PHU QUOC & SOUTHERN ISLANDS
Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s ‘Pearl Island’, is a tropical paradise blending pristine white-sand beaches with lush emerald jungles. It is the largest island in Vietnam, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and incredible sunsets.
This destination offers a unique mix of high-end resorts and authentic local life, from bustling night markets to traditional pepper and fish sauce production. The nearby Southern Islands provide untouched havens for diving and relaxation.
Most Popular Attractions
Beaches & Nature Escapes
Bãi Sao (Starfish Beach): (Pronunciation: Bái Sao) One of the island’s most famous beaches, known for its powdery white sand and turquoise waters.
Bãi Khem (Khem Beach): A quiet, crescent-shaped beach famous for its exceptionally fine, white sand that is often compared to flour.
Long Beach (Bãi Trường): (Pronunciation: Bái Trương) A 20-kilometer stretch of sand on the west coast, perfect for watching the sunset and finding a wide array of resorts.
Gành Dầu Cape: (Pronunciation: Gành Dầu) A scenic headland on the north, offering views across the water to Cambodia’s coast.
Phú Quốc National Park: Covers over half of the island, a crucial biosphere reserve ideal for jungle trekking and exploring diverse ecosystems.
Hòn Móng Tay (Fingernail Island): (Pronunciation: Hòn Móng Tay) A pristine island in the south, often called the “Maldives of Vietnam,” popular for snorkeling.
Hòn Mây Rút (May Rut Island): (Pronunciation: Hòn May Rút) A secluded southern island with clear water and good coral reefs, ideal for a day trip.
Rạch Vẹm (Rach Vem Fishing Village): (Pronunciation: Rạch Vẹm) A charming northern fishing village known for its floating restaurants and as the location for seeing wild starfish (seasonal).
Suối Tranh Waterfall: (Pronunciation: Suối Tranh) A beautiful, small waterfall and stream nestled in a forest, offering a refreshing spot for a picnic (best visited during the rainy season).
Modern Attractions & Entertainment
Sun World Hòn Thơm Cable Car: (Pronunciation: Hòn Thơm) The world’s longest non-stop sea-crossing 3-rope cable car, offering spectacular panoramic views to Hòn Thơm Island.
Sun World Hòn Thơm Nature Park: Located on Hòn Thơm Island, featuring the thrilling Aquatopia Water Park and a themed nature park.
Sunset Town (Địa Trung Hải): (Pronunciation: Dịa Trung Hải) A resort and entertainment complex in the south designed to look like a town on the Italian Amalfi Coast.
Kiss Bridge (Cầu Hôn): (Pronunciation: Cầu Hôn) An iconic modern structure in Sunset Town where two parts meet but do not touch, perfect for sunset viewing and photography.
Kiss of the Sea Show: A spectacular multi-media, water, and fire show held nightly in Sunset Town, featuring fireworks, light, and performance art.
Grand World Phú Quốc: A large northern entertainment and shopping complex, nicknamed the “Sleepless City” of Phu Quoc, with a Venice-themed canal.
VinWonders Phú Quốc: A massive, world-class theme park with a range of themed zones, thrilling rides, and an impressive aquarium.
Vinpearl Safari Phú Quốc: Vietnam’s largest semi-wildlife conservation park, offering a unique “safari” experience where visitors ride buses through animal habitats.
Culture, History & Local Life
Phú Quốc Prison (Nhà Tù Phú Quốc): (Pronunciation: Nhà Tù Phú Quốc) A somber but important historical war museum that was once the largest prisoner camp in Southern Vietnam.
Dinh Cậu Temple (Dinh Cậu Rock): (Pronunciation: Dinh Cậu) A quaint temple and shrine built on a rocky outcrop at the mouth of the Dương Đông River, a famous spot for watching the sunset.
Hộ Quốc Pagoda (Chùa Hộ Quốc): (Pronunciation: Chùa Hộ Quốc) A large, tranquil Buddhist monastery built on a hill overlooking the sea, offering stunning coastal views.
Phú Quốc Night Market (Dương Đông): The island’s bustling main market in Dương Đông town, famous for its fresh seafood, street food, and souvenirs.
