Phu Quoc: Island Life in the Shadow of Development

Planning a Last Minute Trip to Phu Quoc?

Booking hotels on Phu Quoc: Booking.com is our go-to platform to search for amazing hotels. Here are the top hotels in Phu Quoc.

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High-End

Mango Bay Resort

High-End

Cassia Cottage Resort and Spa

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Booking tours on Phu Quoc: Viator and GetYourGuide are the best platforms to find tours and excursions to join on Phu Quoc. Here are some tours you can book today that will let you experience the island.

1. Small Group Snorkeling Tour
2. North Phu Quoc Jeep Tour
3. Sun World Hon Thom

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Want a hassle-free arrival from the airport? Book this private Phu Quoc transfer that will take you to your accommodation in no time.

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The Pearl Island

Phu Quoc may be Vietnam’s largest island, but it’s also its most alluring. Tucked away in the Gulf of Thailand, this tropical escape balances postcard-worthy beaches, lush landscapes, and an undeniable energy that draws visitors in.

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Once a haven for backpackers, Phu Quoc has grown into a more polished destination. The west coast thrives with development, offering lively resorts and sunset-facing bars, while the north and south are quickly catching up with ambitious projects from Vietnam’s leading developers.

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Yet, the island hasn’t lost its soul. For a glimpse of its quieter side, venture east, where fishing villages and secluded shores still hold onto that rustic charm.

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Read: Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Vietnam

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Our Top Tours on Phu Quoc

If you’re short on time or looking for a hassle-free experience, here are some tours you can join that cover all the highlights and must-visit beaches.

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Phu Quoc Island Map

Discover Phu Quoc Island with our curated map, highlighting the key attractions, best beaches and our favorite spots to eat, drink, and stay.

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Exploring Phu Quoc

Planning your Phu Quoc trip can feel overwhelming with so much to explore. To make it easier, our travel guide divides the island into four areas: North, South, East, and West. Each section highlights the top activities, alongside our recommendations for dining, drinking, and accommodations.

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West Coast Hub

The west coast serves as Phu Quoc’s main tourist hub, anchored by Duong Dong town and Bai Truong (Long Beach). With a wide range of restaurants, bars, and accommodations nearby, everything is accessible. Its central location also makes it a great base for exploring the island, with the added bonus of being just a short drive from the airport.

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Pepper Plantation

Phu Quoc is renowned for its fragrant black pepper, famous for its bold,spicy flavour. Spanning around 400 hectares, the island’s pepper plantations produce over 1,200 tons annually, cementing its role as a key player in Vietnam’s pepper industry.

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There are several pepper farms on the island that you can visit for free. We stopped by Tuan Viet Farm, where we wandered through the towering vines, dotted with ripening peppercorns. The highlight, though, was sampling their variety of sauces and taking home a jar of their signature pepper sauce!

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Fish Sauce Factory

Phu Quoc’s nuoc mam (fish sauce) is just as iconic as its pepper, making a visit to a fish sauce factory a must while on the island.

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We visited Huynh Khoa Factory, a small family-run business just a short drive from Tuan Viet Farm. It’s free to visit and you can walk through the wooden barrels and learn about the production process. The staff happily explains the differences between the bottles and lets you sample sauces without any pressure to buy.

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Note: Most international flights have strict restrictions on bringing bottled fish sauce, so be sure to check with your airlines before purchasing any to take home.

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Suoi Tranh Waterfall

Located just north of the airport, Suoi Tranh Waterfall may be small, but it offers a peaceful trek and the perfect opportunity to cool off in its natural pools. Stop by the entrance shop for snacks before following the forest trail to one of the pools for a refreshing dip. The waterfall is open from 6am to 6pm with entrance fees of 30,000vnd ($1) for adults and 20,000vnd for children.

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For those seeking more waterfall adventures, head to Cao Bang Province to visit the Ban Gioc Waterfalls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Vietnam.

