The Ultimate Phu Quoc Travel Guide: From Hidden Gems to Local Delights

Phu Quoc is a beautiful island with crystal blue waters, stunning sandy beaches, and tropical scenery that will leave you in awe. It is the largest island in Vietnam and is about the same size as Phuket in Thailand. There are so many sights to see and activities to do on this island that it can be difficult to decide where to start. Fortunately, this Phu Quoc Travel Guide has all the information you need to plan your trip.

Phu Quoc Travel Guide: General Information About The Island

Where Is Phu Quoc?

Phu Quoc is located in the Gulf of Thailand, off the southwestern coast of Vietnam. It is situated in the Kien Giang Province, near the border with Cambodia. The island is approximately 45 kilometers (28 miles) from the mainland of Vietnam and lies within proximity to the Cambodian coast. Known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and lush landscapes, Phu Quoc is Vietnam’s largest island and a popular tourist destination.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Phu Quoc?

Phu Quoc’s dry season runs from late October to April, making it the ideal time for tourists to enjoy sightseeing and other activities in pleasant weather. This is also the perfect time of year to sunbathe on the island. The experience is truly unique and adds to the allure of Pearl Island in Kien Giang Province.

Choose the ideal time to fully experience Phu Quoc

How To Get To Phu Quoc Island?

• By plane: The most convenient way to reach Phu Quoc is by flying. Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) connects the island to major cities in Vietnam and international destinations. There are direct flights from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, as well as from cities like Bangkok and Singapore. The airport is located about 10 kilometers from Duong Dong Town, the island’s main hub.
• By ferry: If you prefer a more scenic route, you can take a ferry. Ferries operate from several coastal cities in Vietnam, including Ha Tien (1.5 hours) and Rach Gia (2.5 hours). The ferry ride offers beautiful views of the sea and coastline, though it takes longer compared to flying.
• By Land and Sea: You can combine a bus trip with a ferry ride for a more adventurous journey. Travel by bus to Ha Tien or Rach Gia and then take a ferry to Phu Quoc. This option allows you to explore different parts of southern Vietnam before reaching the island.

Transportation Within Phu Quoc

• By taxi: Taxis are an excellent choice for short-distance group transport. There are several active taxi businesses on the island at the moment, including Vinasun Phu Quoc Taxi, Taxi Mai Linh Phu Quoc, Saigon Phu Quoc Taxi, Taxi Sasco Phu Quoc, and Taxi Phu Quoc. However, make sure to use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps like Grab for a reliable experience.
• By bus: The bus is a common mode of transportation on the island, but only a limited number of bus routes and frequencies are available in Phu Quoc.
• By motorbike: Renting a motorbike is a popular option for those who want the freedom to explore the island at their own pace. Motorbike rentals are widely available in towns like Duong Dong. Hiring a motorcycle in Phu Quoc costs between 6.11 and  8.16 USD (150,000 and 200,000 VND) a day. 
• By car: For a more comfortable and spacious option, consider renting a car. This is ideal for families or groups traveling together. Many rental agencies on the island offer both manual and automatic vehicles.

Fantastic Attractions On Phu Quoc Island That You Cannot Miss

Long Beach (Bai Dai)

This tropical paradise is located on the northwest coast of Phu Quoc

Bai Dai is the ultimate destination for tourists seeking an unforgettable beach experience.

With its expansive 20 km stretch of glittering golden sand and crystal-clear blue seawater, Bai Dai is a feast for the senses. The gentle sway of palm trees that line the beach creates a serene and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for relaxation. But don’t be fooled by the calmness, as there are plenty of thrilling activities to enjoy, such as kayaking and scuba diving to explore the vibrant coral reefs beneath the surface. You won’t regret immersing yourself in the mesmerizing beauty of Bai Dai.

Sao Beach (Bai Sao)

Crystal-clear water with marine species

If you’re looking for a slice of paradise in Phu Quoc, then you absolutely have to visit Bai Sao! This stunning beach is a true gem of the island, with its crystal-clear blue waters, soft white sand, and refreshing climate that will leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

What’s more, you might even catch a glimpse of the thousands of starfish that come out at night, making this beach truly magical. So, make sure to add Bai Sao to your itinerary and experience the rustic yet romantic charm of this beautiful destination!

