Phu Quoc Island Travel Guide

1. Where is Phu Quoc island?

Phu Quoc is a beautiful archipelago located in the Southwest sea, Gulf of Thailand, in Kien Giang province, Vietnam. It is about 45km from Ha Tien city and about 120km west of Rach Gia city. And about 365km southwest of Ho Chi Minh city.

2. How is Phu Quoc unique?

Phu Quoc is the largest island in Vietnam, with an area of ​​up to 574 km2 with beautiful, peaceful beaches stretching from North to South. When traveling to Phu Quoc pearl island, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the wild beauty of 150 km of coastline, nearly 100 pristine mountains and hills. Or freely explore fun activities on the sea, …

Moreover, Phu Quoc has many beautiful beaches with poetic landscapes, fine white sand and clear blue sea. When stopping at these beaches, you can not only soak in the cool water. But also experience other interesting activities such as scuba diving to see coral, fishing, night squid fishing, …

In addition to rich marine and island resources, the pearl island also has a diverse forest and marine ecosystem. Phu Quoc’s marine ecosystem has beautiful coral reefs and many valuable seafood groups such as shrimp, squid, crabs, etc. The forest ecosystem on the pearl island is mainly concentrated in Phu Quoc National Park with a diverse flora and fauna system. Such as precious orchids, reptiles, wild wolves, etc.

In addition, Phu Quoc pearl island is also famous for historical relics that attract tourists to visit such as Phu Quoc prison, Dinh Cau, etc. Along with that are attractive entertainment areas that will make visitors “fascinated” when experiencing to the fullest, such as: VinWonders Phu Quoc, Grand World Phu Quoc, etc.

Not only famous for its clear blue beaches, diverse ecosystems from the sea to the mountains and forests. In particular, UNESCO recognized the Kien Giang Coastal and Island Biosphere Reserve as a world biosphere reserve in 2006.

3. When is the best time to visit Phu Quoc?

Because it is located in the Gulf of Thailand and surrounded by the sea. Therefore, Phu Quoc’s climate is usually mild and cool with two distinct seasons: dry season and rainy season.

• Dry season: usually lasts from November to April of the following year. During this period, the weather is sunny, little rain, the average temperature is 27-28 degrees Celsius, the highest is 35 degrees Celsius in April and May. This is considered the ideal time to travel and participate in outdoor activities in Phu Quoc.
• Rainy season: starts from May to October, with the heaviest rain in September and October and can last all day. During this time, the beaches on the west coast of the pearl island may have big waves and rough seas, the beaches on the east coast are often turbid. Therefore, you should avoid these beaches to ensure safety and have a complete journey.

In addition, entering November is the time of changing seasons, so the sun and rain are relatively erratic, the temperature is cool around 25 to 28 degrees Celsius. If you travel to Phu Quoc at this time, you need to monitor the weather carefully and always fully equip yourself with rain and sun protection items throughout the trip.

4. How to get to Phu Quoc?

4.1 Means of transport to Phu Quoc

You can choose one of the popular means of transport to Phu Quoc below. Depending on your departure point as well as your needs and finances:

• Airplane: Currently, there are many domestic and international airlines that have direct flights to Phu Quoc from Hanoi and some countries around the world. With this means of transport, it will only take you about 2.5 hours of flight if departing from Hanoi and 1 hour of flight if departing from Ho Chi Minh City. This is the optimal means of transport, it helps you save time and health for your journey to explore Phu Quoc.
• Passenger car: If you depart from Ho Chi Minh City, you can travel by passenger car to save costs. The travel time is about 6 hours.
• Motorbike: Another option for those who are passionate about exploring. That is traveling by motorbike. However, with this means of transport, you need to fully prepare vehicle documents, glasses, hats, sunscreen, protective gear, … as well as carefully check the vehicle and route on Google Maps in advance.
• Boat and ferry: You can choose a ferry or boat to Phu Quoc on Phu Quoc Express, Superdong, Thanh Thoi ferry, … With a travel time of about 1h30p – 2h30p depending on the departure port. Currently, there are 2 departure ports: Ha Tien and Rach Gia. You can book tickets online or contact Origin Vietnam directly to buy tickets at a reasonable price.

