TRAVEL GUIDE TO PHU QUOC: THE HIDDEN GEM OF VIETNAM

Phu Quoc, often referred to as the “Pearl Island” of Vietnam, is a tropical paradise with pristine beaches, lush forests, and vibrant local life. I will introduce you to travel guide to Phu Quoc, as well as top attractions in this city.

Phu Quoc is one of the top destinations when you travel to Vietnam.

1. Where is Phu Quoc?

Phu Quoc is the largest island in Vietnam, located off the southwestern coast in the Gulf of Thailand. It belongs to Kien Giang Province and is close to Cambodia, giving it a unique position and a distinctive blend of Vietnamese and Cambodian influences. Known for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and thriving marine life, Phu Quoc has become a favorite destination for both relaxation and adventure.

Phu Quoc

2. How to get there?

-By Plane: Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) connects the island to major Vietnamese cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang. Flights from Ho Chi Minh City take around 1 hour, making it the fastest way to reach the island. Phu Quoc airport is about 15 minutes from the center of the island. Some high-end hotels and resorts often have free shuttle service from the airport. You should ask about this service when booking a room in Phu Quoc.

-By Ferry: For those who want a more scenic route, ferries are available from Rach Gia and Ha Tien on the mainland. The ferry ride from Ha Tien to Phu Quoc takes about 1.5-2 hours, while from Rach Gia, it’s around 2.5-3 hours. This is a great option if you’re exploring other parts of the Mekong Delta before heading to Phu Quoc.

-By Bus: You can depart from the center of Ho Chi Minh City. There are many high-quality trips to Ha Tien, the ticket price is about 150.000 VND to 230.000 VND per person (6 to 9.2 USD), depending on the bus company. Some high-quality bus companies you can refer to are: Phuong Trang, Mai Linh, Kumho.

-By Car: If you drive yourself, you should go at night to catch the ferry at around 4am to experience the sunrise on the sea. The route lasts about 6 hours from Ho Chi Minh City to the ferry terminal in Ha Tien.

3. The ideal time to visit Phu Quoc

The ideal time to visit Phu Quoc Island is from November to April, which is the dry season in the South. During this period, rainfall is minimal, the sea is calm, waves are gentle, and there’s plenty of warm sunshine—perfect for outdoor activities. This season is ideal for those seeking resort-style relaxation rather than adventurous backpacking trips.

From May to October, Phu Quoc experiences its rainy season, occasionally with storms. Despite this, the island remains busy due to summer vacations. If you plan to visit during the rainy season, consider the end of April when crowds are still manageable, the weather is pleasant, and prices remain more reasonable compared to peak times. October, which marks the seasonal transition, also tends to have less rain, making it another good time to visit.

4. Top attractions in Phu Quoc

4.1. Hon Mong Tay, Hon May Rut, Hon Dam Ngang

These three picturesque small islands, Hon Mong Tay, Hon May Rut, and Hon Dam Ngang, are like shy young maidens nestled within untamed nature. They are perfect destinations in Phu Quoc for those seeking to become muses in a natural setting. Each island boasts its own unique charm, leaving a lasting impression on visitors.

Hon Mong Tay

Hon May Rut

Hon Dam Ngang

Hon Mong Tay captivates with its soft white sands and crystal-clear waters. Hon May Rut features distinctive quartz rocks scattered throughout the sandy shores, creating an extraordinary landscape. In contrast, Hon Dam Ngang offers a sense of mystery with its caves and rich biodiversity.

On each island, visitors can enjoy various activities, including swimming, snorkeling to observe coral reefs, and indulging in fresh seafood feasts—delightful treasures from the sea.

4.2. Vinpearl Safari

Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc is Vietnam’s largest semi-wildlife conservation and animal care park, uniquely designed to “cage” visitors while allowing animals to roam freely. As you ride in electric vehicles, you’ll experience up-close encounters with various animals, feed them by hand, and capture memorable selfies.

Vinpearl Safari

This one-of-a-kind attraction in Vietnam immerses guests in the natural habitats of rare animals like South African rhinos, Australian kangaroos, Indian tigers, and Kenyan zebras.

Address: Ganh Dau Ward, Phu Quoc City.

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily.

Entrance Fees: Range from 450.000 to 500.000 VND/person (18 to 20 USD)

4.3. Sao Beach

Sao Beach, located in An Thoi town about 28 km from Duong Dong, is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Phu Quoc. The beach features crystal-clear blue water set against a stretch of soft white sand over 7 km long.

The captivating beauty of Sao Beach Phu Quoc.

Visitors can stroll along the shore, listen to the gentle waves at sunrise, swim, or capture stunning photos.

Kayaking at Sao Beach.

The calm, gentle waves make Sao Beach ideal for water activities, especially kayaking. Boat rentals are available, typically costing between 100.000 and 150.000 VND (4 to 6 USD).

