Phu Quoc: A Detailed Guide To Vietnam’s Breathtaking Island

A stunning view of Phu Quoc Island with white sandy beaches, clear waters, and trees.

Phu Quoc is a large and beautiful island in Vietnam. It has clear blue waters, sandy beaches, and green forests. Many people visit to enjoy nature, relax, or have fun. The island has many nice hotels and resorts where visitors can stay. Fresh seafood is very popular, and people can try different local dishes. There are many things to do, like swimming, diving, or resting on the beach. The weather is warm, and the island has a peaceful feeling. Visitors can also learn about the local culture and enjoy the friendly atmosphere.

Location

A view of a beach in Vietnam with sandy shores, azure waters and lush green meadows.

Photo: allPhoto Bangkok / Unsplash

Phu Quoc is an island in the Gulf of Thailand, near the southwest coast of Vietnam. It is part of Kien Giang Province, about 45 km from the Vietnamese mainland. The island is also close to Cambodia, with some areas just 15 km from the Cambodian coast. Many small islands surround Phu Quoc, making it a great place for island hopping. The island has a warm, tropical climate with beautiful beaches, green forests, and clear blue water.

How To Reach

A view of a beach in Vietnam with azure waters during the daytime for travellers to visit.

Photo: Andreas M / Unsplash

By Air: The fastest way to reach Phu Quoc is by air. Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) connects the island to major cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang. There are also international flights from Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Seoul. The airport is just 10 km from Duong Dong, the main town on the island.

By Ferry: Travellers can also reach Phu Quoc by ferry from Rach Gia or Ha Tien on the mainland. The ferry ride takes around 2–3 hours and offers beautiful sea views. Once you arrive at the port, taxis and motorbikes are available to take you around the island.

By Road And Bus: If you are coming from Ho Chi Minh City, you can take a bus to Rach Gia or Ha Tien and then catch a ferry to Phu Quoc. The journey takes around 6–8 hours by road, followed by a ferry ride.

Top Places To Visit In Phu Quoc

1. Sao Beach

The white sandy shores and crystal-clear waters of Sao Beach in Phu Quoc.

Photo: Vnecofriendly / Wikimedia Commons

Sao Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Phu Quoc. It has soft white sand and clear blue water. Many people visit to swim, sunbathe, or enjoy water activities like kayaking and snorkelling. The beach is very peaceful, making it a great place to relax and enjoy nature. The views are stunning, and the calm sea is perfect for a fun and quiet day. Families, couples, and friends can all have a good time here. The fresh sea breeze and gentle waves make it a lovely spot to spend a few hours or even the whole day.

Must-Have Experience: Enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters and relaxing on the soft white sand
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 hours

2. Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc

Exotic animals at Vinpearl Safari, a popular attraction in Phu Quoc for travellers.

Photo: Khoitran1957 / Wikimedia Commons

Vinpearl Safari is the biggest wildlife park in Vietnam. It has more than 150 types of animals, including tigers, giraffes, and elephants. Visitors can go on a safari ride to see the animals up close in their natural surroundings. The park is a great place for families and people who love nature. It is a fun and exciting way to learn about different animals while enjoying a safe and peaceful environment. The wide open spaces make it feel like a real jungle, and the animals can move freely. It is a good place to visit for an unforgettable experience with wildlife.

Must-Have Experience: Take a safari ride to see tigers, giraffes, and elephants up close
Ideal Trip Duration: 4 – 5 hours

3. Phu Quoc National Park

Dense green forests and wildlife in Phu Quoc National Park, a natural treasure.

Photo: Supanut Arunoprayote / Wikimedia Commons

Phu Quoc National Park is a large park covering over half of the island. It is a great place for people who love nature and adventure. The park has many trees, waterfalls, and fresh air. There are different kinds of animals, like rare birds and monkeys, living in the forest. Visitors can go hiking, walk on nature trails, and explore the beautiful scenery. Trekking through the park is a fun way to see the plants and animals up close. The park is quiet and peaceful, making it a perfect relaxing place.

Must-Have Experience: Go trekking through dense forests and spot rare wildlife
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 hours

4. Dinh Cau Night Market

A vibrant lantern view at Dinh Cau Night Market in Phu Quoc offering cultural experience.

Photo: note thanun / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Dinh Cau Night Market is a great place to see the local culture of Phu Quoc. It has many stalls selling fresh seafood, street food, and souvenirs. Visitors can try tasty local dishes like grilled squid, sea urchin, and coconut ice cream. The market is busy, energetic, and a fun place to walk around. People can enjoy the lively atmosphere, taste different foods, and shop for small gifts. It is a good spot to spend an evening with family or friends.

