Have you ever dreamed of visiting a floating village surrounded by emerald waters and towering limestone mountains?
Cua Van Floating Fishing Village, located deep within Vietnam’s world-famous Ha Long Bay, offers travelers an extraordinary opportunity to step into a world where life flows with the tides and culture floats gently on the sea. Whether you’re curious about local traditions or looking for a peaceful getaway, this village has more to offer than meets the eye.
In this article, you’ll learn:
Where Cua Van is and how to get there
What experiences and activities await you
When to go and how to prepare for the best trip
Let’s begin your journey into one of Vietnam’s most unique cultural landscapes.
Cua Van is a traditional fishing village located in Hung Thang Commune, Ha Long City, nestled within the calm, scenic waters of Ha Long Bay. Roughly 20 kilometers from the harbor, it’s surrounded by majestic limestone karsts and protected from strong winds and waves by the Va Gia mountain range.
This peaceful environment has allowed the village to endure through decades of storms, tides, and time. The village is home to dozens of colorful floating houses—most about 30 square meters in size—each uniquely painted and anchored close together like a watercolor painting on the bay.
Local life here revolves entirely around the sea. From generation to generation, families have lived, fished, and raised their children on these floating homes. As tourism grew, Cua Van became a cultural attraction for visitors worldwide while still preserving its authenticity.
Most travelers begin their journey in Hanoi. From there, you can take:
Bus or shuttle from My Dinh or Gia Lam bus station
Train (less common, slower but scenic)
Private car for convenience and flexibility
The trip takes about 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on your mode of transport.
Once in Ha Long City, make your way to Tuan Chau Marina, located about 13-16 km from the city center. You can hire a taxi, ride a motorbike, or ask your hotel to arrange transport.
Tourist boat: Great for groups; seats 30–50 passengers
Speedboat/canoe: Faster, more direct, but pricier
Luxury cruise: Best for a full-day or overnight experience, including multiple stops around the bay
Most cruises to Cua Van also include visits to surrounding islets and caves, so it’s a great chance to combine nature and culture in one unforgettable journey.
Cua Van feels like a world apart. Imagine drifting past colorful homes as children paddle handmade boats and fishermen mend nets under the soft morning sun. The village is a haven of peace, embraced by the limestone cliffs of Ha Long Bay.
Strolling along floating platforms or gliding in a bamboo boat, you’ll experience a profound sense of calm. Early mornings and late afternoons are especially magical, when the bay is cloaked in mist and golden light filters through the peaks.
The people of Cua Van are descendants of long-standing fishing communities. Living off the sea, they’ve developed a way of life that’s both resourceful and deeply rooted in tradition.
Here’s what you can do to understand their culture better:
Visit floating homes: With permission, step inside and see daily life unfold.
Talk with villagers: Many can speak basic English or are happy to engage through a guide.
Watch or join traditional activities: Like mending nets, preparing seafood, or rowing bamboo boats.
Attend cultural performances or festivals if your timing is lucky—local events often include sea worship ceremonies and folk music.
This is more than sightseeing—it’s cultural immersion.
One of the most unforgettable activities in Cua Van is joining a local fisherman to try traditional net casting or rod fishing.
With simple equipment and patient instruction, you’ll learn to:
Use basic rods or nets like a true local
Cast correctly to catch shrimp or fish
Understand how tides and moon cycles affect fishing
Clean and prepare what you catch (yes, you can eat it!)
This is a hands-on way to connect with the rhythms of life in the village, and it’s particularly exciting for children and families.
Cua Van is just one of many breathtaking sites in Ha Long Bay, and it’s best explored by boat.
Some highlights often included in extended tours:
Hon Trong Mai (Fighting Cock Islets) – iconic rock formations
Ti Top Island – with a sandy beach and hilltop viewpoint
Ba Ham Lake – hidden lagoon accessible by kayak
Dark and Bright Cave – paddle through caves into secret coves
On these boat rides, you’ll see how villagers move between homes, market boats, and schools—all while floating. The water is clear, the cliffs are lush, and the slow pace lets you take it all in.
Cua Van is a seafood paradise. The locals have daily access to fresh catches like:
Fish, shrimp, and squid
Oysters, mussels, and scallops
Crabs and even sea cucumbers
Enjoy a seafood meal right on the water, either onboard your boat or at one of the floating restaurants. Don’t miss goi ca (fish salad), made with raw fish, garlic, chili, lime juice, and fresh herbs.
After a long day of exploring, a meal under the sunset with gentle waves rocking your boat feels like a scene from a dream.
The best time to visit Cua Van Floating Village depends largely on your travel preferences and what kind of experience you are looking for. Each season in Ha Long Bay offers a different atmosphere—from vibrant and energetic to calm and introspective—so it’s worth understanding what each time of year has to offer.
