Phu Quoc is an island in the Gulf of Thailand, off the coast of Cambodia. It’s Vietnam’s largest island, and although development is rapidly changing the sleepy fishing village atmosphere, much of the island remains unspoiled. The beaches are beautiful, with crystal-clear water and white sand, and the best way to explore is by scooter. Phu Quoc is also famous for its seafood, so make sure to try the local delicacies like squid, crab and prawns.
Article from August 2023 with 7 places
Long beaches, white sand, and fish sauce
Phu Quoc is an island located in the Gulf of Thailand, off the coast of Vietnam. It is known for its beautiful beaches, clear blue waters, and lush tropical forests. Tourists visit Phu Quoc for its natural beauty, as well as for its many activities such as swimming, snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and fishing.
The island also offers a variety of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses, making it accessible to travelers of all budgets. Additionally, Phu Quoc is famous for its pearl farm and fish sauce factory. Overall, Phu Quoc Island offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation, making it a great place to visit for tourists who are looking for a tropical getaway with plenty of activities and natural beauty to explore.
Being about one hour flight from Ho Chi Minh City, I highly recommend you combine Phu Quoc and Ho Chi Minh City.
What to do on Phu Quoc Island
- Relaxing and enjoying plenty of beach activities: Phu Quoc Island is renowned for its pristine, white sand beaches and crystal clear waters and it has been a popular beach destination for not only international tourists but also domestic travelers. In Phu Quoc, you can enjoy many beach activities from sunbathing and swimming to snorkeling, diving, and kayaking.
- Island hopping: for a more adventurous experience, take a boat tour around the island and explore some of its smaller islands. You will find hidden beaches, tropical jungles, and more. Some of the must-visit islands near Phu Quoc are Hon Thom Island and Hon Mong Tay Island, both are known for their beautiful beaches.
- Exploring the local markets, such as the night market in Duong Dong, to see the local handmade crafts and dive into the massive seafood menu.
- Rent a scooter to go around the island: it is a great feeling to scoot around the island and see its natural beauty.
Best beaches in Phu Quoc
With many beautiful, big and small beaches in Phu Quoc, here are some of the beaches that stand out:
- Long Beach (Bai Truong): Long beach is the most famous beach in Phu Quoc that offers a nice beach, various accommodations from budget-friendly to high-end exclusive resorts, and many restaurants and bars to choose from.
- Sao Beach (Bai Sao): is known for its picturesque setting. Sao Beach is less crowded and quieter than Long Beach, and perhaps a more beautiful beach to stay. It is known for its picturesque setting and crystal-clear water.
- Khem Beach (Bai Khem): is a secluded spot with clear water and a beautiful coral reef.
I have been to Phu Quoc a few times over the last 10 years. It is changing fast, some for the better some for the worse. Completely normal when becoming popular for tourism.
I love Vietnam and this is one of my favorite places. The island is a very relaxing paradise island with many different types of beaches to enjoy. The food is good when avoiding the worst tourist traps.
To be honest, I don't do much when here. I read books and drink ice-cold lemonades on the beach. In the evenings I try to get a nice meal with a local beer or two. I like to visit different beaches and my favorite so far is Bãi Sao. I always stay at a beach hotel or resort along Long Beach though, to have easy access to food and services. I am not a big fan of the island's main city Dương Đông, but will pop in for a meal.
Perfect to combine with the crazy megacity Ho Chi Minh City that is just a 45-minute flight away.
I have been to Phu Quoc a few times over the last 10 years. It is changing fast, some for the better some for the worse. Completely normal when becoming popular for tourism.
I love Vietnam and this is one of my favorite places. The island is a very relaxing paradise island with many different types of beaches to enjoy. The food is good when avoiding the worst tourist traps.
To be honest, I don't do much when here. I read books and drink ice-cold lemonades on the beach. In the evenings I try to get a nice meal with a local beer or two. I like to visit different beaches and my favorite so far is Bãi Sao. I always stay at a beach hotel or resort along Long Beach though, to have easy access to food and services. I am not a big fan of the island's main city Dương Đông, but will pop in for a meal.
Perfect to combine with the crazy megacity Ho Chi Minh City that is just a 45-minute flight away.
I have been to Phu Quoc a few times over the last 10 years. It is changing fast, some for the better some for the worse. Completely normal when becoming popular for tourism.
I love Vietnam and this is one of my favorite places. The island is a very relaxing paradise island with many different types of beaches to enjoy. The food is good when avoiding the worst tourist traps.
To be honest, I don't do much when here. I read books and drink ice-cold lemonades on the beach. In the evenings I try to get a nice meal with a local beer or two. I like to visit different beaches and my favorite so far is Bãi Sao. I always stay at a beach hotel or resort along Long Beach though, to have easy access to food and services. I am not a big fan of the island's main city Dương Đông, but will pop in for a meal.
Perfect to combine with the crazy megacity Ho Chi Minh City that is just a 45-minute flight away.