Must-Have Experience: Try fresh seafood, taste local street food, and shop for souvenirs.
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours

5. Hon Thom Island (Pineapple Island)

An amazing view of Hon Thom Island in Phu Quoc, featuring clear waters and greenery.

Photo: Klientos / Wikimedia Commons

Hon Thom Island is a beautiful small island near Phu Quoc. You can reach it by taking a very long cable car ride over the sea, which gives amazing ocean views. The island is a great place to enjoy nature. You can go snorkelling to see colourful fish, swim in the clear water, or just relax on the soft sandy beach. The peaceful surroundings make it a perfect spot for a quiet holiday. Whether you want adventure or just a place to rest, Hon Thom Island is a wonderful place to visit.

Must-Have Experience: Take the scenic cable car ride and go snorkelling in the turquoise waters.
Ideal Trip Duration: 4 – 5 hours

Where To Stay

A luxury resort in Phu Quoc with oceanfront views and tropical gardens to visitors.

Photo: peterweideman / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Phu Quoc has many places to stay, from expensive resorts to budget hotels. Vinpearl Resort Phu Quoc is a luxury resort by the beach with top-class facilities. Mango Bay Resort is a quiet eco-resort surrounded by nature, perfect for people who want peace. Salinda Resort Phu Quoc is a high-end resort with beautiful sea views that offers a relaxing stay. Visitors can choose a place that suits their budget and enjoy their time on the island.

Where To Eat

A delicious dish served in a restaurant in Phu Quoc to travellers with amazing taste.

Photo: Kirtip / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Phu Quoc is known for its fresh seafood, and there are many tasty local dishes to try. Bun Quay is a special noodle soup that is mixed at the table before eating. It has a light and fresh taste. Grilled sea urchin is a popular seafood dish that is cooked with scallion oil, giving it a rich and delicious flavour. Phu Quoc fish sauce is made from anchovies and is an important ingredient in many local dishes.

Best Time To Visit

A sunny day at the beach in Phu Quoc is the best time for a tropical holiday.

Photo: Anton Shuvalov / Unsplash

The best time to visit Phu Quoc is from November to April because the weather is dry and sunny. During this time, the sea is calm, which is perfect for swimming, relaxing on the beach, and visiting nearby islands. From May to October, it is the rainy season, and there can be heavy rain at times. Some outdoor activities may be difficult during this period.

Other Factors To Consider

The soothing beaches and dense landscapes of Phu Quoc, Vietnam in the evening.

Photo: Andreas M / Unsplash

Average Cost Of The Trip

A trip to Phu Quoc can be cheap or expensive, depending on how you travel. If you are on a budget, you may spend about $30 to $50 per day. If you want more comfort, you may spend $70 to $150 per day. Luxury resorts can cost more than $200 per night. Activities like boat trips, snorkelling, and visiting Phu Quoc National Park may have extra costs.

Tips For Travellers

  • Respect local customs by dressing modestly when visiting temples and villages.
  • Be cautious of jellyfish during certain seasons and follow safety guidelines at beaches.
  • Explore night markets for delicious seafood and unique souvenirs.
  • The tropical climate can be humid, so drink plenty of water while exploring the island.

Phu Quoc is a beautiful island with amazing beaches, tasty food, and a rich culture. It is perfect for both adventure and relaxation. You can explore nature, enjoy the sea, and try delicious local dishes. This island is full of hidden beauty waiting to be discovered. Plan your trip today with TripXL and experience the best of Phu Quoc!

Cover Photo: Khiem Antony / Unsplash

Frequently Asked Questions

Phu Quoc is famous for its fresh seafood, particularly grilled squid, sea urchins, Ham Ninh crabs, and fish noodle soup (Bún Kèn). Don't forget to try dishes made with Phu Quoc's famous fish sauce, a key ingredient in Vietnamese cuisine.
Yes, many hotels, restaurants, and big shops accept credit cards. However, small food stalls, local markets, and some tours may require cash payments. It's best to carry some Vietnamese Dong (VND) for convenience.
The official currency in Phu Quoc is the Vietnamese Dong (VND), but some places accept USD. It's best to carry local currency for small purchases. ATMs are available, and most hotels and high-end restaurants accept credit cards.
Yes, Wi-Fi is widely available in Phu Quoc, including in hotels, restaurants, and cafés. You can also buy a local SIM card from providers like Viettel, Vinaphone, or Mobifone for cheap and reliable mobile data.
Pack light clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for the sunny weather. If you plan to explore the national park or waterfalls, bring comfortable shoes and insect repellent.

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