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Dinh Cau Temple

Perched on a rocky promontory and accessed via stone steps, Dinh Cau Temple offers some of the best ocean views on the island. The small temple, adorned with intricate carvings and dragon pillars, is accompanied by a charming lighthouse, making it a prime photo spot. Visit for sunset views and enjoy a peaceful stroll along the pathway that stretches north.

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Background: Built in 1937, Dinh Cau Temple is dedicated to Thien Hau, the goddess believed to protect seafarers.

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Night Market

The night market in Duong Dong is a lively nightly affair, with food stalls offering everything from local snacks to seafood dishes—don’t miss the coconut ice cream! You’ll also find a small selection of souvenir shops selling clothing and handmade crafts. While the variety may be limited, it’s still a fun place to wander, sample, and browse.

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Taste your way through Phu Quoc with this top-rated street food which includes a stop at the night market. link

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Ong Lang Beach

Just 20 minutes from Duong Dong, Ong Lang Beach offers a more relaxed vibe with its golden sands, rugged rocks, and crystal-clear waters framed by palm trees. It’s a great spot for sunset views, with quiet back streets lined with charming cafes and restaurants.

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For a more off-the-beaten-path escape, head to Hon Son Island, where fishing villages and rugged coastlines coexist.

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Long Beach

Duong Dong’s main beach stretches 20 kilometers from Dinh Cau to Khoe Tau Ru. Near the town, it’s lively with hotels, resorts, beach bars, and restaurants. But as you head further south, the crowds thin out, and you’ll find quiet, palm-fringed spots to relax and enjoy the scenery.

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Where to Eat and Drink

Bun Quay Kien Xay: A family-run restaurant with multiple locations, serving Phu Quoc’s specialty dish with homemade noodles, minced shrimp, fish, and squid. 7am-10pm

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Ocsen Beach Bar & Club: Watch the sunset from a cozy bean bag while enjoying cocktails, beers, and shisha. With food on offer and a nightly fire show (except Tuesdays), it’s worth arriving early for the best seats. 4pm-1am

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Saigonese: Blending industrial design with leafy accents, this stylish restaurant offers delicious Asian fusion dishes, hearty breakfasts, and excellent coffee. 8am-10pm

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Laylow: Nestled on a hill with island views, this laid-back spot is perfect for sunset drinks by the pool. Food is also available. 4pm-1am

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Where to Stay

Duong Dong town offers a wide range of accommodations, from beachfront resorts to cozy bungalows nestled inland. Find all Phu Quoc hotels here.

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Budget

9-Station Hostel

High-End

Cassia Cottage Resort and Spa

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For a quieter stay, consider accommodation around the Ong Lang area.

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High-End

Mango Bay Resort

High-End

Ocean Bay Resort and Spa Phu Quoc

Southern Islands & Mediterranean Vibes

Phu Quoc’s southern tip is rapidly evolving, thanks to Sungroup’s developments, which includes a mini city that evokes the Mediterranean coast. In this area , you’ll also find some of the island’s most stunning beaches and a picturesque archipelago of smaller islands, perfect for island hopping adventures.

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Sunset Town

Sunset Town, Phu Quoc’s latest development inspired by the Amalfi Coast, brings everything you need into one place. Colorful buildings rise along a sloping hillside with stunning sunset views, and a growing number of hotels and restaurants are easily accessible thanks to the town's spacious layout and electric carts.

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Entertainment here is nothing short of spectacular. From traditional Vietnamese puppet shows to the dazzling Kiss of the Sea performance—a mix of lasers, lights, and fireworks—and the thrilling Love Hurricane show with flyboards and Jetskis, there’s always something exciting to experience. For the best panoramic views, head to the Kiss Bridge, designed by Italian architect Marco Casamonti.

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Tip: Visit just before evening falls, enjoy dinner at the night market, catch the puppet show, and end your night with the Kiss of the Sea.