Address: An Thoi Ward, Phu Quoc City.

Opening Hours: open 24 hours.

4.4. Hon Thom Island

Hon Thom Island is a popular tourist destination, known for its stunning beaches and a variety of activities, including coral diving, fishing, squid fishing, kayaking, and jet skiing. A highlight for families is the Aquatopia Water Park, featuring 20 thrilling rides and water games.

Hon Thom Island

For diving enthusiasts, the ECO Beach area offers a 20-minute diving experience with a closed helmet for 950.000 VND per person (38 USD). For those who prefer traditional air tanks, the cost is 650,000 VND per person (26 USD). Additional services, such as underwater video recording for 600.000 VND (24 USD) and photography for 300.000 VND (12 USD), are also available.

Experience scuba diving at Hon Thom Paradise Island.

To reach Hon Thom, visitors start at the cable car station, built in a striking ancient Roman architectural style—a popular photo spot for young travelers. The journey to the island is via the world’s longest three-wire cable car, stretching 7,899 meters, providing spectacular views of the clear blue sea, peaceful islands, and boats below.

Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the cable car station entrance. A combined package, including the cable car, entry to the water park, and a lunch buffet, costs 600.000 VND for adults (24 USD) and children over 1.4 meters tall. Children between 1 and 1.4 meters can buy tickets for 400.000 VND (16 USD).

Address: Hon Thom Island, Phu Quoc City.

Opening Hours for Hon Thom Cable Car:  8:30 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM to 7:00 PM daily.

4.5. Thinh Phat Fish Sauce Factories

Phu Quoc fish sauce is renowned for its distinctive, delicious flavor, high protein content, and the island’s long-standing tradition of fish sauce production. An essential ingredient in nearly every traditional Vietnamese meal, Phu Quoc fish sauce has become a specialty of Pearl Island, reflecting Vietnam’s national identity.

At Thinh Phat fish sauce factory, all products are made using traditional methods, selecting only high-quality fish sauces with protein levels ranging from 40 to 43.

Fish sauce at Thinh Phat barrel house is completely handmade.

Notably, the factory offers an airport delivery service. Visitors can pay a deposit when they tour the facility, and after returning by plane, the staff will deliver the fish sauce directly to them. This service has become increasingly popular among tourists, as it eliminates the hassle of carrying heavy items and avoids checked baggage fees while allowing them to purchase authentic products directly from the source.

Beautifully decorated and presented.

Address: 30 Street, Duong Dong Ward, Phu Quoc City.

Opening Hours: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.

4.6. Pepper Farms

Phu Quoc pepper is renowned for its high-quality seeds, aromatic husks, and distinctive spice profile, unmatched anywhere else. Along the route to Ganh Dau, you’ll find numerous pepper gardens open for visits.

The maze-shaped pepper rows attract tourists.

Most don’t charge an entry fee, allowing you to freely explore, take photos amidst the pepper plants, and even join the farmers in the fascinating experience of harvesting pepper.

Address: No. 4, Suoi May Street, Duong To Ward, Phu Quoc City.

Opening Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.

4.7. Ham Ninh Fishing Village

Ham Ninh Fishing Village in Phu Quoc is one of the top spots to witness stunning sunrises and sunsets, alongside Dinh Cau. This tranquil and refreshing location, set against a picturesque natural backdrop, is perfect for capturing beautiful photos. It also offers a relaxing getaway for you and your family.

Ham Ninh Fishing Village

Visitors to Ham Ninh can engage in various activities, such as fishing, snorkeling to explore coral reefs, and taking boat rides with local fishermen. These experiences provide valuable insights into the culture and lifestyle of the coastal communities in the area.

The wooden bridge extending out to the sea is an ideal check-in point for many tourists when visiting Ham Ninh Phu Quoc fishing village. Here, you can admire the beauty of sunset and sunrise.

The wooden bridge becomes an ideal check-in spot at Ham Ninh fishing village, Phu Quoc.

In addition, checking in here will capture the panoramic view of the poetic sea. Check-in photos at the wooden bridge will help you record wonderful memories of your trip.

Address: Ham Ninh Ward, Phu Quoc City.

Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily.

4.8. Phu Quoc Night Market

Phu Quoc Night Market features numerous stalls offering fresh seafood, local specialties like fish sauce, sim berry candy, pepper, and handicrafts. Beyond browsing and shopping, visitors should make sure to try the freshly prepared seafood dishes available at the market. Other recommended treats include rolled ice cream, egg cakes, and palm cakes.

Phu Quoc Night Market


Street food at night market

Stalls selling clothes, souvenirs, and specialties in Phu Quoc.

Additionally, the southern part of the island is home to other attractions, such as fish sauce production sites, pearl farms, and sim wine facilities.

Address: No. 6, Bach Dang Street, Phu Quoc City.

Opening Hours: 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM daily.