Phu Quoc Island

Sao Beach Phu Quoc

Area: Approximately 589 km² (227.52 sq mi)
Population: Approximately 180,000 (2026)
Dialing code: +84 297

Geography

Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc is Vietnam’s largest island, covering approximately 589 square kilometers. It lies about 45 kilometers west of Ha Tien on the Vietnamese mainland and close to the Cambodian coast. The Phu Quoc archipelago includes more than 20 smaller islands and islets, with Phu Quoc Island itself forming the core of the Phu Quoc Special Zone in An Giang Province.

Often known as the “Pearl Island,” Phu Quoc features a varied landscape of sandy beaches, tropical forests, low mountains and coastal ecosystems. Much of northern Phu Quoc is protected as part of Phu Quoc National Park, while the south and west are more developed with beaches, resorts, fishing communities and popular attractions. Quieter rural areas can still be found in the north and east, where the island retains a more local character.

This combination of protected nature, beaches and local community life gives Phu Quoc a character that goes beyond a typical resort destination.

Weather & Climate

Phu Quoc features a tropical monsoon climate with warm temperatures throughout the year, averaging around 27°C. The island's weather is divided into two main seasons—the dry season and the rainy season—with a short transition period between them.

• Dry Season (November – March): This is generally the best time to visit Phu Quoc, offering clear skies, lower humidity, and generally calmer seas. Temperatures are comfortable for swimming, beach relaxation, snorkeling, and island-hopping. This is also the island’s peak tourist season.
• Hot Season / Transition Period (April – May): April and May are typically the hottest months of the year, with temperatures often reaching 33°C to 35°C. The weather becomes hot and humid, with short afternoon tropical showers becoming more frequent as the rainy season approaches.
• Rainy Season (June – October): Influenced by the southwest monsoon, this period brings more frequent rainfall, thunderstorms, and rougher sea conditions. While rain often falls in heavy, short bursts rather than continuously all day, boat trips and ferry services can occasionally be affected. The island is quieter during these months, offering fewer crowds and lower accommodation rates.

Transportation

Phu Quoc is well connected to mainland Vietnam by air and sea, making it relatively easy to reach from major Vietnamese cities as well as selected international destinations.

By Air

Domestic Flights: Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) is the main gateway to the island. There are frequent domestic flights from Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Da Nang, and other major Vietnamese cities, operated by airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, and Vietravel Airlines.

International Flights: Phu Quoc has direct international flights from several countries and major cities across Asia, including South Korea (Seoul and Busan), Taiwan (Taipei), Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand (Bangkok), Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur), India, China (including Chengdu and selected other cities), Cambodia (Phnom Penh), and Russia (Moscow).
The island also receives seasonal and charter flights from other international destinations, with routes and flight frequencies varying throughout the year. Travelers should check the latest flight schedules when planning their trip.

By Sea

Travelers can reach Phu Quoc by high-speed ferry or passenger boat from Rach Gia and Ha Tien on the Vietnamese mainland. The journey from Rach Gia usually takes around 2.5 hours, while the trip from Ha Tien is shorter, at approximately 1.5 hours, depending on the service and sea conditions.

Ha Tien is a convenient port for travelers coming from Mekong Delta destinations such as Can Tho, Chau Doc, or the Cambodia border area. Ferry schedules can vary according to weather and sea conditions, so checking the latest timetable before departure is recommended.

Getting Around Phu Quoc Island

• Motorbike Rental: Renting a motorbike is one of the most popular ways to explore Phu Quoc independently. It is relatively inexpensive and gives travelers the freedom to visit beaches, fishing villages, local markets, and less-developed parts of the island. Rentals are widely available at hotels and local shops.
• Taxis & Ride-Hailing: Traditional taxis and ride-hailing services such as Grab and Xanh SM are convenient options for couples, families, or travelers who prefer not to drive. They are generally easy to find around the airport, Duong Dong Town, and major resort areas.
• Public Electric Bus (VinBus): Electric buses operate on several main routes, connecting the airport, Duong Dong Town, and northern resort areas such as Grand World and VinWonders. They can be a useful option for travelers staying along these routes.
• Private Cars with Driver: For full-day sightseeing or multi-stop itineraries around the island, a private car with a driver is a comfortable option, especially for families and groups.

