Phu Quoc Travel Guide

The white sand beaches make Phu Quoc a haven for relaxation. This is one of the must-see locations on your Southern Vietnam tours. Swimming, kayaking, surfing, diving, and simply strolling along the beach are some of the best things to do in Phu Quoc. Wondering what more? Read our following Phu Quoc travel guide.

General Information

Phu Quoc, the largest island in Vietnam, is located in Kien Giang Province and is known as ‘Pearl Island’ (Dao Ngoc) or ’99-mountain Island.’ ‘Phu’ means fertile and prosperous, and ‘Quoc’ means land, so this island has a rich and diverse ecosystem with a wealth of natural resources. In comparison to other Vietnamese islands, this is a mountainous and densely forested island.

Phu Quoc Location – Phu Quoc Travel guide

This destination has a lot of adventures for hikers as well. Phu Quoc National Park, which was established in 2001, encompasses more than half of the island. This area, which is 314,000 square meters in size, is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.

This town is also well-known for its production of nuoc mam (fish sauce), which totals 6 million liters per year. The island is also famous for its pepper production.

Phu Quoc Weather and Best Time to Visit

The island has two seasons: dry and rainy. The dry season lasts from December to the beginning of April, and the rainy season lasts from mid-April to November. This destination receives a lot of rain during the rainy season. The year-round average temperature is 27 degrees Celsius.

Phu Quoc Weather and Best time to Visit

The months of November to March are ideal for visiting because they are not too hot. It is still safe to plan your Phu Quoc tour in early April or late October, which are the beginning and end of the rainy seasons, respectively. Be aware that monsoon storms will have a negative impact on the island from July to September.

How to get to and around Phu Quoc

Getting to Phu Quoc

By plane

Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) is located in the south of the island at the end of Long Beach, approximately 9 kilometers from Duong Dong town. You can fly from Hanoi, Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Quy Nhon, Rach Gia, and Can Tho, among other major cities in Vietnam. However, the majority of flights leave from Saigon.

In addition, it is accessible from Bangkok (Thailand), some major cities in China (Hong Khong, Beijing), or South Korea (Pusan, Seoul).

On a boat

After visiting the Mekong Delta, it is preferable to take a speed boat.

• If your journey ends in Can Tho, you can take a taxi or a private car to Rach Gia (110 kilometers) to board a speed boat to Phu Quoc.
• If Chau Doc is your final destination. You will take a taxi or private car from Chau Doc to Ha Tien (90 km) and then board a speed boat to Phu Quoc.

Getting around Phu Quoc

By motorbike & By bicycle

You can travel around the island on a motorcycle. If you are not comfortable riding a motorcycle, you can rent one. Many organizations provide this service. Some hotels and homestays offer vehicle rentals.

By car & By taxi

Traveling by car or taxi is undoubtedly more expensive, but it is also more comfortable. Vina Sun Taxi, Saco Taxi, Mai Linh Phu Quoc Taxi are a few taxi companies in Phu Quoc. Furthermore, if you want to rent a private car to make the most of your stay, please contact us!

Where to Stay in Phu Quoc

On this island, there is a wide range of accommodation options. It ranges from a small backpacker hostel to five-star luxury hotels. It should be noted, however, that prices are higher than on the Vietnamese mainland. During peak season, it can sometimes double or even triple. To take advantage of the best rates, we recommend that you book as soon as your dates are set. For your convenience, here are some budget to high-end hotel options on the island:

• Mango Bay Resort – 3*
• Phu Quoc Eco Beach Resort – 3*
• Bamboo Cottage – 3*
• Long Beach Resort – 4*
• La Veranda Resort Phu Quoc – 4*
• Chez Carole Phu Quoc – 4*
• Chen Sea Resort & Spa – 5*
• Intercontinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort – 5*
• JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay – 5*
• Fusion Resort Phu Quoc – 5*

Places to visit in Phu Quoc

On a Vietnam tour, this is a dream destination for beach lovers. For those who want to go deeper, there are fishing villages to visit as well as temples and pagodas. The northern part of the island of Phu Quoc is famous for its pepper crops. It’s fascinating to learn about how pepper is grown on the island.

Turquoise Beaches

The island is triangular in shape and has numerous white-sand beaches. Long Beach, Phu Quoc’s largest beach, is lined with hotels and resorts. The most popular beach here is Sao Beach, which is located in the east. Ong Lang, Thom Beach, and Dai Beach are also fantastic beaches worth visiting. The majority of the beaches on this island are not well-marked on maps. So don’t be afraid to take a stroll and discover sumptuous paradise beaches.

Dai Beach (Bai Dai, or Bai Truong)

Bai Dai – Phu Quoc

This long sandy beach is a must-see for anyone who enjoys the beach. It is located on the northwest coast of Phu Quoc Island. You can walk along the beach, sunbathe, and relax in a peaceful setting.

Vung Bau Beach

This crescent-moon-shaped beach is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. The water is calm and the waves are gentle. You can enjoy a perfect beach vacation in Vietnam here with a variety of activities such as sunbathing on the sand, sightseeing in exotic locations, and dining in a sumptuous restaurant.

