1. Overview of Rach Vem fishing village
Located in the north of Phu Quoc island, belonging to Phu Quoc special administrative region, An Giang province, Rach Vem fishing village is one of the rare places that still fully retain the rustic charm of the old coastal region. Amidst the peaceful scenery of waves and sea breeze, small wooden houses stand close together, and boats anchored by the shore create a serene, simple picture. As an ancient fishing village with a long history, this place still preserves a simple lifestyle, close to nature and the sea. Coming to Rach Vem, visitors will feel the pristine breath of the Jade Island, where time seems to slow down amidst the deep blue of the sky and water.
Rach Vem fishing village is located in the north of Phu Quoc island. (Source: Collected)
2. Ideal time to explore Rach Vem fishing village
The most beautiful time to visit Rach Vem fishing village is from October to March of the following year, when the dry season begins to cover Ngoc Island with golden sunshine. This is when the weather is pleasant, the sky is clear blue, the sea waves are gentle, and the water is crystal clear, allowing you to see to the bottom. The fresh air combined with the salty sea flavor makes this an ideal stopover for those seeking a bit of peace amidst wild nature.
Especially, during this season, starfish appear densely along the white sandy shore, creating a rare vibrant and romantic scene. When the sunlight shines down on the water's surface, the orange-red color of the starfish shimmers, as if adorning the beautiful natural picture of Rach Vem fishing village . This is also the perfect time for tourists to capture memorable photos and fully enjoy the simple, pristine beauty of the northern sea area of Phu Quoc.
Starfish appear densely at Rach Vem fishing village during the dry season. (Source: Collected)
3. Unmissable activities when visiting Rach Vem fishing village
3.1. Admire the vibrant red starfish
Visiting Rach Vem fishing village, the first experience that tourists cannot miss is admiring the vibrant red starfish under the jade-clear water. During the dry season, from about October to March of the following year, when the skies are clear and the seas are calm, schools of starfish begin to appear densely near the shore, creating a picturesque scene. Under the gentle golden sunlight, the starfish are clearly visible on the fine white sand, their vibrant orange-red color sparklingly reflected with each wave, leaving tourists in awe of its pristine beauty.
The feeling of stepping into the cool water, bending down to observe the tiny starfish, and taking shimmering photos amidst the blue sky and sea is truly an unforgettable experience. Rach Vem still retains its natural, fresh, and peaceful beauty, so when you come here, you will feel detached from the noisy rhythm of life and immerse yourself in nature. It is this wildness and simplicity that has made Rach Vem a unique "starfish paradise", captivating every tourist who visits Ngoc Island.
3.2. Stroll along the wooden bridge and take stunning photos
One of the most characteristic symbols of Rach Vem fishing village is the long wooden bridges extending out to sea, connecting the raft houses and the living areas of the fishermen. Walking on the bridge, visitors can clearly feel the salty taste of the sea breeze, hear the gentle sound of the waves, and observe the simple life of the local people. Each step brings you closer to nature, closer to the gentle simplicity of the coastal fishing village. Under the midday sun or as the sunset descends, the wooden bridge, the blue sea, and the floating rafts create a beautiful picture, both romantic and peaceful.
Not just a path to the sea, the wooden bridges in Rach Vem are also extremely popular check-in spots for young tourists. From the bridge, you can take panoramic photos of the blue sea and sky, reflecting the shimmering sunlight, or capture moments when starfish appear beneath the water. Many couples also choose this place to record romantic memories amidst the poetic scenery of the sea and sky. With its simple yet poetic beauty, the wooden bridge in Rach Vem fishing village deserves to be one of the most beautiful photo spots in the North of Phu Quoc Island.
Tourists can check-in at the wooden bridges in Rach Vem fishing village. (Source: Collected)
3.3. Experiencing the life of fishermen
Coming to Rach Vem fishing village, tourists can not only enjoy the scenery but also immerse themselves in the life of the coastal people through aquaculture and fishing experience activities. Going out to sea with fishermen, casting nets, catching fish, picking clams or gathering snails on the sandy beach when the tide recedes are interesting experiences that help you understand more about the diligence and simplicity of life here. These seemingly simple tasks contain much hardship, perseverance, and the fishermen's love for their profession.
