Nestled in the gulf of Thailand, off the coast of Cambodia is the charming island getaway known as Phú Quốc . Smothered in palm trees and known for its white sand beaches, this island is a must-visit destination for couples, families, groups and solo travellers. As more and more tourists find out about this not-so-secret-anymore paradise, the development of resorts, spas and hotels is ever-growing with the Intercontinental, Hilton and Novotel already running strong and the Sheraton currently in construction mode. So get here quick while the beaches remain relatively unspoiled and before it becomes commercialised to the point that it risks losing it's original charm, unfortunately like islands such as Phuket.
If you're a full time worker with limited holiday leave, rest assured that you can experience the main attractions of this heavenly paradise and still have time to relax in just a 4 day itinerary that I put together based on my recent trip there. But first, a quick run down on the island:
Phú Quốc:
Phú Quốc is Vietnam's largest island and is split into north and south islands. Over half of the island is part of Phú Quốc National park, which consists of mountains and dense tropical jungle, creating great hiking trails. Dương Đông is the largest, main town and also close to the longest beach on the island, suitably named 'Long beach'. Staying near or on Long beach is highly recommended as it is by far the cleanest and most beautiful beach on the island. With world-famous sunset views over the water, it is walking distance from the restaurants, shops, market and tourist offices of Dương Đông town.
Where to stay:
MyPlace Siena Garden Resort is a peaceful, clean, friendly and very affordable resort that is perfect if you want to escape the hectic town centre as it is just off the main road but still a quick 600m walk from the beautiful Long beach. We paid just $310 for 7 nights, including a delicious buffet breakfast every morning (with both Vietnamese and Western options). Plus, it is a quick 10 min taxi ride from the airport (only 80,000 dong) so you can head straight from the plane into the swimming pool!
If you feel like splurging, then I highly recommend staying at the new Dusit Princess Moonrise Beach Resort. It only opened in May 2018 and is located right on Long beach. If you stay here you will never miss the world-class sunset, viewed from the resort's infinity pool bar. If you're not sold already, it pretty much offers everything you could ask for: gym (a good one with chin up bars and a squat rack!), kids club, massive ballroom, Luna Thai spa, two restaurants (including buffet breakfast), a lobby bar and even babysitting services! I guarantee that you will not pass by this hotel without seeing all the guests taking their cocktail-in-hand, sunset backdrop, #vacaymode poses from the infinity pool for the ultimate #instapicoftheday. So if you're #doingitforthegram, head nowhere else!
Whichever you decide, the easiest booking website I've ever used is Booking.com and I actually entered all the details in for you (you're welcome!). If you use this search bar, you will definitely find the best deals compared to other booking website, trust me!
How to get around:
The best way to get around on this island is to hire a motorbike from your hotel. Fear not, they are very easy to ride and you don't need a licence. Just sign the form, put on your helmet and explore! If you've seen the traffic of Hanoi or Saigon I don't blame you if you're absolutely terrified, but don't worry as this island is way less crowded, has nowhere near as much traffic, a lot safer and a great place to learn. Unfortunately, there is no 'Grab' on the island (Asian Uber) so if you're still not convinced on the motorbike suggestion and would prefer not to die then take a taxi, which will cost you around 500,000 dong for the whole day or 80,000 dong for a 10-15 min ride. That is why I suggest hiring a motorbike for the day as it is only 150,000 dong for 24 hours ($6.45US) or 25,000 dong per hour (85c). Petrol will cost 25,000 dong per litre. We hired a motorbike everyday for the whole day and only needed to fill up twice a day. Use google maps to plan your day while in wifi range of the hotel and the map will stay on your phone even when offline so you can explore different areas of the island! Other great apps include Maps.me, Here WeGo, Sygic and Openmaps but google maps usually does the trick.
DAY 1:
Wake up, have a morning swim in the resort's pool and get stuffed on the breakfast buffet. Almost every resort on this island will provide both of those things, if they don't I suggest staying somewhere that does! It's that cheap!
Today, we will be chasing waterfalls! Hire your motorbike (or hail a taxi) and head straight to Suối Tranh waterfall. The entrance cost will be 10,000 dong per person (45c) and you will follow a fantasy themed path with sculptures of deer, tigers and rabbits, making you feel like you're in a Disney movie (you may even start to hear birds singing Snow White tunes...). Don't be put off, the Vietnamese are the QUEENS (and Kings) of selfies and would rather pose a thousand times in front of these extremely fake sculptures than with the waterfall #spelfie. However, keep following the path and soon you will arrive at the waterfall. Do note that if you really want to experience the gushing cascades of this heavenly wonder, the best time to visit is during rainy season (May - September). We went during dry season and there was just about enough water to create a pathetic drizzle which really makes your #instapicoftheday an anticlimax. However, it still made for a refreshing swim on such a humid day. Enjoy a fresh coconut for 30,000 dong on your way out for a quick hydration boost AND a snack (they always cut it up for you to eat the flesh).