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Gondola & Aquatopia Waterpark

For a fun day out, head to Aquatopia Waterpark on Hon Thom Island. With around 20 attractions, the Poseidon’s Revenge and Medusa’s Trap water slides are definite highlights and our favorites!

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Reaching the waterpark is an adventure in itself, thanks to a gondola ride that spans 7.9 kilometers—making it the world’s longest over-sea cable car. The station, located in Sunset Town, is an impressive structure designed to resemble the Roman Colosseum.

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However, it's the 25-minute ride that truly stands out, offering stunning views of nearby islands, Phu Quoc's sparkling waters, and traditional fishing boats. Be sure to check the gondola schedule, as it operates at set intervals (we had to find this out the hard way!).

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Tip: Combo tickets offer the best value, bundling multiple activities in Sunset Town. Book your tickets here!

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Phu Quoc Island Hopping

The An Thoi Archipelago, located at the southern tip of Phu Quoc, is a cluster of around 15 islands and islets popular for boat tours. Daily trips typically visit two to four islands, with highlights including Mong Tay (Fingernail Island), Gam Ghi Island for snorkeling, May Rut Island, and Hon Thom Island––home to the waterpark.

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With numerous tour operators offering similar packages, it’s important to inquire about group sizes as some tours can host up to 80 guests—definitely too many! For a more enjoyable experience, consider booking a private tour.

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Here are some island and snorkeling tours from Onbird, specializing in small groups and eco-friendly visits to less crowded spots.

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Kem Beach & Sao Beach

Located on Phu Quoc’s southeastern coast, Khem and Sao beaches are two of the island’s most beautiful spots, known for their soft white sands, crystal-clear waters, and stunning sunrise views.

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Khem Beach is lined with palm trees, restaurants, and bars, offering a more developed atmosphere with nearby accommodations. Just to the north, Sao Beach provides a quieter, less developed retreat. Its calm, pool-like waters make it perfect for swimming, especially from June to October.

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Read: Tu Nham: Our Favourite Beach in Vietnam

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Phu Quoc Prison History Museum

Just off Nguyen Van Cu Street, Phu Quoc Prison is a powerful reminder of the island’s tumultuous past. Built in 1946 to detain political revolutionaries, it has been transformed into a museum, where the presence of barbed-wire fences and stark exhibits leave a lasting impression. Mannequins vividly depict the brutal conditions of torture, while underground tunnels highlight the resilience of Vietnam’s revolutionary soldiers.

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‍For more insight into Vietnam’s history, visit Con Dao Island, where preserved prisons and museums highlight its dark past.

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Ho Quoc Pagoda

Nestled at the base of a mountain and overlooking the East Sea, Ho Quoc Pagoda offers some of the best temple views on the island. Built in 2012, this pagoda is Phu Quoc’s largest and houses both a Buddhist temple and a monastery. One of its highlights are the stunning dragon bas-relief carvings along the staircases, their blue hues reflecting the sea below.

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For more fascinating pagodas in Vietnam, explore the intricate temples and caves of the Marble Mountains in Da Nang.

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Where to Eat and Drink

Vui Fest Bazaar: Located in Sunset Town, this night market features over 40 booths offering everything from local street food to international dishes. 4-11pm

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Hien Nha Veranda: Enjoy sunset on the lovely patio with a refreshing drink from a great selection of cocktails, wines, and draft beer. Vietnamese and seafood dishes are also available. 7am-11:30pm

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Istanbul Beach Club: Situated by Kem Beach, this Turkish restaurant offers the perfect spot to relax with beach views. Enjoy sun loungers, refreshing drinks and authentic Turkish dishes. 8am-11:30pm

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Where to Stay

Stay in the heart of Sunset Town for the ultimate convenience. This lively area offers a variety of accommodations and is perfectly situated near southern attractions, including the ferry port and gondola. If you prefer to stay by the beach, Khem Beach is a great option with boutique hotels and resorts just a short walk away. Find all accommodations in Phu Quoc here!

