Top 10 Fishing Villages in Vietnam You Should Visit

Fishing villages in Vietnam offer authentic charm beyond the crowds-perfect for a beach vacation in Vietnam, exploring the best beaches in Vietnam, or enjoying diving in Vietnam adventures

Discover the top 10 local fishing villages in Vietnam

1. Cua Van Fishing Village – Halong Bay

Tucked away in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay, Cua Van is more than a floating village-it’s a living heritage. With emerald waters and dramatic limestone cliffs, it’s no surprise this village ranks among the world’s most beautiful coastal spots. Home to about 25 families, life here flows with the sea. People rely mostly on fishing and aquaculture for their livelihood. You’ll often spot children rowing small boats to floating schools. At sunrise, local fishermen cast their nets into the calm bay waters. Colorful wooden homes gently bob on the sea, creating a peaceful rhythm to village life. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood cooked by locals using age-old recipes. For a unique experience, try your hand at squid fishing under moonlight. If you’re curious about diving in Vietnam, this is an ideal place to explore underwater life.

Floating life thrives in Cua Van, one of fishing villages in Vietnam

To explore the area and go fishing, travelers can rent a local boat such as the Viet My Wooden Junk. It costs around 1,000,000 VND (about $40) for a half-day trip. Tours often begin at 8 AM and last 4 hours. Destinations include Cua Van, Ba Hang and Luon Cave.

2. Vung Vieng Fishing Village – Halong Bay

Not far from the tourist hubs of HaLong, Vung Vieng offers a peaceful retreat from the crowds. Nestled in Bai Tu Long Bay, the village is home to around 300 residents living traditional lives shaped by the sea. What truly sets Vung Vieng apart is its tranquility. With fewer visitors, the village preserves a rare charm that larger destinations often lose. Locals still rely on fishing and small-scale aquaculture, passing their skills down through generations. Travelers usually reach Vung Vieng by kayak or small boat, often as part of an overnight HaLong Bay Cruise. The waters here are calm, and the scenery is nothing short of breathtaking. Colorful boats drift quietly past limestone cliffs. Children wave from floating homes. Everything moves at a gentle, timeless pace.

Visitors can explore the peaceful bay or try local fishing methods with expert guides. It’s a perfect place to slow down and connect with Vietnam’s coastal heritage.

Culture and calm meet in Vung Vieng, fishing villages in Vietnam

Cruise Options for Fishing and Village Visit:

• Dragon Legend Cruise
  • Price: 6,000,000 VND (~$235) per person (2-day, 1-night)
  • Time: Departs midday, returns next morning
  • Includes: Visit to Vung Vieng, squid fishing, kayaking

• Swan Boutique Cruise
  • Price: 4,500,000 VND (~$180) per person (2-day, 1-night)
  • Time: Starts at noon, ends following day morning
  • Includes: Fishing village tour, local fishing activity, dinner on board

3. Cua Viet Fishing Village – Quang Tri

Situated in Central Vietnam, Cua Viet in Quang Tri province is a perfect stop for those seeking culture and history. This coastal village lies near the Ben Hai River, a landmark that once divided North and South during the Vietnam War. More than just a scenic spot, Cua Viet offers a deeper look into local life and resilience. Wake up early to visit the morning fish market, where the day begins with color and energy. Boats return with fresh catch as sellers call out prices and trade with locals. The market is not just lively-it’s the heart of the community. Fishermen bring in seafood like squid, shrimp and snapper. You’ll see buyers selecting fish with expert hands and cooks preparing meals nearby. Locals here are known for their warmth. Many will greet you with smiles and proudly share stories passed down through generations.

Waves shape daily life in Cua Viet, fishing villages in Vietnam thrive.

For a hands-on experience, join a local boat to catch your own fish at sea. Cua Viet blends quiet coastal charm with meaningful cultural connection-perfect for travelers looking beyond the usual paths.

4. Thanh Nam Fishing Village – Hoi An

Thanh Nam fishing village sits near the Cua Dai Sea, drawing many visitors exploring the ancient charm of Hoi An. Just a short cycling trip from the town center, it offers a quiet yet vivid glimpse into coastal life. The village lies along a peaceful road leading to the bay of islands. Here, white sandy beaches meet clear green waters, creating a calming escape from the bustle. Unlike tourist-heavy spots, Thanh Nam remains peaceful. The locals are incredibly welcoming, always ready to share smiles and stories from daily life. As you wander through the village, you’ll see traditional fish farms lining the shore. Colorful boats sway gently and fishermen prepare for their next trip at sea. Food lovers will find this place unforgettable. The street food stalls here serve some of the best local dishes in the region.

Daily nets and calm waters define fishing villages in Vietnam like Thanh Nam

For an authentic taste, try Quang noodles, a regional specialty made with turmeric noodles, herbs and fresh seafood. If you’re seeking sea food in Hoi An, this village offers both flavor and culture in every bite.

