Just a two-hour drive from central Ho Chi Minh City, Phuoc Hai fishing village remains a peaceful coastal escape with scenic landscapes, photogenic spots, and an abundance of fresh seafood - especially its famed creamy oysters sold at just $1.40 per kilogram.

Phuoc Hai village, located in Phuoc Hai Ward, Ho Chi Minh City (previously Long Dat District, Ba Ria - Vung Tau Province), has existed for centuries. The area boasts serene beauty with emerald waters, soft golden sands, and a relaxed pace of life.

Luong Vu, born in 2003 and a student at Saigon University, currently promotes tourism in Phuoc Hai. He shares that unlike more crowded beach destinations, Phuoc Hai captivates visitors with its nostalgic charm and calm atmosphere - completely detached from the hustle of city life.

“The locals in Phuoc Hai are genuine, kind, and welcoming. When I first arrived, though I didn’t know anyone, they were quick to offer directions, help with parking, and make me feel at home,” Luong said.

Visitors to Phuoc Hai should explore the Phuoc Hai embankment, Phuoc Hai square, the Loc An embankment, Loc An fishing port and beach, So Bong Lake, Minh Dam mountain, Nuoc Ngot Pass, and the An Nhut rice fields.

Stretching several kilometers, the Phuoc Hai embankment is adorned with vibrant murals. Dozens of round bamboo boats rest along the sandy shore. “In the early morning, you can watch these boats return from sea as fishermen diligently sort their catch. You can even buy fresh seafood straight from them at great prices,” Luong noted.

In 2022, Phuoc Hai became a sensation thanks to its affordable and delicious oysters - especially steamed creamy oysters priced at only $1.40/kg. Visitors flocked to the village to sample the many oyster-based dishes.

According to Luong, oysters remain a must-try specialty here. Numerous local eateries advertise “35k oysters,” often packed with diners, especially on weekends.

In the mornings, visitors can browse Phuoc Hai Market for fresh seafood like snails, squid, shrimp, and oysters - ideal for having cooked at a homestay or taking home as gifts at bargain prices.

Phuoc Hai Square is a newly built, spacious site where colorful giant kites fill the sky during weekends, adding to the festive vibe.

Nearby, the Loc An embankment, fishing port, and beach offer scenic views and quiet spaces for photography. “The port is always busy with boats, yet the sea remains clean and uncrowded,” said Luong.

From March to August, visitors can explore So Bong Lake, nicknamed a “miniature prairie,” with its turquoise waters and rolling hills - perfect for camping and fishing.

Visitors can also hike up Minh Dam mountain for a panoramic view of the Phuoc Hai - Long Hai coastal road. At the mountain’s base is the Truc Lam Chan Nguyen Zen Monastery, home to over 200 monkeys and a popular destination for tourists.

Another nearby highlight is the An Nhut rice fields, which recently gained social media fame for their golden, picturesque beauty.

Phuoc Hai also houses the Nam Hai Whale Cemetery (Ngoc Lang Nam Hai), covering around 2,000 square meters near the shoreline. Established in 1999, it is recognized by the Vietnam Record Book Center as the country’s largest whale cemetery.

Over 100 whale tombs rest beneath a forest of tall casuarina trees. Local fishermen consider whales sacred beings of fortune, reverently calling them “Ong.” When a whale is found dead, the discoverer brings it to the cemetery for burial and mourning as if it were a parent. Each year, from the 15th to 17th day of the second lunar month, locals and visitors gather for the Nghinh Ong Festival with vibrant ceremonies and rituals.

Linh Trang