10 Best things to do in Phu Quoc, Vietnam
Phu Quoc Island in Vietnam is a hidden treasure with an average temperature of 27°C year-round, making it a warm and comfortable travel destination. The island boasts white powder beaches, turquoise waters, palm tree forests, mountains, and waterfalls. Located close to the coast of Cambodia in the Gulf of Thailand, half of the island is a stunning national park. In addition to its stunning natural beauty and idyllic beaches, Phu Quoc is also renowned for its bustling markets and unique culinary offerings. Visitors can easily embark on an adventure by renting a motorbike and exploring the top attractions of Phu Quoc.
Discover Phu Quoc National Park
The island’s expansive national park covers more than half of its total area, providing nature enthusiasts with the opportunity to observe rare wildlife and plants, including long-tailed macaques, silver langurs, otters, and hornbills. In 2010, this lush landscape was declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. A portion of it is available for various activities, including camping, hiking, birdwatching, and photography. For those seeking a challenge, Mount Heaven in Phu Quoc National Park can be reached via a strenuous 4-hour trek through the evergreen forest, followed by a climb up a 10-metre bamboo ladder.
Swim in Suoi Tranh Waterfall
This stunning waterfall is located near the Ham Ninh Mountains, within the forest. The waterfall is small, but it is surrounded by beautiful nature, making it a delightful place to cool off and swim. Nature enthusiasts can partake in recreational activities such as picnicking, jungle trekking, camping, and bird watching. For the more adventurous, a hike further up from the main waterfall site will lead to Hang Doi (Grotto of Bats), which is 200 metres in height and features unique stalactites.
Learn some knowledge the Fish Sauce Factory or Pepper Farms
Phu Quoc is renowned for its production of pepper and fish sauce, which is a commonly used ingredient in many Vietnamese dishes. It is the island’s primary export and a significant source of income. A visit to Nuoc Mam Hung Thanh, a fish sauce distillery located near the market, is a unique experience where you can witness the production process. Additionally, you can learn about the cultivation and production of pepper by visiting a pepper farm. This is a great way to explore the countryside of Phu Quoc. Some farms even offer accommodation or volunteering opportunities.
Wondering in Duong Dong Market
Duong Dong Market, situated along Tran Phu Street, is the busiest and largest outdoor market on Phu Quoc Island. The optimal time to visit is in the early morning when locals haggle for household items, fresh and dried seafood, meats, sweets, and fruit from mainland Vietnam. The island is home to numerous food stalls that offer fresh seafood, fruit juices, and Vietnamese cuisine at affordable prices. Additionally, it is famous for its mushroom, pepper, and cashew nuts, which make for great souvenirs.
Admire the sunset in Phu Quoc
Don’t miss the stunning sunset! Find a spot on the beautiful white sand along the west coast and enjoy one of the most breathtaking sunsets in Vietnam. Dam Ngang Island is the most interesting sunset viewpoint in the Phu Quoc archipelago, making it a truly memorable experience.
Explore Ham Ninh Fishing Village
The charming fishing village of Ham Ninh is located near the Suoi Tranh waterfall, just a 20-minute drive from Phu Quoc International Airport.It is one of the oldest fishing villages in Vietnam, where you can enjoy relaxing views of colourful fishing boats, the Ham Ninh Mountain range and coastline, and the Hai Tac Archipelago. Take a moment to appreciate the lifestyle of the locals who have lived and worked here for generations, and enjoy watching this ancient way of living. Ensure you savour some freshly caught seafood, particularly crab, which is a local specialty.
Hop on Phu Quoc Cable Car
Additionally, experience the Guinness World Record-holding 3-wire sea cable car, which is the longest of its kind globally. This 15-minute journey takes you high above the turquoise and emerald ocean, small islands, and lush greenery that blankets Phu Quoc. The final stop is Hon Thom Island, which boasts a nature reserve and a stunning beach.
Relax on the beach
Experience the powdery white sand and clear turquoise waters of Sao Beach! This is undoubtedly one of the best beaches in Phu Quoc, if not in the whole of Vietnam. The clear water makes it a perfect spot for snorkelling, as well as its stunning corals and many starfish. Out of the water, travellers can enjoy wandering along the sandy beach, exploring the palm tree forests and dense jungle that borders the bay. Enjoy a perfect lazy day here in absolute paradise! If you visit in the evening, remember to enjoy a romantic seafood dinner on the beach!
Enjoy island hopping
Numerous island trips are available to explore the coast of Phu Quoc and its surrounding islands. Typically, tours include lunch, fruit, and the opportunity to snorkel at various paradise islands. Discover the crystal clear waters of Turtle Island in the North or one of the many southern islands, such as Fingernail Island or May Rut Island.You may even be lucky enough to spot a green or hawksbill turtle!
Visit Dinh Cau Shrine
Dinh Cau Shrine, also known as Cau Temple, is a natural formation located beside Duong Dong Fishing Harbour. It features an odd shape and houses a lighthouse and a Buddhist shrine with a rooftop terrace. The shrine was constructed in 1937 to commemorate Thien Hau, the Goddess of the sea, whom locals believe provides protection for fishermen heading out to sea. To reach the top of Cua Temple, visitors must climb 29 winding stone steps. Once at the top, they will be rewarded with breathtaking sunset views of Dinh Cau Beach, Duong Dong Town, and the surrounding islets.
When is the best time to visit Phu Quoc?
Phu Quoc’s dry season runs from late October to April, making it the perfect time for tourists to enjoy sightseeing and other activities in pleasant weather. Additionally, this is an ideal time of year for sunbathing on the island, which adds to the allure of Pearl Island in Kien Giang Province.
How to get to Phu Quoc Island?
By plane: Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) is situated on the south side of Long Beach, approximately 9km from the city of Duong Dong. There are numerous daily flights available from major cities such as Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and others to Phu Quoc.
By ferry: Ferries operate at least once a day from Ha Tien (1.5 hours) and Rach Gia (2.5 hours) to Phu Quoc and vice versa, subject to weather conditions. The majority of passengers prefer the Superdong fast boat due to its efficiency, orderliness, air-conditioning, and pleasantness.
If you want to visit Phu Quoc, please feel free to contact our travel consultants to help you plan a wonderful trip!