Recommended Quang Noodle Spot:

• Mi Quang Ba Minh
  • Address: Cam Ha, Hoi An
  • Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Price range: 25,000 – 50,000 VND (~$1 – $2)

5. Bich Dam Fishing Village – Nha Trang

Far from the buzz of Nha Trang, Bich Dam village on Hon Tre Island remains a hidden haven of peace and simplicity. Unlike more developed coastal spots, this village still holds onto its untouched charm, making it a rare and refreshing destination. To reach Bich Dam, travelers must take a local boat across the bay. Then, for those seeking adventure, a short hike up Gieng Mon Mountain offers a sweeping view of the entire village. The scenery is stunning with rolling hills, blue sky and traditional homes clustered by the shore. The name “Bich Dam” means blue lake, and it perfectly captures the feeling of the place. Crystal-clear waters surround the village and the view looks like a painting. Around 200 families live here, relying mostly on fishing and small-scale aquaculture. Colorful boats float by wooden piers while nets dry under the sun. Life moves slowly here. Locals greet visitors with quiet smiles and genuine hospitality. There are no crowds, no noise-just the sea, sky and tradition. Among the many fishing villages in Vietnam, Bich Dam stands out for its isolation and purity. It’s the kind of place where you can pause, breathe and reconnect with something timeless.

Binh Dam carries the legacy of proud fishing villages in Vietnam

Sample plan to explore Destinations & Activities:

• Floating fish farms visit (9:30 AM)

• Hands-on net fishing with locals (11:00 AM)

• Lunch on a floating restaurant (~12:00 PM)

• Visit to Bich Son Pagoda (~1:30 PM)

• Hike Gieng Mon Mountain (~2:30 PM)

• Free village exploration (~3:30 PM)

6. Ham Ninh Fishing Village – Phu Quoc Island

During your honeymoon in Vietnam, Ham Ninh fishing village on Phu Quoc Island will be a destination you won’t want to miss. Tucked at the foot of Ham Ninh Mountain, the village offers a peaceful escape with breathtaking coastal scenery. Small wooden houses sit by the shore, kissed by silver sea waves. Coconut trees sway gently adding to the village’s calm and romantic vibe. Unlike more modern areas, Ham Ninh retains its authentic charm. Life moves slowly here and every corner reflects a connection to nature and tradition. The village is also known for its centuries-old craftsmanship. Local artisans create tools and nets by hand, keeping traditional fishing skills alive. Moreover, this is the perfect place to enjoy fresh seafood straight from the ocean. Restaurants serve up specialties like steamed crab, grilled sea urchin and flower crab hotpot. The flavors are fresh and unforgettable.

Sunrise over Ham Ninh colors the lives of fishing villages in Vietnam.

If you’re seeking something beyond the usual, Ham Ninh is a quiet gem filled with heart and heritage.

Seafood Recommendation in Ham Ninh:

• Bien Xanh Restaurant
  • Must-try: Steamed crab, sea urchin, grilled scallops
  • Price range: 250,000 – 400,000 VND (~$10 – $16) per person, depending on dishes and group size
  • Time: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 10:30 PM
  • Location: Seafront, Ham Ninh Village, Phu Quoc

7. Rach Vem Fishing Village – Phu Quoc Island

Another hidden gem on Phu Quoc Island, Rach Vem village captures hearts with its floating houses and stunning red starfish. This charming village stretches over the water on a network of wooden platforms that connect homes, restaurants and small shops. Wooden bridges and narrow walkways sway gently with the waves, offering a truly unique walking experience. Moreover, the views of the sea and sky merging at the horizon are unforgettable. If you visit from December to April, you’ll witness something truly magical. Thousands of red starfish scatter the shallow seabed, easily visible through the clear blue water. It’s like walking through a dream. Beyond the beauty, Rach Vem offers something deeper. Life here flows slowly, shaped by nature and the rhythms of the sea. The locals welcome visitors with genuine smiles and love to share their stories.

Rach Vem brings to life the heritage of fishing villages in Vietnam

You can relax in floating seafood huts, watch fishing boats drift by or simply take in the peaceful vibe. In contrast to busier beaches, this village feels intimate and unspoiled. Among the many fishing villages in Vietnam, Rach Vem stands out for its quiet charm and surreal beauty. It’s the perfect stop for those seeking authenticity, nature and calm all in one place

8. Mui Ne Fishing Village – Phan Thiet

Located about 23 kilometers from Phan Thiet city, Mui Ne fishing village blends scenic beauty with cultural richness. When you descend the slope to the shoreline, you encounter the morning market alive with energy as boats unload fresh catch and locals haggle over seafood prices. Moreover, Mui Ne offers a glimpse into traditional fish-drying practices. While fishermen haul nets early, women skillfully lay fish on bamboo racks in the sun. Consequently the air fills with salty aroma, blending land and sea essence.

Mui Ne captures the essence of hardworking fishing villages in Vietnam

Furthermore, the village unveils insights into authentic fish sauce production. Large clay jars ferment alongside drying racks, producing the iconic condiment essential to Vietnamese kitchens. Interestingly the work division between men and women reflects a balanced local economy and shared heritage. Visitors can stroll along wooden piers as seagulls call overhead and fishermen mend their nets. Additionally you can chat with locals eager to share stories about their daily routines and ocean traditions.