Best Things to Do in Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc offers much more than a beach holiday. Alongside its sandy coastline and clear waters, the island has tropical forests, fishing villages, local markets, historic sites, pepper farms, and offshore islands that are easy to explore by boat. Depending on your interests, you can spend your days swimming and snorkeling, exploring the countryside, visiting local producers, or simply enjoying the sunset by the sea.
Here are some of the best places to visit and things to do in Phu Quoc:

Long Beach (Bãi Trường)

Long Beach stretches along the southwest coast and is the island's main hub for swimming, beachfront resorts, dining, and nightlife. Its west-facing location makes it one of the best places on the island to watch the sunset over the Gulf of Thailand.

• Address: Tran Hung Dao St, Duong To Ward, West Coast

Ong Lang Beach (Bãi Ông Lang)

Located on the west coast, Ong Lang Beach is a quieter alternative to the busier Long Beach. The coastline includes sandy stretches, rocky sections, small beach areas, and several resorts and restaurants, making it a good choice for a relaxed beach setting within easy reach of Duong Dong.

• Address: Cua Duong Ward, Northwest Coast

Sao Beach (Bãi Sao)

Located on the southeastern coast, Sao Beach is known for its fine white sand and clear water. It is a popular place for swimming, sunbathing, and spending a relaxing day by the sea.

• Address: An Thoi Ward, Southeast Coast

Khem Beach (Bãi Khem)

Located in southern Phu Quoc, Khem Beach is known for its fine white sand and sheltered waters. The area is home to several high-end resorts, including JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay, New World Phu Quoc Resort, and Premier Village Phu Quoc Resort, making it a premier area for a luxury stay.

• Address: An Thoi Ward, South Coast

Khem Beach

Phu Quoc National Park

Phu Quoc National Park protects a large area of tropical forest, hills, streams, and coastal ecosystems across northern Phu Quoc. It forms part of the Kien Giang Biosphere Reserve, which was recognized by UNESCO in 2006, offering a great environment for forest walks and eco-tours.

• Address: Ganh Dau & Bai Thom Wards, Northern Phu Quoc

Tranh Spring & Da Ban Spring (Suối Tranh & Suối Đá Bàn)

Located in the forested interior of Phu Quoc, Tranh Spring and Da Ban Spring offer a change of scenery from the island's beaches. Surrounded by lush vegetation and rocky landscapes, the streams are at their fullest during the rainy season.

• Address: Ham Ninh & Cua Duong Wards, Central Phu Quoc

Ganh Dau Cape

Situated at the northwestern tip of Phu Quoc, Ganh Dau offers coastal views across the Gulf of Thailand toward Cambodia on clear days. It is a quieter area with small beaches, fishing activity, snorkeling opportunities, and fresh local seafood.

• Address: Ganh Dau Ward, Northwest Coast

Hon Thom Island & Cable Car

Hon Thom (Pineapple Island) is the largest island in the southern An Thoi archipelago. Visitors can reach it by cable car, enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding sea and islands before exploring beaches, water activities, and Aquatopia Water Park.

• Address: An Thoi Station, Sunset Town, Southern Phu Quoc

Sunset Town & Kiss Bridge

Located near the Hon Thom Cable Car station in southern Phu Quoc, Sunset Town is a modern waterfront area with Mediterranean-inspired architecture, restaurants, shops, the iconic Kiss Bridge (Cầu Hôn), and evening entertainment.

• Address: Sunset Town Complex, An Thoi Ward

VinWonders Phu Quoc

Located in the northern part of the island, VinWonders Phu Quoc is a large-scale theme park featuring thrilling rides, a water park, an aquarium, and daily world-class shows. It is particularly suitable for families and pairs well with nearby Vinpearl Safari and Grand World.

• Address: Phu Quoc United Center, Bai Dai, Ganh Dau Ward

Dinh Cau Temple

Perched on a natural rock formation near the mouth of the Duong Dong River, Dinh Cau is one of Phu Quoc's best-known local landmarks. The temple is closely associated with the island's fishing traditions and offers a popular spot for watching the sunset.

• Address: Bach Dang St, Duong Dong Town

Phu Quoc Night Market

Located in central Duong Dong, the night market is a bustling evening stop for fresh seafood, street food, local specialties, souvenirs, and handcrafted island products.

• Address: 54 Nguyen Trai St, Duong Dong Town

Duong Dong Market

Located near the Duong Dong River, this traditional daytime market is a fantastic place to observe local life and source fresh seafood, dried goods, pepper, and fish sauce straight from the morning catch.

