Did you know that Phu Quoc is often called the ‘Pearl Island‘ of Vietnam? Interestingly, this nickname isn’t just about its pristine beaches; it’s also because of its famous pearl farms! As tourists, we had high expectations for this island right from day one. But did it live up to them?
For us, absolutely YES. Phu Quoc turned out to be the perfect island getaway we had hoped for. We loved the beaches, the serene environment, the turquoise sea, temples, markets – EVERYTHING. It’s an ideal destination for a romantic escape. If you’re visiting Vietnam, we believe Phu Quoc deserves at least 3 days on your itinerary.
That said, there are a few downsides compared to other Asian tourist spots, and there’s definitely room for improvement. So, let’s dive into our experience and share why Phu Quoc is worth a visit and where it could do better.
How We Traveled from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc
In the last phase of our Vietnam trip, we arrived in Ho Chi Minh City. From there, we booked a $100 round-trip flight per person to Phu Quoc.
There’s also an alternative option: taking a ferry. First, you’ll need to travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Tien. A bus ride costs around $20 per person, while a cab will set you back about $150. The 300 km journey takes 8 to 9 hours. From Ha Tien, you can catch a ferry for $10 per person, which takes approximately 3 hours to reach Thanh Thoi Ferry Port in Phu Quoc.
But, I highly recommend booking a flight for a hassle-free journey to Pho Quoc.
Top Things to Do in Phu Quoc in a 3 Day Trip
We planned a 3-day trip to this picturesque island near the Cambodian border. While 3 days may feel short if you want a longer, relaxed vacation, it’s generally enough to explore the key highlights. On the first day, unwind at your resort and explore its private beach. On the second day, take a cab arranged by your hotel to tour the island. On the final day, enjoy a cruise or an island hopping boat ride with your partner.
Phu Quoc doesn’t have an overwhelming number of places to visit, but the ones it does have are beautiful and worth exploring. Let’s dive into the must-visit spots for your trip!
Phu Quoc National Park:
Phu Quoc National Park covers nearly half the island and boasts diverse ecosystems and wildlife. The park’s marine life is also worth exploring, and cruising through on a motorbike is a great way to soak in its natural beauty.
The park features lush jungle, dense vegetation, and a variety of species, including monkeys, pythons, birds, sea eagles, and orchids. It’s perfect for hiking, camping, or even a Jeep tour.
However, getting there can be tricky due to poor road conditions, and some parts are occasionally used by the army. It’s best to visit with a local guide who can share insights about the flora and fauna.
You can also enjoy scenic views of the mountains, try local food, and cool off in spring water. I recommend taking a half-day motorbike or trekking tour organized by travel agencies, which usually include a knowledgeable guide.
Vinpearl Safari:
The Safari Park is a thoughtfully designed wildlife conservation area that is absolutely fantastic! The whole area is beautifully maintained and is superclean.
There’s ample space to walk around and soak in the lush scenery. Well-marked paths and shaded resting areas make it easy to navigate and relax during your visit. It’s a perfect destination for a fun, relaxing, and educational day out.
Outside the main entrance, you’ll find several souvenir shops. Interestingly, most people purchase their tickets through agents or travel agencies across the island, so there’s rarely a queue at the on-site ticketing office.
Don’t miss the bird show near the entrance, held twice daily at 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM. The main highlight, however, is the safari bus, which takes you into the animal enclosures. The safari bus runs from 9:30 AM to 3:20 PM, so plan your visit accordingly as the park closes at 4:00 PM.
One unique activity is feeding the elephants bananas, which you can purchase at a kiosk. If walking tires you out, hop on the zoo tram to see all the animals without breaking a sweat.
Coi Nguon Museum Phu Quoc
If you want to learn all about Phu Quoc Island—its old way of life, history, and the little things that make it unique—this is the place for you. The entry ticket costs 20,000 VND. You’ll discover how people lived, built houses, made fish sauce, and learn about various artifacts found near the sea.
