Dinh Ba Thuy Long Thanh Mau, commonly known as Dinh Ba, is one of the oldest and most revered spiritual sites in Phu Quoc. Located in the center of Duong Dong and just a short walk from Dinh Cau, this historic coastal shrine has long been a meaningful stop for both locals and travelers seeking blessings, peace, and good fortune during their journey on the island.
Address: 4 Vo Thi Sau Street, Duong Dong, Phu Quoc Special Zone, An Giang Province. With its position facing the sea and set within one of the island’s oldest residential communities, the shrine is believed to occupy an auspicious feng-shui location cherished by generations of fishermen and coastal families.
Dinh Ba is dedicated to Thuy Long Thanh Mau, the Water Goddess honored as the spiritual guardian and early pioneer who helped establish life on the island. Within the broader system of Vietnamese Mother Goddess worship, she is also known as Lady Thuy, Thuy Long Nuong Nuong, Thuy Duc Thanh Phi, and Kim Giao Nuong Nuong. According to local legend, the Goddess was of ancient Khmer noble descent. After political turmoil, she journeyed to Phu Quoc, bringing with her a herd of buffalo, cultivating land, guiding early settlers, and helping form the foundations of agriculture on the island. Many stories also recount that she once sheltered Lord Nguyen Phuc Anh—later Emperor Gia Long—during his flight across the southern seas, strengthening her divine role as protector of those braving the ocean.
Originally a small shrine made of go trai wood, thatched roofing, and simple wooden pillars, Dinh Ba has undergone several restorations while maintaining its rustic Southern Vietnamese charm. Visitors will find a three-gate entrance adorned with dragon–phoenix motifs, curved tiled roofs reminiscent of traditional communal houses, carved crane pillars guiding the way into the main sanctuary, and an interior filled with heirloom statues, altars, and ritual objects preserved through generations. The spacious courtyard and coastal breeze create a serene atmosphere ideal for quiet reflection.
For the people of Phu Quoc, Dinh Ba is not only a sacred space but also a symbol of protection, gratitude, and cultural identity. It represents the islanders’ deep connection to the sea—where storms, strong currents, and unpredictable weather shape everyday life. Before every fishing voyage, many families still stop by the shrine to light incense, offer prayers, and ask for calm seas, safe journeys, abundant catches, and harmony within the household. The shrine also reflects a cultural blend of Khmer, Vietnamese, and Cham traditions, making it an important testament to Phu Quoc’s rich spiritual heritage.
Visiting information: Entrance is free and the shrine is open from early morning until evening. Visitors are encouraged to dress respectfully, maintain quiet, and honor the spiritual atmosphere of the site.
With its deep cultural roots, sacred legends, and timeless coastal beauty, Dinh Ba Thuy Long Thanh Mau remains an essential destination for anyone seeking to understand the soul of Phu Quoc. A visit here offers not only a moment of peace but also a glimpse into the enduring traditions that have shaped the identity of the island for centuries.