Here’s a short fish sauce making process as traditionally practiced in Mui Ne:

• Catch & sort fish: Mainly anchovies are caught, then cleaned and sorted.

• Mix with salt: Fresh fish are layered with salt (usually 3:1 fish-to-salt ratio) in large wooden or clay barrels.

• Fermentation: The mixture ferments under the sun for 9 to 12 months, allowing natural enzymes to break down the fish.

• Pressing & filtering: Liquid is extracted from the bottom of the barrel, then filtered to remove sediments.

• Aging: The first-press fish sauce (called nước mắm nhĩ) is aged further for a richer flavor.

• Bottling: Finally, the sauce is bottled, often without preservatives, ready for sale or export.

9. Cai Beo Fishing Village – Cat Ba

Believed to be one of Vietnam’s oldest coastal settlements, Cai Beo village is a must-see for both nature and history lovers. Located near Cat Ba town, this unique destination offers a rare blend of archaeology, culture and stunning seascapes. Unlike other places, Cai Beo is not just scenic-it’s a living museum. French archaeologists discovered evidence of prehistoric life here, dating back over 7,000 years. As a result, the village is now considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited fishing communities in the country. Today, visitors can explore its floating homes and fishing boats by renting a small rowboat or kayak. Along the way, you can listen to local legends passed down through generations and observe ancient fishing methods still used today

Cai Beo stands among the oldest fishing villages in Vietnam’s history

Moreover, the landscape surrounding the village is breathtaking. Limestone karsts rise dramatically from the calm green waters, creating postcard-perfect views at every turn. Even with modern tourism reaching Cat Ba, Cai Beo has preserved its rhythm of life. Fishermen still mend nets at sunrise while families share stories over grilled fish. Among the many fishing villages in Vietnam, Cai Beo stands out for its deep cultural roots and enduring traditions. It’s a place where history lives on the water

10. Phuoc Hai Fishing Village – Vung Tau

Phuoc Hai is an ancient fishing village nestled at the foot of Minh Dam Mountain in Ba Ria – Vung Tau province. Just 16 km from Vung Tau city center, it offers both a sparkling beach and a glimpse into untamed coastal life. Despite its proximity to a popular tourist hub, Phuoc Hai retains an unspoiled charm. The mornings bring fishermen to the sea in coracle boats and larger vessels, while others process fish into traditional fermented fish sauce onshore. Visitors can immerse themselves in daily life here. You might join fishermen at dawn to cast nets or learn to paddle one of those round, woven coracles. Meanwhile, the beach offers space to stroll among fishing boats and breathe in the seaside serenity.

Phuong Hai brings daily life to light in fishing villages in Vietnam.

Moreover, Phuoc Hai reflects the balance between tradition and tourism. Local families still work the same waters their ancestors did, and small-scale fish sauce production remains a community staple. Here is a helpful boat suggestion for exploring the coast and nearby islands:

Boat Options from Vung Tau to Phuoc Hai

• Shared Wooden Boat
  • Price: 300,000 – 400,000 VND (~$12–$16) per person round-trip
  • Time: Departs around 6 AM, returns by 10 AM
  • Destinations: Phuoc Hai beach, Minh Dam foot, local fishing areas

• Private Motorboat Rental
  • Price: 1,200,000 – 1,600,000 VND (~$48–$64) for half-day
  • Time: Flexible, typically 4 hours in the morning
  • Destinations: Phuoc Hai along coast, small offshore islets, fishing activity

Travel Tips for Visiting Fishing Villages in Vietnam

To make the most of your journey through Vietnam’s coastal communities, here are some essential tips:

• Respect Local Customs: Fishing villages in Vietnam are often home to generations of families with deep-rooted traditions. Dress modestly, ask before taking photos, and engage with locals in a polite, open-minded way.
• Rise Early for the Best Experience: The rhythm of village life starts at dawn. Markets and fishing activities usually peak early in the morning. Set your alarm—you’ll be rewarded with vibrant scenes and fewer tourists.
• Pack Smart for Rural Areas: Some villages are remote, with limited access to stores or pharmacies. Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, cash (many places don’t accept cards), and motion sickness meds if you’re traveling by boat.
• Support the Local Economy: Eat at family-run eateries, buy handcrafted goods, and consider booking homestays or tours directly through locals. Your visit can make a real difference in supporting these small communities.
• Travel Sustainably: Be mindful of waste-especially plastic. Many fishing villages rely on clean waterways, so avoid leaving trash behind and bring a reusable water bottle whenever possible.

Plan Your Journey to Vietnam’s Coastal Gems

Fishing villages in Vietnam offer more than just scenic views-they open the door to authentic experiences, heartfelt connections, and a deeper understanding of the country’s coastal heritage. Whether you’re after adventure, tranquility, or a cultural deep dive, these villages are a must-add to your Vietnam travel itinerary. Ready to explore Vietnam beyond the usual tourist routes? Let us help you plan the perfect journey. From local-guided tours to customized beach escapes, our travel experts are here to bring your dream vacation to life. Contact us today and discover how unforgettable a trip to Vietnam’s fishing villages can truly be.