Visiting the museum was truly interesting. From the top of the building, you’ll also find a great spot to watch the sunset.
This five-floor museum houses artifacts and historic photographs that provide a deeper understanding of Phu Quoc Island’s history.
You’ll only need around 40 minutes to explore the somewhat antiquated exhibits. There are also souvenir and jewelry shops where you can purchase keepsakes.
Dinh Cau Temple:
Dinh Cau Temple is located near the beach and you can enjoy the sunset from the temple. You can spectacle stunning view of the sea from the temple. Or try to come early in the morning when the weather is cooler.
It’s a very spiritual and peaceful place. We removed our shoes before entering, and no tickets are required. The temple is perched on a tiny rocky peninsula. It’s a real temple, so please be respectful to the locals who come here to pray.
Legend has it that this temple was built on a rocky formation around 300 years ago by one of the first fishermen to arrive on the island. A wooden shrine was initially erected to pray for the fishermen’s safety, which was later expanded into the colorful building you see today. This is considered the “male” temple, paired with the nearby Dinh Ba temple.
Sao Beach:
Sao Beach is one of the top-rated beaches in Phu Quoc. The water is brilliant—so clean and clear. It’s a beautiful white sand beach with a natural pool for swimming.
You can rent beach chairs and towels and enjoy drinks at an affordable price. The beach isn’t overly developed like Long Beach.
There are jet skis and other watersports available here. Try visiting in the evening to fully enjoy the calm sea.
However, one downside is that the beach isn’t as clean as you might expect. You’ll likely come across a lot of garbage. Also, there’s no natural shade, so you’ll need to rely on rental umbrellas.
Cable Car Ride:
The cable car ride in Phu Quoc is an amazing experience with stunning views and incredible engineering. It gives you a unique perspective of the beautiful surroundings. At the end of the ride, there’s a water park resort, but it’s more suited for small kids and young families.
The exterior of the cable car station is designed to look like the Colosseum in Rome. The station is efficient but tends to get quite busy, with every cable car packed with passengers heading to Hon Thom Island.
The two-way cable car ticket costs 650,000 VND, and it includes complimentary access to the bridge and the water park. Tickets can be purchased at the station or online at the Hon Thom Cable Car’s official portal.
The cable car operates between 9 AM and 5 PM, with the last trip back at 4:30 PM. There’s a lunch break from 12 PM to 1:30 PM when it doesn’t operate.
The wait time to board was about 10-12 minutes, and the ride itself takes around 20 minutes to reach Pineapple Island. The views during the ride were absolutely breathtaking. The cars are spacious, holding about 20 people, and feel very secure.
If you can, avoid the 5 PM return trip as it gets really crowded. Also, keep an eye on the weather. While the ride can be an unforgettable experience on a clear day, bad weather can halt operations or make it less enjoyable.
Star Fish beach:
Starfish Beach is a beautiful spot with plenty of starfish to see. We initially drove to the beach by car and then took a boat to reach the areas where starfish are commonly sighted. The boat ride costs around 150,000 to 200,000 VND for a round trip, and we really enjoyed the ride. Just make sure to bargain for the best price! Be careful when you walk around the beach.
Suoi Tranh Waterfall:
We visited Suoi Tranh Waterfall by renting a scooter for $5 per day. The entry fee is 40,000 VND, and parking is free.
Nature park near the waterfall was beautiful, and we thoroughly enjoyed walking amongst the greenery and statues. Swimming in the waterfall was lovely.
You’ll need to walk about 20 minutes to reach the waterfall. It was a really pleasant walk through the forest, but make sure to wear good shoes.
If you plan to visit the waterfall, it’s best to go during the wet season when the water is full. You’ll need to walk or climb a few stairs, so it’s not suitable if you don’t enjoy trekking.
Island Hopping Tour in a Private Boat:
A must try activity for couples – Go on an island hopping tour in a private boat! You can explore Fingernail Island, May Rut Island, and Buom Island near Phu Quoc. Swim, snorkel, and discover the beauty of each location.
