Mui Ne fishing village - a different experience in the heart of the tourist hub
Mui Ne has long been known as a coastal resort destination, famous for its white sand beaches and blue sea. However, behind modern resorts, rustic fishing villages still exist, where daily life remains closely connected to the sea. These communities are now offering a new kind of experience for visitors to the southern central coast.
Preserving a traditional lifestyle amid tourism growth
No one clearly remembers when this fishing village was first established, but it has long been woven into the daily life of Mui Ne residents. Each morning, between 5 and 6 a.m., the shoreline comes alive as boats return from a night at sea. Fishermen unload their catch and prepare for another day of trade. Though each haul may differ, the sea remains a steady source of livelihood for local residents.
In recent years, life in the village has begun to change. Fishermen are no longer solely engaged in fishing, but are increasingly involved in tourism services. Instead of sending most of their seafood to market, many now keep their catch to serve visitors directly on the beach.
Vice Chairman of the Mui Ne ward People’s Committee Nguyen Hai Dang said that tourism development in the village has not only helped improve fishermen’s incomes but has also contributed to promoting local cultural identity. He added that local authorities are encouraging residents to maintain environmental cleanliness and publicly display prices, in an effort to build a civilised and welcoming image of the fishing village for visitors.
As a result, local trading activities have gradually adapted to better meet visitor demand. Nguyen Thi Ha, a local resident, said the fishing village has attracted growing numbers of tourists in recent years, making it easier for locals to do business. She added that if visitors want seafood cooked on site or packed to take away, residents are always ready to help.
Tran Thi Hai, also from Mui Ne ward, said that tourism has made it easier to sell seafood. She noted that prices remain reasonable and that there is no issue of overcharging.
Fishing village experience attracts international visitors
Along Nguyen Dinh Chieu street, the lively sounds of early morning work have become a vivid scene that strongly attracts foreign visitors. Wilson, a tourist from the States, said the people were warm and welcoming, adding that the experience offered a cultural contrast to staying in resorts.
The Mui Ne fishing village appears to have a special appeal for Russian visitors. Tsaregorodtseva Svetlana, a Russian tourist who has returned to the area for many years, said she was particularly drawn to its beauty. She described the photographs taken there as striking and said she would gladly recommend the destination to other travelers.
Meanwhile, Drusalevich Elena, a Russian tourist, said she was impressed by the culinary experience in the fishing village. "The seafood was very fresh, with grilled fish offering a distinctive flavour. Combined with the morning scenery, it was one of the most memorable parts of our trip". She also noted that the colourful boats were particularly striking and would stay in her memory after leaving Vietnam.
The Mui Ne fishing village not only attracts international visitors but also offers a different experience for domestic tourists. Amid a rapidly developing tourism area, the fishermen’s rustic way of life creates a sense of closeness. Nguyen Hoang Giang, a visitor from Ho Chi Minh City, said that standing there in the early morning, listening to the waves and watching fishermen pull in their nets, brought a sense of energy. He added that seafood prepared on the spot had a freshness that is difficult to find in the city.
The balance between preserving traditional coastal culture and developing sustainable tourism is seen as key to maintaining the long-term appeal of these fishing villages. Beyond the bustle of urban life, Mui Ne still offers a simple, welcoming and poetic atmosphere, continuing to attract visitors from everywhere.