Phú Quốc Fish Sauce Factories: Tour a traditional factory to learn about the island’s famous fish sauce production (nước mắm), a vital part of Vietnamese cuisine.
Phú Quốc Pepper Farms: Visit local farms to see the cultivation of Phu Quoc’s prized black pepper and learn about the harvesting process.
Cơ sở Sản Xuất Rượu Sim (Sim Wine Production): (Pronunciation: Cơ sở Sản Xuất Rượu Sim) A local facility showcasing how a sweet, unique wine is made from the rose myrtle fruit.
Activities & Experiences
Ride the Hon Thom Cable Car: Take a breathtaking journey on the World’s Longest Overwater Cable Car from An Thoi to Hòn Thơm (Pineapple Island). This nearly 8km ride offers spectacular panoramic views of the southern islands and coral reefs below.
Go Island Hopping and Snorkeling: Charter a speedboat or join a group tour to explore the pristine waters and coral reefs around the An Thoi Archipelago. Popular islets include Hòn Gầm Ghì (Gàm Ghì Island) and Hòn Móng Tay (Fingernail Island).
Visit a Pepper Farm: Take a tour of one of the island’s famous pepper plantations, such as Khu Tượng, to learn about the cultivation of the renowned, aromatic Phu Quoc pepper. Tastings and purchasing are usually available.
Take a Night Squid Fishing Trip: Head out on a boat after sunset for a traditional evening of squid fishing. Your catch is often cooked and served right on the boat for a fresh, unique dinner experience.
Explore Phu Quoc National Park: Hike through the dense, forested interior, which is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Look for a trek to a scenic spot like Suối Tranh (Tranh Stream/Waterfall) to cool off in a natural pool.
Watch the Sunset on Long Beach: As its name suggests, Bãi Trường (Long Beach) on the west coast is the best spot to grab a cocktail and watch the spectacular sunset over the Gulf of Thailand.
Try Undersea Walking or Scuba Diving: Experience the vibrant marine life and coral gardens without being a certified diver through an undersea walking helmet activity or a discovery scuba diving session in the Southern Islands.
Wander through the Duong Dong Night Market: Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the market in the main town, sampling street food, fresh seafood, and shopping for local souvenirs like pearls and sim wine.
Visit a Fish Sauce Factory: Tour a traditional Nước Mắm (Nuoc Mam) (Fish Sauce) Factory to see the colossal wooden vats where the famous Vietnamese condiment is fermented. The smell is strong, but the cultural insight is unique.
Find Starfish at Rạch Vẹm (Rach Vem) or Starfish Beach: Head to the remote northern end of the island to find a unique, quiet beach where hundreds of red starfish gather in the shallow, clear water.
Lounge on Sao Beach: Often cited as one of Vietnam’s most beautiful beaches, Bãi Sao (Sao Beach) features crescent-shaped white sand and calm, turquoise water, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Local Tips & Transport
Motorbike is King: Renting a scooter or motorbike (starting at ~$6-10/day) provides the greatest flexibility to explore the whole island, especially the remote beaches and northern routes. Safety Note: Traffic can be chaotic. Only ride if you are an experienced driver with a valid license (for insurance purposes).
Taxis & Ride-Hailing: Taxis (Mai Linh, Sasco) and ride-hailing apps like Grab are plentiful in Duong Dong and Long Beach. They are a cheap and safe option, particularly for short distances or if you prefer not to drive yourself. For longer trips, consider hiring a taxi/private car for a fixed day rate (~$80-100).
Airport Transfer: Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) is well-served by official taxis and ride-hailing services. Some luxury resorts also offer complimentary shuttle services.
Inter-Island Travel: Access to the smaller southern islands is exclusively via speedboat tours or by chartering a private boat from the main An Thoi Port.
The Three P’s (Local Specialties): Phu Quoc is famous for its “three P’s”: Pepper (unique black pepper with a strong aroma), Pearls (visit a pearl farm, but be cautious of fakes), and Phú Quốc Fish Sauce (Nước Mắm, a key ingredient in Vietnamese cuisine).
Dining Customs: Vietnamese food is often served family-style. Don’t be afraid to try street food and eat at small, local spots (often called quán). Tipping is not customary but appreciated for good service. Try local specialties like Gỏi Cá Trích (Herring Salad).
