Ham Ninh Fishing Village, Phu Quoc: Things to Experience
Nestled along the eastern coast of Phu Quoc Island, Ham Ninh Fishing Village resembles a peaceful painting of traditional coastal life. This village retains its pristine beauty with rustic houses, wooden boats resting on the calm water, and a long wooden pier stretching out to the sea. Join SVietnam Travel in exploring Ham Ninh Fishing Village – an ideal destination for those who love to discover and immerse themselves in the simple charm of the ocean.
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Overview of Ham Ninh Fishing Village, Phu Quoc
Ham Ninh Fishing Village is located in Ham Ninh Commune, Phu Quoc District, Kien Giang Province. Peacefully resting on the eastern coast of Phu Quoc Island, this ancient village is backed by the Ham Ninh mountain range and faces the vast open sea. With its long stretches of sandy beach and crystal-clear waters, the village offers a pristine yet captivating natural landscape. Not only is it a major seafood supplier for Phu Quoc, but it is also a fascinating destination for those seeking tranquility and an authentic fishing village experience.
The locals of Ham Ninh primarily make their living from fishing and pearl farming. If you visit in the early morning, you will witness small boats bustling out to sea and returning with a fresh catch, including the famous Ham Ninh crab—a local delicacy known for its firm, sweet, and flavorful meat. Visitors also have the opportunity to observe the traditional craft of pearl jewelry making, a unique artisanal trade of the region.
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Beyond being a paradise for seafood lovers, Ham Ninh Fishing Village boasts breathtaking natural scenery, especially during sunrise and sunset. Capturing stunning photos, relaxing on soft white sandy beaches, and immersing yourself in the daily life of the locals are among the most rewarding experiences when visiting this charming coastal village.
Best Time to Visit Ham Ninh Fishing Village
You can visit Ham Ninh Fishing Village in Phu Quoc at any time of the year, but it is best to avoid the rainy season. The ideal time to visit is from November to April, when the weather is dry, sunny, and perfect for enjoying the island. This period also coincides with the peak fishing season, allowing you to indulge in the freshest seafood at the best prices. The temperature in this area ranges between 28 to 32°C, making it ideal for a seaside getaway.
You can also visit during the dry season or in late December. However, it is advisable to avoid the July to August period when typhoons frequently hit Phu Quoc, causing rough seas and unpredictable weather conditions.
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How to Get to Ham Ninh Fishing Village
There are two main ways to reach Ham Ninh Fishing Village, depending on your starting location. You can choose the most suitable route and mode of transportation:
- From Duong Dong Ward (Phu Quoc City Center): The village is about 15 km away, and it takes around 40 minutes to get there by taxi or motorbike.
- From Ha Tien (Kien Giang Province): You can take a high-speed ferry to Phu Quoc and then continue your journey to Ham Ninh Fishing Village.
- From Rach Gia (Kien Giang Province): You can take a high-speed ferry to Bai Vong Port, which is about 4 km from Ham Ninh Fishing Village. From there, you can continue your trip by motorbike or taxi.
Things to Experience at Ham Ninh Fishing Village
Admiring the Sunrise and Sunset Over the Sea
Along with Dinh Cau, Ham Ninh Fishing Village is one of the two best places in Phu Quoc to watch both the sunrise and sunset. The village features a 200-meter-long coastal path, which fishermen use to reach the boat docking area. This spot is also the perfect location to take in the breathtaking and mesmerizing views of the rising and setting sun over the sea.
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Visiting the Pearl Farming Area
In addition to fishing, pearl farming has been a traditional craft passed down for generations in Ham Ninh Fishing Village. If you have a passion for jewelry and handicrafts, visiting the pearl farming area will be an exciting experience. Here, you can witness firsthand the process of harvesting, processing, and crafting pearls into exquisite jewelry. You can even purchase beautiful pearl accessories as souvenirs or gifts for your loved ones.
