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Phu Quoc isn’t nicknamed the “pearl island” of Vietnam for nothing. This stunning island is famed for its world-class beaches, diverse natural landscapes, and culturally rich attractions. With a pleasant climate and well-developed tourism services, it’s the perfect destination for you and your family to enjoy a fulfilling summer getaway.

Geography & Administrative Divisions

Phu Quoc is an island located at the southernmost tip of Vietnam, administratively part of Kien Giang Province. It lies about 45 km from Ha Tien and 120 km from Rach Gia. Among the 22 islands of the Phu Quoc archipelago, it is the largest, covering an area of 589.23 km² with a coastline stretching over 150 km from the island’s north to south. Phu Quoc is famed for its stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, lush primary forests, and a vibrant culinary scene that has earned it international acclaim. Each year, the island welcomes millions of domestic and international visitors for sightseeing and relaxation.

Here are some key geographical and administrative facts about Phu Quoc:

Total area: 589.23 km²

Population: around 179,000 people (as of the latest census)

Topography: a mix of coastal plains, forested mountains, and coral-fringed islets

Coastline: over 150 km long

Region: Southern Vietnam (Kien Giang Province)

Location: Lies in the Gulf of Thailand

Administratively, Phu Quoc includes:

1 city: Phu Quoc City (established in 2021)

2 wards: Duong Dong (city center) and An Thoi (southern port and beach area)

7 communes: Ham Ninh, Ganh Dau, Cua Can, Bai Thom, Cua Duong, Duong To, Tho Chau 

Note: Some districts have merged recently due to administrative reforms. Always check the latest official map for the most accurate district boundaries.

Climate & Best Time To Visit

Located in Southern Vietnam, Phu Quoc Island features a distinct tropical monsoon climate with two main seasons: dry and rainy.

Dry Season (November to April): This is the best time to visit Phu Quoc. The weather is sunny, dry, and pleasant, with clear skies and calm seas—ideal for swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and watching sunsets. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so prices for accommodation and services may rise by 20–30%. Early booking (1–2 months in advance) is highly recommended.

Rainy Season (May to October): Heavy rains and rough seas are common during this period, which may affect travel plans, especially sea routes. However, it’s a great time to visit waterfalls like Suoi Tranh, as they are at their most impressive. For a more relaxed experience, consider exploring less crowded northern beaches like Bai Dai or Bai Dat Do in the south.

Transition Month (November): While November marks the beginning of the dry season, weather can still be unpredictable. It’s advisable to check the forecast before traveling and pack accordingly.

Top Attractions & Natural Wonders

Beach & Scenic Coasts

Hon Thom Island

Dubbed the “Maldives of Vietnam,” Hon Thom captivates visitors with its mesmerizing beauty—crystal-clear turquoise waters, towering coconut palms stretching along powdery white sands, and a serene atmosphere that soothes the soul. When the golden sun shines down, the sea surface glistens like a giant mirror, creating a breathtaking paradise-like scene.

Hon Thom is also the most developed island for tourism in the area, offering pristine beaches and a wide range of water activities such as snorkeling, fishing, squid fishing, kayaking, and jet skiing. One of the main highlights here is the Aquatopia Water Park, home to 20 thrilling rides and water attractions—a perfect destination for fun-filled family adventures.

To reach Hon Thom Island, visitors depart from An Thoi Cable Car Station, a structure inspired by ancient Roman architecture and a favorite photo spot among young travelers. From here, you’ll board the world’s longest three-rope cable car, stretching an impressive 7,899 meters in length.

The cable car journey takes you across Hon Roi and Hon Dua before arriving at Hon Thom. From a “bird’s-eye view,” the scenery of the Pearl Island unfolds in surreal grandeur—where the sky and sea merge into a vast, vivid blue canvas, dotted with lush greenery and fleets of fishing boats cutting through the waves.