Weather and Seasons: The Dry Season (November to April) offers sunshine and calm seas, ideal for water activities. The Rainy Season (May to October) brings frequent heavy downpours, which can make some dirt roads impassable. Sea conditions on the West Coast can also be rougher during the rainy season.
Bargaining: At markets (like the Duong Dong Night Market) and with xem ôm (motorbike taxis), prices are often flexible. It is customary to negotiate politely, but don’t try to haggle at restaurants or large retail stores.
Hidden Gems:
- Hộ Quốc (Ho Quoc) Pagoda (Pronunciation: Hoh Kwohk): A large, beautiful Buddhist temple with stunning views of the ocean, located on the east coast.
- Dinh Cậu (Dinh Cau) Temple: A picturesque temple set on a rocky outcrop at the mouth of the Dương Đông river, best visited at sunset. It’s considered the island’s symbol and protector.
- Hàm Ninh (Ham Ninh) Fishing Village: Visit this ancient village for a glimpse into traditional island life and to eat super fresh, cheap seafood served right on the jetties.
- Visa-Free Access: Phu Quoc is a Visa-Free Zone for all nationalities for up to 30 days, which is a unique benefit in Vietnam. Be sure to check the specific entry requirements for your passport.
Language: The official language is Vietnamese. While English is spoken in tourist centers, learning a few basic phrases will be helpful and appreciated: Xin chào (Sin Chow – Hello), Cảm ơn (Gham Un – Thank you), Bao nhiêu tiền? (Bao Nyew Tee-en – How much money?).
Top Restaurants
Bún Quậy Kiến Xây [$5-$10] – A famous, highly-rated local spot known for its signature Bún Quậy (DIY shrimp/fish/squid noodle soup), where fresh ingredients are mixed in a thick, savory broth. (Pronunciation: Boon Why-ee Kyen Say)
Quán Bún Kèn Út Lượm [$5-$10] – A legendary street-food stall specializing in Bún Kèn, a unique noodle soup from Phu Quoc made with flaked snakehead fish and rich coconut milk. (Pronunciation: Kwun Boon Ken Oot Luh-um)
Quán Ra Khơi [$10-$20] – A popular seafood restaurant in Dương Đông, often cited for its fresh seafood selection and local preparation style, a bustling, authentic experience. (Pronunciation: Kwun Ra Khoy)
Cơm Thố Tay Cầm [$10-$20] – A local favorite near Long Beach known for its delicious home-style Vietnamese dishes and flavorful rice served in a bowl with a handle (Cơm Thố Tay Cầm). (Pronunciation: Gurm Toh Tie Kum)
Bánh Canh Phụng [$5-$10] – A very popular, long-standing spot for Bánh Canh (a thick rice noodle soup) with fish cakes and pork, a classic Vietnamese breakfast/lunch. (Pronunciation: Bahn Canh Foong)
Bún Riêu Đức Tấn [$5-$10] – A no-frills location praised for its flavorful Bún Riêu (crab noodle soup), a tomato-based broth with freshwater crabmeat, popular with locals. (Pronunciation: Boon Reew Doog Tun)
Gỏi Cá Trích Sương Nguyệt [$10-$20] – Highly recommended for the island specialty, Gỏi Cá Trích (raw herring salad), a must-try local dish best enjoyed wrapped in rice paper. (Pronunciation: Goy Ka Trick Soo-ong Ngwet)
Quán Ăn Gia Đình Trùng Dương [$15-$25] – A reliable, family-run restaurant specializing in fresh local seafood and classic Vietnamese fare in a relaxed setting. (Pronunciation: Kwun Un Ya Din Trung Yoong)
Chợ Đêm Phú Quốc (Phu Quoc Night Market) [$5-$20] – Not a single restaurant, but the main Night Market in Dương Đông is essential for trying local street snacks, fresh seafood BBQ, and regional sweets. (Pronunciation: Chur Dem Foo Kwok)
Bún Chả Hà Nội [$5-$10] – Offers authentic Northern Vietnamese Bún Chả (grilled pork patties and noodles) which can be a nice change of pace from the local Southern/Island cuisine. (Pronunciation: Boon Cha Ha Noy)
