Phú Quốc, Vietnam’s largest island, is a stunning treasure in the Gulf of Thailand. It’s a place off the coast of Cambodia that has quickly turned from a peaceful, lesser-known island to a thriving tourist hotspot. Despite rapid growth, Phú Quốc has maintained its natural appeal.

More over half of the island is designated as a national park, ensuring that its lush, forested interior and unique animals remain intact. The island is known for its magnificent white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and teeming marine life, making it a popular destination for beachgoers, adventurers, and eco-tourists alike.

Phú Quốc showcases Vietnam’s rich cultural tapestry, including lively markets, ancient landmarks, and a delectable food scene.

History: A Tapestry of Conflict and Resilience

Phú Quốc has a remarkable history that combines ancient civilization, political strife, and modern progress. Archaeological evidence indicates that human occupancy on the island dates back to the 5th century BC, with connections to the ancient Óc Eo culture. However, the island remained largely uninhabited and isolated for generations.

Phú Quốc’s strategic location in the Gulf of Thailand has been a source of contention between several powers throughout history. In the late 18th century, it served as a hideaway for Lord Nguyễn Ánh, who subsequently became Emperor Gia Long and founded the Nguyễn Dynasty. European colonial powers had an interest in the island as well. In 1863, France conquered the region, including Phú Quốc, establishing a French protectorate.

Perhaps the most solemn and significant aspect of the island’s history is its involvement in the Vietnam War. The French erected an infamous prison in Phú Quốc, which was later extended by the South Vietnamese government and the US. The Phú Quốc Prison, also known as Coconut Prison, was a harsh environment for tens of thousands of North Vietnamese and Viet Cong prisoners of war. Today, the site serves as a remarkable, if horrifying, museum, a reminder of the cruel past and the Vietnamese people’s fortitude.

In recent decades, Phú Quốc has moved its focus from a violent past to a tourism-centered future. The Vietnamese government has made significant investments in improving the island’s infrastructure, transforming it into a special administrative entity aimed at attracting both domestic and international visitors. This quick transition has provided modern conveniences and a vibrant industry, while also allowing tourists to connect with the area’s profound historical origins.

How to Reach Phú Quốc

Getting to Phú Quốc is now easier than ever, with a well-developed network of air and sea transport.

By Air: The easiest way to reach the island is to fly into Phú Quốc International Airport (PQC). There are frequent direct flights from major Vietnamese cities, including Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang. These routes are served by several airlines, notably Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet Air, who operate multiple flights every day. International visitors, particularly those from Southeast Asia, can take direct flights from places such as Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Seoul. International tourists are drawn to Phú Quốc’s 30-day visa-free regime, which applies to all nationalities who fly straight and stay on the island for the duration of their trip.

By Ferry: For those who prefer a more scenic route and wish to explore the mainland first, you can travel to Phú Quốc by a combination of bus and ferry. The main ferry terminals are located in the coastal cities of Rạch Giá and Hà Tiên in the Kiên Giang Province.

• From Rạch Giá: High-speed ferries depart from Rạch Giá and take approximately 2.5 to 3 hours to reach Phú Quốc. This is a popular option for those coming from Ho Chi Minh City, as many buses run to Rạch Giá.
• From Hà Tiên: The ferry journey from Hà Tiên is shorter, taking about 1 to 1.5 hours. Hà Tiên is closer to the Cambodian border, making this a good choice for travelers coming from or going to Cambodia.

7 Must-See Tourist Attractions

Phú Quốc’s attractions are as diverse as its landscape, offering something for every type of traveler.

1. Hòn Thơm Cable Car & Sun World Nature Park: This is the world record for the longest non-stop three-rope cable car. The trip provides stunning panoramic views of the An Thới archipelago and blue waters below. It takes you to Hòn Thơm Island, where you may visit the Sun World Nature Park and the exhilarating Aquatopia Water Park. It’s the ideal day out for families and thrill seekers.

2. VinWonders & Vinpearl Safari: For a full day of amusement, visit the Vinpearl complex in the north of the island. VinWonders is a vast theme park that is sometimes compared to Disneyland, featuring numerous themed zones, an adrenaline water park, and a breathtaking nightly light and water display. Vinpearl Safari, Vietnam’s first semi-open zoo, is right next door and offers a unique safari experience that allows you to get up close and personal with a broad variety of animals from around the globe.

3. Dinh Cậu Night Market: The Dinh Cậu Night Market lights up the major town of Dương Đông after the sun sets. This lively market provides a sensory assault of sights, noises, and smells. You may try an unbelievable variety of fresh seafood, local munchies, and street cuisine delights. It’s also a good spot to buy gifts, including local crafts and the famed Phú Quốc fish sauce. The atmosphere is electrifying, and it’s the ideal place to immerse yourself in local culture.