Bai Dai Beach

Bai Dai is a pristine stretch of beach spanning over 15 kilometers, ranked among the most beautiful beaches along the journey—a hidden gem on Phu Quoc Island. Tucked away in a quieter area, Bai Dai offers a peaceful escape with its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. This secluded paradise is the perfect choice for those seeking a tranquil seaside experience, far from the crowds—making it an ideal destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Bai Sao Beach

Sao beach  is one of the most beautiful beaches in Phu Quoc, located in An Thoi Town, about 28 kilometers from Duong Dong Town. It boasts crystal-clear waters and a smooth, white sandy shoreline stretching over 7 kilometers. Visitors can stroll along the beach at sunrise, listen to the gentle lapping waves, take a refreshing swim, or capture stunning photos. The calm and gentle sea also makes it ideal for water sports, with kayaking being one of the most popular activities.

Bai Truong Beach

Bai Truong is the most popular and bustling beach in Phu Quoc, thanks to many favorable conditions. Stretching over 20 kilometers, it is divided into several smaller beach areas and attracts both tourists and locals with its wide sandy shores and rows of lush coconut trees. Located on the island’s southwest coast, Bai Truong is also ranked among the best spots to watch the sunset in Phu Quoc. Visitors can explore Sunset Sanato Beach Club, a popular beachfront destination known for its unique bamboo and wooden installations. Highlights include a seaside pier, a herd of water-walking elephants, a giant seashell house, and charming swings—perfect backdrops for stunning sunset photos bathed in golden-orange light.

Mong Tay Island

When traveling to Phu Quoc, one of the most talked-about names is Hon Mong Tay, also known as Robinson Island or the Ghost Island. This uninhabited island only recently became known among travelers. Here, you can fully immerse yourself in a vast, emerald-blue sea and marvel at vibrant coral reefs. Since there are no services on the island, it’s best to bring your own supplies and food before heading out.

With its untouched beauty, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life, this island is perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, and snapping stunning Instagram-worthy photos.

Ganh Dau Cape

Ganh Dau Cape is a landmass jutting out into the sea, located at the northernmost tip of Phu Quoc. It’s an ideal spot to catch both sunrise and sunset. Due to its remote location and limited tourist traffic, Ganh Dau retains a pristine charm with unique rock formations and clear turquoise waters. The long, gently sloping sandy beach is perfect for leisurely walks and photo opportunities.

Ganh Dau cape (Source: Internet)

Fresh seafood such as crab, squid, and snails is available at local eateries here—often at lower prices than in the main tourist areas. On clear days, you can even see the Cambodian coastline in the distance.

Nature & Wildlife

Tranh Stream

Tranh Stream originates from the Ham Ninh mountain range and is formed by small creeks. Visiting this place, travelers are immersed in a refreshing natural setting with lush green trees and gentle waterfalls flowing like a soft symphony. A walk along the stream offers scenic views and the joyful sight of people playing in the water—an enjoyable experience when visiting Phu Quoc. It’s also a popular spot for photography, loved by many tourists.

Phu Quoc National Park

Phu Quoc National Park is located in the northeast of the island and is an ideal destination for nature lovers. Covering over 31,000 hectares, the pristine rainforest retains its untouched beauty. The diverse ecosystem features mountains, streams, dense jungles, and small waterfalls. It’s a great spot for trekking, picnicking, photography, and exploring the local flora and fauna.

Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc

Vinpearl Safari is the largest semi-wildlife zoo in Southeast Asia, located within the Phu Quoc United Center complex. It is home to over 150 rare animal species and more than 3,000 individual animals. In the semi-wild area, visitors can ride in specialized vehicles to observe animals in their natural habitats. There are also interactive zones where guests can feed and take photos with gentle animals.

Cultural & Historical Sites

Phu Quoc Prison (Coconut Tree Prison)

Phu Quoc is not only a tourist island filled with natural beauty, but also a place that bears the painful marks of Vietnam’s wartime history. Phu Quoc Prison — also known as “Coconut Tree Prison” — is a special historical site that once held tens of thousands of revolutionary soldiers during the resistance war. The site has been preserved in its original state, allowing visitors to deeply feel the harshness of war. It features documentary film screenings, wax figures, and the infamous tiger cages.

