Tho Quang Fishing Village – Experiencing Fisherman Life in Da Nang

Tho Quang fishing village belongs to Tho Quang ward, Son Tra district, located in the north of Da Nang. The village leans against the majestic Son Tra Mountain, facing the vast East Sea, standing at the entrance to Da Nang port. Located only 8-10 km from the city center, you can easily combine your visit with Son Tra Peninsula or My Khe Beach.

The history of the village is associated with its old name Nam Tho (separated from the ancient village of Nam An in the 18th century). Since the second half of the 15th century, residents from Central Vietnam came here to settle and make a living from the sea. Today, despite modern urban areas sprouting up around it, Tho Quang still maintains its traditional pace of life. Tho Quang Fishing Port (operating since 2004) serves as the "heart" of the village – the largest seafood catching and transshipment hub in Central Vietnam.

In particular, the people of Tho Quang still maintain the belief of worshipping Ong Nam Hai (Whale God) and performing peace rituals before every sea trip. This is a vivid testament to their "unwavering devotion to the sea" spirit – resilient against storms, yet optimistic and united.

The climate in Tho Quang is cool and pleasant year-round, with sea breezes blowing gently and the scent of salt filling the air. Especially during summer (from May to August), the scenery here becomes more captivating than ever as the green of Son Tra forest blends with the deep blue of the ocean, creating a peaceful yet vibrant space.

Visiting Tho Quang, you will see that fisherman life is not a romantic picture on a postcard, but a busy rhythm of hard work filled with human warmth:

• Dawn (4 AM - 7 AM): Hundreds of boats dock. Sun-tanned fishermen pull nets, sort fish, and auction them right at the port. Women and children help arrange fresh seafood.
• Daytime: Men repair nets and weave bamboo coracles by hand (a traditional craft preserved like heritage). Women process shrimp paste and fermented fish sauce – famous rich delicacies made from fresh anchovies.
• Late afternoon: Boats anchor, and the echoes of chanting chants to haul boats ashore resound. Everyone gathers to share stories of the ocean.

Although life has become more prosperous thanks to paved roads and city support, fishermen still face storms, fuel costs, and the uncertainties of nature. Therefore, the Cau Ngu Festival (usually held in the 3rd lunar month) becomes the biggest event of the year: procession of royal decrees, lion dances, and classical opera (hat boi), demonstrating gratitude and praying for peace. The festival carries deep coastal identity with signature activities, attracting large numbers of tourists to attend and experience.

If you want to get closer to the authentic pulse of coastal life in Da Nang in the most original way, Tho Quang fishing village offers a series of experiences flowing naturally from early morning to late afternoon.

• Welcome the sunrise with fishermen: Take a coracle boat out to sea at dawn, listen to the rhythm of the waves, learn how to cast nets, fish, and pull in the first catch of the day. The moment of touching fresh fish in the morning mist leaves a very genuine impression of sea life.
• Explore Tho Quang seafood market: After the boats dock, visit one of the largest markets in Da Nang to buy squid, tuna, shrimp, and crabs at lower prices than central markets. Many stalls around the market offer on-site preparation, allowing you to enjoy fresh seafood right by the sea.
• Experience traditional crafts: Participate in activities such as weaving bamboo coracles or making handmade fish sauce – long-standing crafts preserved by local residents. Active travelers can rent bicycles to ride around nearby Man Thai Beach.
• Watch the sunset at the fishing port: As afternoon falls, the port area becomes quieter. Anchored boats under the sunset create a peaceful scene, completely different from the daytime hustle.
• Join community tourism: Staying at homestays with fishermen, taking eco-tours, or participating in environmental protection activities organized by locals adds depth and meaning to your trip.

This series of experiences turns the trip to Tho Quang into more than just a sightseeing tour; it is an opportunity to deeply understand the working life, culture, and enduring values of the coastal fishing community.

Cuisine is an indispensable piece of the puzzle when exploring Tho Quang fishing village, where ocean flavors are distinctively present in every rustic dish.

• Fresh seafood at reasonable prices: Tho Quang is considered the "seafood basket" of Da Nang, featuring daily catches at much lower prices than central tourist spots.
• Must-try signature dish: Grilled sun-dried squid is a prime choice, dried under the sea sun just enough to maintain its natural chewiness and original sweetness.
• Coastal dining: Casual eateries serve herring salad, cobia sour soup, fish cake noodle soup… all using fresh seafood, simply prepared yet rich in sea flavor.
• Souvenirs to take home: Tho Quang fish sauce, fermented from fresh anchovies using traditional methods, is a popular gift choice among tourists. Prices start from just 50,000 VND/liter. 

You can dine at portside eateries or ask local residents to cook your fresh catch right at the pier. Be sure to choose clean spots and eat with fresh herbs and lime to avoid allergies.

From central Da Nang, you can reach Tho Quang by motorbike or taxi in just 15-20 minutes across Thuan Phuoc Bridge. Specific address: Pham Bang street, Son Tra, Da Nang. If taking a bus, route R4A will drop you close to the fishing port.

• Ideal time: Early morning (5 AM - 7 AM) to see the bustling fish market, or late afternoon to watch the sunset. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes due to the coastal terrain. Avoid the rainy season (September - December) to stay clear of storms.
• Safety tips: Always ask fishermen for permission before participating in sea activities, and respect local culture by not littering. If traveling in a group, book tours through reputable companies for guided assistance.

Every experience in Tho Quang fishing village, from going out to sea at dawn, wandering through the lively fresh fish market, to watching the sunset fall over the boat harbor, brings authentic and rustic emotions. It is an unglamorous beauty, yet enough to leave anyone who visits with memories of the salty sea air, the sound of crashing waves, and the warm smiles of the fishermen. If you are looking for a journey close to nature, wishing to touch authentic values and better understand the life of coastal people in Vietnam, then Tho Quang fishing village is a destination truly worth experiencing.