First Time to Phu Quoc Island? Your Must-Know Travel Guide!

Anointed as a Lonely Planet best beach destination of the decade, Phu Quoc Island is an endearing pear-shaped island known to the world as the "Pearl Island of Vietnam - Vietnam's largest island", rich in pristine beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant local culture. Thanks to its unique marine biodiversity, luxury resorts, and authentic experiences like visiting pepper farms and fish sauce factories, it has become popular with both local and international tourists.

For the last couple of years, the up-and-coming popularity of Phu Quoc as a tropical retreat has placed this island at the forefront of southeastern Asian destinations. So, our Phu Quoc Island travel guide is the perfect companion, full of practical knowledge of the best beaches in town, tips on how to make the most of your stay, and the ultimate things to do. Let's get into it!

First Time to Phu Quoc Island? Your Must-Know Travel Guide!

Phu Quoc Island is located in the Gulf of Thailand, about 150 kilometers (93.21 miles) west of the southern region of Vietnam's coastline. The coastline of this place extends to about 150 kilometers. The island is about 574km2 in size and is the largest in Vietnam.

Phu Quoc national park is famous as the true jewel of the Vietnamese archipelago due to its immense National Park, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO; the jade-blue sea; romantic sunsets; and, above all, the virgin and beautiful beaches.

Tourists visiting Phu Quoc would not be bored as they can partake in many indoor and outdoor activities such as scuba diving, snorkelling, kayaking, fishing, tropical rainforest walk/biking tour of the island and many more. But there is even more to include. Phu Quoc is not only about natural breathtaking views. There are also Vietnamese things in every corner like traditional fishing villages and markets, beautiful pagodas, local restaurants and food, which is east.

Phu Quoc: Vietnam’s Only Destination with a 30-Day Visa-Free Entry

Phu Quoc grants a 30-day visit visa into the island for citizens of all countries who comply with the following rules:

• Pawient with passport that has at least 6 months validity from the date of arrival in Vietnam. 
• Taking direct international flights or connecting at Inernational Phu Quoc Airport enroute to Phu Quoc Island.
• For those intending to stay fo 30 days or less must have proof of their exit, e.g., return tickets or as in the case of travels by cruise ships, the date the vessel departs.
• Enter Phu Quoc via air or sea, but not by ground.

When planning to travel to any other regions of Vietnam other than Phu Quoc or if the duration of stay exceeds 30 days, a visa has to be obtained. Explore further: Vietnam Visa Exemption

Best Times to Visit Phu Quoc

There are two seasons in Phu Quoc: the dry and the wet.

• Dry Season: From late November until early April, that period of time when you find pristine white sand beaches, a calm and crystal-clear sea, bright tropical colors, and the best time for peak tourist season. This is when restaurants, hotels, and tour operators are at their best, but prices might be on the higher side.
• Rainy season: From May until the end of October, It has magnificent waterfalls but fairly reasonable prices because of low season in tourism. Nevertheless, heavy rainfall is sometimes an obstacle to some activities. More About Weather: The Best Time to Visit to Vietnam

How To Get There?

To access the beaches of Phu Quoc, several means of transport are available: by plane from many cities in Vietnam and Asia or by speedboat/ferry from Rach Gia, Ha Tien or Ca Mau.

>>> Read More: How To Get To Phu Quoc? Complete Guide To A Smooth Trip

• Getting to Phu Quoc by air

The most popular and convenient method of transportation to get to Phu Quoc is currently by plane. Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) is located on the island and offers direct flights from several cities in Vietnam as well as international destinations.

Direct domestic flights to Phu Quoc are available from the cities of Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Hai Phong, Thanh Hoa, Buon Ma Thuot, Vinh, Hue, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Da Lat, and Can Tho. As for direct international flights, they come from Singapore, Cambodia, Hong Kong, Korea, China, and Thailand. 

Phu Quoc Airport is just 10 kilometers from Duong Dong Town, the center of the island. It is therefore easy to take a taxi to reach your hotel.

>>>>>Explore Detailed Information on Vietnam's Airports Before You Travel!