4.2 Means of transport in Phu Quoc

• Motorbike: You can rent a motorbike in Phu Quoc to be proactive with your time and schedule to visit the pearl island. The rental price is about 100,000 – 150,000 VND depending on whether it is a manual or automatic motorbike.
• Taxi: If you go with a group of friends or with your family, traveling by taxi will be convenient and cost-effective. In Phu Quoc, there are many reputable taxi companies that you can refer to such as: Mai Linh taxi, Vinasun taxi, Xanh SM taxi, …
• Bringing personal vehicles to Phu Quoc island: If you want to bring your personal vehicle, usually a motorbike, to Phu Quoc island. You need to book a seat on a speedboat or high-speed ferry across the sea. You also can find the location of Phu Quoc Island from here.

5. Sightseeings in Phu Quoc island

Tourist attractions on Phu Quoc pearl island are divided into 3 main areas. They are: North island, South island and Duong Dong town center. The North of Phu Quoc Island has the rich beauty of primeval forests with beautiful beaches and peaceful, pristine fishing villages. The South of the island will be an ideal stop for you to swim at Sao Beach, Truong Beach and visit Hon Thom, Hon Mong Tay, … Depending on your needs, interests, schedule time and budget. You will arrange to visit Phu Quoc tourist destinations in the most reasonable way.

5.1 The North of Phu Quoc Island

5.1.1 Rach Vem Fishing Village

If you are planning a trip to Phu Quoc, don’t forget to visit Rach Vem fishing village to visit and take pictures with starfish here. Rach Vem is known as a peaceful small village located by the sea with houses located close together. When walking on the beach, you have the opportunity to welcome the sunrise, watch the sunset and enjoy fresh seafood. These are activities that any tourist wants to experience in Rach Vem fishing village.

5.1.2 VinWonders Phu Quoc – the largest theme park in Vietnam

VinWonders Phu Quoc is the largest theme park in Vietnam and has the largest scale in Asia with 6 zones. Each zone will bring different experiences to visitors:

• Travel through time to golden Europe, admire ancient architecture and enjoy the million-dollar show “Once” at European Avenue.
• Travel to the Wonderful World with five magical universes: Kingdom of Wonders, Mysterious Oasis, Ancient Valley, Mysterious Forest and Wild West.
• Learn about Viking culture and play the role of a warrior at the Secret Village.
• Transform into a Honolulu native, conquer the largest water park in Southeast Asia at the World of Tornadoes.
• Go to Neptune Palace, admire one of the five largest aquariums in the world and experience interactive games.
• Explore the Mayan civilization, Greece and the South American jungle at the World of Adventure.

5.1.3 Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc

With a natural ecosystem spanning a large area, Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc is the “roof” of thousands of individuals of hundreds of species from all over the world. This place becomes a suitable destination for children and tourists who love animals.

When stopping here, you will be able to visit semi-wild animals by specialized vehicles in the form of “caging people, releasing animals” which is very interesting. In addition, you can also enjoy shows from wild friends or experience feeding giraffes…

5.1.4 Grand World – the city that never sleeps Phu Quoc

The “city that never sleeps” in the Grand World Phu Quoc is the next destination that you should not miss when traveling in Phu Quoc. This place brings together unique works of art, elaborate performances and a paradise of shopping, dining and entertainment stores. With many mini shows during the day and night taking place throughout the year. Grand World Phu Quoc will definitely be the place to help you chill out and “burn out” when you come to the pearl island.

5.1.5 Ganh Dau Cape

Ganh Dau Cape juts out into the sea in the northwest of the pearl island. This Phu Quoc tourist destination is famous for its beautiful and pristine beaches, fine white sand and fresh air. In addition, if you have the opportunity to visit Ganh Dau, don’t forget to enjoy fresh Phu Quoc seafood!

5.2 Central area of ​​Phu Quoc island – Duong Dong town

5.2.1 Dinh Cau

Dinh Cau attracts tourists with its impressive architecture, bearing many unique features of a communal house in Northern Vietnam. With bright red tiled roofs and prominent dragon-carved pillars. This is also the most famous spiritual tourist destination on Phu Quoc island and an ideal check-in place with beautiful scenery.

5.2.2 Duong Dong Night Market

One of the most famous Phu Quoc night markets is Duong Dong night market. When you come here, you can buy many Phu Quoc specialties as gifts. Such as: fresh seafood, dried seafood, handicrafts, souvenirs, fish sauce, …

5.2.3 Ham Ninh fishing village

Ham Ninh fishing village is an ancient fishing village with wild, peaceful beauty and it is about 14km from Duong Dong town. When you come here, you can immerse yourself in the clear blue sea water. Or enjoy fresh seafood on the beach and check in the peaceful scenery at the fishing village.