Phu Quoc Prison

A famous tourist site with historical significance (Source: Collected)

• Operating hours: 8:00 – 17:00
• Admission price: Free
• Address: 350 Nguyen Van Cu, An Thoi commune, Phu Quoc Island.

The Phu Quoc Prison, located in the core section of the former “coconut prison,” was formally designated as a national historical relic in 1996 and began welcoming tourists. Phu Quoc Prison is a realistic recreation of the colonial empire’s imprisonment scenario and terrible tortures throughout the wars against the French and Americans.

The site features a stunning two-story artifact gallery and an outdoor exhibit of genuine artifacts. As you tour the exhibits, you’ll be taken back to a time of indescribable hardship – a location that was once referred to as hell on earth during the war. The exhibits showcase the atrocities committed by colonial and imperial administrations, leaving visitors shocked by the past’s brutality.

An Thoi Islands

When planning your trip to Phu Quoc, make sure to include a visit to the An Thoi archipelago

Discovering the An Thoi archipelago is a delightful experience. You may take a boat here to observe the pristine blue water and the gorgeous islands. Blue water, white beach, and golden sunshine are the three characteristics that best define this lovely island.

The exciting activity is that you should participate in a fishing tour on a boat. The fish caught will be served for lunch aboard the cruise. As Phu Quoc is home to Vietnam’s longest and most stunning coral reef, so don’t miss out on a chance to swim and snorkel here.

VinWonders & Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc

VinWonders Phu Quoc is one of Vietnam’s major theme parks and one of the best in Southeast Asia (Source: Collected)

It is located in the Phu Quoc United Centre, a resort and entertainment complex in Long Beach. It is one of the most appealing tourist sites in Phu Quoc, with 6 subdivisions in 12 themes spread across 46.7 hectares.

Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s first semi-wildlife protection area, covers an area of 380 hectares and is home to more than 150 species. There are several rare species among them, such as the South African rhinoceros, Indian tigers, Kenyan zebras, etc. When you visit this location, you will also have the opportunity to see a variety of exciting animal presentations.

Fish Sauce Barrel House

Phu Quoc fish sauce is noted for its high protein content, attractive color, and distinct flavor

The barrel house is the popular name for handicraft manufacturing concentrated fish sauce in huge wooden boxes. People in this area will work harder to generate golden drips of fish sauce with a strong anchovy aroma. 

Visit the barrel houses to learn about the famous fish sauce’s production process. Depending on the protein level, the price of Phu Quoc fish sauce ranges from 100,000 to 200,000/liter.

Here are some Phu Quoc fish sauce barrel houses you may visit:

• Khai Hoan Fish Sauce Factory: No. 11 Hung Vuong Bridge, Duong Dong Town, Phu Quoc
• Phu Quoc Fish Sauce Barrelhouse: Nguyen Van Cu, Quarter 4, Phu Quoc District
• Thinh Phat fish sauce factory: Street 30, Quarter 1, Duong Dong Town, Phu Quoc.

Phu Quoc Pepper Garden

The pepper gardens in Phu Quoc are economically important and a top tourist destination

Phu Quoc pepper is renowned for its exceptional quality due to its small seeds, thin skin, thick flesh, spicy taste, and unmatched aroma. The green pepper gardens are popular for young visitors to take photos and share on social media.

Some popular places to visit and buy pepper are:

• Duc Minh – Duc Thanh Pepper Garden: Located on the extended 30/04 road, more than 1km from the center of Duong Dong town.
• Khu Tuong pepper garden: most delicious pepper but is located on the way to Bai Thom commune, more than 30km from the town center.
• In Phu Quoc’s northern region: There are several pepper gardens on the road to Ganh Dau that you might visit.

Hon Thom Island

Hon Thom is an ideal spot to appreciate the unspoiled nature

Hon Thom’s main feature is its beautiful blue beaches.

Nom Beach (southwest of the island) and Chuong Beach (north of the island) are two must-sees. Their beauty rivals that of the main island’s Sao and Khem beaches, and the population is less. Mui Ky Lan (Unicorn Cape) is another popular diving and snorkeling destination on this island. There are some hard coral species here, and the marine life is abundant.

Pearl Farm

The Pearl Farm in Phu Quoc offers a unique glimpse into the art of pearl cultivation

Visitors can explore the meticulous process of nurturing and harvesting pearls, from seeding oysters to the final product. The farm provides an educational experience, showcasing the intricate techniques involved in producing these beautiful gems.

