kayak rental | 100,000-150,000 per hour | $4-6 | Available on the island |
| Sun lounger | 50,000-100,000 | $2-4 | On the beach |
| Food and drinks | 30,000-80,000 | $1.20-3.20 | Small bar on the beach |
Prices are higher during high season (May-September) and lower during low season (October-April). Group tours are cheaper if you negotiate directly at Ben Beo harbor rather than through your hotel.
Common pricing scams:
- The boat driver says the entry fee is included but it is not. You pay twice.
- The quoted price is one-way only. You must pay extra for the return trip.
- Kayak rental is quoted per person per hour, not per kayak. Clarify before renting.
What to do on Monkey Island
The beach and swimming
The main beach is a crescent of white sand with calm, clear water. It is small. During peak hours (11 AM to 2 PM), it feels crowded with tour groups. Basic facilities include sun loungers for rent and a small bar selling drinks and snacks.
Swimming is safe in calm weather. There are no lifeguards. The water is clean but can have some floating debris after busy days.
The viewpoint hike
This is the best reason to visit Monkey Island. The trail starts behind the beach and climbs to the island’s peak. The hike is short (about 20 minutes up) but steep. You scramble over rocks and exposed roots. Proper shoes are essential. Flip-flops will fail you here.
At the top, you get a 360-degree view of Lan Ha Bay. Limestone karsts rise from emerald water. Fishing boats drift between islands. It is genuinely beautiful.
The trail has no railings. It is slippery after rain. Do not attempt it in wet conditions if you have balance issues or a fear of heights.
Pro tip: Hike early (before 10 AM) or late (after 3 PM) to avoid the worst heat. Bring water. There is no shade on the trail.
Kayaking around the island
Kayaks are available for rent on the beach. A single kayak costs 100,000-150,000 VND ($4-6) per hour. Paddling around the island takes about 45 minutes to an hour. You find hidden coves and small sea caves that the main beach crowd never sees.
Best time for kayaking is early morning or late afternoon. The water is calmer and the light is better for photos. Midday is hot and the glare off the water is harsh.
The monkeys: what to expect
This is the most important section of this guide. Read it carefully.
The monkeys on Monkey Island are macaques. They are wild animals. They have learned that humans carry food. They will approach you aggressively if they see food, a plastic bag, or anything shiny (sunglasses, phone, jewelry).
What to do if a monkey approaches:
- Stand still. Do not run.
- Look away. Direct eye contact is a threat signal.
- Keep your hands visible. Do not hide them in pockets or bags.
- Do not scream or make sudden movements.
What NOT to do:
- Do not bring food onto the island. Not even a granola bar in your pocket.
- Do not feed the monkeys. It makes them more aggressive with future visitors.
- Do not leave bags unattended on the beach. Monkeys will open them.
- Do not try to touch or pet them. They bite.
- Keep children close. Do not let them run or wave food.
Warning: Monkey bites require immediate medical attention. Rabies is present in Vietnam. If bitten, go to Cat Ba Town hospital or the international clinic in Hai Phong. Travel insurance is essential.
Is Monkey Island worth visiting?
The honest answer: it depends on what you want.
Visit Monkey Island if:
- You want a quick, scenic boat trip from Cat Ba Town.
- You enjoy short hikes with panoramic bay views.
- You are okay with a small, busy beach.
- You want to see monkeys from a safe distance.
Skip Monkey Island if:
- You expect a pristine, quiet beach. Cat Co beaches on Cat Ba Island are less crowded and free.
- You want to kayak or explore for more than 3 hours. A full-day Lan Ha Bay tour offers better value.
- You are primarily interested in wildlife. The Cat Ba langur sanctuary is more educational and less chaotic.
- You are traveling with young children. The monkeys pose a real safety risk.