5.2.4 Ong Lang Beach

Ong Lang Beach will fascinate you with its dreamy natural scenery. Located only 6km from Duong Dong town center, Ong Lang Beach has a peaceful setting. With green coconut trees, cool sea breeze, smooth white sand and warm yellow sunshine. You will be immersed in exciting activities such as swimming, diving, sightseeing, fishing, and taking super beautiful photos to preserve your Phu Quoc trip.

5.2.5 Suoi Tranh

Suoi Tranh has a fresh natural landscape with small streams flowing from Ham Ninh mountain and fresh rivers, mountains and forests. When you come here, you will be immersed in the wild beauty, cool waterfall bathing, interesting Bat Cave visit and extremely impressive virtual check-in. Don’t forget to experience fishing and organize camping, grilling fish right on the flat rock surfaces here.

5.3 Southern area of ​​Phu Quoc island

5.3.1 Hon Thom

Hon Thom stands out with its poetic natural scenery, shady coconut trees and colorful coral reefs. When you come to Hon Thom, you will enjoy the beautiful natural scenery, snorkeling to see the coral. Or simply lie on the beach to relax, sunbathe, …

5.3.2 Fish sauce factory

The fish sauce factory is a place you should visit if you travel to Phu Quoc with your family and friends. When you come here, you will not only learn about the origin of fish sauce, how to make pure fish sauce drops. But you can also buy this specialty as a gift for your loved ones.

5.3.3 Visit 4 islands in the South of Phu Quoc

If you have the opportunity to come to Phu Quoc, do not miss the tour to visit 4 islands. They are May Rut island, Gam Ghi island, Mong Tay island in An Thoi archipelago. They are all islands with beautiful scenery and bustling beaches. When you come here, you will enjoy the beauty of the blue sea, white sand and experience interesting activities. Such as: diving, enjoying fresh seafood.

5.3.4 Hon Sao

Hon Sao has a 7km long sandy beach, with a very unique beauty: pure white sand, soft and curving in an arc shape. In particular, the sea here is very calm even in the rainy season, the sea water is clear and blue, extremely poetic. The sea water at Hon Sao is not too deep, and has a wide beach, so it is relatively safe even for families with small children traveling to Phu Quoc.

5.3.5 Phu Quoc Prison

Phu Quoc Prison is one of the famous tourist destinations. It is a heroic historical testament to the arduous struggle of the Vietnamese people. The stories of wartime recreated here will show visitors the cruelty of war.

5.3.6 Ho Quoc Pagoda

Ho Quoc Pagoda has a very unique architecture, dating back to the Ly – Tran dynasties. With elaborately carved dragon images, showing majesty. When you come here, you not only have time to admire the temple scenery. But also pray for peace, luck and fame, career for yourself and your family.

6. Some special activities and experiences when traveling to Phu Quoc

6.1 Night squid fishing

When night falls and you can join the Phu Quoc night squid fishing tour, there is nothing more interesting. You can choose to fish for squid at night in Duong Dong town with the starting point at Bach Dang park. If you are lucky, you will catch fresh squid and enjoy your “spoils” right on the boat.

6.2 “Hunting” for beautiful sunsets – “specialty” of Phu Quoc island

In addition to beautiful beaches, Phu Quoc also has another “specialty” that is no less attractive to tourists, which is the brilliant sunset. When the sun begins to set into the sea, the sky is dyed a brilliant orange-yellow. It creates a breathtakingly beautiful scene. You can choose Sunset Sanato as a place to watch the sunset and check in for beautiful photos.

6.3 Joining the North Island tour

The North Island tour is always an attractive experience for visitors to Phu Quoc. Departing from Duong Dong town, you travel about 45 minutes to 1 hour by boat to the North Island to have fun. When you get here, you will visit the Grand World – a city that never sleeps with endless festivals. Or VinWonders Phu Quoc – Asia’s leading theme park, …

6.4 Enjoying the Tinh Hoa Viet Nam show

The Tinh Hoa Viet Nam show is an elaborate live show. Combined with modern lighting technology, it promises to bring moments of satisfaction to viewers when coming to Grand World Phu Quoc. With more than 300 dancers, 12 performances, 4 chapters “Origin – Life – Journey of learning – National festival”. You will go back in time to explore the cultural space, the life of ancient Vietnamese people and the cultural quintessence of the Vietnamese people. In addition, the show also impresses with an investment of up to millions of USD for 4 large houses weighing tens of tons. With a stage area of ​​11,000m2 and a lake with a load capacity of 400 tons, …