4. Phú Quốc National Park: The national park, which covers more than half of the island, is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and nature lover’s dream. Explore the deep forest, uncover secret waterfalls like Suối Tranh, and spot a broad range of flora and animals, including rare orchids and bird species. It’s a tranquil escape from the more developed seaside locations.

5. Hồ Quốc Pagoda: Hồ Quốc Pagoda, located on a hill overlooking the sea, is a beautiful Buddhist temple that provides a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere. The architecture is stunning, and the location offers some of the best views on the island. It’s a calm area to reflect and the ideal location for capturing a memorable shot of the eastern shoreline.

6. Sao Beach (Bãi Sao): Sao Beach, widely regarded as one of Vietnam’s most beautiful beaches, lives up to its reputation. Its name, “Starfish Beach,” is derived from the numerous starfish that originally inhabited its waters. While urbanization has reduced their numbers, the beach’s pristine white sand, tranquil blue waters, and swaying palm trees remain as lovely as ever. It’s the ideal location for swimming, sunbathing, and simply relaxing in a tropical paradise.

7. Phú Quốc Pepper Farms: Phú Quốc is known for its high-quality peppers. A visit to a pepper farm provides a unique cultural and agricultural experience. You may walk around the fragrant plantations, learn about the growing process, and observe how several types of pepper—green, black, and red—are collected and dried. Many farms provide sampling sessions and the option to purchase fresh, aromatic pepper directly from the source.

3 Culinary Delicacies You Must Try

Phú Quốc’s cuisine is heavily influenced by the sea, and its culinary specialties are fresh, flavorful, and uniquely Vietnamese.

1. Herring Salad (Gỏi Cá Trích): This is a must-taste local speciality. The salad combines thinly sliced fresh herring, grated coconut, thinly sliced onions, and fresh herbs. It is often served wrapped in rice paper with a variety of veggies and dipped in a unique chili fish sauce. The mix of fresh, sweet fish, creamy coconut, and spicy sauce results in a flavorful explosion.

2. “Quậy” Noodles (Bún Quậy): This distinct noodle soup, whose name translates as “stirred noodles,” is a local staple. A chef prepares the meal by “quays” (stirring) fresh fish paste, shrimp paste, and squid paste in a bowl of hot broth to create a murky and rich broth. Fresh rice noodles are added, resulting in a bowl of exceptionally fresh, bouncy noodles with savory seafood. To make a dipping sauce, mix salt, lime, and chili together.

3. Hàm Ninh Crab (Ghẹ Hàm Ninh): This crab, which comes from the shallow seas of the Hàm Ninh fishing town, is well-known for its firm, sweet, and meaty meat. The best way to eat it is steamed or boiled, allowing the natural flavors of the sea to shine through. Enjoying freshly caught Hàm Ninh crab at one of the village’s stilted seafood restaurants, with a breathtaking view of the sea, is a genuine and wonderful culinary experience.

Points to Note for a Smooth Trip

• Best Time to Visit: The dry season, from November to April, is considered the best time to visit Phú Quốc. The weather is sunny with low humidity, perfect for beach activities. The rainy season, from May to October, brings frequent showers, but prices are lower, and the landscape is lush and green.
• Visa Policy: Remember the 30-day visa-free policy for all foreign nationals flying directly to the island. If you plan to visit other parts of Vietnam before or after your trip, you will need to obtain a visa as per the standard requirements.
• Transportation: While taxis and ride-hailing apps like Grab are available, renting a motorbike is a popular and cost-effective way to explore the island at your own pace. Be cautious and wear a helmet, as traffic can be unpredictable. For longer distances or for groups, hiring a private car with a driver for a day is a comfortable and affordable option.
• Cash is King (and Queen): While credit cards are accepted at major hotels and resorts, many local shops, smaller restaurants, and market stalls operate on a cash-only basis. It’s always a good idea to carry enough Vietnamese Dong (VND) for daily expenses.
• Environmental Awareness: As a burgeoning tourist destination, Phú Quốc faces challenges with waste management. Be a responsible traveler by minimizing your use of single-use plastics and properly disposing of your trash. By doing so, you’ll help preserve the island’s pristine beauty for future generations.

Phú Quốc is not only a beach destination, but also a captivating blend of history, nature, and culture. From its terrible but resilient past to its dynamic present and bright future, the island provides a unique and engaging vacation experience. So pack your luggage and prepare to explore Vietnam’s lovely “Pearl Island.”