Phu Quoc: Vietnam’s Pearl Island
Nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, just off Vietnam’s southwest coast, Phu Quoc is the country’s largest island and a jewel of the Mekong Delta region. It belongs to an archipelago of 22 islands, many of which remain untouched and pristine.
Nicknamed the “Pearl Island”, Phu Quoc is famed for its powdery white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and dense tropical jungles. The island offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, from lounging on tranquil beaches and indulging in fresh seafood, to trekking through lush national parks and exploring vibrant night markets.
Phu Quoc is also a rapidly growing destination, with luxury resorts, eco-lodges, and local homestays catering to every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or a backpacker’s escape, Phu Quoc has something for everyone.
👉 Best time to visit:
- Dry season (November–April): The skies are sunny, the seas are calm, and conditions are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, diving, and island-hopping.
- Rainy season (May–October): Expect short, heavy showers, but the island is greener, quieter, and cheaper.
How to Get to Phu Quoc
Even though it’s an island, Phu Quoc is one of the easiest destinations in Vietnam to reach. Travelers can either fly directly to the island or combine a bus + ferry journey through the Mekong Delta for a more scenic route.
2.1 Flying to Phu Quoc ✈️
Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to get to Phu Quoc.
- Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC): Located just a few kilometers from Duong Dong town (the island’s main hub), making transfers to hotels and beaches quick and easy.
- Domestic flights: Daily connections are available from major Vietnamese cities such as Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Da Nang, Hue, Nha Trang, Hai Phong, Vinh, Buon Ma Thuot, Da Lat, and Can Tho.
- International flights: Direct routes from Singapore, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Phnom Penh, Seoul, Hong Kong, and several Chinese cities.
- Flight duration:
- Ho Chi Minh City → Phu Quoc: ~ 1 hour
- Hanoi → Phu Quoc: ~ 2 hours
- Airlines serving Phu Quoc: Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Bamboo Airways, AirAsia, and Jetstar Pacific.
👉 Visa tip: Travelers of most nationalities don’t need a Vietnam visa if staying on Phu Quoc for up to 30 days, provided they arrive directly by plane or boat without transiting through mainland Vietnam.
2.2 Getting to Phu Quoc by Ferry ⛴️
For budget-conscious or adventurous travelers, reaching Phu Quoc by ferry adds a scenic touch to the journey. The typical route involves traveling by bus (or car) to the Mekong Delta, then boarding a high-speed ferry.
Route 1: Ho Chi Minh City → Rach Gia → Phu Quoc
- Ho Chi Minh → Rach Gia: 270 km – 6–7 hours by bus (110,000 – 150,000 VND). From Can Tho: only 2–3 hours.
- Rach Gia → Phu Quoc: 2 – 2.5 hours by speedboat.
- Adults: 270,000 – 340,000 VND
- Children: 240,000 – 270,000 VND
- Operators: Phu Quoc Express, Superdong, Hoa Binh Ship, Thanh Thoi Ferry
Route 2: Ho Chi Minh City → Ha Tien → Phu Quoc
- Ho Chi Minh → Ha Tien: ~8 hours by bus (120,000 – 190,000 VND). From Chau Doc: ~2 hours.
- Ha Tien → Phu Quoc: 1 – 2 hours by speedboat.
- Adults: 215,000 – 230,000 VND
- Children: ~160,000 VND
- Ferry option: Thanh Thoi Port allows vehicles onboard.
- Adults: 185,000 VND
- Children: 125,000 VND
Route 3: Ca Mau → Phu Quoc
- Since March 2023, Phu Quoc Express 5* has reopened the Ca Mau – Phu Quoc high-speed ferry.
- Travel time: Just 3 hours 15 minutes (down from 8–10 hours).
- Capacity: Up to 600 passengers, equipped with modern Rolls Royce MTU engines for a smoother ride.
Where to Stay in Phu Quoc
Phu Quoc has accommodation for every budget and travel style, from rustic eco-retreats to ultra-luxurious beachfront resorts. Choosing the right area depends on whether you prefer nightlife, nature, or seclusion.
West Coast (Duong Dong & Long Beach)
- The island’s most popular area, with easy access to restaurants, bars, night markets, and beach activities.
- Great for first-time visitors who want convenience and lively energy.
- Top hotels & resorts:
- JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay – Designed by Bill Bensley, this whimsical, colorful resort is a destination in itself.
- InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort – Luxury with stunning sunset views, perfect for couples and families.
- Novotel Phu Quoc Resort – Modern, family-friendly, with pools and a private beach area.
Northwest Coast (Ong Lang & Cua Can)
- Quieter, less developed, with smaller boutique resorts and eco-lodges.
- Perfect for couples and travelers seeking peace, yoga retreats, and nature immersion.
- Top hotels & resorts:
- Mango Bay Resort – Rustic eco-friendly bungalows amid tropical gardens.
- Cassia Cottage – Charming, boutique-style stay with wellness focus.
- Chen Sea Resort & Spa – Private villas with sea views, ideal for romantic getaways.
- Green Bay Resort & Spa – Eco-conscious luxury surrounded by jungle and beach.
- Phu Quoc Ecolodge – Affordable and authentic, blending with nature.
South Coast (Bai Sao & Bai Khem)
- Less crowded and still developing, with some of the island’s most beautiful beaches.
- Perfect for travelers seeking tranquility away from the tourist crowds.
- Highlights:
- Bai Sao Beach – Famous for its powdery white sand.
- Bai Khem Beach – Stunning crescent-shaped bay with turquoise water.
- Resorts here are more spread out, but the serenity makes it worth it.
👉 Tip: For short stays, the West Coast is the most convenient. For honeymoons or longer relaxation-focused trips, head north or south for seclusion.
Must-See Attractions in Phu Quoc
Phu Quoc may be known for its beaches, but the island also offers cultural landmarks, night markets, and natural adventures.
- Long Beach (Bai Truong): A 15-km stretch of golden sand, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying fiery sunsets.
- Duong Dong Town & Night Market: The heart of local life. Taste fresh seafood, try Phu Quoc specialties like grilled scallops, and shop for pearls or souvenirs.
- Dinh Cau Temple: Perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the sea, this spiritual site is best visited at sunset.
- Phu Quoc National Park: A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve covering nearly half the island. Jungle trekking, birdwatching, and exploring hidden waterfalls are highlights.
- Starfish Beach (Bai Sao): Shallow, crystal-clear waters with unique red starfish — great for photos and wading.
- Ham Ninh Fishing Village: A traditional village where you can enjoy fresh crab, stroll along the pier, and experience authentic local life.
- VinWonders & Vinpearl Safari: Family-friendly attractions including Vietnam’s largest theme park and an open-air safari.
- Pepper Farms & Fish Sauce Factories: Learn about Phu Quoc’s two famous exports, and even buy some to bring home.
Final Thoughts
Whether you fly in for convenience or take the scenic ferry route through the Mekong Delta, getting to Phu Quoc is part of the adventure. With its dreamy beaches, lush forests, vibrant markets, and rich cultural heritage, Phu Quoc is a destination you’ll remember long after you leave.