6.5 Exploring the most beautiful coral reefs on the Island

Phu Quoc Island attracts many visitors from far and wide, thanks to its beautiful, captivating white sand beaches. In addition, there is a diverse coral ecosystem, giving you a multi-dimensional view of the nature of Pearl Island. In the Phu Quoc diving tour, you will explore the coral mountains, the Northeast coral reefs or the famous Crescent coral reefs. This is definitely an inspiring Phu Quoc travel experience for tourists who love to explore.

6.6 Trekking the primeval forest on Phu Quoc Island

For those who are passionate about adventure, do not miss the opportunity to explore the North of Phu Quoc Island. Or go to the Da Ngon Mountain Ecological Reserve or Ganh Dau. You can choose to travel on your own or hire a local guide to accompany you throughout your journey. The primeval forests with pristine scenery are waiting for you.

7. Specialties when traveling to Phu Quoc island

7.1 Special dishes in Phu Quoc:

7.1.1 Herring salad

This dish is a harmonious combination of fresh herring meat with vegetables and fruits such as coconut, onion, … It creates a dish that is both nutritious and rich in the culinary identity of the island. The dipping sauce for herring salad will use Phu Quoc fish sauce, mixed with lemon, sugar, chili, garlic, then sprinkled with a little roasted peanuts.

When enjoying herring salad properly, spread out the rice paper, then place the raw vegetables, wild vegetables and a few pieces of mixed herring. Then gently roll it up, dip it in the fish sauce and slowly enjoy.

Suggestions for delicious herring salad restaurants for you:

• Xin Chao Restaurant. Address: 66 Tran Hung Dao, Duong Dong Ward, Phu Quoc.
• Vuon Tao Restaurant. Address: 1 Tran Hung Dao, Duong Dong Ward, Phu Quoc.

7.1.2 Bun Ken

Bun Ken is also known as Bun Khen, in Khmer, meaning dishes that use coconut milk. Bun Ken is rarely mentioned on the Vietnamese culinary map, but many gourmet tourists will surely know this rustic dish. Unlike Bun Ken in many places, the broth is often made from snakehead fish, in Phu Quoc, people make it from barracuda or silver fish – these are 2 types of fish that are almost only available on the pearl island of Phu Quoc. Thanks to that, Bun Ken, a specialty of Phu Quoc, has a very unique flavor.

Recommended restaurants for you:

• Bun Ken Di Hong. Address: 4 Nguyen Trai, Duong Dong Ward, Phu Quoc.
• Bun Ken 87 Phu Quoc. Address: 87 30/4 Street, Duong Dong Ward, Phu Quoc.

7.1.3 Grilled sea urchin

Sea urchin, also known as sea urchin, is one of the famous specialties of Phu Quoc. The people of the pearl island liken them to ginseng of the sea because not only do they have a delicious taste, sea urchins also have many health benefits.

In addition, to prepare grilled sea urchins, the urchins are trimmed of their spines, split in half, cleaned, and grilled over hot coals. Add a little scallion oil when the urchins are just starting to smell, along with a little crushed roasted peanuts. The dish is best served with salt, pepper, and lemon.

Suggested places to eat:

• Oc 343 Restaurant. Address: 343 30/4 Street, Duong Dong Ward, Phu Quoc.
• Nho Seafood Restaurant. Address: Dinh Cau Night Market, Duong Dong Ward, Phu Quoc.
• Bien Xanh Restaurant. Address: Group 9, Rach Ham Hamlet, Ham Ninh, Phu Quoc.

7.1.4 Ham Ninh Crab

Ham Ninh Crab in Phu Quoc is a delicious gift from the sea that any tourist traveling to Phu Quoc pearl island wants to enjoy. Ham Ninh crab has firm meat and a naturally sweet and aromatic taste. Crabs can be processed into many delicious dishes such as crab porridge, crab hotpot, steamed crab with beer, etc.

But the most popular dish is probably steamed crab with salt, pepper and lemon. It is simple but retains the natural flavor of crab meat.

Recommended restaurants:

• Be Ghe Ham Ninh Restaurant. Address: Rach Ham Hamlet, Ham Ninh, Phu Quoc.
• Kim Cuong 1 Restaurant. Address: Rach Ham Hamlet, Ham Ninh, Phu Quoc.

