Rach Vem Fishing Village, located in the peaceful north of Phu Quoc Island, is a hidden gem known for its shallow turquoise waters and abundance of red creatures. Rach Vem Fishing Village Phu Quoc offers a rare glimpse into the daily life of local fishermen, far from the bustle of tourist crowds. In this guide, we’ll explore the natural charm and unique experiences that make Rach Vem a must-visit destination.
Overview Of Rach Vem Fishing Village
Nestled on the serene northwestern coast of Phu Quoc Island, Rach Vem Fishing Village offers a tranquil escape and an authentic glimpse into the traditional maritime lifestyle. The village is home to approximately 180 households whose lives are intrinsically tied to the rhythm of the sea. Their primary livelihood is fishing, and they continue to use traditional methods to harvest the rich marine resources of the Gulf of Thailand.
This strong connection to the sea is visibly expressed through the village’s unique architecture, characterized by rustic stilt houses and floating homes built directly over the calm, turquoise waters. These structures, often interconnected by wooden bridges, create a picturesque and functional waterscape where daily life, from work to play, unfolds upon the waves.
This burgeoning ecotourism allows for a meaningful cultural exchange, providing travelers with a chance to observe and appreciate a way of life that remains largely untouched by modern development. The simplicity and peacefulness of Rach Vem provide a stark and welcome contrast to the more bustling tourist centers on Phu Quoc.
Planning Your Visit to Rach Vem Fishing Village
Planning your visit to Rach Vem Fishing Village ensures you make the most of this serene coastal escape. Below, you’ll find key details on the best time to go and how to get there
Best Time To Visit Rach Vem Fishing Village
The ideal time to plan a trip to Rach Vem Fishing Village is during Phu Quoc’s dry season, which spans from November to April. During these months, the weather is consistently pleasant, with clear skies, abundant sunshine, and calm seas, making it perfect for exploring the village and its surroundings. The average temperature hovers around a comfortable 27-28°C (81-82°F), and the lower humidity levels contribute to a more enjoyable experience.
The period from October to March is often highlighted as the peak season for many fish sightings, as they tend to appear in greater numbers in the shallow, clear waters. Conversely, the rainy season, from May to October, presents more challenging conditions. During this time, the seas can be rough, and frequent downpours can make the dirt roads leading to the village difficult to navigate.
See more: The Best Time to Visit Phu Quoc in 2025: Weather & Activities You Must Know
How To Get To Rach Vem Fishing Village
Rach Vem Fishing Village is situated in Ganh Dau commune, on the northern coast of Phu Quoc Island, approximately 20 to 25 kilometers from Duong Dong town. The most popular and adventurous way to reach the village is by renting a motorbike, which allows for a flexible and scenic journey through the island’s countryside.
The ride from Duong Dong typically takes about 45 to 60 minutes. While most of the route is paved, the final stretch to the village is a red dirt road that can be bumpy and challenging, particularly after rainfall.
For those seeking a more comfortable alternative, hiring a car with a driver or taking a taxi are excellent options, especially for families or larger groups. While more expensive than a motorbike rental, which can cost between 150,000 to 200,000 VND per day, a car provides a safer and more relaxed journey. A day-long car rental might cost around 700,000 VND.
See more: How to Get to Phu Quoc: A Comprehensive Guide for Travelers in 2025
What to Do at Rach Vem Fishing Village
Rach Vem Fishing Village offers more than just scenic views. It’s a place to experience nature and local culture up close. Explore the top activities below to make your visit truly memorable.
Swimming and Relaxing on the Pristine Beach
The Rach Vem beach is a picture of tranquility, boasting soft white sand and crystal-clear, turquoise waters. It offers an ideal setting for visitors looking to escape the more crowded tourist spots and enjoy a peaceful day by the sea. The water here is notably shallow with a gentle slope, making it a safe and enjoyable spot for swimming for all ages. The calm waves during the dry season further enhance the serene atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely dip or simply floating and soaking in the tropical sun.
Beyond swimming, the beach itself invites relaxation. Visitors can unwind on the soft sand, sunbathe, or find a spot under the shade of the green coconut trees that line the shore. The area’s rustic charm is enhanced by picturesque elements like wooden bridges extending over the water and swings hanging from coconut trees, creating a perfect backdrop for a tranquil day.
Exploring the Floating Houses and Local Life
A visit to this floating village Phu Quoc offers a unique opportunity to observe a traditional way of life that revolves around the sea. The floating village Rach Vem is home to about 180-200 households, many of whom are of Khmer descent and live in simple stilt and floating houses. These distinctive homes are built on sturdy stilts or buoyant platforms, typically situated 200 to 400 meters from the coastline and connected by charming wooden bridges.
Visitors are encouraged to respectfully immerse themselves in the local culture. The residents of Rach Vem are known to be friendly and, although English is not widely spoken, a smile goes a long way.
For a more hands-on experience, some travelers arrange to join local fishermen to learn about traditional fishing methods, such as casting nets or even night squid fishing. Observing the fishermen mending their nets or heading out on their boats provides a deeper appreciation for their skills and connection to the marine environment.
