Phu Quoc island Vietnam beaches

Vietnam • Tropical Island Escape

Phu Quoc Travel Guide

A laid-back island with white-sand beaches, warm seas and easy-going resort living — perfect for slow days, sunsets and relaxed downtime at the end of a Vietnam trip.

Use this guide to help decide whether Phu Quoc suits your style of travel, which area to stay in, and how it fits into a wider Vietnam route.

About Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc is Vietnam’s largest island — a tropical escape in the Gulf of Thailand known for clear water, sandy beaches and a growing choice of comfortable resorts, spa experiences and dining.

Beach-first island life

Soft sand, warm water and sunset evenings — ideal if relaxing by the sea is your priority.

Resort-style comfort

Great for travellers who want convenience and comfort, with pools, spas and easy island transfers.

Nature + local character

Mix beach time with national park scenery, local markets and fishing village life.

Who Is Phu Quoc Best For?

Phu Quoc works brilliantly as a ‘switch-off’ island stay — especially after culture-heavy routes through Hanoi, Hoi An or Halong Bay.

Beach lovers

Long Beach, Sao Beach and Ong Lang are favourites for calm water, soft sand and relaxed pacing.

Higher-comfort travellers

Resorts with pools, spa days and elevated dining make it ideal if comfort matters to you.

Families

Family-friendly resorts, safe beach areas and simple day trips make it straightforward for all ages.

Top Things to Do in Phu Quoc

Keep it simple: beaches, sea time, gentle exploring — with nature and markets for variety.

Long Beach sunsets

The island’s most famous stretch of sand — great for swimming, strolling and sunset evenings.

  • Long coastal beach strip
  • Generally calm water
  • Sunset views
  • Easy access from resorts

Sao Beach

Soft white sand and vivid turquoise water — one of Phu Quoc’s most photogenic beaches.

  • Bright white sand
  • Shallow, clear water
  • Good for families
  • Beach cafés nearby

Snorkelling & diving

Boat trips take you to coral areas and calm bays — great for beginners and casual snorkellers.

  • Guided boat tours
  • Coral reef viewing
  • Beginner-friendly
  • Diving courses available

Phu Quoc National Park

A greener side of the island with rainforest trails, wildlife and viewpoints.

  • Walking & hiking trails
  • Forest scenery
  • Guided options available
  • Cooler ‘break from the sun’ activity

Duong Dong Night Market

Evenings come alive with seafood stalls, snacks and souvenirs in the island’s main town.

  • Fresh seafood
  • Street food choices
  • Souvenirs & crafts
  • Lively evening atmosphere

Island hopping

A classic Phu Quoc day — visiting nearby islands, snorkelling and enjoying quieter coves.

  • Nearby islands by boat
  • Snorkelling stops
  • Quieter beaches
  • Relaxed full or half day

Where to Stay in Phu Quoc

Choose your base depending on whether you want lively sunsets, quieter luxury or postcard-style beaches.

Long Beach area

A popular all-round base with lots of dining, sunset spots and a wide range of resorts.

  • Beachfront resort choices
  • Great sunset atmosphere
  • Options for different budgets
  • Convenient access to town

Ong Lang Beach

Quieter and often more premium — ideal if you want a calm, slightly more secluded feel.

  • Peaceful setting
  • Higher-comfort resorts
  • Spa & wellness focus
  • Popular with couples

Sao Beach area

Good if your priority is being close to one of the island’s most famous white-sand beaches.

  • Access to Sao Beach
  • Family-friendly stays
  • Beautiful turquoise water
  • Best for beach-first travellers

More inclusive resort stays

Resorts where meals and activities are partly or fully included — great for easy pacing.

  • Meals included (varies)
  • Family-friendly setups
  • Convenient & relaxed
  • Good for longer downtime

Best Time to Visit Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc is warm most of the year, but some months are better if calm seas and sunshine matter most.

Quick seasonal guide

  • November–April: Generally the best weather — sunny, calmer seas and lower humidity
  • December–March: Often the peak months for classic beach conditions
  • Shoulder months: Good balance of weather and quieter feel
  • May–October: Rainier period — still visitable, but expect showers

If your trip is mainly about beaches and swimming, many travellers prefer the drier season, but shoulder months can feel calmer and better value.