Ong Lang Beach

This beach is located in the center-west of the island and is surrounded by palm trees and rocky shores. There are luxury hotels and beach resorts in this area.

Ganh Dau Beach

The magnificent Ganh Dau Beach can be found in the island’s northwestern corner. The water is calm and shallow, and there are numerous fishing boats visible in the distance.

Sao Beach & Khem Beach

Sao Beach – Phu Quoc

To the south of the island, there are two small white sandy beaches surrounded by tropical forests. Sao Beach is one of the most popular beaches, whereas Khem Beach has yet to be overrun by tourists. Sao Beach’s tourism is growing by the day; there are now numerous restaurants, bars, and clubs.

Cua Can Beach

On this beach, the Cua River meets the Gulf of Thailand. The turbulent sea is on one side, and the tranquil river is on the other. To get there, you must pass through a fishing village.

Vong Beach

This beach, located in the island’s southeast, will take your breath away. Vong Beach is a popular destination because it serves as the mainland passenger boat dock. The breathtaking Phu Quoc National Park can be seen in the distance.

Vong beach in Phu Quoc

Rach Tram & Rach Vem Beach

The general public is unfamiliar with these two beaches. They are located in the northwestern part of the island. The tropical forest meets the sea’s crystal clear water. Rustic fishing villages can be found on both beaches.

Thom Beach

We can hear the cicadas singing in this very quiet, sparsely populated area. Thom Beach is a little difficult to reach.

Pristine Islands

Around Phu Quoc, there are 5 paradise islands to discover. These islands are more pristine and have not yet been spoiled by tourism.

Xuong Island

Xuong Island

This island is situated south of Phu Quoc. The water is turquoise and the seabed is deep enough, making this a must-visit location for divers. You can also explore the numerous caves and cliffs on the island.

May Rut Ngoai Island

May Rut Ngoai Island, located 3 kilometers from the center of An Thoi and 1 hour by boat, is a lesser-known destination with white-sand beaches, clear water, and calm waves. It’s ideal for lounging around all day.

May Rut Trong Island

Coconut palms line the white sand beaches that surround the island. Underwater, there is a diverse and rich marine ecosystem. When snorkeling, you will be able to see many rare species and coral reefs if you pay attention. Squid fishing can also be done with the locals.

Mong Tay Island (Nail Island)

Mong Tay Island (Nail Island)

This island is completely uninhabited. You will not find many luxury resorts or fancy clubs on this island. You can enjoy camping, swimming and diving in a peaceful atmosphere.

Mot Island

Mot Island

The lush vegetation on Mot Island is what draws visitors. Divers can go diving here to see colorful fish and coral reefs. This island is completely uninhabited; there are no luxury resorts or outrageous clubs on it. Camping, swimming, and diving are all options.

Ham Ninh Fishing Village

Ham Ninh Fishing Village

Ham Ninh, a picturesque and tranquil fishing village, is located on the island’s east coast. The locals are always cheerful and delighted to see tourists. In Ham Ninh, you can buy souvenirs, pearls, and delicious seafood.

Pagodas and Temples

Dinh Cau Rock (Cau Temple)

Dinh Cau Rock

This peculiarly shaped rock is located at the mouth of the Duong Duong River. Initially a lighthouse until 1937, it then became a Buddhist time dedicated to Thien Hau (the goddess of the mother). You cannot leave this town without spending time at this temple.

Sung Hung Pagoda

Around the island, there are several Buddhist pagodas and temples. Sung Hung Pagoda, the island’s most popular spiritual tourist attraction, is located in Duong Dong Commune. The pagoda is surrounded by lush trees, creating a solemn and tranquil atmosphere. Hung Long Tu pagoda, located 5 kilometers from Duong Dong, is another well-known attraction. There are several other temples scattered around the island that welcome visitors; however, when visiting them, you should cover your shoulders and wear long pants.

Phu Quoc Prison

Phu Quoc Prison

Do not miss Phu Quoc Prison if you want to learn more about our colonial period. This prison, also known as the “Coconut Prison,” was built by French colonists between 1949 and 1950. At the time, the prison housed over 14,000 political prisoners. These prisoners were able to reunite with their families thanks to the Geneva Agreements. However, when the Vietnam War began, US troops rebuilt this location under the same name.

Many savage and inhumane punishments and tortures can be seen in Phu Quoc Prison. The Tiger Cages, which were used to capture prisoners inside, are the attraction’s signature feature.

Phu Quoc Natural Park

Phu Quoc National Park, located northeast of the island and on the northern and eastern borders with the coastline, covers 31,422 ha, or 70% of the area of Phu Quoc Island, and is regarded as a valuable asset due to the abundance of natural beauty.

You can walk in the shade under the tall trees in Phu Quoc National Park to escape the heat. Even if there aren’t many animals to see, the walk will recharge your batteries. If you want to escape the heat, you can take a walk in the shade of the lush trees in Phu Quoc Natural Park. This location is excellent for walking, hiking, and trekking.

