During the National Day holiday, many tourists are opting for serene seaside fishing villages that offer a slower pace of life, beautiful ocean views, and inexpensive, freshly caught seafood. These hidden coastal gems provide a refreshing alternative to crowded tourist hotspots.

Phuoc Hai fishing village, Ho Chi Minh City

Located in Phuoc Hai Ward, Ho Chi Minh City (formerly part of Long Dat District, Ba Ria - Vung Tau Province), Phuoc Hai fishing village is only about two hours by car from the city center. This destination offers pristine blue waters, golden sandy beaches, and a tranquil local rhythm.

Visitors can explore landmarks such as Phuoc Hai embankment, Phuoc Hai square, Loc An embankment - Loc An fishing port - Loc An beach, So Bong Lake, Minh Dam Mountain, Nuoc Ngot Pass, and An Nhut rice fields.

The Phuoc Hai embankment is decorated with vibrant murals. Along the beach, dozens of round woven basket boats are arranged in rows, creating a distinctly local atmosphere.

In the morning, visitors can shop at Phuoc Hai Market for seafood like snails, squid, shrimp, and oysters, either to take home or have prepared at local homestays. Prices are very affordable, with the most popular item - milk oysters - selling for only about $1.40 per kilogram.

Tri Nguyen fishing village, Khanh Hoa

Tri Nguyen Island (Hon Mieu) is the closest island to the mainland in Nha Trang Bay, Khanh Hoa. It lies just over 1 km from the coast and can be reached in 15–20 minutes by local ferry. The fare is only $0.20 per ride, with a boat departing every 10 minutes.

Tri Nguyen Village, located on the island, remains peaceful and untouched by the bustle of tourism. It’s a perfect escape for those seeking a slower pace and the serenity of island life.

Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by a lively seafood market, where the day’s catch - caught overnight - is sold fresh each morning. Local breakfast dishes and snacks range from just $0.20 to $0.40, with noodle soup bowls priced at around $0.80.

Island residents maintain numerous floating cages to farm seafood such as green lobsters, ornate spiny lobsters, groupers, and cobia.

Go Co village, Quang Ngai

Go Co Village is part of the National Special Relic of Sa Huynh Culture in Quang Ngai Province, ideal for travelers looking to experience rustic coastal village life with a strong sense of community.

Often called the “many no’s village,” Go Co has no bustling shops, and many homes have no air conditioning or televisions. The village’s homestays are built according to community-agreed standards, with thatched roofs, bamboo walls, and clay-and-straw plaster.

The village is adjacent to a beautiful beach. Visitors can admire coastal rock formations by paddling traditional basket boats at sunrise or sunset. Homestay hosts - who are also fishermen - serve meals made from freshly caught seafood and homegrown produce.

Travel and meal costs are very affordable. Rooms are available from around $12 per night, and full meals can be ordered for $2.80 per person. Local breakfast snacks are priced between $0.40 and $0.60.

Linh Trang