Welcome to Phu Quoc Island, a true tropical paradise nestled in the south of Vietnam. Nicknamed the "Emerald Island" or the "Pearl Island," Phu Quoc will captivate you with its pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush nature. Get ready to experience an unforgettable vacation in this idyllic setting!
Bai Truong (Long Beach), Phu Quoc - Source : Mr Linh's Adventures
Geographical Location
Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc is the largest island in Vietnam. Just 45 km from the Cambodian coast and 120 km from the Vietnamese city of Rach Gia, this 574 km² island belongs to the province of Kien Giang. In addition to its dreamy beaches, Phu Quoc will charm you with its lush tropical forests and picturesque fishing villages.
When to Visit?
To fully enjoy Phu Quoc, plan your trip between November and March. During this period, you will benefit from ideal weather conditions with pleasant temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C, under generally clear skies. Avoid the rainy season from May to October, which can make certain parts of the island difficult to access.
Romantic Phu Quoc - Source : Mr Linh's Adventures
How to Get There?
By Plane
Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) is well-served by flights:
✓ From Hanoi: 2 hours by flight, 23 daily flights
✓ From Ho Chi Minh City: 1 hour by flight, 29 daily flights
✓ International connections: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Busan (South Korea)
Good to know: The airport is only 14 km (15-20 minutes by taxi) from the center of Duong Dong.
By Boat
From the mainland, you can choose:
✓ A speedboat from Rach Gia (2.5 hours) or Ha Tien (1 hour and 20 minutes)
✓ A ferry, which is cheaper but slower (approximately 3 hours)
Where to Stay and Dine?
Phu Quoc offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to seaside bungalows. When it comes to gastronomy, the island is renowned for its seafood and fish sauce (nuoc mam).
For an authentic culinary experience, visit the Night Market and discover local specialties. Start with Bun Quay, an iconic dish made with fresh vermicelli, fish cakes, seafood, and vegetables. Indulge in Goi ca trich, a unique herring salad that combines purple onions, roasted peanuts, and grated coconut. Or treat yourself to a squid noodle soup, served here as a popular breakfast, featuring tender noodles, crispy calamari, and flavorful broth.
Bai Sao, Phu Quoc - Source : Mr Linh's Adventures
WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN PHU QUOC
Paradise Beaches
With 150 km of coastline, Phu Quoc is a haven of peace for beach lovers.
• Bai Sao: Famous for its white sand and turquoise waters.
• Bai Truong (Long Beach): Ideal for watching spectacular sunsets.
• Bai Khem: A more secluded and wild beach for those seeking tranquility.
Diving and Snorkeling
The An Thoi islands south of Phu Quoc offer the best diving spots. Discover colorful coral reefs and an abundance of tropical fish.
Phu Quoc is well known for its diving spots - Source : Mr Linh's Adventures
Average prices:
• Snorkeling: 20 USD
• Scuba diving: 65 USD
• Full-day diving: starting from 191.40 USD
• PADI Open Water course: 380-450 USD
To spice things up...
• Turtle Island: Shipwrecks and sea turtles (5-15m, all levels)
• Dry Island: Deep diving with large pelagic fish (15-40m, advanced level)
• Bai Sao Beach, Ganh Dau Cape, Mui Ganh Dau: Excellent for snorkeling
Just a reminder, the best time for diving and snorkeling is from November to May, with optimal visibility and favorable weather conditions.
An Thoi Islands, South of Phu Quoc - Source : Mr Linh's Adventures
Lush Nature
In addition to its beaches, Phu Quoc delights nature enthusiasts with its hiking opportunities.
✓ Phu Quoc National Park: Covering over half of the island, it offers superb hiking and cycling opportunities.
✓ Suoi Tranh Waterfall: A beautiful waterfall surrounded by tropical forest (Entrance fee: 30,000 VND for adults, 20,000 VND for children. Open from 7am to 9pm).
✓ Vinpearl Safari: One of the largest open zoos in Asia (Entrance fee: around 600,000 VND for adults. Open from 9am to 4pm).
A Pepper Farm, Phu Quoc - Source : Mr Linh's Adventures
Activities and Excursions
✓ Dinh Cau Night Market: Ideal for tasting local cuisine and buying souvenirs.
✓ Fish sauce factory tour: Discover the production of the famous nuoc mam (free).
✓ Pepper farm visit: Learn all about Phu Quoc pepper (free).
✓ Phu Quoc Cable Car: The longest cable car over the sea in the world (650,000 VND, 30-minute ride). Please note that there are 3-day and 7-day passes available, as well as cable car + Buffet Lunch combos.
Cau Dinh Temple, Phu Quoc - Source : Mr Linh's Adventures
Culture and History
Phu Quoc also has a rich cultural heritage.
Visit Dinh Cau Temple, located on a rock by the sea, to admire the panoramic view of the Gulf of Thailand. Continue to Ho Quoc Pagoda, a Buddhist monastery locally known as Chùa Hộ Quốc, situated on a hilltop, offering breathtaking views of the sea (free entry, donations welcome). Lastly, step back in time at Phu Quoc Prison. Built in 1946, this place was one of the most terrifying detention centers during French colonization in Indochina. Also known as Coconut Tree Prison, the site is now a museum that provides a poignant glimpse into Vietnamese history during the Indochina and Vietnam Wars. Free entry from 8am to 11:30am and 1:30pm to 5pm.
Coconuts Tree Prison, Phu Quoc - Source : Mr Linh's Adventures
Practical Tips
✓ Visa: Visa exemption for stays up to 30 days in Phu Quoc.
✓ Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND) is the local currency. Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and restaurants, but it is advisable to always have cash for small expenses.
✓ Getting around the island: Scooter rental (around 150,000 VND/day) or taxis.
✓ Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated, usually 5-10% in restaurants.
✓ Safety: Phu Quoc is generally safe, but like anywhere else, be cautious in crowded areas.
Chua Ho Quoc & Zen Monastery, Phu Quoc - Source : Mr Linh's Adventures
Final Words
Whether you're seeking relaxation on dreamy beaches, adventures in nature, or cultural discoveries, Phu Quoc will captivate you with its natural beauty and preserved authenticity. Get ready for an unforgettable tropical experience on this enchanting island!