Bánh Xèo Thuý Đông [$5-$10] – A classic spot for Bánh Xèo (sizzling savory pancakes) filled with shrimp and sprouts, served with fresh herbs and fish sauce. (Pronunciation: Bahn Seow Twee Dong)
Quán Hạnh [$5-$10] – A basic, local eatery popular for its simple, traditional Vietnamese soups and rice dishes, offering a genuine taste of everyday cooking. (Pronunciation: Kwun Hanh)
Phở Bò Sài Gòn [$5-$10] – A local spot specializing in Phở Bò (beef noodle soup), a comforting and popular Vietnamese classic, typically eaten for breakfast or lunch. (Pronunciation: Fuh Boh Sigh Gon)
Cơm Tấm Huỳnh Nhu [$5-$10] – Focuses on Cơm Tấm (broken rice), a Southern Vietnamese staple often served with grilled pork, a fried egg, and shredded pork skin. (Pronunciation: Gurm Tum Hwin Noo)
Nhà Xưa 68 [$15-$25] – A well-regarded restaurant serving home-style Southern Vietnamese cuisine in a rustic, nostalgic setting, perfect for a cozy, authentic family meal. (Pronunciation: Nya Zoo-uh 68)
Hải Bột Noodles [$5-$10] – A modest local eatery in An Thới known for its authentic Vietnamese noodle dishes like bánh canh and hủ tiếu, offering honest comfort food. (Pronunciation: Hi Bot)
Bún Riêu Tôm & Ghẹ Hàm Ninh [$10-$20] – A street-side eatery famous for its Bún Riêu but featuring fresh, local Hàm Ninh crab and shrimp, focusing on intense seafood flavor. (Pronunciation: Boon Reew Tom & Geh Ham Nin)
Quán Dê Vàng 555 [$15-$25] – A local-style restaurant focusing on goat meat dishes (thịt dê), a popular choice for Vietnamese families looking for specialty meats. (Pronunciation: Kwun Zay Vang 555)
Ốc Nàng Kiều [$10-$20] – A favorite seafood shack that specializes in various types of grilled and stir-fried snails (ốc), a popular communal eating experience. (Pronunciation: Ok Nang Kew)
Cá Nướng Sẻ [$15-$25] – Famous for its whole grilled fish (Cá Nướng) prepared with fresh herbs and spices, an essential island dining experience. (Pronunciation: Ka Noong Seh)
Xin Chào Seafood Restaurant [$20-$40] – A very popular, large seafood spot on the oceanfront in Dương Đông, known for its extensive tanks of live seafood and stunning sunset views. (Pronunciation: Sin Chow)
Làng Chài Hàm Ninh [$15-$30] – Not a single restaurant, but the floating seafood restaurants at Ham Ninh fishing village are a classic, authentic experience for local crab and shellfish. (Pronunciation: Lang Chay Ham Nin)
On The Rock Restaurant [$25-$50] – Set dramatically on the rocks at Mango Bay Resort, offering fresh seafood and Vietnamese dishes with incredible ocean views, perfect for a sunset dinner.
Sea Shack [$30-$50] – An upscale-casual beachfront grill (often associated with InterContinental) known for its fresh grilled seafood and BBQ options right on Long Beach.
Shri Phu Quoc [$25-$45] – Located on the beach, this restaurant offers a mix of Vietnamese and international cuisine with a romantic atmosphere and magnificent sea views. (Pronunciation: Shree)
Bamboo Cottages & Restaurant [$20-$40] – Offers delicious Vietnamese-style cuisine in a natural, open-air setting with unobstructed sea views, perfect for a tranquil meal.
The Spice House at Cassia Cottage [$25-$45] – A dreamy seaside setting offering a blend of Southeast Asian and Vietnamese cuisine, known for its creative use of local spices and herbs.
Sunset Sanato Beach Club (Dining Section) [$25-$45] – Offers a stylish beachfront dining experience with a focus on fresh seafood and cocktails, known for its iconic sunset sculptures.
Ocenus Beach Bar & Grill [$20-$40] – A relaxed, open-air spot by the beach (often associated with a resort) offering grilled seafood and international favorites with a laid-back vibe.