• Address: Tran Phu St, Duong Dong Town

Pepper Gardens

Phu Quoc is well known for its pepper-growing tradition. Visiting a local pepper garden offers a chance to see how pepper is cultivated and harvested, while providing an opportunity to buy high-quality black, red, and white pepper.

• Address: Khu Tuong Village, Cua Duong Ward

Traditional Fish Sauce Houses (Nhà Thùng Nước Mắm)

Phu Quoc has a traditional fish sauce-making history dating back more than 200 years. Traditional producers use fresh anchovies and salt, fermenting them in massive wooden barrels (nhà thùng) to create Vietnam's most celebrated condiment.

• Address: Khai Hoan Fish Sauce Factory, 11 Hung Vuong St, Duong Dong Town

Fish Sauce Factory

Pearl Farms

Phu Quoc is often called the "Pearl Island" due to its long association with pearl culturing. Visitors can learn about oyster farming techniques, see how cultured pearls are extracted, and browse authentic pearl jewelry at local showrooms.

• Address: Ngoc Hien Pearl Farm, Tran Hung Dao St, Duong To Ward

Phu Quoc Prison (Coconut Tree Prison)

This former prison complex in southern Phu Quoc is a poignant historical site. Preserved buildings, exhibits, and historical displays document the harsh conditions experienced by prisoners during the war.

• Address: 350 Nguyen Van Cu St, An Thoi Ward

Ham Ninh Fishing Village

Located on the eastern coast, Ham Ninh is known for its traditional fishing community, long wooden pier, and exceptional seafood, especially its famous local flower crabs (ghẹ Hàm Ninh).

• Address: Ham Ninh Pier, Ham Ninh Ward, East Coast

Island-Hopping & Marine Activities

The southern An Thoi archipelago offers some of Phu Quoc's most popular marine experiences. Speedboat and wooden boat tours depart daily for snorkeling, fishing, diving, and visits to pristine islets such as Gam Ghi, May Rut, and Mong Tay.

• Address: An Thoi Port, Southern Phu Quoc

Sea conditions vary by season, so boat-based activities are best planned around the weather.

Where to Stay in Phu Quoc

Choosing where to stay in Phu Quoc depends largely on the type of holiday you are looking for, your budget, and how you plan to get around. The island’s main accommodation areas each have a different atmosphere, from lively town centers and busy beach areas to quieter coastal villages and large resort zones.

Eat & Drink

Phu Quoc is known for its fresh seafood and locally produced specialties, many of which are closely connected to the island's fishing and agricultural traditions. Alongside seafood, local dishes make use of Phu Quoc fish sauce, pepper, herbs, and other ingredients that give the island's cuisine its own character.
Here are some of the local dishes, specialties, and drinks worth trying during your stay:

Goi Ca Trich (Herring Salad)

A signature Phu Quoc dish made with fresh raw herring, thinly sliced and tossed with shredded coconut, onions, and herbs. It is wrapped in rice paper with fresh greens and dipped in a savory peanut and fish sauce dip.

• Where to try: Ra Khoi Restaurant – 131 Bis 30 Thang 4 St, Duong Dong Town

Bun Ken (Phu Quoc Fish Noodle Soup)

A distinctive local noodle dish featuring white rice noodles served with a thick, amber-colored broth made from pulverized fish, coconut milk, lemongrass, and subtle spices. It is topped with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and crunchy green papaya.

• Where to try: Bun Ken Ut Luom – 87 30 Thang 4 St, Duong Dong Town

Coi Bien Mai (Bien Mai Scallop Sinew)

Bien Mai is a large sea scallop native to the island's waters. Local chefs harvest the firm, coin-sized white muscle sinew, which is marinated in chili and salt before being grilled over charcoal for a savory, chewy bite.

• Where to try: Song Bien Restaurant – 161 30 Thang 4 St, Duong Dong Town

Ghe Ham Ninh (Ham Ninh Steamed Flower Crabs)

Fresh flower crabs sourced directly from the eastern coast fishing village. The crabs are simply steamed with lemongrass to preserve their natural sweetness and served with a simple dipping sauce of lime juice, salt, and Phu Quoc black pepper.

• Where to try: Ham Ninh Fishing Village Restaurants – Ham Ninh Pier, East Coast

Banh Kheo (Phu Quoc Kheo Cake)

Small traditional pastries made from wheat flour and filled with sweet fillings such as coconut, mung bean, or taro. Made in decorative shapes, they are a delightful local snack to enjoy alongside Vietnamese tea.