Next, we will be heading to Ong Lang beach, about a 30 min ride from Suối Tranh waterfall. Here you will most likely hear the locals blasting karaoke music as they drink beer and eat crab on the beach but if you don't feel like joining in head further up the beach as it is very long! Do be aware that you will be charged 50,000 dong for sitting on those wooden deck chairs but there's plenty of grass for sun baking or enjoy a banana ice cream from the restaurant. I don't recommend eating lunch there as it is way overpriced. If you're feeling peckish head to the Bánh mì (Vietnamese baguette) stall located just out the front of Ong Lang Beach where you park your motorbike (or get dropped off by the taxi). Just 20,000 dong for a baguette, choose from fish balls, beef balls, quail eggs and vegetables. While you're at Ong Lang beach, you can visit Dinh Ba temple. However, Dinh Cau temple is the most popular attraction on the island with amazing seaside views and a jump rock so I suggest you head to this one instead.
About a 20min ride away, this is where you will climb the 29 winding stone steps and be greeted by spectacular views of Dinh Cau beach and the local Dương Đông town. If you're feeling adventurous, climb Dinh Cau rock and jump off the top with the local children. Also known as the 'Dragon King Shrine', this is where the local fisherman worship Thien Hau, the goddess of the sea as she protects them on their fishing endeavors at sea. A refreshing swim was much needed in the humidity of Phú Quốc but don't leave without watching the local fisherman do their thing. You may even be invited onto a fishing boat to marvel at their fresh catch of the day: buckets and buckets of fish, shellfish and squid.
Fresh seafood is a must-eat for all the foodies visiting this island (read my blog post on 'Best places to eat on Phú Quốc Island'). Another great fishing village to witness the daily life of local fisherman is Ham Ninh Fishing village. Here you can try regional specialties including boiled flower crab, tram mushrooms and sea cucumber soup. It's about 25 min from Dinh Cau temple, but we were too excited to watch the world famous sunset from Long beach so headed back to enjoy a happy hour cocktail at the Dusit Princess Moonshine resort's infinity pool bar, sipping a strawberry daiquiri while gazing at the orange and pink sky. This infinity pool is not exclusive to guests only so as long as you purchase a drink you can indulge in ultimate island luxury. Happy hour is buy 2, get the 3rd free so make the most of this instagram opportunity! Pre-drinks were then followed by dinner at a local restaurant that served top notch food - see my blog post on 'Best places to eat on Phú Quốc Island' for tips on saving money and eating to your heart's content!
Day 2:
Rise and shine, this morning we are heading straight to Long beach (ideal if you stay nearby) for a beach run/stroll/swim and to watch the local fisherman bring in their fresh catch of the day! Every morning at around 7-8am, not only will you witness Vietjet aircraft flying so low you begin to worry it will scrape off the top of your resort, but you'll experience the circular, blue boats tottering into shore as the fisherman deliver fresh seafood to the beachfront resorts and restaurants. Definitely a cool thing to see and you might even be hired as head rower!
After refreshing with Vietnamese coffee (with ALL the condensed milk) and breakfast we're hopping back on those motorbikes and riding all the way up to the north of the island. Again, using the google maps app we are heading on a whopping 45 min ride to Starfish beach! By far the highlight of my trip so definitely worth the trip! A secluded oasis lined with palm trees with the whitest sand and clearest water, here you can sunbathe amongst countless red, spiky starfish just a few feet from the shore. If observing starfish in their natural habitat is on your bucket list then this is definitely the place for you! Try not to step on them and definitely DO NOT take them home!
Apart from taking your instagram shots of these beautiful creatures and finding Patrick the star...#spongebobsquarepants a few other activities to do on this beach include:
- Eating at the floating restaurant located at the end of the pier if you're craving some tasty seafood with a spectacular view of the coconut palms and luminous Vietnamese sea
- Visiting the nearby floating village built on wooden stilts
- Taking a romantic stroll along the soft, white sand
- Snorkeling or swimming amongst the starfish! #noteverystarbelongsinthesky
Now, it is time to wave goodbye to your spiky little friends and head to Gành Dầu cape to wave hello to Cambodia! Another 45 min ride away, this is where you will work up an appetite because this lunch is going to be epic. Just enter Gành Dầu beach into google maps (preferably before you leave the hotel, while in wifi range) and when you arrive, there will be one main restaurant. This restaurant may be a little more pricey but it's the only place around to eat and their seafood could not be more fresh. If you're in a big group, this place is ideal but even just the three of us ordered a few dishes to share, including sea urchin, catfish clay pot, and stir fried morning glory all topped off with a refreshing lemon smoothie.