7.1.5 Abalone: ​​

Phu Quoc abalone is famous for its nutritional value and is considered a medicine in oriental medicine. Fresh abalone can be processed into many rustic dishes such as boiled, grilled, stir-fried, porridge, etc.

In addition, Phu Quoc also has many other attractive specialties. Such as sim honey, sim wine, pepper, fish sauce, king crab, grilled snails with salt and chili, grilled fan clams with scallion oil, grilled squid eggs, etc. These dishes can be easily found in restaurants from popular to high-end.

7.1.6 Phu Quoc specialty Melaleuca mushroom soup

Phu Quoc Melaleuca mushroom has a slightly bitter, fatty taste on the tip of the tongue, and becomes sweeter and more refreshing as time goes on. In particular, this mushroom only appears at the beginning of the rainy season, growing wild. People need to harvest and process it in the right season. Phu Quoc Melaleuca mushroom soup is known as a colorful dish with main ingredients. Including: Melaleuca mushroom, pork, seafood (choose according to preference), eggs (chicken eggs or quail eggs), sweet potato leaves, coriander, chili, fresh onions, minced garlic, etc.

7.2 Phu Quoc specialties as gifts to buy for relatives and friends

In addition to delicious and attractive dishes to enjoy right on Phu Quoc pearl island. Don’t forget to visit the markets or stores to buy the following specialties as gifts:

• Dried seafood: Phu Quoc has many types of delicious dried seafood at reasonable prices. You can buy them for your family, such as: dried squid, dried shrimp, dried fish, …
• Mushrooms: A nutritious dish and very good for your health. When you buy mushrooms, you can process them into dishes. Such as: soup, vermicelli, stir-fry …
• Phu Quoc fish sauce: has a rich flavor, shiny dark brown color, light aroma. It is very suitable for tourists to buy as gifts after a trip to Phu Quoc pearl island.
• Phu Quoc sim wine: A gift you can give to your boss, partner, not only luxurious but also has some good uses for health.
• Palm cake: As one of the popular snacks in Phu Quoc, palm cake is also bought by many tourists as gifts for relatives.

8. Accommodation when traveling to Phu Quoc

When traveling to this beautiful island, you can refer to some of the following accommodations:

• Camia Resort & Spa. Address: Dao, To 3 Ong Lang, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang.
• Green Bay Phu Quoc Resort & Spa. Address: To 1 Hamlet 4, Cua Can, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang.
• Wyndham Grand Phu Quoc. Address: Bai Dai, Ganh Dau, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang.
• Mango Bay Resort. Address: Cua Duong, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang.
• Ocean Bay Resort & Spa Phu Quoc. Address: Dinh Ba Street, Ong Lang, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang.
• InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort. Address: Bai Truong, Duong To, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang
• Paralia Hotel Phu Quoc. Address: D107-115 Sun Premier Village Khem Beach Resort, Khem Beach, Kien Giang.
• La Nube Residence. Address: To 3 Ap, Cua Lap, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang.

9. Some important notes when traveling to Phu Quoc island

To make your trip to Phu Quoc island safe and enjoyable. You need to refer to some necessary notes below:

• Accommodation facilities are often fully booked during peak season. Therefore, you should book about a month or more in advance.
• Some places on Phu Quoc do not allow visitors to visit. You need to absolutely comply, do not enter the restricted area.
• Ferries and speedboats to and from the island usually run at fixed times. You should ask carefully about the operating time to avoid missing the boat or vehicle.
• If you get seasick, you should prepare some anti-sickness medicine because you have to move a lot on the sea.
• If you ride a motorbike through the forest, you should find a map of Phu Quoc in case you get lost.
• You should not go to Phu Quoc during the rainy season.
• Because it is mainly underwater activities. Therefore, remember to bring swimsuits, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hats, sunscreen, etc.
• Don’t forget to bring your phone and spare charger to take beautiful pictures.
• Before using any service or buying souvenirs, seafood, etc., you need to ask for the price and negotiate, to avoid being overcharged.
• Keep the environment clean and beautiful, do not litter.

With useful and extremely detailed information about Phu Quoc travel experiences. That Origin Vietnam – a professional tour operator, has just shared in the above article. What are you waiting for without joining us for your upcoming vacation? We will accompany you on the Vietnam tour to explore this beautiful Phu Quoc island with interesting activities and unforgettable experiences.