• Where to try: Co Dung Bakery – 43 30 Thang 4 St, Duong Dong Town

Phu Quoc Fish Sauce

More than just a condiment, Phu Quoc fish sauce is an essential part of the island's culinary identity. Made from fresh anchovies fermented in large wooden barrels, it is valued for its rich aroma and savory flavor used across local seafood dishes.

• Where to try: Nuoc Mam Khai Hoan – 11 Hung Vuong St, Duong Dong Town

Phu Quoc Pepper

Phu Quoc pepper is widely recognized for its strong aroma and intense spicy flavor. Freshly ground pepper paired with salt and lime serves as the traditional accompaniment to almost every seafood meal on the island.

• Where to try: Khu Tuong Pepper Garden – Duck Farm Road, Northern Phu Quoc

Ruou Sim (Rose Myrtle Wine)

A unique local drink produced from the ripe fruit of wild rose myrtle bushes that grow across the island's hills. Naturally fermented, this sweet and tart aromatic wine is served chilled and pairs nicely with fresh seafood.

• Where to try: Sim Son Production House – Group 7, Cua Lap Hamlet, Duong To Ward

Nhum Bien Nuong (Grilled Sea Urchin)

A popular local seafood delicacy where sea urchins are split open and grilled over hot charcoal with scallion oil and crushed peanuts. Its rich, creamy texture, combined with a squeeze of lime and local black pepper, makes it a popular local seafood dish.

• Where to try: Phu Quoc Night Market – Bach Dang St, Duong Dong Town

Sea Urchin

For more dining recommendations, see our Phu Quoc Restaurants guide.

Nightlife - Bars and cafes

Phu Quoc has a relaxed nightlife and café scene, with beachfront bars, rooftop venues, hilltop cafés, and local coffee shops. Long Beach is particularly popular for sunset drinks, while Duong Dong and Sunset Town offer more options for an evening out.

OCSEN Beach Bar & Club

Located on Long Beach, OCSEN is a popular spot for watching the sunset with a drink by the sea. The beachfront venue offers drinks, live music, and evening entertainment in a casual setting.

• Add: 118/10 Tran Hung Dao St, Duong Dong

Chuon Chuon Bistro & Skybar

Set on Sao Mai Hill, Chuon Chuon offers wide views over Duong Dong and the west coast of Phu Quoc. Its open-air terrace is suitable for coffee, cocktails, dinner, and sunset views.

• Add: 69 Tran Hung Dao St, Sao Mai Hill, Duong Dong

Sailing Club Phu Quoc

Located along Long Beach, Sailing Club combines a beachfront setting with a swimming pool, restaurant, bar, and lounge areas. It is a good option for spending the afternoon by the beach and staying for drinks and entertainment in the evening.

• Add: Lot 87, Bai Truong Complex, Duong To Ward

Sunset Beach Bar & Restaurant

Located on Long Beach, Sunset Beach Bar & Restaurant offers a beachfront setting with drinks, food, and sunset views. It is a convenient choice for travelers staying around Duong Dong who want a casual place by the sea.

• Add: 100C/2 Tran Hung Dao St, Duong Dong

PH Rooftop Bar & Lounge

Located on the rooftop of Phung Hung Hotel in An Thoi, PH Rooftop Bar & Lounge offers views over the surrounding area and sea. It serves drinks, coffee, cocktails, and light meals, making it a convenient option in southern Phu Quoc.

• Add: 60–62 Nguyen Van Cu St, An Thoi

INK 360 Rooftop Bar

Located at InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort, INK 360 is a rooftop bar with panoramic views over the sea and Long Beach. It is particularly suited to sunset drinks and cocktails in a more upscale setting.

• Add: InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort, Long Beach

The Coffee Garden

The Coffee Garden is a casual café in Duong Dong with indoor and outdoor seating. It is a good place to try Vietnamese coffee, tea, and light meals in a relaxed setting.

• Add: 110 Ly Thuong Kiet St, Duong Dong

Xom Coffee & Bar

Xom Coffee & Bar combines a Vietnamese-style wooden house with a café and bar. It offers a more local setting for coffee during the day and drinks in the evening.

• Add: 149 Tran Hung Dao St, Duong Dong