Visiting the Fishing Village of Duy Hai in Hoi An

If you’re looking for a unique and untouched spot away from mass tourism in Hoi An, the Duy Hai fish market is a must-visit. Here, you won’t find souvenir shops or crowds of tourists—just a true immersion into the daily life of Vietnamese fishermen.

Located just 10 minutes from Hoi An, this traditional fishing village comes to life at dawn when boats return loaded with fresh seafood after a night at sea. It’s a perfect experience for photography enthusiasts and for those wanting to discover authentic Vietnam.

In this article, I’ll explain why this market is worth a visit, how to get there, and the best time to go to make the most of your experience.

Where is the Fishing Village of Duy Hai Located?

The fishing village of Duy Hai is home to a local fish market, located just 10 minutes from Hoi An.

I remember when the village was only accessible by boat. Today, you can easily get there by crossing the Cua Dai Bridge, and you’ll arrive in no time.

A Fishing Village in Hoi An Without Tourists

For my article, I arrived at 3:30 AM, but it was still completely dark. Personally, I recommend visiting at sunrise (around 4:30 AM in summer, 5:00 AM in winter) when the boats return after a night at sea.

At dawn, the market comes alive with incredible energy:

• Boats dock, loaded with fresh fish.
• Vendors rush to negotiate the best catches for the Hoi An market or local restaurants.
• Fish are immediately sorted, cleaned, and sold right along the dock.

No one will pay attention to you, and you’ll be able to take more authentic photos than in some of the more touristy villages around Hoi An.

Honestly, this is an amazing spot for photography enthusiasts. I was practically the only foreigner, except for a group of photographers from Hoi An Photo Tours, which I’ll talk about later.

By 7:00 AM, everything is over! And if you come later in the day, there will be almost nothing to see.

If you’re looking for a truly authentic experience, far from typical tourist routes, this market offers a unique glimpse into the daily life of a Vietnamese fishing village.

Bonus: A Coffee Break After Your Visit

After experiencing the bustling fish market, why not extend your local immersion with a unique coffee experience? Just a few kilometers away, I highly recommend the excellent Cavalry Coffee, a must-visit spot for coffee lovers.

This café offers a full immersion into the world of Vietnamese coffee, from roasting to tasting. During the tour, you will discover the production process, get the chance to roast your own coffee beans, learn how to prepare an authentic Vietnamese coffee, and of course, enjoy it in a warm and welcoming setting.

All of this for only 70,000 VND per person, including the tour and a cup of filter coffee. A great opportunity for coffee enthusiasts looking to enhance their local experience after visiting the market.

What Time Should You Go?

The market opens at 3:00 AM, but it’s still dark, and at this time, it’s mainly wholesale buyers purchasing in bulk.

• Between 4:30 and 5:00 AM: More and more boats arrive, locals come to buy, and the market is at its busiest.
• By 7:00 AM, everything is over, and the market starts winding down.

How to Get There?

On Your Own

Take the Cua Dai Bridge, then turn left at the first road after the bridge. Follow the river, and you’ll find the market. (See the map above for details.)

With a Photography Tour

For the best experience, I recommend Hoi An Photo Tours, a English-speaking photography tour perfect for capturing the early morning light and the fishermen’s activity.

Website: https://www.hoianphototour.com/

Tip: Arrive before 5:00 AM to catch the most exciting moments of the morning!

Nuoc Mam Factory in Hoi An

If you want a little bonus stop, visit the nearby Nuoc Mam factory. Nuoc Mam ( fish sauce) is a fermented sauce that is a staple of Vietnamese cuisine.

The fish is placed in huge wooden vats, mixed with salt and water, and then fermented for 6 to 12 months, depending on the quality.

Even before you arrive, the strong smell can be detected from meters away.

Note: The staff doesn’t speak much English, but it’s a great opportunity to take a break after visiting the fish market.

The factory is renowned for its high-quality fish sauce and was even featured in the 2016 Vietnam special of the French TV show “Échappées Belles”. Since then, it has been renovated.

My Opinion

If you’re looking to experience the real Vietnam, far from crowded tourist circuits, then the Duy Hai fish market is a must-visit. Between the early morning hustle of fishermen, the lively market atmosphere, and the warm hospitality of the locals, this visit offers a unique glimpse into daily life in Hoi An.

Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, curious about traditional markets, or simply seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, this village is the perfect place to explore.

So, are you ready to wake up before dawn to witness this one-of-a-kind morning spectacle?