From March to August, Cua Van welcomes visitors with warm, sunny weather and calm seas, making it an ideal period for outdoor activities like kayaking, bamboo boat rides, swimming, and photography. Springtime (March to May) is especially pleasant, with moderate temperatures and blooming scenery across the bay. The summer months (June to August), while hot and more humid, offer long daylight hours that are perfect for extended excursions and water adventures. However, this is also the peak travel season, especially for domestic tourists, so attractions may be more crowded. Travelers planning to visit during this time are advised to book accommodation and tours well in advance to secure their spots.
From September to November, the weather becomes more temperate with lower humidity and fewer tourists. This autumn season is considered one of the best times to visit Cua Van for those seeking a quieter, more relaxed experience. With its soft light and calm waters, this period is perfect for cultural exploration, slow-paced sightseeing, and seafood lovers, as this is when the local marine harvest is particularly abundant. Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the crisp, clean air and vibrant sunsets during this time of year.
From December to February, Cua Van enters its quietest and most mystical phase. While temperatures can drop below 15°C, especially in January, and occasional rain or mist is common, this season reveals a different charm of Ha Long Bay. The mist drifting across the limestone peaks and tranquil waters creates an ethereal, almost surreal landscape. Although it may be too chilly for swimming, it’s an ideal time for reflection, slow travel, and those who wish to avoid the crowds. Visitors can still enjoy village life, take part in fishing activities, and immerse themselves in the peaceful rhythm of the bay.
Overall, spring and autumn are considered the most balanced times to visit Cua Van in terms of weather, crowd levels, and activity options. However, every season holds a unique beauty and emotional atmosphere that can make your journey special, no matter when you choose to go.
To make the most of your visit to Cua Van, it’s important to prepare properly. The village is located in a unique setting that combines natural beauty with traditional lifestyles, and a little planning can go a long way toward making your experience smooth, respectful, and enjoyable.
Dress appropriately for the weather and activities. In warmer months, lightweight, breathable clothing will help keep you comfortable, especially when engaging in outdoor tours and boat rides. During the cooler season from December to February, bring a light jacket or sweater, as mornings and evenings can be quite cold, especially on the water. Footwear is also important—choose slip-resistant sandals or sturdy walking shoes that can handle wet surfaces and uneven docks.
Check the weather forecast before your trip. Rain showers are more frequent between May and September, so packing a small umbrella or lightweight poncho is advisable. If visiting in summer, the sun can be intense, particularly during midday hours. Be sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself during outdoor activities.
Carry some cash in Vietnamese Dong. While larger tour operators or hotels in Ha Long City may accept card payments, most services in and around Cua Van—such as small floating vendors or local guides—operate on a cash-only basis. Bringing small denominations will also allow you to tip local hosts or participate in impromptu activities like buying freshly caught seafood.
Practice mindful and respectful photography. The floating village is home to real families going about their daily lives. If you wish to photograph residents, particularly children, it’s polite to ask for permission first, either directly or through a guide. Avoid flying drones unless you’ve secured prior approval, as they can disturb both locals and the environment.
Help protect the bay’s delicate ecosystem. Ha Long Bay is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its preservation depends on responsible tourism. Avoid littering, refrain from throwing anything into the water, and try to minimize the use of single-use plastics. Bringing a reusable water bottle and eco-friendly travel gear is a great start toward sustainable exploration.
Book your tour with a reputable operator. Whether you’re taking a day trip or an overnight cruise, it’s important to choose a licensed, experienced provider who prioritizes safety and environmental responsibility. Quality tours often include a guide knowledgeable in local history and customs, as well as built-in opportunities to explore Cua Van in combination with nearby caves, islets, and kayaking zones.
By following these tips and approaching your trip with curiosity and care, you’ll gain more than just beautiful photographs—you’ll experience the soul of one of Vietnam’s most serene and culturally rich destinations.
When planning a journey to explore the rich culture and breathtaking landscapes of Vietnam, choosing the right travel partner makes all the difference. At MYCT Vietnam Travel, we specialize in creating tailor-made experiences that go far beyond ordinary sightseeing. From the moment you arrive until the end of your tour, our goal is to provide a seamless, personalized, and deeply memorable adventure across Vietnam’s most iconic regions.
One of the things that set MYCT apart is our focus on private and customizable tours. Whether you’re a family traveling with young children, a couple on a romantic getaway, a group of friends, or a corporate team seeking a cultural retreat, we design our itineraries to match your pace, interests, and travel style. Every tour is handled by experienced English-speaking guides who understand the cultural nuances and local heritage of each region—ensuring you gain meaningful insight rather than just photo opportunities.
Over the years, we have proudly served thousands of international travelers, including clients referred by a leading travel agency Singapore visitors often trust when seeking high-quality Southeast Asia trips. This recognition speaks to our commitment to safety, professionalism, and authentic, high-value experiences.
At MYCT, we believe that travel is not just about moving from place to place—it’s about connection, discovery, and unforgettable stories. Whether you’re sailing through the misty bays of Ha Long, walking among the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, or enjoying fresh seafood with a local fishing family in Cua Van, we’re here to make sure every moment matters.
Choose MYCT Vietnam Travel to experience the country through the eyes of locals—with the care and expertise of a trusted guide by your side.
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