Phuoc Hai fishing village

1. Discover Phuoc Hai Fishing Village – A Cultural Gem of Ba Ria Vung Tau

1.1. Where is Phuoc Hai Fishing Village?

Phuoc Hai Fishing Village is located in Dat Do District, Ba Ria Vung Tau Province, about 16 km northeast of Vung Tau City. Nestled along the scenic coastal road from Long Hai to Loc An, the village charms visitors with its long sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and peaceful daily rhythms of fishermen. If you're wondering where Phuoc Hai is, just follow the coast and you’ll be welcomed by a picture-perfect fishing village in Vung Tau.

1.2. A Rich Historical Background

Phuoc Hai Fishing Village dates back several hundred years. According to village elders, it was originally founded by a few families from Central Vietnam who migrated in search of a new livelihood. They found the Phuoc Hai sea abundant with fish and calm waters, making it ideal for settlement. The name “Phuoc Hai” means "peaceful sea that brings prosperity"

Interestingly, during the French colonial era, Phuoc Hai was a key seafood supplier for restaurants in old Saigon. At one point, Phuoc Hai fish sauce and dried seafood were even exported overseas via small cargo boats. This makes the village not just a fishing community but also a historical trading port with strong local heritage.

2. Daily Life by the Sea in Phuoc Hai

Along Phuoc Hai beach, you’ll find basket boats resting on soft sand, fishermen skillfully mending their nets, and lively seafood markets at dawn. Every early morning, the Phuoc Hai fish port bustles as boats return from the sea with loads of fish, shrimp, and squid. Buyers and sellers create an energetic, authentic atmosphere unique to this coastal village.

3. Local Delicacies in Phuoc Hai Fishing Village

Food in Phuoc Hai fishing village is simple yet packed with flavor

Dried fish is a signature delicacy. The locals select fresh fish such as yellowtail scad or goby, clean and season them with sea salt, a hint of sugar, pepper, and chili, then sun-dry for two or three days. The sea breeze enhances the flavor and aroma, making it a popular gift item. Just grill the fish over hot charcoal and enjoy it with steaming rice and fish sauce – pure comfort food

Phuoc Hai fish sauce may not be as famous as Phu Quoc's, but it offers a distinct identity. It is made in clay jars using traditional methods and fresh anchovies or lạch huyết fish. The result is a well-balanced sauce that’s rich, fragrant, and slightly sweet. Locals often start brewing in July to October, the peak fishing season for the best quality

Canh cá tương me is a local soup that embodies the taste of the sea. Fresh-caught fish is simmered in fermented soybean paste with tamarind for tanginess. The soup is savory, lightly sweet and sour, and served steaming hot with rice. It’s a must-try dish when visiting the village, offering a true taste of coastal life

4. Spiritual Traditions – Vietnam’s Largest Whale Cemetery

A unique aspect of Phuoc Hai Fishing Village is its Dinh Ong whale temple, dedicated to the revered cá Ông or whale deity. Believed to protect fishermen during storms, whales are sacred in Vietnamese coastal culture. With over 100 whale graves, the site is considered the largest whale cemetery in Vietnam, offering insight into the deep spiritual connection between the sea and the people

5. Phuoc Hai Fishing Village Travel – What to See and Do

If you’re wondering what to do in Phuoc Hai Fishing Village, here are top experiences to enjoy

Watch the sunrise over Phuoc Hai beach, where the golden sun slowly rises above the calm sea, creating a breathtaking view

Visit and take photos at the fishing port, with its colorful wooden boats and bustling atmosphere

Observe fishermen mending nets, repairing boats, or sorting the catch – a hands-on look at daily coastal life

Buy fresh seafood or dried fish directly from the locals, ensuring both quality and great prices

Enjoy authentic dishes at local beachside eateries, including grilled fish, sautéed squid, and the famous canh cá tương me

Explore the Dinh Ong whale temple and learn about local spiritual beliefs tied to the sea

Take a relaxing walk along the pristine beach, with soft sand, clear water, and few tourists – perfect for peace and solitude