Ho Quoc Pagoda

Ho Quoc Pagoda (Truc Lam Ho Quoc Zen Monastery) is the largest pagoda in Phu Quoc and one of the most expansive in the Southwest region of Vietnam. It boasts a stunning location, with its back against the mountains and its front facing the sea, creating a harmonious feng shui setting. The pagoda belongs to the Truc Lam Zen Monastery system and is built from ironwood, featuring architectural styles typical of Northern Vietnamese temples.

Ham Ninh Fishing Village

Ham Ninh Fishing Village lies on the eastern coast of Phu Quoc, about 14 km from the town center. Backed by forested mountains and facing the open sea, it’s an ideal spot to catch the sunrise. For generations, Ham Ninh has maintained its rustic charm with thatched bamboo houses, families weaving fishing nets, and boats in the distance waiting to head out for squid, sea cucumbers, crabs, or pearl diving.

The sea here is shallow—one can walk hundreds of meters without the water becoming deep. Locals earn a living from fishing, and many floating houses are built right by the shore. Visitors can buy fresh crabs and live seafood or enjoy a reasonably priced meal at one of the beachfront eateries.

Fish Sauce Factory

As one of Phu Quoc’s most famous traditional crafts, fish sauce production not only preserves cultural heritage but also contributes to the island’s tourism appeal. No travel experience in Phu Quoc would be complete without visiting one of its large-scale fish sauce distilleries.

At any of these traditional “nha thung” (fermentation houses), visitors can witness towering rows of giant wooden barrels reaching up to the ceiling. They’ll also learn about the meticulous fermentation process that transforms anchovies into Phu Quoc’s signature fish sauce—renowned for its rich, savory flavor and premium quality.

Local Experience

Duong Dong market

Located right by the seaport, Duong Dong Market is the largest and most bustling market in Phu Quoc. It’s a vibrant hub where you’ll find the freshest seafood and a wide variety of delicious local dishes sure to satisfy any appetite. According to many seasoned travelers, Duong Dong Market is also the ideal place to shop for Phu Quoc specialties such as fish sauce, dried seafood, and sim wine to bring home as gifts for family and friends.

Phu Quoc Night Market

While Duong Dong Market is the liveliest daytime market in Phu Quoc, nothing beats the vibrant nighttime atmosphere of the Phu Quoc Night Market (also known as Dinh Cau Night Market). This market is a favorite evening spot for visitors to stroll around after a full day of exploring the island.

A visit wouldn’t be complete without tasting the mouthwatering grilled seafood prepared right on the spot. You can end the night with local snacks like sticky rice banana cakes or roasted sweet potatoes. The market also offers a variety of charming souvenirs, especially small pearl-crafted items—perfect to take home as gifts.

Cuisine & Local Specialties

Herring Salad (Goi ca trich)

Herring salad is one of the most iconic dishes of Phu Quoc, showcasing the culinary essence of the island region. It is made from fresh herring—a small, meaty, low-bone fish commonly found in Phu Quoc’s coastal waters. After being caught, the fish is cleaned, deboned, thinly sliced, and briefly marinated in vinegar, lime juice, and spices just long enough to lightly cure the meat. 

When served, the fish is mixed with aromatic herbs, chili, garlic, shallots, and sweet-and-sour fish sauce, creating a harmonious blend of sour, spicy, salty, and sweet flavors. Uniquely, Phu Quoc herring salad is typically eaten with rice paper, young banana leaves, and roasted peanuts, offering a rich and flavorful tasting experience.

Ham Ninh Flower Crab (Ghe Ham Ninh)

Ham Ninh flower crab is a famous seafood specialty in Phu Quoc. Compared to those in Central Vietnam, crabs here are smaller, with thinner shells, firm texture, and naturally sweet meat. For the best taste, locals recommend choosing flower crabs sized around 6–7 crabs per kilogram. Female crabs have more roe, while male crabs offer more meat. A fresh crab is firm to the touch with intact legs that don’t easily fall off.