Hope you enjoyed Gành Dầu (or as we like to call it Gandalf #youshallnotpass) beach! #lordoftherings #lame. The best way to burn off that lunch is yet another beach swim! Walk straight from the restaurant and bathe on this quiet and clean beach with breathtaking views of Cambodia's mountains.
If you're feeling up to more beach hunting, nearby beaches include Bãi Rạch Vem and Bãi Đại but we headed straight to Bãi Bung Bàu (Bãi translates to 'beach'). This is half an hour south but on the way home anyway and you will find it is often deserted. Again, crystal sparkling water and radiant white sand, topped off with having the whole beach to ourselves created the epitome of paradise.
After losing ourselves in paradise (which seemed to happen a lot on this trip!), we headed back home to rest up and get ready for the night market! Read my blog post 'Best places to eat on Phú Quốc island' for more details on the Dương Đông night market but let's just say we came here 3 nights in a row so you cannot leave this island without a visit! From an endless array of fresh seafood to shiny, Phú Quốc pearls to Thai ice cream rolls, it definitely is worth a visit.
Day 3:
Today we are going on a day tour booked in advance from your hotel's reception desk through 'Red River Tours'. There are a range of options depending if you're interested in water activities like snorkeling and kayaking or land activities such as the fish sauce factory and Phú Quốc prison. We selected the tour that included snorkeling at Fingernail island, May rut island, fishing and a visit to the famous Sao beach (definitely not as beautiful as Long beach but still worth a visit to end the tour). The tour cost $22US in total for the whole day and included a feast for lunch! #bargain
The tour bus picked us up from our hotel at 8:30am and drove us all the way to the south of the island to An Thoi pier. Here we hopped on a rickety little dingy (thankfully for only 5 minutes!) to get to the main boat. It took a while to get going as they had to pick up all the coconuts and food for lunch but we were finally on our way to Fingernail island (appropriately named for a Vietnamese island...#whateveryoulai #nailedit). If the cost wasn't cheap enough already, it included snorkel hire (but don't lose it or you'll have to pay for a new one, obviously). Snorkeling in the depths of Fingernail island was awesome and yes, we did find Nemo, and PLENTY of other colourful fish, including leopard patterned fish and puffer fish and the coral were like big, spongy brains! So cool! We had plenty of snorkel time, so don't worry about being rushed, and when everyone was ready we headed to Fingernail Island. You even have time to snorkel at Fingernail island, where you will find mainly white fish closer to the shore so I suggest venturing deeper near your tour boat.
Fingernail island is quite limited as the beach is small and is filled with parked boats. However, if you venture through the jungle to the back of the island you will find a much cleaner and less crowded beach (not very far). You will also find cute Phú Quốc ridgeback dogs and an array of squid, shellfish and lobsters at the restaurant.
I'd actually place this island in the instaworthy category as there are two beach swings, a swing on the jetty and a hammock at the end of the jetty so plenty of opportunities for the gram! #instadoit for that #picoftheday ...#islandvibes
Now, depending on your time schedule your tour may or may not take you to May Rut island. Unfortunately, ours didn't as we spent more time snorkeling at Fingernail island. However, I've heard that it's quite small and similar to Fingernail island. Be aware that there is another Fingernail island in the north (because what else could you possibly call an island in Vietnam???) close to Turtle island.
After getting stuffed on our boat feast of rice, tofu, chicken, pork, morning glory, fish and pineapple and feeding the leftover rice to the fish (I mean, what else would Vietnamese fish eat?), our next activity was fishing off the side of the boat. Everyone was given a handline with a small bait on the end and I'm proud to say that I caught the first fish of the day #profesh.
Next stop was a visit to the famous Sao beach. Here you will find the tall coconut trees, white sand, #instaperfect swings that tourists flock from all over to get to. Unfortunately, it's popularity has caused rubbish and water sports like jet skiing to slightly ruin it's lustre. You only need 30 minutes at this beach for the compulsory photo on the famous swings (land and water swings!) #tourist
The tour bus will drive you back to your hotel for around 6pm and you can waste the evening selecting from the variety of instaperfect photos you have taken all day.
