Behind the beach resorts, Mui Ne is still a working fishing town, and the harbour at the eastern end of the bay is where you see it. At first light, hundreds of small boats crowd the water, the larger wooden fishing vessels in blue and red, the smaller round basket boats bobbing beside them. Fishermen unload the night's catch onto the embankment, women sort fish into baskets and buyers haggle over prices. The scene is noisy, smelly and very photogenic, and it is free. Plan on an hour at the harbour and a long breakfast of local seafood noodles afterwards.
What you see
The heart of the village is the shoreline and the road above it, where the morning market sets up as boats come in. You will see fish of every size laid out on tarpaulins, squid drying on racks, crates of ice and stalls selling coffee and noodles.
The round basket boats, which are woven bamboo coated in resin, are used to ferry fishermen to larger boats, and they are a particular favourite with photographers. The colours and activity are best in the first hour of light, and by eight in the morning most of the action has moved on.
How to visit
The harbour is a short drive along the coast road from the resort strip, and it is an easy place to visit independently by taxi, bicycle or motorbike. Many sunrise jeep tours stop at an overlook above the bay, but the walk along the water gives you a closer view.
Go before seven, wear closed shoes because the ground is wet and slippery, and bring a small amount of cash for coffee, snacks or a fish to try. Photograph with respect: ask before you point a camera at someone, a smile and a nod are usually enough, and do not block the narrow paths.
A local note
The harbour is a working place, not a theme park, and the smell of fish and diesel is part of the experience. The local specialities, such as sun-dried squid, fish hotpot and fish cake noodle soup, are worth sampling at the stalls and small restaurants nearby. Phan Thiet has produced fish sauce for centuries, so you may see barrels and bottles for sale.
Cloud cover affects the light, and the season affects the catch. If the weather is rough, fewer boats go out and the harbour is quieter. Combine it with the Red Sand Dunes and a sunrise breakfast for a morning of local colour.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided visit to a working harbour and morning fish market, with basket boats and fishing vessels.
Best time
First light, before seven, when boats unload and the market is busiest.
How long
About an hour, plus time for breakfast nearby.
Tips
Wear closed, non-slip shoes, bring small cash, ask before photographing people and expect strong smells.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Early risers and photographers who want to see the working side of Mui Ne.
- Families
- Children may find the smells strong, but the boats and the activity are usually a hit.
- Couples
- A quiet morning stroll and a bowl of noodles at a harbour cafe.
- Pair with
- The Red Sand Dunes and a seafood breakfast.
- Time needed
- About an hour.
Good questions
When is the best time to visit?+
Just after dawn, before about seven, when boats are unloading and the market is at its busiest.
Is there an entrance fee?+
No. It is a public harbour and market, though you will want small cash for coffee and food.
Can I take photographs?+
Yes, but ask before photographing people, and avoid blocking narrow paths.
What are basket boats?+
They are round boats made of woven bamboo and resin, used to carry fishermen between the shore and larger boats.
Do tours go there?+
Some sunrise tours stop at a viewpoint over the bay. For a closer look, walk the harbour independently.