Enjoying Ham Ninh Crab – A Specialty of Phu Quoc
Ham Ninh crab is one of the most famous dishes in Phu Quoc. This variety, also known as flower crab, gets its name because the white spots on its shell turn into delicate flower-like patterns when cooked.
The crabs from Ham Ninh are known for their firm texture and naturally sweet taste. Local chefs prepare them in various delicious ways, such as crab porridge, beer-steamed crab, or crab hotpot. However, the most popular and must-try dish is steamed crab served with salt, pepper, and lime. This simple preparation preserves the crab’s natural aroma and rich, sweet flavor.
Check-in at the Wooden Bridge – The Icon of Ham Ninh Fishing Village
The wooden bridge in Ham Ninh has long served as a docking area for fishing boats. Over the years, it has become a symbol of the fishing village and a popular photo spot for visitors.
However, due to time and weathering, the wooden bridge gradually deteriorated. In 2003, a local official initiated the construction of a new concrete bridge to replace the old, damaged one. Since then, Ham Ninh Bridge has become a beloved attraction where visitors can take stunning photos and enjoy the magnificent views of the sunrise and sunset.
Relaxing and Swimming at the Beach
The shallow and gentle slope of Ham Ninh Beach makes it a safe and enjoyable spot for everyone. With its pristine coastline, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque scenery, this beach is the perfect place to unwind and capture beautiful memories. Whether you want to swim, sunbathe, or simply relax, Ham Ninh Beach offers a peaceful retreat amidst nature.
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What to Eat in Ham Ninh Fishing Village?
Seafood Dishes in Ham Ninh
When visiting Ham Ninh Fishing Village, you should not miss out on its famous seafood dishes, including:
- Ham Ninh Crab: This is the most renowned specialty of Ham Ninh. The crab meat is firm, sweet, and flavorful, making it a must-try dish that will satisfy even the most discerning travelers.
- Herring Salad: Made from freshly caught herring in the morning, this dish is prepared with various ingredients, creating a delicious and unique flavor that seafood lovers will appreciate.
Recommended Restaurants in Ham Ninh
Here are some well-known restaurants in Ham Ninh that you can visit:
- Bien Xanh Restaurant – Tinh Lo 47, Ham Ninh, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang
- Hanh Nhung Restaurant – Tinh Lo 47, Ham Ninh, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang
- Kim Cuong Restaurant – Ham Ninh Fishing Village, Ap Rach Ham, Ham Ninh, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang
- Be Ghe Floating Restaurant – Ham Ninh Commune, Ham Ninh, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang
- Tinh Bien Floating Restaurant – Ham Ninh Pier, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang
- Tu Thang Floating Restaurant – Pier, Ham Ninh Fishing Village, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang
These restaurants offer fresh and flavorful seafood dishes, allowing you to fully experience the culinary delights of Ham Ninh Fishing Village.
Travel Tips for Visiting Ham Ninh Fishing Village
When traveling to Ham Ninh Fishing Village in Phu Quoc, keep the following tips in mind to make the most of your experience:
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to enjoy the breathtaking sunrise or sunset over the sea.
- Avoid the rainy season (June – October) as rough seas may affect your travel experience.
- Choose reputable restaurants to ensure food quality, and check the menu and prices before ordering.
- Some small eateries and shops in the village do not accept card payments, so it’s best to bring cash for shopping and dining.
- Wear comfortable clothing and anti-slip footwear since you may walk along the beach or on wooden bridges.
- If time allows, consider joining the fishermen on a boat for activities like fishing, catching sea urchins, or snorkeling to experience the authentic local lifestyle.
- Some local families offer homestay accommodations, perfect for those who want to explore and immerse themselves in the daily life of the fishing village.
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Ham Ninh Fishing Village is a must-visit destination in Phu Quoc, offering a peaceful and rustic atmosphere filled with the essence of the sea. With its pristine natural beauty, simple fishing life, and fresh seafood, this charming village promises to leave you with unforgettable memories during your journey in Vietnam.