Grilled Bien Mai Scallops

Gourmets often have a deep appreciation for grilled bien mai scallops with chili salt. The salty flavor of the salt, the spiciness of the chili, and the natural sweetness of the scallops blend together to create a truly distinctive taste. Compared to stir-fried or boiled versions, the grilled dish better preserves the scallops’ chewy and crunchy texture, making it a local favorite.

Crab Blood Pudding

It might sound unusual, but crab blood pudding is actually a real dish. To make it, you need to use large sea crabs with plenty of roe. When served, the crab blood has a jelly-like texture, with a rich, salty, ocean-inspired flavor. Paired with fresh herbs and rice paper, it becomes an irresistibly bold and unique delicacy, especially popular at drinking gatherings.

Sea Cucumber

Sea cucumber is one of Phu Quoc’s most renowned delicacies. Highly nutritious and considered a premium ingredient, it’s a favorite among diners. Fresh sea cucumber is often stir-fried with bitter melon or bell peppers or simmered in stews with goat or pork. Many also use it to cook porridge for its health-boosting properties. As a luxury food, sea cucumber is quite expensive—typically priced around one million VND per kilogram.

Bun Ken

Bun Ken is a humble breakfast dish, rarely found outside of Phu Quoc, and one of the island’s most intriguing specialties. Its uniqueness lies in the rich, flavorful broth made by simmering minced ca nhau or ca ngan (local fish) with lemongrass, garlic, chili, and coconut milk until it becomes thick and aromatic.

Tram mushrooms

Tram mushrooms are only found in Phu Quoc during the rainy season (from April to September). If you visit during the dry months, the mushrooms you’ll find are either dried or frozen—nowhere near as flavorful as freshly picked ones. Fresh tram mushrooms are often cooked with seafood like shrimp, fish, or squid, while the dried ones are stir-fried with abalone or sea cucumber. One standout dish is poached chicken with freshly picked tram mushrooms, creating a fragrant and savory mushroom soup. As you enjoy a bowl of tram mushroom soup, you’ll taste the natural sweetness of the mushrooms, the warm kick of black pepper, and the rich umami, especially when paired with Phu Quoc anchovy fish sauce.

Bun Quay

Bun quay is a signature dish unique to Phu Quoc, typically enjoyed as a breakfast option. The name “quay” (meaning “stir”) comes from the way diners make their own dipping sauce—a key element that defines the dish’s distinctive flavor. A bowl of bun quay includes fresh squid, shrimp paste, and fish paste. The sauce is mixed by hand from seasoning powder, MSG, sugar, calamansi juice, and ground chili—all stirred vigorously until it thickens and turns a reddish-orange color. When eating, you pour in the broth and continue stirring strongly to fully dissolve the flavors. It’s a hands-on and flavorful experience that truly captures the local spirit.

Sea Urchin

In Central Vietnam, fishermen often season sea urchin meat and roe, lightly sauté them, then add them to rice porridge. In Phu Quoc, however, freshly caught sea urchins are trimmed of their spines, cut in half, cleaned, then grilled over hot charcoal. A spoonful of scallion oil is added, and they’re ready to eat. Visitors can also enjoy other dishes like sea urchin with lime, grilled sea urchin, or sea urchin porridge.

Abalone

In Phu Quoc, fresh live abalone can be prepared in a variety of rustic ways such as boiling, grilling, stir-frying, or cooking into porridge. Among these, the most enticing is abalone grilled over charcoal. The meat is firm, juicy, and rich in flavor. This dish is a must-try for many visitors who want to experience the ocean’s natural taste at least once. There’s nothing better than enjoying it while it’s still hot—only then can you truly savor the delicious sweetness of this coastal delicacy.

Phu Quoc Crab Rice

This is a local dish that every visitor should try at least once in their life. It’s simply fried rice with crab meat, onions, and ketchup—but the flavor is irresistibly delicious.

Festivals In Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc is not only famous for its wild, enchanting natural beauty but also captivates visitors with its rich traditional culture, showcased through vibrant and lively festivals.

Dinh Cau Festival

Dinh Cau is undoubtedly one of the most well-known landmarks on Pearl Island, familiar to many visitors. This spiritual site sits atop a rocky promontory reaching out to the sea, nestled beneath the shade of ancient trees, creating a truly poetic and picturesque setting.