The Deck Bar & Restaurant [$25-$45] – Located right on the water, offering a mix of Vietnamese and Western food in a beautiful setting with sea breezes.
Long Beach Pearl Seafood Restaurant [$20-$40] – Offers a high-quality seafood menu near the beach, often with a good selection of live catches.
Corallo Restaurant [$40-$70] – An immersive beachfront dining experience (often resort-based) with a focus on exquisite seafood and sometimes features live entertainment. (Pronunciation: Kor-ah-loh)
LAVA Restaurant [$50-$80] – Renowned for serving the absolute freshest seafood, including grilled rock lobster, meticulously sourced from local fishermen.
Anna’s Nha Cuon Restaurant [$15-$30] – A clean, bright spot that specializes in various fresh Vietnamese spring rolls (cuốn) alongside some Western dishes, popular for its hygiene standards. (Pronunciation: An-na’s Nya Kwoon)
Lord of the Bao [$15-$25] – A modern spot specializing in fluffy, creative Asian bao buns with various fillings, offering a playful and modern take on street food.
Caveman Smoked Ribs [$20-$35] – An open-air eatery specializing in slow-smoked ribs and American-style BBQ, a great option for a hearty, flavorful meal away from Vietnamese classics.
Tradevo Beach Club [$30-$50] – Offers a modern, creative menu that often blends Vietnamese ingredients with international techniques in a stylish, beach-facing setting.
The Pepper Tree Restaurant [$40-$70] – Located in the La Veranda Resort, this elegant French-inspired restaurant offers a delicate blend of French culinary art and traditional local dishes.
Itaca Resto – Lounge [$25-$45] – A Spanish-inspired restaurant and lounge offering a mix of tapas and Mediterranean dishes with a sleek, modern ambiance.
The Little Garden [$20-$35] – A highly-rated, relaxed spot offering both traditional Vietnamese dishes and well-executed international comfort food.
Bếp Việt [$15-$25] – Focuses on expertly prepared and beautifully presented classic Vietnamese dishes with a modern, clean approach. (Pronunciation: Bep Vyat)
Hello Restrobar [$20-$35] – Offers a mix of Western and Asian dishes, known for its relaxed atmosphere and good cocktails, popular with a younger crowd.
Nemo Restaurant [$20-$35] – Offers a mix of delicious Vietnamese and other Asian cuisine in a brightly decorated, memorable setting.
May Restaurant [$20-$35] – A highly acclaimed restaurant specializing in distinctive Vietnamese cuisine, praised for its fresh flavors and presentation.
Pink Pearl [$80-$150] – Set in the JW Marriott, this is a supremely luxurious, Western-style fine-dining venue offering French cuisine in a stunning, opulent pink space.
Tempus Fugit [$50-$90] – Also at the JW Marriott, offering a high-end multi-cultural experience that includes refined Vietnamese cuisine, Japanese dishes, and French sophistication.
Rice Market [$40-$70] – Located in the Regent Phu Quoc, this elegant restaurant offers authentic Vietnamese and Asian cuisine with a focus on quality ingredients, often with an open kitchen.
Sơn Trà Restaurant [$50-$80] – A high-end experience (often resort-based) specializing in authentic Vietnamese cuisine with a sophisticated, contemporary flair and beautiful presentation. (Pronunciation: Sun Tra)
Oku Restaurant [$70-$120] – Offers a refined Japanese Omakase experience, often considered the only true Omakase on the island.
Tulasi Indian Restaurant [$30-$50] – A highly-regarded spot offering high-quality, authentic Indian cuisine in an upscale setting, a great international dining option.
The Lighthouse Bar / Lounge [$30-$50] – While a bar/lounge, the dining menu often includes sophisticated international and Asian bites in a relaxed, elevated setting.
SALT ‘N’ PEPPER Restaurant [$30-$50] – Offers an upscale all-day dining experience with a focus on fresh, local ingredients, featuring both Vietnamese and international buffet/à la carte options.
Club House [$50-$80] – A refined beachside dining experience (resort-based) focusing on international and fresh Vietnamese cuisine with a health-conscious slant.