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Mid-Range

La Grotta Hotel

High-End

Venice Hotel

Rugged East Coast

If you’re looking for a more tranquil side of Phu Quoc, away from busy Duong Dong and major developments like Sunset town, head to the east coast. With the national park close by, the road winds through dense forests and vibrant tropical foliage, with little to no traffic. Scattered houses are the only signs of life, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful, scenic drive. Here, water bungalows are the norm, and secluded beaches offer quiet stretches of sand, far from the crowds.

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National Park

Located on the northeastern side of the island, Phu Quoc National Park covers about 70% of the island. Much of the park is off-limits for military use, and guided tours are required for hiking deeper into the forest.

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However, Tien Son Peak at the southern end offers a fantastic option for a short hike, which can be done on your own or with a guide.

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Our favorite part is the scenic road running through the heart of the island. Lined with trees and almost no traffic, it offers a peaceful drive right next to the park.

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Read: Visit Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park

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Fishing Villages

The eastern coast of Phu Quoc is also home to local fishing communities, including Ham Ninh, where you’ll find no-frills restaurants on stilts serving fresh seafood straight from the ocean. If you drive further north to the Cay Sao fishing community, you’ll encounter homes built on stilts—an interesting stop, but be mindful of the dogs.

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Experience the charm of Vietnam’s fishing communities by visiting Quy Nhon and exploring the vibrant village of Nhon Hai.

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Where to Eat and Drink

Rory's Beach Bar: Tucked away in Cay Sao, this bar offers a lively spot to unwind with sea views. Enjoy western meals and cold beer on tap, alongside pool tables, mini golf, and a saltwater pool. It’s the ultimate hangout on Phu Quoc’s east coast. 8am-10pm

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Tinh Bien 2: This east coast gem serves up fresh seafood with stunning sea views. Dine at tables perched on stilts right above the water. 8am-11pm

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Where to Stay

Accommodations along the east coast are scattered with most options located in the northern and central areas. Many hotels offer sea-view rooms, and some even feature bungalows perched on stilts above the water. Find all accommodations in Phu Quoc here!

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Mid-Range

Rocks Beach Boutique

High-End

Rory's Beach Bar

Whimsical Wonders of the North

Phu Quoc’s northern region strikes a balance between modern comforts and untamed natural beauty. Shaped by the influence of Vingroup, one of Vietnam’s leading conglomerates, the area features luxurious hotels, vibrant casinos, manicured golf courses, and sprawling theme parks. However, as you venture further north, the development fades, giving way to thickening forests and uneven roads, offering the perfect backdrop for a day of exploration.

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Grand World

With round-the-clock entertainment, accommodations, and endless dining and shopping options, Grand World feels like a city of its own. Think of it as the Disneyland of Vietnam, inspired by the cities of Venice and Shanghai, packed with attractions. Highlights include the Teddy Bear Museum and Vietnam's largest bamboo structure.

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Tip: Grandworld is bigger than we expected, so be sure to keep an eye out for maps and shuttle service that make it easy to navigate between attractions.

Vinpearl Safari Park

Just a short ride away, Vinpearl Safari Park (also managed by Vingroup) offers a safari bus experience that lets you get up close with a variety of animals. While it’s a popular family attraction, it’s worth noting that there have been concerns regarding the size of the enclosures and the treatment of the animals.

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Ganh Dau Beach

Tucked away in the north, Ganh Dau Beach features biscuit-colored sands and a laid-back, local atmosphere, free from the presence of large resorts. It’s a favorite spot of Nay, a local guide from Nice Tours, who shared that you can even take a boat to nearby Turtle Island for snorkeling.

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Starfish Beach

As the name suggests, Starfish Beach offers the chance to spot starfish, though it's worth noting that locals sometimes place them along the shore for tourists to photograph. If you visit, remember to enjoy them from a distance, as picking them up can harm the starfish.