The Dinh Cau Festival is held annually from the 15th to the 16th day of the 10th lunar month. After the ceremonial rituals, locals and tourists alike join in the festivities with a variety of fun and engaging activities such as boat racing, stilt walking, sack racing, catching ducks at sea, and blindfolded pot breaking.

Nghinh Ong Festival

Nghinh Ong is one of the most well-known traditional festivals in Phu Quoc, attracting a large number of locals and tourists each year. It is also the island’s biggest whale worship festival.

Held annually on the 15th and 16th of the 8th lunar month, the festival honors the sacred Sea God—a divine protector believed to shield fishermen from fierce storms at sea. It is also an occasion for the local community to pay tribute to “Duc Ngai Ca Ong” (the Whale God), a symbolic figure representing prayers for calm seas, favorable weather, abundant fishing harvests, and a prosperous, happy life.

Traditional Boat Racing Festival

Phu Quoc is famous for its many vibrant festivals, among which the Traditional Boat Racing Festival stands out. Held annually at Dinh Cau Beach around April 30th, this lively sporting event attracts a large number of local participants, from the elderly to the youth, creating a bustling and enthusiastic atmosphere.

The Boat Racing Festival is not only a time for fun and entertainment but also an opportunity to showcase the unique cultural traditions of the island’s coastal communities. The racing boats are vividly decorated, reflecting regional identities, while the cheers of the crowd add to the vibrant and colorful scene.

Traditional Craft Villages In Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc’s craft villages reflect the islanders’ close connection to the sea. Rooted in tradition, these communities produce specialties like fish sauce, pearls, and pepper, offering visitors a chance to explore local heritage and daily life through hands-on cultural experiences.

Phu Quoc Fish Sauce Barrel Houses

Phu Quoc is renowned for producing high-quality fish sauce that’s widely consumed domestically and exported worldwide. The main ingredient is fresh anchovies caught in the pristine waters off the Phu Quoc archipelago, combined with salt and naturally fermented in large wooden barrels for six months to a year. The island produces over 12 million liters of fish sauce annually. When visiting this beautiful island, don’t miss the chance to explore its traditional barrel houses and uncover the secrets behind this iconic craft.

Pearl Farming In Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc pearls are considered among the most beautiful in the world. Their exceptional quality is largely thanks to the island’s naturally favorable conditions for oyster cultivation, combined with traditional pearl farming techniques and modern technology. This perfect harmony results in high-quality, lustrous pearls.

When visiting the island, don’t miss the chance to explore local pearl farms. You’ll get to see how pearls are cultivated, witness the traditional harvesting process firsthand, and even try it yourself. These farms also offer a paradise of pearl-based products for shopping.

Green Pepper Farming

Green pepper is a beloved specialty of Phu Quoc, known for its firm, spicy, and aromatic peppercorns that create a distinctive flavor. Pepper cultivation is considered a traditional craft on the island, with around 500 hectares of farmland mainly concentrated in the communes of Cua Duong, Cua Can, and Duong To.

When visiting the pepper gardens in Phu Quoc, you’ll be greeted by the gentle aroma of pepper in the air. Local farmers will gladly share insights into the planting process, harvesting methods, and proper techniques for pepper care. The lush green scenery also provides a picturesque backdrop, perfect for capturing memorable photos.

Coastal Fishing Villages

Most of the fishing villages in Phu Quoc are blessed by nature with picturesque scenery—rows of boats heading out to sea, familiar fishing nets, and rustic harbors.

What makes these villages truly special and a must-visit when in Phu Quoc is the chance to experience life as a local fisherman. You can head out to sea and join in the fishing activities—a unique and exciting experience that draws many travelers to the island.

How To Get To Phu Quoc

Flights To Phu Quoc 

Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airways, and Vietjet Air operate direct flights to Phu Quoc from cities such as Hanoi, Hai Phong, Thanh Hoa, Vinh, Hue, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Da Lat, Buon Ma Thuot, and more.

