Monkey Island

Travelers to picturesque Halong Bay’s largest island, known as Cat Ba, can spend a day venturing out to one of the area's more isolated islands, complete with a private beach accessible only by local boat. As its name suggests, long-tailed macaques monkeys that were originally imported to appeal to tourists run wild on this remote land mass. These tiny mammals rush to shore as boats arrive to greet visitors who plan to spend the day exploring the lush landscapes of Monkey Island.
While the island is perfect for a day trip, accommodations such as the Monkey Island Resort also exist for travelers who prefer to spend several days enjoying this out-of-the-way place. The white-sand beach is idea for sunbathing, and the shallow turquoise waters that stretch out from the shore offer up plenty of snorkeling options that don’t require a boat! Swim with tropical fish, relax on the sand or sip coconut water from fruit just picked from the tree. Island hoppers can also hike well-marked trails to the top of the mountain for impressive views.

Practical Info

Be aware that monkeys on the island are accustomed to tourists and not afraid of humans. Avoid eating in view of them and keep possessions close at hand, since monkeys have been known to snatch food and personal items from travelers. Remain at a distance when scoping out monkeys, too, as they can get aggressive.