The hospitality and friendliness of the people of Rach Vem are also what make tourists remember them. They always wear kind smiles, are ready to guide you on how to sort seafood, or tell stories of their livelihoods amidst the waves. The feeling of sharing a workday with them, listening to laughter and conversation amidst the vast sea and sky, will make your trip feel intimate, authentic, and warm.
3.4. Enjoying seafood
After playing, strolling along the beach, and taking photos, don't forget to stop by the floating rafts along the Rach Vem coast to enjoy fresh seafood caught that day. Highlights include steamed crab, grilled shrimp and squid with chili salt, charcoal-grilled fish, or herring salad. Each dish is prepared in a rustic, simple style but still retains the sweet, rich flavor of the sea, bringing tourists a feeling that is both familiar and new.
Sitting on a floating raft amidst the clear blue water, listening to the gentle lapping of waves, savoring delicious food, and watching the sunset over the sea is a moment that makes all fatigue disappear. The rustic, peaceful space and the fresh flavor of seafood will help you fully appreciate the "soul and taste" of Rach Vem fishing village: simple, dear, and rich in island-sea identity. This is definitely an unmissable experience in your journey to explore the North of Phu Quoc Island.
4. Directions to Rach Vem fishing village
To reach Rach Vem fishing village, tourists can choose two main routes, depending on their starting point:
- From Duong Dong center:
This is the most popular and convenient route to Rach Vem fishing village. From Duong Dong center, tourists just need to drive straight along DT973 for about 20 km to arrive. This route is quite easy to navigate, with green trees on both sides and occasional glimpses of the blue sea and sky. Tourists often choose this route because it is close to the airport and has many resorts, restaurants, and eateries along the way, making it convenient to stop for rest or check-in.
- From Thanh Thoi ferry terminal:
If tourists arrive in Phu Quoc by ferry from Ha Tien, after docking at Thanh Thoi, turn right towards Duong Dong, pass through the Bai Thom area, and then continue to the Suoi Cai intersection. From here, just go a short distance further to reach the pristine beauty of Rach Vem fishing village. This route is quiet, with little traffic, very suitable for those who want to enjoy the feeling of exploring nature and observing the simple life of the islanders on their journey.
5. Tips and notes when visiting Rach Vem fishing village
When visiting Rach Vem fishing village, besides enjoying the scenery of blue sea, white sand, and vibrant starfish, tourists should also remember a few important notes to have a complete trip and contribute to protecting the natural environment here.
Do not take starfish out of the water and do not hold starfish. Taking starfish ashore for photos can cause them to suffer from heat shock and not survive.
Do not step on starfish when moving in the water. In the clear water, many starfish lie hidden on the sand and are easily stepped on, so you should step lightly and observe carefully before moving.
Do not throw starfish into the water or move them. Let them bask in the sun and live naturally in their environment.
Absolutely do not touch the underside of starfish. This is an extremely sensitive part of their body; touching it can cause them to be injured or die immediately afterward.
Besides exploring Rach Vem fishing village, you can combine visits to many other famous destinations in Phu Quoc such as Sunset Town, Sun World Hon Thom, Vinpearl Safari, or Ho Quoc Pagoda. Each place has its own unique beauty, making your journey more complete and memorable on the Emerald Island.
Combine sightseeing and worship at Ho Quoc Pagoda after having fun at Rach Vem fishing village. (Source: Collected)
Rach Vem fishing village (Phu Quoc) is not only captivating with its vibrant starfish but also by the simple life of the fishermen, the wooden bridges stretching out to sea, and the unforgettable taste of fresh seafood. Amidst the vast blue sea and the rustic beauty characteristic of the Pearl Island, visitors will find a rare sense of peace amidst the bustling pace of life. Let your trip to Rach Vem fishing village (Phu Quoc) become a journey to explore the starfish kingdom, where the most pristine and authentic beauty of the Pearl Island is preserved.