In addition to the educational tour, the Pearl Farm features a boutique where guests can purchase elegant pearl jewelry. This destination not only highlights Phu Quoc’s natural beauty but also offers a serene setting to learn about a traditional craft and acquire exquisite souvenirs.

Ho Quoc Pagoda

Ho Quoc Pagoda, or Truc Lam Zen Monastery, is a Buddhist temple and part of an eco-tourism area

It is located around 18 km from Duong Dong town in Soi Long Village. The temple boasts several large Buddha images and a massive bell.

The monastery is set in a beautiful location, with its back facing the mountain and its front overlooking the sea. It is also one of the best spots in Phu Quoc to catch the sunset.

Dinh Cau Temple

This historic temple is located beneath a large green tree

If you’re visiting Duong Dong town, make sure to stop by Dinh Cau, located on a unique cliff that extends out into the sea. This temple is devoted to Thuy Long Thanh Mau, a legendary figure known for bravely taking back the island of Phu Quoc. To access Dinh Cau, you’ll need to climb 29 winding stone stairs.

It has a more nostalgic and mystical beauty at sunset, so come here late in the afternoon and enjoy the sunset. Every 15th of October, the Dinh Cau festival will be held, attracting thousands of tourists. You can plan to attend this event to learn more about Vietnamese festival culture.

Phu Quoc Night Market

The Phu Quoc night market, located opposite Duong Dong market, should not be missed.

This night market is recognized for its rich specialties and street delicacies, such as Thai ice cream rolls, peanuts, Phu Quoc sweets, rice paper, etc. A plethora of souvenirs, particularly pearls, are available here. Remember to try the seafood; it’s delicious and reasonably priced.

Suoi Da Waterfall

Tucked away in the lush interior of Phu Quoc Island, Suoi Da Waterfall is a serene natural wonder that captivates visitors with its tranquil beauty. This enchanting waterfall, framed by dense jungle and vibrant greenery, features crystal-clear waters cascading gracefully over smooth, natural rocks. The falls create a series of gentle pools, perfect for a refreshing dip or a peaceful moment of relaxation.

The surrounding area offers a serene escape from the island’s more populated spots, with well-trodden paths leading through verdant foliage and inviting you to explore the lush terrain. The peaceful ambiance makes it an ideal spot for nature walks, leisurely swims, or simply unwinding amidst the soothing sounds of cascading water. 

Tranh Waterfall

The picturesque beauty and peaceful ambiance of Tranh Waterfall

As you approach the waterfall, you’ll be greeted by the soothing sounds of cascading water and the sight of crystal-clear pools nestled among rugged rocks. It’s a serene escape from the island’s busier areas.

The waterfall is surrounded by dense forest, providing an ideal backdrop for a nature walk or a peaceful picnic. The journey to the falls takes you through scenic trails, where you can enjoy the diverse flora and fauna of the island. The area is perfect for a refreshing dip in the natural pools or simply relaxing and taking in the serene environment. 

Ham Ninh Fishing Village

Fishing boats in the harbor in Ham Ninh Phu Quoc Island

Ham Ninh fishing village is located on the island’s east shore, beneath Ham Ninh mountain. It is around 20 km from the centre of Duong Dong. It is one of the best locations to get a taste of local life. There are various crab farms and seafood farms that you may visit to learn about how locals live, work, and prepare seafood.

Aside from that, you can take part in other fun activities such as fishing, gathering pearls, sea cucumbers, or casting fishing nets.

Phu Quoc 4 Islands

These islands are near the southern tip of Phu Quoc Island

You’ve probably heard of Phu Quoc’s four islands, Fingernail Island, Dam Ngang Island, May Rut Island, and Pineapple Island, which are known for their spectacular underwater ecosystem under their immaculate beauty and clear water.

If you’re looking for a convenient way to explore the four islands, taking a tour is a great option. There are plenty of local businesses offering 4-island tours to choose from.

Delicious Food To Try In Phu Quoc

Bun Quay Kien Xay

(Source: Collected)

Shrimp noodles, regarded as the most distinctive Phu Quoc dish, will undoubtedly provide you with a memorable gastronomic experience. The name “quậy” means “to stir” because the noodles are freshly created in the restaurant, going directly from the press to a kettle of boiling water and being swirled around to cook. Finely crushed fish paste and shrimp paste are combined and swirled around the basin. Following that, the boiling noodles water is quickly poured to cook them so that you can enjoy the freshness and sweetness of the broth.