What to bring on this tour:
- Swimmers and towel
- Hat and suncream
- Money: purchase a 30,000 coconut to munch on the boat!
- Camera, phone, Gopro
Day 4:
Our final day will be spent taking the world's longest cable car ride (8km long!) to get to Pineapple island (Hon Thom island)! A genuinely breathtaking experience, this is a day trip you simply cannot miss as the stunning views of the turquoise waters and coral reefs of An Thoi archipelago provides a perfect 360-degree aerial view. Fun fact: it was built by the Swiss and is in the Guinness book of world records for being the longest, non-stop, 3-way cable car ride in the world! The bird's eye view of fisherman wearing distinctly Vietnamese, conical bamboo hats in their adorable, blue fishing boats is phenomenal.
I recommend purchasing your tickets (300,000 dong each) in advance from Viet travel, an office located in Dương Đông town and here you can organise for the bus to pick you up from your hotel (or nearby) to take you to the cable station. If you take the bus it costs 300,000 dong return. If you're dis-organised and grab a taxi it'll cost you 500,000 dong (save that $8.50USD for lunch for two!). The bus picked us up from Eden resort, long beach.
When you arrive, the cable station is Rome themed and resembles the ancient Colosseum...not sure why but it's pleasing to look at and I've heard it's a symbol of 'East meets West'. When you go inside, the interior design makes you feel like you're in Universal studios or some sort of theme park.
Top tip: Purchase a Bánh mì (Vietnamese baguette) or bowl of phở here as it is a lot cheaper than on the island. At only 50,000 dong per meal, it definitely beats the only option of a 250,000 dong buffet at Pineapple island. Unless you can fill up on an ice cream or iced matcha frappe, the only main meal choice on Pineapple island is the buffet. Otherwise, bring along snacks/lunch because you'll be here for a few hours.
The cable car ride will take 15 minutes each way and it reaches speeds up to 30km/hr so you feel like you're flying across the ocean to Pineapple island. When you get off the cable car, hop straight onto an open-air shuttle mini bus (included in the price) which will play overly-jolly theme music all the way to the beach, passing at least a hundred coconut palms and tiki statues along the way! #yayparadise
You will arrive at Hon Thom nature park: a golden-sand beach with a super fun jumping castle obstacle course in the water (also included in the ticket) that I completed at least 10 times. Please let me know if you could do the monkey bars - slippery hands makes it by far the most challenging part! Grab a hammock, deck chair or swing from the palm trees for the rest of the afternoon. If you feel like being active, bring your goggles and swim around the vicinity of the water park (it's lined with a barrier to mark where you can swim). I swam around a couple of times and the water was so clear I could see fish darting around and crabs scuttling in the sand. Kayak hire is also free so you can get a little workout while watching kids slide off the big inflatable playground.
You will be asked to meet back at the Rome themed cable station for your bus to collect you (to be decided in advance, usually around 3-3:30pm) so leave enough time to ride the shuttle bus and cable car back. Pineapple island has a massive area of public showers so take a change of clothes before heading back on the cable car! The bus take you back to the pick-up point and you will still have time to spend your final evening watching the sun set over the sparkling ripples of long beach!
Finish the night off with another visit to Dương Đông night market for dinner or choose from the affordable and tasty restaurants found in my blog post 'Best places to eat on Phú Quốc island'.
If you're lucky enough to spend more than 4 days on Phú Quốc, other activities or day trip plans include:
- Hiking the trails of Phú Quốc National Park: check first to see if they are open for trail walking or under construction. Climb Mount Heaven if you're up for a 4 hour trek through the lush forest and a 10 metre tall bamboo ladder
- Khu Rừng Nguyên Sinh Forest Reserve via Gành Dầu village for camping, hiking, bird watching and photography
- Vinpearl Land theme park for all the kiddies who love rides
- Vinpearl Safari
- Vườn Tiêu pepper farm and Nhà Lao Cây Dừa (coconut prison)
- Khem beach (South island)
- Trại Cá Sấu (Crocodile farm)
- Nước Mắm Phụng Hưng (Fish sauce factory)
- Phú Quốc mud bath and spa: just off Long beach
Do another tour package if you want to visit some of the above all in one day!
For party animals:
- Largest nightclub on Phú Quốc island: Lion garden beer club
- Happy Buddha club
- Any resort will have cocktails!
Hope you enjoy your stay on Phú Quốc Island and I'm always happy to hear what activities you liked best about my itinerary so get in touch! (See my Instagram for more pics of these beautiful destinations: hbananazzz)
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