A Guide to Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam

The best months to visit Phú Quốc are from December until April. The rains don’t start coming down hard until June, but April and May are way too hot. You’ll just sit under an air-conditioner all day.

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are many hidden spots around the island, but we’ll stick to five beaches that are readily accessible and worthwhile.

This popular beach is south of the largest town on the island—Dương Đông. It’s 20km long, with resorts, restaurants, and hotels encroaching on much of it. What it lacks in privacy, though, it makes up for with sunsets and amenities. There are several options for accommodations based on your budget, and many great restaurants line the street running parallel with the beach.

Sao Beach is nestled into an alcove on the eastern side of the southern tip, a short drive from the French colonial prison that’s now a spooky museum. This beach is busy during the tourism season because it’s an oasis, but, even with the crowds, you’ll still love the stunning views.

If seclusion is what you’re seeking, then this is the beach for you. It’s a bit of an adventure to get to, but you’ll be happy you made the effort. There are a couple of places selling food, but that’s about it, so bring whatever you’ll need. You should hire a guide to bring you if you aren’t comfortable driving a motorbike on your own.

At the north-west corner of the island, within sight of the Cambodian mainland, this length of beach is a favorite of many regulars to the island. It’s moderately developed with bungalow-style resorts, but there are still places where you can enjoy some alone time for a while.

This beach is home to several luxury resorts, along with the Phu Quoc Casino and a 27-hole golf course. For snorkelers, Turtle Island is a short boat ride away.

Phú Quốc has a spectacular variety of seafood, cooked in many tasty styles. From bamboo shacks hidden in groves next to the beach, to glamorous restaurants in luxurious hotels, you’ll have plenty of mealtime options. All the busier beaches also have activities like kayaking, jet skiing, and snorkeling. Salespeople for local tour companies roam the beaches all day selling excursions and day-trips. To get to some of the more secluded beaches, you’ll probably need a tour guide with knowledge of the dirt paths cutting through the forests. They’ll also help you learn about the customs and traditions of the island. Or just lay on the beach for your whole trip. Either way, Phú Quốc has something for beach-lovers everywhere.