Grilled sea-urchin

Grilled sea urchin with salt, pepper, and lemon is a delectable and nutritious treat unique to Phu Quoc. After being coated with oil, roasted peanuts, and fresh spring onions, the urchins are grilled until their aroma fills the air, signaling they’re ready to eat. In Phu Quoc, sea urchins are priced between 0.81 and 1.02 USD (20,000 and 25,000 VND) per kilogram, making them an affordable delicacy

Salad from Herring

(Source: Collected)

This delightful dish boasts a perfect blend of fresh veggies and succulent fish that will tantalize your taste buds. To savor every bite, simply lay out a sheet of rice paper, add a generous amount of herring and veggies, carefully roll it up, and dip it in the rich and flavorful fish sauce. Enjoy this scrumptious meal leisurely and treat yourself to a truly delicious experience!

Ham Ninh steamed sentinel crab

Ham Ninh Village is renowned for its steamed sentinel crab, a standout dish on any Phu Quoc food tour. Although the crabs from Ham Ninh are not particularly large, their meat is succulent, fresh, and satisfyingly firm. Crab porridge, crab hotpot, beer-steamed crab, and other delectable meals may be made from them. The crabs are best enjoyed boiled and paired with a dipping sauce made from black pepper, salt, and lime juice.

Prices for Ham Ninh crabs range from 7.33 to 101.83 USD (180,000 to 2,500,000 VND) per kilogram, depending on their size. 

Phu Quoc Ken noodles

(Source: Collected)

Ken noodles, known as “bún kèn” in Vietnamese, are a popular dish in Phu Quoc featuring a delightful blend of fishy, crunchy, sweet, and sour flavors. The dish consists of white rice noodles topped with a rich fish-based broth made from coconut milk and lemongrass. It’s garnished with an array of fresh herbs, shredded fish, bean sprouts, and a crunchy mix of shredded green papaya and cucumber. 

Banh Canh Cha Ca Thu

Phu Quoc’s Banh Canh is noted for its chewy, crispy fish cake, which is made from mackerel and is well-seasoned. The soup was produced by locals in Phu Quoc using boiled mackerel bone, pig bones, and minced pork. Furthermore, thick noodles are created from rice flour, giving them a bouncy, soft feel that melts on your tongue.

Grilled Trachurus

Trachurus is best when seasoned with chile salt and cooked over hot coals. Wrap the grilled trachurus in rice paper with fresh herbs and vegetables, then dip it in chili lime sauce. All of this creates a sweetness that is not fishy, and the flesh is soft and melts on your tongue. When visiting the island, do not pass up the opportunity to eat this Phu Quoc cuisine because it is difficult to get elsewhere, and the trachurus is challenging to catch.

Slipper Lobster

(Source: Collected)

The slipper lobster certainly exceeds your expectations!

The most typical method is to boil the lobster so that you may experience the sweetness and freshness of the thick meat when coated in a mixture of black pepper salt and lime juice. Alternatively, many local eateries in Phu Quoc serve grilled slipper lobster with cheese, stir-fried with butter and garlic, or grilled slipper lobster with spring onion grease.

In Phu Quoc, they cost between 20.37 and 40.73 USD (500,000 and 1,000,000 VND) per kilogram, depending on the size and market conditions.

Phu Quoc Souvenir Suggestions

If you plan to buy gifts after your vacation, here are some ideas:

• Pearls: The high-quality semi-artificial pearls available on Phu Quoc Island are exquisite presents that you should get for someone you care about.
• Phu Quoc marine gifts: Dried prawns, dried squid, dried lychee, dried flea fish, dry mackerel, dried barracuda, and so on.
• Phu Quoc fish sauce: Because of its distinct flavour, Phu Quoc fish sauce is one of the best presents to bring home.
• Rose myrtle wine: well-known for its medical properties, such as relieving aches and pains and aiding digestion.
• Kheo cake: This is a rustic cake prepared with wheat and various fillings such as taro, green beans, coconut, etc. It has a delicious flavour that you will never forget.
• Phu Quoc pepper: Because of its outstanding spicy and fragrant flavour, Phu Quoc pepper is one of the best presents to consider.
• Handmade Crafts: Look for woven baskets, mats, and other handcrafted items made by local artisans.

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