The boat cruises through an archipelago of islets, stopping at picturesque spots where you can capture extraordinary photos for your social media.
The trip starts from An Thoi Harbor, and island hopping was so much fun. Lunch was included, and we enjoyed snorkeling with the provided gear. They also had an awesome tour guide who made the experience even better.
Romantic Things to Do at Night in Phu Quoc for couples
Beach Club:
Start your evening by heading to a beach club like Sunset Sanato Beach Club. The entry fee is just 100,000 VND—a small price to pay for Instagram-worthy spots. Arrive before 4 PM to catch the golden hour and witness a spectacular sunset.
Visiting Night Market:
Night markets in Phu Quoc are bustling with food stalls, seafood options, restaurants, clothing vendors, and more. They open at 5 PM and stay lively until midnight. While the vendors can be persistent, a polite “no, thank you” usually does the trick. I noticed, however, that prices here aren’t as budget-friendly as at other night markets in mainland Vietnam. For seafood lovers and massage enthusiasts, this is the place to be.
Candlelight dinners by the beach:
Having dinner in front of a hotel’s private beach is a truly romantic experience. We stayed at Vinpearl Phu Quoc Resort and Spa, where the hotel arranged a beautiful candlelight dinner for us. The dinner was delicious, and the service was extremely professional. I definitely recommend their dinner date—it’s a must-try for couples.
Best Resorts for Couples in Phu Quoc
There are plenty of resorts where couples can enjoy a memorable stay. Personally, I prefer staying at a good resort that offers both comfort and a great experience. Here are some recommendations of best area to stay in Phu Quoc based on my personal experience:
If you want to find your own spot, consider choosing a stay near Ong Lang Beach. This beach isn’t very crowded, and is perfect for couples seeking a peaceful and relaxing retreat.
Another great option is staying near Long Beach, one of the island’s most popular destinations. This area is more developed, with almost all the major tourist attractions nearby. The vibe here is lively, with a good number of budget and luxury accommodations to choose from. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy spectacular sunsets if you pick an accommodation near the beach.
If you’re looking for a cultural experience and want to explore the nightlife, consider staying in the island’s main town, Duong Dong. It’s the hub for local markets, restaurants, and other activities that give you a taste of the island’s culture.
Salinda Resort:
Salinda Resort Phu Quoc Island is a stunning hotel located on a popular beach, just a short distance from Duong Dong town.
It is a romantic escape in Phu Quoc. Couples can enjoy activities like yoga, cooking, and coffee-making classes. Kayaking facility is also available to the guests. The resort’s serene beach setting is perfect for sunset lovers.
The resort is conveniently located near restaurants, shops, and abus stop. You can use the free hotel bicycles to explore the area, and the resort also has a small sundry shop.
Dusit Princess Moonrise Beach Resort:
The best part of the resort is its location; it is perfect. The spacious hotel has large rooms with stunning views of the sea and pool. So, if you want to enjoy romantic sunsets, this may be the perfect resort for you. Be sure to try the couple’s spa, which is their specialty. The gym facilities are also excellent.
They have beach chairs and umbrellas. Be sure to book the ocean-view suite, which has a beautiful bathtub overlooking the sea. The room also has a balcony with breathtaking views of the beach.
There is a beautiful library near the reception, with a seating area next to it, where you can spend some time if you wish.
Regent Phu Quoc:
Regent Phu Quoc is a 5-star hotel located right by the beach. The decor is modern and stylish and has a beautiful and tranquil atmosphere. The rooms are immaculate and tastefully decorated, which ensures a luxurious stay.
The resort has a stunning private beach and offers a range of accommodations, including 1-Bedroom, 2-Bedroom, and 3-Bedroom Pool Villas. For couples on a romantic holiday, I highly recommend the 1 King Beach Pool Villa. The Pool Villa which offers direct access to the beach.
