Radio Tower Viewpoint

The Radio Tower viewpoint on Cat Ba Island has quietly become the island's best accessible sunset spot following the long-term closure of Cannon Fort in late 2025. The site centres on a Viettel telecom transmission tower near the summit of Núi Ngọc, sitting at close to 100 metres above sea level, with unobstructed panoramic views in two directions: southwest over Cat Ba town and its surrounding hills, and east toward Lan Hạ Bay and the Ben Beo harbour area.

The path to the summit passes several abandoned stone bunkers and military outpost structures from an earlier era, adding an atmosphere that most viewpoints on the island lack. One honest note on arrival: the parking area at the base has a litter problem that makes a poor first impression. It doesn't affect the experience at the top, but it's worth knowing so it doesn't catch you off guard.

From Cat Ba town, take the road heading up toward Cannon Fort (Pháo Đài Thần Công) on Núi Ngọc. Follow the road until you reach the barrier blocking access to the fort - the fort itself is closed long-term. At the barrier, look left: you will see two options. The stone staircase on the left leads directly up to the radio tower - it's the clearest route but overgrown from disuse.

The gravel road in the centre also leads to the tower and can be ridden by motorbike with a steady hand, though walking is recommended given the loose surface, steep sections, and potholes from rain runoff. The total walking time from the barrier to the summit viewpoint is roughly 20-30 minutes.

The climb passes through scrub vegetation with occasional views opening up as you gain height. Along the path, several abandoned stone bunkers and what appears to be an old watchtower or military outpost are visible - the structures are in varying states of decay and add a layer of history to the walk. At the summit, the radio tower itself is fenced and operational.

From here, two paths branch: straight ahead wraps around behind the tower with views over Cat Ba town; turning right leads along a ridge path toward the sea, with open views over Lan Hạ Bay, the karst islands, and Ben Beo harbour below. The final section to the viewpoint involves scrambling over rocks - wear shoes with grip. The ridge path runs close to the cliff edge in sections. The summit area has no facilities and is quiet on most days.

The Radio Tower viewpoint is the practical replacement for Cannon Fort as Cat Ba's primary sunset location - the views are comparable and in some directions superior, and the absence of infrastructure means the experience is more atmospheric. Time your visit to arrive at the summit 30-45 minutes before sunset to choose your position and let the light develop. The path back down in the dark is manageable with a phone torch but arriving before dusk is strongly recommended.

Bring water and a hat - there's nothing for sale up top and the ridge is exposed. Combine the visit with an afternoon at Lan Hạ Bay or a late lunch in Cat Ba town before heading up the hill.