Ganh Dau Market is a traditional local market located in northern Phu Quoc Island, offering travelers a rare chance to experience authentic Vietnamese culture, sample fresh seafood, and escape the tourist crowds. Conveniently located near Corona Resort & Casino Phu Quoc, this market is a hidden gem worth exploring. This article will give you an in-depth look into Ganh Dau Market, including its location, how to get there, the best time to visit, top activities, must-try local specialties, and practical travel tips for a seamless experience.
Overview of Ganh Dau Market
Ganh Dau Market is a peaceful rural market on Phu Quoc Island that attracts visitors with its authentic atmosphere and local flavors.
Where is Ganh Dau located on Phu Quoc Island?
Location: Near Ganh Dau Cape – Suoi Cai Hamlet – Ganh Dau District – Phu Quoc
Opening Hours: 6:30 AM – 9:30 PM (daily)
Seafood Price Range: 100,000 – 800,000 VND/kg (≈ $4–$33 USD/kg, depending on type)
Ganh Dau Market is the most remote local market from Duong Dong town center. It features a spacious layout with densely packed vendor stalls. While not overly bustling, the market serves as a trading hub for small local merchants and has become a go-to spot for travelers visiting Ganh Dau Cape.
How to get to Ganh Dau Market efficiently?
Travelers can reach Ganh Dau Market by motorbike, taxi, or private car from Duong Dong town, with a distance of about 25–30 km. The main route follows DT45 road, passing through popular spots like VinWonders and Grand World. The trip typically takes 45–60 minutes depending on traffic and transportation mode.
When is the best time to visit Ganh Dau?
The best time to visit Ganh Dau Market is early in the morning from 7 AM to 10 AM, when seafood is freshest and local vendors are most active. Unlike the bustling central markets, Ganh Dau offers a tranquil, authentic countryside vibe, making it ideal for travelers who appreciate a quieter, more local experience. The dry season (November to April) is also recommended for smoother travel without rain interruptions.
Top Things to Do in Ganh Dau Market
Ganh Dau Market offers visitors a range of immersive experiences that reflect the local lifestyle and culinary culture.
While the market’s primary function is trading, it serves as a vibrant community space where travelers can:
- Buy freshly caught seafood such as cobia, squid, mantis shrimp, clams, and barracuda
- Observe daily local life and interact with vendors in a laid-back, authentic setting
- Enjoy friendly conversations with local sellers, who are welcoming and often willing to share recipes or cooking tips
- Organize a beachside BBQ with fresh ingredients purchased at the market and cooked at nearby resorts or bungalows
Best Local Specialties to Try at Ganh Dau Market
The cuisine at Ganh Dau Market highlights the island’s coastal identity and traditional flavors.
Here are some must-try dishes and local specialties you’ll find at Phu Quoc markets—perfect for both tasting on the spot and capturing in photos:
- Bun Quay: A Phu Quoc original, this noodle dish is made with hand-pulled noodles, fresh shrimp paste, and a light, aromatic broth. It’s prepared right in front of you and best enjoyed hot.
- Banh Canh Ghe (Crab Noodle Soup): This hearty bowl features fresh crab, thick chewy noodles, and a savory broth, garnished with herbs. A go-to comfort dish for many locals.
- Herring Salad (Goi Ca Trich): One of the most iconic dishes in Phu Quoc, this salad combines raw herring, shredded coconut, onions, and a tangy dipping sauce. It’s light, refreshing, and packed with flavor.
- Grilled Spanish Mackerel Patties (Cha Ca Thu): Flavorful, compact, and protein-rich, these patties are served hot at the market or wrapped to take home as tasty souvenirs.
Prices are wallet-friendly, typically ranging from $0.80–$3.30 USD per dish. Despite the simple setting, the flavors easily rival more upscale restaurants on the island.
Read more: Ultimate Night Market Phu Quoc Guide for Travelers
Travel Tips for Visiting Ganh Dau Market
To make the most of your visit to Ganh Dau Market, consider the following tips:
- Bring cash: Most stalls don’t accept card or digital payments, so carry small bills.
- Practice polite bargaining: Local vendors appreciate a respectful negotiation style.
- Prepare your own carry bag or container: If you plan to buy seafood, having your own container can be helpful.
- Combine with nearby attractions: After visiting the market, explore Ganh Dau Cape, Nguyen Trung Truc Temple, or nearby entertainment areas like VinWonders.
- Go early: Arriving early ensures the freshest picks and a more relaxed browsing experience.
Ganh Dau Market offers a meaningful, immersive journey into the daily life of northern Phu Quoc. Whether you’re a seafood lover, culture seeker, or independent traveler, this market lets you enjoy authentic flavors and connect with a community that lives in harmony with the sea.
See more: Nightlife in Phu Quoc Vietnam: 8 experiences worth trying
Located not far from Corona Resort & Casino Phu Quoc, it’s an ideal add-on to your luxury vacation. If you’re heading north, don’t miss Ganh Dau Market — where rustic charm and local spirit come alive.