• Traveling to Phu Quoc by Ferry or Speedboat

If you're visiting Phu Quoc after exploring the Mekong Delta, your best options are to take a fast boat from Rach Gia, Ha Tien, or Ca Mau, or to fly directly from Can Tho to Phu Quoc. Alternatively, if you prefer traveling by bus or private car, it takes approximately 5-8 hours to reach these piers from Ho Chi Minh City.

Rach Gia - Phu Quoc

If you're wrapping up your journey in Can Tho, you have a couple of options to reach Phu Quoc Island. Firstly, you can catch a direct flight from Can Tho Airport to Phu Quoc. Alternatively, you can opt for a taxi or rent a private car to Rach Gia, which is approximately 110 km away and takes about 2 hours by road. From Rach Gia, you can then take a fast boat to Phu Quoc.

Several companies operate fast boat services between Rach Gia and Phu Quoc, such as Phu Quoc Express, Superdong, Hoa Binh Ship, and Thanh Thoi Ferry. The boat journey typically lasts between 2 to 2.5 hours. Ticket prices range from VND 270,000 to VND 340,000 (~$13.36) for adults and VND 240,000 to VND 270,000 for children.

Ha Tien - Phu Quoc

Once your tour concludes in Chau Doc, you have the option to either take a taxi or rent a private car to Ha Tien, which is approximately 90 km away and a 2-hour drive. From Ha Tien, you can catch a fast ferry to Phu Quoc.

Tickets can be purchased from companies like Superdong, Hong Tam, or Ngoc Thanh. Ticket prices range from VND 215,000 ($8.45) to VND 230,000 ($9.04) for adults and VND 160,000 ($6.29) for children. The ferry ride from Ha Tien to Phu Quoc takes about 1 to 2 hours.

Ca Mau - Phu Quoc

If you're in Ca Mau, you can take advantage of the fast boat service from Ca Mau to Nam Du and Phu Quoc, which resumed in March 2023 after a two-year hiatus. These boats travel at speeds of up to 55 km/h, making the trip from Tran Van Thoi port to Phu Quoc in just 3 hours and 15 minutes.

Tickets cost between VND 580,000 ($22.70) and VND 1,000,000 ($39) for adults, and VND 480,000 ($18.86) for children. This fast boat is a quick and comfortable way to reach Phu Quoc, offering magnificent sea views and on-board services such as meals, drinks, and free Wi-Fi.

However, remember that by knowing the foreign exchange rate, you can calculate the expected costs of traveling and prepare a budget accordingly. You can find more information in our article about currency exchange in Vietnam!

Things to Do in Phu Quoc, Vietnam

• Discover the Pristine Beaches of Northern Phu Quoc

Among the beaches of Phu Quoc, Ong Lang stands out. Situated on the west coast, it is less crowded with fine sand and clear water, perfect for relaxation. The sunsets here are spectacular and not to be missed.

About 7km from Ong Lang Beach, Cua Can Beach offers another serene escape on the west coast of Phu Quoc. This secluded beach, lined with casuarina trees, provides a picturesque view of the Cua River, ideal for travelers seeking tranquility.

Another beautiful beach is called Vung Bau, which is a perfect escape if you seek a slice of paradise away from the crowds. Just 10-15 minutes from Cua Can Beach, it offers a secluded spot with fine white sand and crystal-clear water. However, during the low season, strong currents can make swimming unsafe.

Thom Beach, located about 35 km northeast of the island's center, is a hidden gem. This tranquil and wild beach is rarely visited, offering a peaceful atmosphere filled with the scent of fruits and cashew nuts. It's a beautiful and alluring spot for those seeking solitude.

Finally, Ganh Dau Beach, at the northwest tip of Phu Quoc, is a dream destination. With fine white sand, lush palm trees, and crystal-clear, shallow water, it's perfect for relaxation. Ganh Dau is also famous for scuba diving, offering views of diverse coral reefs and the wild landscape of Phu Quoc. Additionally, Ganh Dau fishing village provides an authentic glimpse into local culture, making it well worth a visit.

• Enjoy the Vibrant Energy of Phu Quoc's Southern Beaches

Experience the vibrant beaches of southern Phu Quoc! Truong Beach (Long Beach), stretching nearly 20 km along the southwest coast, is the island's longest and most popular beach. It’s a hub of activity, with numerous hotels, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs.