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The main road to Starfish Beach is currently under construction, so expect an unpaved, muddy journey. The route shown on Google Maps is closed, meaning you’ll need to take a boat, costing around 150,000vnd ($6) to reach the beach.

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Where to Eat and Drink

40six Beach Haus: Located next to Ganh Day Beach, this beach bar serves a unique Thai-Italian fusion menu, complemented by stunning sunset views. 10am-10pm

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Mai Huong Restaurant: One of the many seafood restaurants in Grand World. Don't miss the seafood fried rice and steamed clams with lemongrass. 3pm-midnight

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Nha be Tinh Yeu: A floating seafood restaurant located just off the coast of Starfish Beach, only a short speed boat ride away. Perfect for enjoying steamed fish, piled-high clams, and a refreshing cold beer. 7am-9pm

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Where to Stay

Stay in the heart of Grand World for the most convenient location, where you’ll be close to entertainment, dining and shopping options. For a quieter setting, head further north to more remote areas, though it’s a bit farther from restaurants and major attractions. Find all accommodations in Phu Quoc here.

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Mid-Range

Riverside Mini Hotel Grand World

High-End

Gold Coast Phu Quoc Beach Resort

Best Time to Visit

For the best weather conditions, plan your trip to Phu Quoc between October and April. During these months, you can expect plenty of sunshine, ideal for outdoor activities. It’s best to avoid the rainy season, which typically runs from May to September.

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We visited at the end of June, and although the rain wasn’t constant, it did make outdoor activities less enjoyable. Out of the week we spent there, only one day was fully sunny, with the rest being overcast. While we still had a great time and managed to fit in many activities, we would have loved to witness Phu Quoc’s stunning sunsets and experience the island’s better weather.

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Read: Best Time to Visit Vietnam

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How Long to Stay

To make the most of your visit to Phu Quoc, plan for at least three days. This gives you plenty of time to explore the must-visit attractions on land, join an island-hopping tour, and enjoy some beach time. For a more laid-back experience, staying a little longer lets you discover hidden corners and fully immerse yourself in the island’s beauty at a relaxed pace.

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How to Get to Phu Quoc Island

Plane: Phu Quoc is easily accessible by air, with daily domestic flights and international arrivals landing at Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC).

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Book your flight to Phu Quoc Island here.

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Looking for a stress-free arrival? Book a private transfer from Phu Quoc airport to your hotel.

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Ferry: If you’re coming from the Mekong Delta, you can catch fast ferries from Ha Tien and Rach Gia. Be aware that ferries may be delayed or canceled due to rough seas or during the rainy season.

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Book your ferry to Phu Quoc Island here.

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How to Get Around

Motorbike: Exploring Phu Quoc is best done by motorbike, with rentals available at most accommodations for around 150,000vnd ($6) per day. The roads are generally quiet and easy to navigate, especially outside of Duong Dong town. However, be cautious at night as the roads can be poorly lit, and during the rainy season, strong winds can make riding challenging.

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Note: Gas stations on the island are limited and close by 9pm, so make sure to fill up in advance. If you run low, look for roadside stalls with the sign 'ban xang' for fuel.

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Electric Carts: A great option for groups traveling around the Duong Dong area, with fares based on distance traveled.

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Taxis: Taxis are readily available, and you can also use the Grab app. While there are plenty of cars, finding a motorbike taxi may take a little longer.

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‍VinBus: For longer distances, take the VinBus, a green-colored bus that offers free rides to major attractions, including the airport.

And that’s everything you need to know to plan your trip to Phu Quoc Island.

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Want to discover more of Vietnam’s beautiful islands? Just off the southeastern coast, Con Dao Island awaits. Smaller and quieter than Phu Quoc, it offers pristine beaches, scenic hiking trails, and rugged coastlines perfect for a peaceful exploration by motorbike.

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If you’re looking to dive deeper into Phu Quoc or want more island inspiration, let us know in the comments below!