Alternatives to Monkey Island:
| Activity | Cost | Time needed | Crowds | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monkey Island day trip | 300,000-500,000 VND | 3-4 hours | High | Quick trip with hike and beach |
| Full-day Lan Ha Bay tour | 500,000-800,000 VND | 8 hours | Medium | Kayaking, swimming, cave exploration |
| Cat Co 1, 2, 3 beaches | Free | As long as you want | Medium | Beach time without monkeys |
| Ngu Lam Peak hike | 80,000 VND (park entry) | 3-4 hours | Low | Hiking and forest views |
| Cat Ba langur sanctuary | 100,000 VND | 1-2 hours | Low | Wildlife education |
For most travelers, a full-day Lan Ha Bay tour offers better value. You see more, do more, and avoid the monkey hassle. But if you have limited time and want a quick taste of the bay, Monkey Island works.
When is the best time to visit Monkey Island?
Best time of day: 8:00 to 10:00 AM. The island is quieter. The light is good for photos. The monkeys are less active early in the morning.
Best season: Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months offer the best balance of good weather and manageable crowds. Summer (June to August) is hot, humid, and busy with domestic tourists. Winter (December to February) can be cool and overcast, with occasional rain.
Avoid visiting during Vietnamese public holidays (Tet in January/February, National Day on September 2). The island gets packed with domestic tourists. Boats are more expensive and harder to book.
Practical tips for visiting Monkey Island
What to bring
- Water (no reliable drinking water on the island)
- Sunscreen and a hat
- Insect repellent
- Sturdy shoes for the hike
- A dry bag for electronics
- Cash (no card payments accepted)
- Swimwear and a towel
What to leave behind
- Food of any kind
- Plastic bags (monkeys associate them with food)
- Valuables and shiny objects
- Large bags or backpacks
Safety considerations
The monkeys are the main safety concern. Follow the guidelines above. The hiking trail has no railings and can be dangerous in wet conditions. The beach has no lifeguards. Sun exposure is intense. Travel insurance is recommended for all visitors to Vietnam.
Pro tip: If you plan to kayak, book a private boat for more flexibility. Group tours give you 2-3 hours on the island. That is enough for the hike and a swim, but not for kayaking.
What other travelers say: common complaints and how to avoid them
Based on feedback from Reddit, TripAdvisor, and travel forums, these are the most common complaints about Monkey Island:
"The boat didn't leave on time." Tour operators wait until the boat is full. Solution: arrive early or book a private boat.
"I was charged extra for things that should be included." Confirm the price and itinerary in writing before paying. Ask specifically about the entry fee and return trip.
"The monkeys were aggressive." Do not bring food. Keep bags closed. Do not make eye contact. Follow the safety guidelines above.
"The beach was disappointing." The beach is small and can be crowded. Manage expectations. It is a stopover, not a resort beach.
"We only had 2 hours on the island." Group tours are timed. If you want more flexibility, book a private boat.
Frequently asked questions about Monkey Island
Q: Are there really monkeys on Monkey Island?
Yes, but they are macaques, not the endangered Cat Ba langur. They are wild and can be aggressive around food. Do not feed them.
Q: How long should I spend on Monkey Island?
Most tours allow 2-3 hours. This is enough for the hike, a swim, and some beach time. If you want to kayak, book a private boat for more flexibility.
Q: Is the hike on Monkey Island difficult?
The trail is short (20 minutes up) but steep and requires scrambling over rocks. Proper shoes are essential. It is not suitable for anyone with mobility issues or a fear of heights.
Q: Can I stay overnight on Monkey Island?
There are basic bungalows, but reviews are poor. Travelers report dirty rooms, noisy generators, and high prices. Most recommend a day trip instead.
Q: Is Monkey Island safe for children?
The beach is safe for swimming in calm weather, but the monkeys are a real concern. Children should be kept close and not allowed to run or carry food. The hike is not suitable for young children.
Q: What is the best time of day to visit Monkey Island?
Early morning (8:00-10:00 AM) for fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, and better light for photos. Afternoon visits can be hot, crowded, and rushed.
Q: How much does a boat to Monkey Island cost?
Group tours cost 300,000-500,000 VND ($12-20) per person. Private boats cost 1,000,000-1,500,000 VND ($40-60). Always confirm the price includes the return trip and any entry fees.
Q: Is Monkey Island better than a Lan Ha Bay tour?
For most travelers, a full-day Lan Ha Bay tour offers better value with more variety (kayaking, swimming, cave exploration, lunch). Monkey Island is best for a short, focused trip with a hike and beach time.