Savoring Fresh Seafood at Floating Restaurants
One of the quintessential experiences is dining at a floating restaurant Phu Quoc has in the area, which have become a star attraction since they began appearing in 2016. These restaurants are built on stilt platforms over the water, with some accessible by long wooden bridges and others requiring a short boat ride. The setting is unparalleled, offering stunning sea views and a gentle sea breeze as you dine. The main draw, however, is the incredibly fresh seafood, often kept live in nets or cages attached to the restaurant platforms.
The menus at these rustic eateries are a celebration of the day’s catch, featuring a wide variety of local seafood. Diners can often choose their meal directly from the fish farms, guaranteeing ultimate freshness.
Popular dishes include herring salad (gỏi cá trích), a local specialty, as well as grilled fan clams with scallion oil, steamed crab, and various preparations of grouper, cobia, and squid. Prices are generally considered reasonable, with a meal for two costing around 930,000 VND at some establishments, offering great value for the quality and unique dining experience.
Below are some famous floating restaurants you should definitely check out for a unique dining experience on the water:
- Nhà Bè Tình Yêu (Love Float Farm): Rach Vem Fishing Village, Ganh Dau Commune, Phu Quoc.
- Nhà Trên Biển: Rach Vem Fishing Village, Ganh Dau Commune, Phu Quoc.
- Thanh Phat Restaurant: Rach Vem Fishing Village, Ganh Dau Commune, Phu Quoc.
- Khanh Sau Restaurant: Rach Vem Fishing Village, Ganh Dau Commune, Phu Quoc.
See more: 10 Phu Quoc Seafood Buffet Restaurants in 2025 for Travelers
Tips for Visiting Rach Vem Fishing Village
To enjoy Rach Vem Fishing Village at its best, a few practical tips can make a big difference. Read on for helpful advice on timing, safety, and local etiquette.
What to Bring and What to Wear
To fully enjoy your trip to the rustic and natural setting of Rach Vem Fishing Village, packing appropriately is key. Given the tropical climate, lightweight and breathable clothing is recommended. Don’t forget to pack your swimwear to take a dip in the calm, clear waters. Essential items include high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the strong sun.
Comfortable walking shoes or sandals are suitable for the village paths, but be prepared for the final stretch of road leading to the village, which is a red dirt track and can be uneven. It’s also wise to carry insect repellent, especially if you plan to stay until sunset.
A crucial tip for visiting Rach Vem is to bring enough cash. While some of the larger floating restaurants might have card facilities, most of the smaller eateries and local services operate on a cash-only basis. Having Vietnamese Dong on hand will be necessary for paying for your fresh seafood meals, any drinks or snacks, and potentially for small fees for activities or using facilities like swings for photos.
Getting Around the Village
Once you arrive, getting around the village is straightforward and is done on foot. The main attractions are the beach and the iconic wooden bridges that lead out to the floating restaurants. These bridges stretch over the water, sometimes for a considerable distance, connecting the shore to the stilt houses where you can enjoy a meal.
Be aware that some of the floating restaurants are further out and may require a short boat transfer from the end of a bridge, which can cost between 100,000 to 200,000 VND. The locals are generally very helpful and can guide you on where to park and how to access the different floating establishments.
Where to Stay After Visiting Rach Vem Fishing Village?
After a rustic and authentic experience exploring the tranquil life at Rach Vem Fishing Village on the northern coast, retreating to the comfort of Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay offers a balanced and refreshing contrast to your Phu Quoc journey.
Located at Khem Beach on the southern tip of the island, the resort is approximately 40 kilometers away from Rach Vem, a journey that typically takes about an hour to an hour and a half by car or taxi.
See more: The Best Phu Quoc Hotels with a Private Beach for Your Next Getaway
This distance allows visitors to enjoy a scenic drive across the length of Phu Quoc, transitioning from the raw, natural beauty of the north to the refined, upscale ambiance of the south. The resort provides a perfect base for those who wish to combine cultural exploration with premium relaxation experience and modern amenities.
Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay is an expansive apartment-style resort managed by AccorHotels, featuring 752 sophisticated and elegantly designed rooms, suites, and penthouses. This makes it an ideal choice for various travelers, from couples to large families, as it offers a range of accommodation options from standard king rooms to multi-bedroom apartments with fully equipped kitchens and private pools.
A standout feature of the resort is its stunning multi-level infinity pool (exclusive to resort guests), which cascades down towards the pristine Khem Beach, often cited as one of the most beautiful beaches on the island with its soft, cream-like white sand and calm, emerald waters.
See more: Top 10 Resorts With Swimming Pools in Phu Quoc in 2025
Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay also stands out as a culinary paradise, presenting a diverse collection of restaurants and bars to satisfy every palate. At the forefront of its dining scene is the Clubhouse restaurant, which offers the exceptional “Essence Of The Sea” set menu. These are regarded as one of the best restaurants in Phu Quoc that you must try.
This signature experience celebrates the island’s rich maritime bounty, presenting a lavish spread of the freshest seafood imaginable. With ingredients meticulously sourced from local fishermen and markets, each dish is a testament to quality and authentic flavor, truly capturing the essence of the ocean and offering diners an unforgettable taste of Phu Quoc’s coastal heritage.
Conclusion
To perfectly complement your rustic northern adventure with southern luxury, consider the exquisite comfort of Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay. After immersing yourself in the raw beauty of Rach Vem, unwind in elegant comfort by the stunning Khem Beach. Create a truly balanced and memorable Phu Quoc holiday by booking your stay at Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay and experience the best of both worlds.