Biển Đông Seafood Restaurant [$30-$50] – A well-established, larger venue offering fresh seafood with a cleaner, more upscale setting than the more rustic local spots. (Pronunciation: Byen Dong)
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Bittersweet & Co: Located near the night market in Duong Dong, this “bespoke” cocktail bar has no menu; the mixologists craft personalized drinks based on your flavor preferences and mood.
Ink 360: Perched on the 19th floor of the InterContinental in Long Beach, this is the highest bar on the island. Designed by Ashley Sutton, it features an octopus-themed interior and stunning panoramic ocean views.
Rock Island Club: Situated on a private island (Nam Nghi Resort) just off the northern coast of Cua Can, this bar offers a 360-degree view of the ocean and is accessible only by a short boat pier.
Sailing Club Phu Quoc: A stylish beachfront venue on Long Beach known for its high-end mixology, fire shows at night, and a sophisticated Mediterranean-inspired aesthetic.
The Rabbit Hole Phu Quoc: Tucked away in the Duong Dong area, this speakeasy-style bar offers a cozy, dim-lit atmosphere and a serious focus on classic cocktail culture.
Shri Beach Club & Bar: Located on the sandy shores of Cua Lap, this spacious venue offers an elegant outdoor terrace perfect for sunset martinis and chilled lounge music.
Nha Beo – Flowers & Cocktails: A charming, floral-themed bar in the heart of Duong Dong that combines a boutique flower shop vibe with creative, fruit-forward cocktails.
Ocvan Kitchen & Beach Bar: Found along the Duong Dong coastline, this spot is famous for its “net beds” over the sand and vibrant, colorful cocktails that match the sunset.
The Cheeky Traveller: A popular spot in the Ong Lang beach area, offering a laid-back, friendly atmosphere with well-priced cocktails and a communal traveler vibe.
Coco Bar: Located on the main strip of Long Beach, this long-standing favorite is famous for its homemade infused rums and tropical fruit liqueurs.
Jo’s Cucina & Bar: Situated in the Ong Lang area, this spot offers a sophisticated wine and cocktail list in a rustic-chic setting, perfect for a more intimate evening.
Sunset Sanato Beach Club: Located on the west coast, this is the island’s most photographed spot, featuring surreal art installations in the water and a lively bar serving tropical drinks.
Le Bar: An elegant, Art Deco-inspired lounge located within the La Veranda Resort on Long Beach, offering vintage-style cocktails and a nostalgic colonial ambiance.
Phu Quoc House: A centrally located bar in Duong Dong that provides a wide selection of local craft beers and innovative cocktails using indigenous Vietnamese ingredients.
Istanbul Beach Bar: Located in the middle of Long Beach, this spot brings a Mediterranean flair to the island with shisha, colorful lanterns, and beachside cocktail service.
Sunset Beach Bar & Nightclub: This is the heart of the island’s late-night scene on Long Beach, featuring international DJs, professional dancers, and a massive outdoor sound system on the sand.
Epizode (Seasonal): While a festival venue, its permanent location on the southern beaches of Phu Quoc remains a legendary spot for techno and house music lovers during the peak season.
Luna Bar: A staple of the Duong Dong nightlife, this high-energy club is known for its loud music, neon lights, and a mix of locals and expats dancing until the early hours.
Ocsen Beach Bar & Club: Located on Long Beach, this venue transitions from a sunset chill spot into a vibrant bonfire-lit club with deep house and electronic sets.
Skye Bar: A rooftop club in Duong Dong that offers a more commercial music vibe (EDM and Pop) with a bird’s-eye view of the city lights and the harbor.
Happy Buddha Club: One of the oldest underground spots on the island, located near Duong Dong, focusing on techno, house, and a non-commercial party atmosphere.
House No. 1 Rooftop: A vibrant hostel-based club in the town center that hosts legendary themed parties and is a hub for the backpacker and social party scene.
Golden Sand Bar: Located on the southern stretch of Long Beach, this club features colorful “recycled” decor and hosts lively beach parties with a mix of Reggaeton and Top 40.
Paradiso Beach Club: Situated on the famous Sao Beach in the south, this club offers a luxury party vibe with high-end spirits and a focus on tropical house music.
Phu Quoc Beer Garden: A massive, open-air venue in Duong Dong that functions as a high-energy club-restaurant, featuring live performances, local DJs, and a rowdy, celebratory atmosphere.