Phu Quoc Destination Guide
Phu Quoc Island is located 15 kilometres from the Cambodian coast, in the gulf of Thailand. The centre of the island features mountainous terrain and natural forest reserves, while the flatter coast is ringed by long stretches of spectacular sandy beaches and crystal clear water. There are a number of small towns and ports located around the island.
Phu Quoc is also known as the 'Emerald Island', due to its stunning natural beauty!
This Phu Quoc Destination Guide gives some general information about the island, including a little on its geography and the best time to visit. Useful information about Vietnam can be found by going to our Vietnam Country Guide. To read up on some of the best things to see and do whilst on Phu Quoc, check out our Phu Quoc Tours page.
Things to See & Do in Phu Quoc
Duong Dong
The town does, however, have a few things of interest. The main amongst these is probably Dinh Cau (Cau Castle). Consisting of a temple and a lighthouse, it was built in honour of the goddess Thien Hau, protector of fishermen and sailors. A visit to the castle gives good views of the entrance to the harbour.
Fish Sauce Factory
Beaches
Bai Truong
This is the most popular beach on Phu Quoc, due to its size and proximity to Duong Dong. It stretches almost 20 kilometres southwards from Duong Dong, almost reaching An Thoi. Palm trees sway over the spectacular white sand beach, with crystal clear water beckoning you in for a swim.
From Duong Dong the beach is accessible by foot, starting just south of Cau Castle, but the more deserted and remote stretches further south can only be reached by motorbike or bicycle. There are some small shacks which sell drinks along the beach.
Bai Khem
Perhaps the most stunning of all the beaches is Bai Khem, which literally means 'cream beach'. It is located around a cove on the southeastern side of the island, which is part of the military zone. Civilians are allowed to enter the region, however the beach is completely undeveloped, and also severly lacking in shade.
Motorbike is the best way to get there, as the cove is located about 28 kilometres from Duong Dong. Bring a lock to chain your motorbike to a tree, as you'll have to leave it out of sight of the beach.
Other Beaches
Some remote beaches in the north of the country include Bai Dai, in the northwest, and Bai Thom, in the northeast. Both require long, dusty motorbike rides over roads in extremely poor condition. They are both in the military zones, and, although open on Sundays, require you to leave your passport at the entrance.
A more accessible beach in the northwest is Bai Cua Can, located 11 kilometres from Duong Dong. Some other beaches in the south which you may consider visiting include Bai Sao and Bai Dam, which are just north of Bai Khem.
Suoi Da Ban
Nature Reserves
An Thoi Islands
Just off the southern tip of Phu Quoc are 15 tiny little islands. Hotels and tour companies in Duong Dong and An Thoi are able to organise cruises out to these islands on chartered boats, with the options of activities including sightseeing, swimming, snorkelling and fishing.
Shop around for the best price, and be aware that the cruises are seasonal, and as such do not usually run during the rainy season.