The lush greenery surrounding the resort enhances its charm. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a private romantic dinner on the beach.
Is Phu Quoc Safe for Tourists?
People in Phu Quoc are very sweet and hospitable. They’re friendly, welcoming, and always ready to help. Restaurant owners, food stall vendors, and resort staff are polite and go out of their way to take extra care for foreign tourists. Many of them know a little bit of English, so communicating with locals is usually not a problem.
Scams are rare here compared to other tourist destinations. Occasional overcharging by taxi drivers can happen, but you can avoid this by using Grab taxis.
The island is generally free from major health risks, and there are no significant health concerns. However, be mindful of mosquitoes and take precautions to avoid bites.
Exploring nightlife is safe and enjoyable, especially around Duong Dong Town or Long Beach, where the atmosphere remains lively and secure.
Phu Quoc: What Could Be Better
After visiting many Asian countries, I found that the cleanliness of the beaches in Phu Quoc wasn’t up to the mark. You can spot trash and fishing wires here and there on the beaches. They’re not quite on par with the pristine beaches of Phuket or Bali.
I recommend staying at a resort with a private beach, as they regularly maintain and clean them. Public beaches, on the other hand, may not offer the same level of cleanliness, so I wouldn’t recommend staying near them.
Opting for smaller hotels might dampen your experience, so choosing the right resort and location is crucial for a memorable vacation on this island.
Long Beach, in particular, is becoming more crowded with new resorts and commercial developments, which can take away from the island’s natural charm.
With the increase in tourism, there are also concerns about the impact on local ecosystems, including coral reefs and beaches. These issues could definitely be better managed by the tourism authority, local administration and locals to preserve the island’s beauty for future visitors.
So, Is Phu Quoc Worth Visiting?
Easy To Visit: Phu Quoc is easy to visit, with well-established connectivity through Phu Quoc International Airport. More than 10 countries offer direct flights to the airport, and there are frequent direct flights from major cities within Vietnam as well.
Visa Free Island: The island has also been made Visa-Free for 30 days for travelers who fly directly into Phu Quoc International Airport.
A Safe Travel Destination: The entire country of Vietnam is safe for tourists, and Phu Quoc, in particular, sees very few incidents involving tourists. It’s considered one of the safest destinations in Vietnam, with a low crime rate. Incidents of theft or violent crime are rare, and it is also considered safe for solo female travelers.
Great Attractions to Explore: You can visit beautiful temples, bee farms, and pepper farms. The coral reefs and marine life make it a hotspot for snorkeling and scuba diving. You can also explore museums that highlight the island’s rich history and even ride the longest cable car in the world.
Relaxed Atmosphere: Phu Quoc has a relaxed and tranquil atmosphere. November to March is peak tourist season in Asia, but if you visit in November, March, or April, you’ll encounter fewer tourists and perfect weather with no rain to spoil your vacation. These months might be the best time to visit if you’re traveling in Asia.
Lesser Activities for Tourists: However, I feel that Phu Quoc offers fewer activities than other destinations. If you’re looking to explore the island extensively rather than just relax at a resort with a drink in hand, you might want to consider other tourist destinations.
Ideal for Peace and Quiet: If you’re someone who enjoys fewer tourists, quiet, and peaceful places with no loud music, Phu Quoc is ideal for you. It’s highly recommended for a romantic vacation, especially if you stay in a 5-star property. While there are other quieter islands in tourist hotspots like Thailand, Phu Quoc stands out with its unique charm, being away from the crowds.
An Idyllic Escape: Phu Quoc can definitely become your favorite tourist destination, drawing you back with its pristine beaches and laid-back island vibe. Unlike more crowded spots like Halong Bay or Da Nang, Phu Quoc will especially appeal to you if you’re seeking a nature-focused escape rather than diving into typical tourist hotspots. This small Vietnamese island is worth a try during your Asia vacation, and it won’t disappoint.
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