Dai Beach (Bai Dai) is another favorite, especially for families with children due to its shallow waters. Recently, it has undergone rapid development, featuring a mega-resort with theme parks, water parks, a giant casino, a golf course, safaris, enormous hotels, and luxurious villas with Roman architecture.

Sao Beach, on the southeast coast of Phu Quoc Island, is a true tropical gem. Its snow-white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, gentle waves, and lush palm trees make it the perfect spot for relaxation and inner peace.

Nearby, towards An Thoi village, lies Khem Beach. This stunning beach, surrounded by lush jungle and bright white sand, offers a glimpse of a small, quiet fishing village. Visitors can enjoy activities like kayaking, fish-catching, and night squid fishing.

• Snorkeling in the An Thoi archipelago

Snorkeling in Phu Quoc is one of the top activities that tourists shouldn’t miss! The southern part of Phu Quoc Island is a snorkeler's paradise, boasting clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. The nearby An Thoi Archipelago, with over 18 islands, showcases some of the island's most stunning coral formations. Here, you can spot colorful fish, starfish, and sea urchins.

Key snorkeling spots in An Thoi include Hon May Rut, Hon Gam Ghi, Hon Dam Trong, Hon Thom, Hon Dua, and Hon Dau. These islands are easily accessible by boat from Phu Quoc Island.

Visitors can catch a boat from An Thoi Pier or book a boat tour to explore these underwater treasures. For an exciting and memorable stay, the southern part of Phu Quoc Island is the perfect destination.

• Soar Above Phu Quoc's Scenic Beauty by Cable Car

Taking the cable car to witness the vast scenery of the East Sea is an unforgettable experience. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the Phu Quoc cable car route spans 7,899.9 meters (around 4.9 miles) over the sea, making it the longest non-stop three-rope cable car in the world, with a 15-minute journey from An Thoi Station.

From the cable car, visitors enjoy sweeping views of the turquoise East Sea, the An Thoi Archipelago, and islands like Hon Roi and Hon Dua, known for their pristine landscapes. Upon arrival at Hon Thom, Sun World Hon Thom Nature Park offers various activities such as coral diving, parasailing, surfing, and access to Exotica Park and Aquatopia Water Park. This ride combines unforgettable views with adventurous experiences, making it a must-visit for anyone traveling to Phu Quoc.

• Uncover the Secrets of Local Specialty Making

Phu Quoc is home to one of Vietnam's finest fish sauce producers, known as "nước mắm." With a history spanning 200 years, Phu Quoc's fish sauce is made using traditional methods, ensuring exceptional quality and a rich, distinctive flavor. This renowned sauce is famous both in Vietnam and around the world. 

Beyond its celebrated seafood, Phu Quoc offers a culinary variety thanks to its diverse environment. The island's unique dishes include fresh and dried seafood, the famous fish sauce, and sim liquor, all of which are popular with tourists. The local sim forests produce fruits in January, which are used to make a fragrant and delicious liquor.

Pepper is also famous for its high quality in Phu Quoc, where it has been grown for centuries. Hand-harvested and sun-dried, this pepper is available in black, white, and red varieties and is highly prized by chefs. Visitors can purchase this exceptional pepper directly from the plantations during tours.

• Historic Phu Quoc Prison

Phu Quoc Prison, situated on the southern side of Phu Quoc, was initially constructed by French colonists to imprison Vietnamese patriots. This site is a must-see for those interested in history and culture. Once the largest prison in Indochina, it stands as a somber reminder of colonial oppression.

In 1967, amid the escalating Vietnam War, the Saigon government reconstructed the prison and renamed it "Coconut Prison," also known as the Communist Prison Camp of Phu Quoc. Conditions were brutal, with Vietnamese political prisoners enduring severe mistreatment.

Today, Phu Quoc Prison operates as a museum open to visitors. It offers a stark look at the atrocities of war and the harsh realities faced by the prisoners. The exhibits provide a profound insight into the lives of Vietnamese political detainees, offering an experience that is both educational and moving.

