Duong Dong Market – Phu Quoc's Major Seafood Market

Duong Dong Market – a major traditional market in the center of Duong Dong, Phu Quoc Island. Primarily serving local islanders, it is the ideal spot to buy fresh seafood, dried goods, and local specialties at close-to-local prices.

History and Features

• This is the largest local community market in Duong Dong and is considered a major seafood market on the island.
• The indoor section sells dried seafood, local specialties, and souvenirs.
• The outdoor section offers fresh fish, shrimp, and squid brought in directly from docked fishing boats.
• Early morning is the busiest time and when the catch is at its freshest.

What to Buy at Duong Dong Market

• Fresh seafood such as fish, shrimp, squid, and blue crab.
• Dried squid, dried fish, and semi-dried seafood as gifts.
• Phu Quoc fish sauce, black pepper, and sim wine (rose myrtle wine).
• Select stalls offer packing services for seafood to be taken on flights.

What to Eat at Duong Dong Market

• Bun ken (coconut fish curry noodles), bun quay (stirred noodles), and other traditional Phu Quoc breakfast dishes.
• Banh canh (thick noodle soup), hu tieu (rice noodle soup), and morning coffee at the indoor dining area.
• Fresh fruit and refreshments sold around the market.

How to Get There

• Located in the heart of Duong Dong, the market is easily accessible by motorbike, taxi, or on foot from the Bach Dang area.
• About a 15–20 minute taxi ride from Phu Quoc International Airport.
• It is advisable to park at parking areas around the market, as access roads are usually congested in the morning.

Visitor Tips

• Arrive early in the morning to choose the freshest seafood and beat the heat.
• Dress comfortably and wear slip-resistant footwear, as the fresh seafood section is often wet.
• Confirm prices in advance and reweigh items when purchasing in large quantities.
• Nearby attractions include Dinh Cau Temple, Phu Quoc Night Market, and the Duong Dong Riverbank for a pleasant stroll.

Reference Prices

• Blue crab: around 250,000 VND/kg.
• Large squid: around 200,000–250,000 VND/kg.
• Small squid: around 100,000–120,000 VND/kg.
• Mackerel: around 120,000–130,000 VND/kg.
• Dried seafood: around 200,000–300,000 VND/kg.
• Phu Quoc pepper: around 200,000–250,000 VND/kg.

Prices are for reference only and may fluctuate depending on the season and individual stalls.

Best Time to Visit

• The market is open from approximately 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM; seafood is freshest between 6:00 AM and 9:00 AM when fishing boats have just docked.
• In the afternoon around 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM, a new batch of catch arrives, making it an ideal time to buy seafood for cooking.
• Shop for dried goods, fish sauce, and pepper as souvenirs between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM when the crowd thins out.
• The market is more crowded on weekends, so keep a close watch on your personal belongings.

Useful Information for Visitors

• Payment: It is recommended to bring small-denomination cash; many stalls accept QR code transfers.
• Restrooms: You can use restrooms at eateries and cafes around the market.
• Language: Vendors mainly speak Vietnamese; some dried goods stalls accustomed to tourists know a few English phrases; using a translation app is recommended.
• Souvenirs & purchases: Ask stalls to pack items securely for flights; fish sauce is usually not allowed in carry-on luggage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does Duong Dong Market open?

The market is open from around 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and is busiest in the morning.

Is buying dried seafood at Duong Dong Market cheaper than at the night market?

Duong Dong Market primarily serves local residents, so prices are usually closer to local rates, but you should still compare a few stalls.

Can I bring seafood bought at the market onto an airplane?

Some stalls can pack purchases in styrofoam boxes; you should check your airline's regulations before buying.

See Also

• Phu Quoc Night Market
• Ham Ninh Market
• Ha Tien Market