Phu Quoc Airport is about a 15-minute drive from the island center. In addtion, many high-end hotels and resorts offer free airport shuttle services—check in advance when booking your stay.

Getting To Phu Quoc From Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC)

Besides flying, travelers from HCMC have multiple options:

High-Speed Ferry: For first-time visitors, taking a high-speed ferry to Phu Quoc is recommended to minimize seasickness. You can depart from Rach Gia (120 km, ~2.5 hours) or the shorter and cheaper route from Ha Tien (50 km, ~1.5 hours). It’s best to call the ferry station in advance to book your tickets and ensure you stay on schedule.

Self-Drive by Car: Driving from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Tien takes over 6 hours, so it’s best to depart at night to catch the early ferry (around 4 AM) and enjoy the sunrise at sea. Prepare snacks, drinks, blankets, and pillows. For a safer trip, travel with a companion to share the driving

Sleeper Bus: Sleeper buses from central Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Tien are a convenient and affordable option. Ticket prices range from 150,000 to 230,000 VND, depending on the bus company. It’s a popular choice for budget travelers looking for an overnight journey.

Getting Around In Phu Quoc

Taxi & Private Car Tours: Taxis and private car tours are the most popular transport options in Phu Quoc. Many providers offer half-day or full-day itineraries to the island’s north or south for 500,000–700,000 VND. Tours typically include stops at major attractions and allow for a flexible, comfortable experience.

Motorbike Rental: Renting a motorbike (100,000–150,000 VND/day) is ideal for adventurous travelers. It gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Remember to bring your ID or passport, and always check brakes, lights, and signals before riding.

Public Bus: Public buses connect key locations like the airport, Duong Dong Town, and An Thoi Port. Tickets cost 10,000–40,000 VND. However, as attractions are often far from main roads, buses may be less convenient for sightseeing.

Where To Stay In Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc offers a wide range of accommodations—from budget hostels to luxurious international resorts. Your ideal place to stay depends on your budget, travel style, and preferred location.

Budget To Mid-Range Options

Homestays & Budget Hotels

Great for solo travelers or those on a tight budget.

Price range: 600,000–800,000 VND

Examples: Gold Hotel, Lavita Hotel, Sea Star Resort, Kim Hoa Resort

Mid-Range Hotels (3–4 stars)

Suitable for families and company trips, especially those located in Duong Dong Town, which is convenient for sightseeing and shopping.

Price range: 1,000,000–1,500,000 VND

Examples: Eden Resort, other local hotels in central areas

High-End Resorts & Villas

For travelers seeking tranquility, privacy, or beach access, staying at resorts, villas, or beachfront bungalows is recommended. Phu Quoc beaches are often located away from main roads, unlike in Nha Trang.

Luxury Hotels (5 stars)

Price: from 1,500,000 VND and above

Examples: Saigon Phu Quoc Resort, Pullman Phu Quoc

Premium Beachfront Resorts & Villas

Price range: 1,800,000–7,000,000 VND

Northern Phu Quoc: Vinpearl Phu Quoc Resort, Nam Nghi Coral Peninsula Phu Quoc, Fusion Resort Phu Quoc

Eastern Phu Quoc (Ham Ninh Commune): Rocks Beach Boutique Phu Quoc—a newly opened spot dubbed the “Mini Maldives”

Ong Lang Beach Area (between the north and town center): Movenpick Resort Waverly Phu Quoc, Mango Bay Resort

Duong Dong Town: Lahana Resort Phu Quoc, L’Azure Resort & Spa, Anja Beach Resort, InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort

Southern Phu Quoc: JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay (Khem Beach), Premier Village Phu Quoc Resort

Map Of Phu Quoc: Ready For Your Island Paradise Journey?

Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a returning visitor, Phu Quoc always has something new to surprise you—be it a hidden beach, a mouthwatering local dish, or a tranquil moment in nature. This map of Phu Quoc travel guide is your companion to exploring the island’s top highlights, from must-visit attractions to local specialties and budget-friendly tips. Save this guide, share it with your travel buddies, and get ready to uncover the charm of Vietnam’s most beloved island paradise!

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