Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc is a beautiful Vietnamese island known for being a popular tourist destination. Its laid-back atmosphere and stunning natural beauty make it a must-visit addition to your Vietnam itinerary. My family and I spent a few days there, and we absolutely loved it. If you’re planning to visit, I recommend staying for at least three nights to fully enjoy the island. Here are five of the best activities to do while you’re there:
- Relax on the Beaches
- Ride the Hon Thom Cable Car
- Visit the Phu Quoc Night Market
- Explore the Island on a Scooter
- Tour the Phu Quoc Pepper Farms
1
Relax on the Beaches
When people think of Asia’s turquoise waters, destinations like the Philippines and Thailand often come to mind. Fortunately, Phu Quoc also boasts white sand beaches and clear blue waters. While they might not be quite as breathtaking as some of their more famous counterparts, Phu Quoc still offers some great public beaches where you can soak up the sun:
- Bai Truong (Long Beach): The most famous beach on the island, this 20-kilometer stretch on the west coast is perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
- Sao Beach (Bai Sao): Known for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, this beach is great for water sports like snorkeling.
Note: As of January 2024, visitors have reported that the beach is littered with trash, so it might not be the best option right now. - Ong Lang Beach: Quieter and more serene, this beach is ideal if you’re looking for gentle waves and a relaxing atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit: From November to March when the weather is dry, and the water is calm and clear.
2
Ride the Hon Thom Cable Car
The most popular activity in Phu Quoc is riding the Hon Thom Cable Car, which connects Phu Quoc Island to Hon Thom Island. It holds the world record for the longest non-stop single-track cable car at over 8 kilometers long! The 15-minute ride offers stunning views of the surrounding ocean and islands. Once you arrive at Hon Thom station, you can explore attractions like an aquatic park (included in the ticket price) and local restaurants.
Price:
- Adults: 650,000 VND ($36 CAD)
- Children: 500,000 VND ($27 CAD)
Best Time to Visit: Visiting in the morning or late afternoon is ideal for avoiding crowds and enjoying cooler temperatures.
Opening Hours: The Hon Thom Cable Car operates daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Tips: If you’re visiting during peak season, arrive early to avoid long wait times. Book your tickets in advance online to skip the lines.
3
Visit the Phu Quoc Night Market
Located in the heart of Duong Dong town, the Phu Quoc Night Market is a lively and bustling spot that comes to life every evening. Here, locals and tourists alike can browse for goods and indulge in a variety of delicious street food. It’s a great place to experience the island’s local culture and pick up souvenirs.
Best Time to Visit: The market is best visited after sunset when it gets lively. Aim for between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM to experience the peak atmosphere.
Opening Hours: Open daily from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
Tips:
- Bring cash, as many vendors may not accept credit cards.
- Don’t be afraid to haggle on prices, especially for souvenirs.
- Be mindful of your belongings as the market can get crowded.
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4
Explore the Island on a Scooter
Exploring Phu Quoc on a scooter is something I can’t recommend enough! My family and I had such a fun time zipping around the island on two wheels. Scooters are easy to handle, ideal for navigating traffic, and perfect for exploring the island at your own pace. Plus, many scooters come with storage space under the seat, which is super handy for keeping your belongings safe while you’re out adventuring. Remember to always ask for a helmet when renting one. If you’re petite like me, opt for a smaller model like a Scoopy.
Price:
- Scooter rentals range from 140,000 VND to 250,000 VND per day ($7–$14 CAD).
Tips:
- If possible, rent from a reputable shop and avoid leaving your passport or ID as a deposit. Ask if a cash deposit is possible instead.
- Always check the condition of the scooter before riding—test the brakes, lights, and tires.
- Traffic can be unpredictable, so drive cautiously, especially in busy areas.
5
Tour the Phu Quoc Pepper Farms
Phu Quoc is known for its high-quality pepper, which plays an important role in the island’s agricultural economy. Visiting one of the island’s many pepper farms offers a fascinating insight into how pepper is grown and harvested. These farms are filled with rows of vines climbing up wooden poles, and the peppercorns are hand-picked when ripe.
Best Time to Visit: You can visit pepper farms year-round, but the harvest season is typically between February and May.
Price: Most farms are free to visit, but some may charge a small fee if you wish to participate in harvesting.
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