At Da Nang's northern gateway, Nam O is an old fishing village with a centuries-old fish sauce craft, a famous herring salad and rocks covered in bright green moss each spring.
Contents
Nam O fishing village lies at the foot of the Hai Van Pass, about 15 km north of central Da Nang. It is famous for its traditional Nam O fish sauce, made for hundreds of years, and for herring salad (goi ca trich) – a speciality every Da Nang local is proud of.
Why visit Nam O?
- Green moss rocks: from about January to April moss covers the coastal rocks, and at low tide the scene looks like a painting.
- Sunrise over the sea with basket boats and fishing boats returning.
- Old relics: an ancient Cham well, the village communal house and Ba Dang shrine.
- Herring salad with wild herbs, rice paper and a special dipping sauce.
Tips
- Go early (5–7am) for sunrise and the moss at low tide.
- The rocks are slippery – wear grippy shoes and take care while taking photos.
- Buy fish sauce directly from producers in the village for the real thing.
Nam O is on the way to the Hai Van Pass and Hue: stop here on a Hue trip by private car, or combine it with nearby Suoi Luong stream.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Nam O fishing village?
Nam O is in northern Da Nang at the foot of the Hai Van Pass, about 15 km from the centre.
When does the green moss appear at Nam O?
Roughly January to April, best seen early in the morning at low tide.
How is Nam O fish salad eaten?
Fresh herring is deboned, mixed with roasted rice powder and spices, wrapped in rice paper with wild herbs and dipped in a special sauce.
