Phu Quoc Island is famous for its stunning beaches and vibrant sea life. To truly capture the local spirit, you must visit the traditional fishing village Phu Quoc. These spots are the cultural heart, where travelers discover fishing traditions and enjoy fresh seafood. This article, Corona Resort & Casino, will introduce the most famous fishing villages and share essential tips for tourists visiting them.
Top Fishing Village Phu Quoc
To truly unlock the heart of Pearl Island, travelers must explore the traditional fishing village Phu Quoc, which offer authentic insights into local life and unparalleled seafood experiences. Each coastal hamlet possesses a distinct charm, making them essential stops on any itinerary.
Ham Ninh Fishing Village – A Seafood Paradise
Located on the eastern coast at the foot of Ham Ninh Mountain, this historic fishing village Phu Quoc falls under the jurisdiction of Ham Ninh Commune, Phu Quoc City. Renowned for its ancient charm and rustic ambiance, Ham Ninh is primarily known as the island’s seafood hub, particularly famed for its fresh flower crabs.
Visitors can walk along the iconic wooden jetty extending far into the shallow, clear water, which provides a perfect vantage point for spectacular sunrises over the sea. The village is characterized by floating raft restaurants where the freshest catches are served immediately. Beyond gastronomy, it offers a glimpse into traditional livelihoods like pearl diving and sea cucumber fishing, making it a cultural and culinary must-visit.
Ganh Dau Fishing Village – Overlooking Cambodia
Situated at the remote northwestern tip, this serene fishing village Phu Quoc is located within Ganh Dau Commune, Phu Quoc City. The village’s most distinctive feature is its geographical proximity to Cambodia, whose mountains are visible across the short stretch of sea on a clear day.
Ganh Dau retains a beautifully unspoiled and tranquil atmosphere, providing a refreshing escape from the island’s more developed areas. The local community thrives on fishing, offering visitors an authentic coastal experience and the chance to buy seafood directly from the boats. Its quiet beach and local eateries, such as Bien Hai Quan, are celebrated spots for enjoying simple, freshly caught delicacies while watching the sunset over the Gulf of Thailand.
Rach Vem Fishing Village – Starfish Paradise
Often dubbed the ‘Starfish Kingdom’ Rach Vem is a beloved northern fishing village Phu Quoc, also situated in Ganh Dau Commune, Phu Quoc City. Its main attraction is the seasonal appearance of thousands of bright red starfish congregating in the shallow, crystalline waters near the shore, typically between November and April. This creates a mesmerizing natural spectacle perfect for photography.
The village is defined by charming floating wooden bridges and stilt houses that serve as seafood restaurants, where guests dine directly over the water. Beyond the starfish, the village offers a sense of untouched tranquility and a deep connection to the local fishermen’s simple way of life.
Rach Tram Fishing Village – The Most Pristine One
Rach Tram is one of the most secluded and pristine Phu Quoc fishing villages, located on the northern coast within Bai Thom Commune, Phu Quoc City. Its defining characteristic is its rich, untouched ecosystem, where the sea meets a dense primary forest and a large mangrove estuary.
This isolation, historically due to difficult access, has preserved its authentic, rustic charm. It is an ideal destination for eco-tourists and nature lovers seeking unspoiled tranquility and diverse birdlife. Exploring Rach Tram involves navigating small creeks and streams, allowing visitors to witness the unique local life of the small, resilient community that primarily relies on fishing and shellfish harvesting.
Cua Can Fishing Village – River Meets the Sea
This charming and peaceful Phu Quoc fishing village is located on the central-western coast, situated in Cua Can Commune, Phu Quoc City. The village’s unique beauty stems from its location at the estuary where the Cua Can River gracefully meets the ocean. This geographical feature creates a serene landscape perfect for gentle water activities.
Visitors are drawn here to kayak along the winding river, admiring the simple stilt houses and the small wooden bridge that crosses the water. Visitors are drawn here to kayak along the winding river, admiring the simple stilt houses and the small wooden bridge that crosses the water. It offers a quieter, more reflective experience than the major tourist hubs, making it an excellent spot to observe the local fishermen and enjoy the confluence of riverine and coastal ecosystems.
Hon Thom Fishing Village – Southern Island Gem
Nestled within the An Thoi Archipelago off the southern tip, this significant Phu Quoc fishing village falls under An Thoi Ward, Phu Quoc City. Although it has become a famous tourism gateway featuring the world’s longest sea-crossing cable car, the area still retains the charm of a traditional fishing community.
The village is a perfect blend of modern entertainment amenities and authentic coastal life. The heart of the area is the constantly bustling harbor with fishing boats, where you can visit the lively local market or admire the seafood farming rafts. Hon Thom is the ideal spot to participate in watersports such as snorkeling to see corals, fishing, and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of a precious Southern gem.
Cau Cang (Duong Dong) Fishing Village – Central & Accessible
Cau Cang, the traditional fishing wharf adjacent to the International Cruise Port, is situated right in the heart of the city within Duong Dong Ward, Phu Quoc City. Unlike the smaller, remote villages, this location is the island’s most accessible and busiest hub for the seafood trade. Its main feature is the sheer spectacle of hundreds of colorful fishing boats docking before dawn to offload their catches. This bustling hub is the best place to witness the island’s economic heartbeat and buy the freshest seafood directly from the morning market.
Travel Tips for Visiting Fishing Village Phu Quoc
Exploring the local settlements offers the most genuine window into the island’s culture and marine life. To ensure an authentic and smooth experience when visiting a traditional fishing village Phu Quoc, heed these practical tips:
- Bring cash (VND): Most small seafood stalls, local markets, and family-run restaurants operate strictly on cash. Ensure you carry sufficient Vietnamese Dong (VND) for transactions, as card payments are rare.
- Respect local life: As a visitor, you should remember that these are living, working communities, not theme parks. Show respect by dressing modestly, and always ask for permission before you take close-up pictures of local people or their property.
- Rent a motorbike: Renting a motorbike is the most authentic way to reach secluded villages like Rach Tram or Ganh Dau. This offers you the flexibility to navigate the quieter roads and explore the true off-the-beaten-path areas of Phu Quoc.
FAQs About Fishing Village Phu Quoc
Which fishing village is best for seafood lovers?
For seafood lovers, Ham Ninh Fishing Village is the best choice. It is famous nationwide for its fresh, cheap flower crabs and vibrant floating raft restaurants where you can eat your catch right away.
Can I stay overnight in a fishing village Phu Quoc?
While you can’t book major hotels, you can find small, local homestays or guesthouses run by fishermen in places like Ham Ninh and Rach Vem. This offers a deeply authentic, rustic experience.
How far are these villages from Duong Dong town?
Distances vary significantly. Cau Cang is central (under 2 km), while Ham Ninh is about 14 km away. Remote villages like Rach Tram and Ganh Dau can be 30–40 km away, requiring longer travel time.
Is it suitable for families or couples?
Yes, they are highly suitable for both. Couples enjoy the tranquil sunrises and sunsets, while families appreciate the safe, shallow beaches (like Rach Vem) and the fun, educational experience of local life.
The journey through the diverse fishing village Phu Quoc offers far more than just beautiful scenery, it provides a profound connection to the island’s authentic cultural and culinary heritage. By following the essential tips on cultural interaction and timing, your exploration of these coastal havens will undoubtedly be the highlight of your trip. Contact Corona Resort & Casino to inquire about convenient nearby tour options and begin planning your unforgettable cultural experience.