>>>>>If you would like to bask in the sun of Phu Quoc, don't hesitate to contact us to organize your trip and experience unforgettable moments in the heart of nature.

• Explore the Fishing Village of Ham Ninh

Nestled on Phu Quoc Island in Vietnam. Ham Ninh is a charming fishing village that sits along the island's northeast coast, embraced by lush mountains and stunning turquoise waters.

To experience authentic Vietnamese culture, Ham Ninh is a destination not to be missed. Indulge in fresh, delicious seafood, renowned throughout the city for its quality. Beyond its culinary delights, Ham Ninh provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, offering a serene environment for relaxation.

• Vinpearl Phú Quốc: Paradise for your children

Safari 🦜 : Vietnam's largest animal conservation park, home to more than 3,000 animals of 150 species.

• Opening hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

• Divided into two zones: “Open Zoo” and “Safari Area”

• Tip: Visit in the morning to avoid the sun, enjoy the shows, and check the return bus schedule.

VinWonders 🏄🏻‍♀️  : The largest theme park in Vietnam, divided into 6 subdivisions with 12 themes. Must-sees: VinWonders Aquarium (SeaShell Aquarium), Exciting Games.

• Opening hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.

• Bring hats, swimsuits, sunglasses, sunscreen.

• Rent a bike or stroller for convenient transportation.

Grand World Phú Quốc 🎪: Known as the “city that never sleeps”, with activities 24/7. Essential:

• Show "The Quintenssence of Vietnam"
• Enjoy a romantic sunset at the Dating Tower, perfect for honeymooning couples.

Where to stay in Phu Quoc?

On Phu Quoc Island, all types of accommodations suit every taste, especially on the west coast, which is taken up by beautiful beaches. From Mango Bay Resort down to Cassia Cottage, resorts line up near Ong Lang Beach; at the quieter Cua Can Beach, there's Green Bay Resort, while farther north, Vung Bau Beach hosts charming options such as Bamboo Cottage. For more dynamic atmosphere, the high-class hotels like JW Marriott, InterContinental are situated in the southwest coast.

>>> Learn more about: Best Hotels & Resorts in Phu Quoc: A Paradise Awaits You

Further north, Vung Bau Beach stretches for about 2 km with its white sands and tropical greenery. Here, you can find charming hotels such as Bamboo Cottage, Nam Nghi Coral Peninsula Phu Quoc, and Fusion Resort.

If you prefer a livelier atmosphere, the southern part of the west coast has accommodations to match, including renowned international brands like JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa, InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort, and Novotel Phu Quoc Resort.

>>> For more information, please read: Best Hotels in Phu Quoc

What to Eat in Phu Quoc?

Besides enjoying the beaches and diving to explore stunning coral reefs, Phu Quoc Island offers a rich culinary experience with its abundant marine resources. Seafood lovers shouldn't miss trying Ham Ninh clams, sardinella salad, and sea urchins for a unique taste sensation.

A must-try dish on the island is "bún quậy", featuring fresh rice noodles topped with a variety of seafood such as squid, fish balls, shrimp balls, and sometimes beef, all served in a flavorful and sweet sauce. The blend of textures and flavors in this dish is exceptional.

For something unique, indulge in Tràm mushrooms, a specialty of Phu Quoc Island. These purple mushrooms have a short lifespan of about a month, making them rare. Locals expertly combine Tràm mushrooms with fresh seafood like squid, shrimp, and clams to create a delicious and nutritious Tràm mushroom soup.

Lastly, dried seafood is another specialty of Phu Quoc, showcasing the island's culinary diversity and flavors derived from its rich marine environment.

>>> Read more: Vietnam's culinary regional diversity.

Our last words

Here are 7 useful Phu Quoc Island travel tips for first-time visitors to ensure an amazing seaside getaway. Use our guide to choose the perfect beach for your taste and enjoy a fantastic vacation on this stunning emerald island.

With this travel guide, you’ll be ready to pack your suitcase and hit the road! To make every moment perfect on your journey to the best beaches in Vietnam, be sure to book vouchers, combos, and tours for a 2-week coastal tour in advance to secure the best prices.

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