Suoi Tranh Waterfall

Suoi Tranh Waterfall

The Suoi Tranh waterfall tourist area is one of the best places in Phu Quoc to see the forest. Where rivers flow through poetic and romantic landscapes. Suoi Tranh is approximately 15 kilometers long, stretching from the small clefts on Ham Ninh mountain, wading beneath the forest canopy, and mossy rocks to create an overall beautiful nature picture in Phu Quoc.

Phu Quoc Night Market

Food stalls in Phu Quoc Night Market

It’s the place to go if you want to eat delicious seafood and buy local products and souvenirs. Every evening, the Phu Quoc Night Market is held in Duong Dong town.

Location: Vo Thi Sau Street, Duong Dong

Opening hours: Daily hours are 6:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. The stalls open around 3:00-4:00 PM, but the market only becomes lively with its nightlife scenery around 8:00 PM. Opening hours may vary depending on the weather and number of customers, and it may be crowded until 2-3 a.m. the next day.

Things to Do in Phu Quoc

Enjoy water music performance at Vinpearl Land

• Relax on the beautiful beaches
• Boat trip, night fishing and scuba diving
• Trek and hike in National Park
• Enjoy water music performance at Vinpearl Land Phu Quoc
• Contemplation of the sunset on the dream beaches of Phu Quoc
• Discover local flavors and crafts at the Duong Dong night market
• Explore Phu Quoc Prison
• Discovery of the local life of fishermen in the village of Rach Vem
• Visit a nuoc mam factory or a pepper plantation

What to Eat in Phu Quoc

Herring salad

Herring salad

Phu Quoc is a place of mouth-watering culinary delicacies, with an abundance of seafood and unique dish preparations. Herring salad has become one of the island’s most popular dishes. Herring is high in protein and calcium, both of which our bodies require.

Ham Ninh steamed sentinel-crab

Ham Ninh steamed crab

On the Phu Quoc Food Tour, steamed sentinel crab is a popular dish served in Ham Ninh Village. The meat on the Ham Ninh Crab is tender and delicious, with a firm texture. This dish is even more delicious when cooked and dipped in black pepper, salt, and lime juice sauce.

Sea cucumber soup

Sea cucumber soup

Sea cucumber is popular due to its crunchiness and chewiness, as well as its pleasant aroma. It is a must-try for all tourists on Phu Quoc tours.

Phu Quoc Ken Noodles (bún kèn)

Ken Noodles

Ken noodles, with a flavor profile that combines fish, crunch, sweetness, and sourness, are a popular dish in Phu Quoc. Over white rice noodles, a fish broth made with coconut milk and lemongrass is served. Fresh herbs, pulverized fish, bean sprouts, and a crunchy blend of grated green papaya and cucumber are sprinkled on top of the noodles.

Quay Noodles (bún quậy)

Quay noodles

The Kien Xay restaurant serves “Bun Quay,” a must-try specialty when visiting this island. The term “Bun Quay,” which means “mixed noodles,” was mentioned by locals. The name comes from the unique sauce served with this dish, which requires vigorously “mixing” all of the spices together for approximately 5 minutes.

Crab blood pudding

Crab blood pudding

All visitors should try this dish. The vital liquid of the crab transforms into a solid gelatinous form with a savory taste. It’s typically served with rice paper and fresh vegetables such as cilantro, fish leaves, green carambola slices, and green bananas.

Mat Cat Tet sticky rice (banh tet Mat Cat)

Banh Tet

Tet cake wrapped in Mat Cat leaves is a local specialty of this island. Mat Cat is a plant with leaves that resemble palm leaves. They can be found all over Ham Ninh Mountain. Conical hats are frequently made from leaves.

Mat Cat leaves are dried, washed, and wiped with oil to soften before being wrapped around this cake. The color of cooked cakes is jade. Mat Cat Tet cake is filled with green beans and meat.

Phu Quoc’s souvenirs

Pearl

Pearl – Phu Quoc souvenir

When purchasing pearls, you must exercise caution because Phu Quoc pearls come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and prices.

Phu Quoc pepper 

Cuisine in Phu Quoc is extremely diverse, ranging from delectable dishes to well-known spices. Particularly popular is pepper, which is more fragrant and delicious than pepper from other regions and can be easily brought back as a gift for relatives. Mothers at home will undoubtedly appreciate this gift.

Nuoc Mam (fish sauce)

Fish sauce is a specialty that is well-known throughout the world. This beach city is Vietnam’s fish sauce capital. It’s made from small anchovy fish from Phu Quoc, and the recipe dates back over 200 years. Every year, approximately 6 million liters of fish sauce are produced in Phu Quoc.

Tamarind-flavored dried squid

This is the most delectable snack among all specialties. The rim squid here is expertly prepared, with a sweet and chewy texture from the squid, a spicy kick from the chili, and a sour finish from the tamarind. Prior to making your purchase, look for packages with a long shelf life and fresh-looking sauce. That’s a good squid pack right there!

Tamarind-flavored dried squid

You can also buy bracelets, keychains, printed shirts, windchimes, engraved wooden paintings, tote bags, handbags, handmade passport cases, and other souvenirs.

We hope the above information gives you a general idea of ​​Phu Quoc Island. If you are excited about having Phu Quoc tours, don’t hesitate to contact us here and plan your own trip right now!