Close to Cambodia, the Phu Quoc Islands are stunning. The largest of the 28 Island archipelago, Phu Quoc is a top Island tourist destination. Due to the myriad of resorts and having an international airport. But there are other reasons to explore. Before deciding on spending a summer holiday to Phu Quoc Island, continue reading:
The Islands are perfect for a two-day holiday getaway. Lots of beaches to relax on, find a quiet one with crystal clear waters. Want a greater level of peacefulness? No problem, rent a boat and make your way to one of the smaller Islands. Or book a tour of the Islands before arriving to Vietnam, whatever suits you. Many of the larger Islands in this archipelago are connected by a cable car system. Use this if you're holidaying with family for greater convenience.
Vietnam is well known for having great beaches anyway, those in Da Nang we found to be quite nice. Beaches on the Phu Quoc Islands are no different, you will enjoy yourself on most of them. Because there are so many, each day you could be lounging on a different beach. The best beaches we enjoyed on our stay on the Islands were:
Two beaches receiving the most attention is:
It's the activities on those two beaches, such as kitesurfing, kayaking and jet skiing all act as a magnet. If you seek a little more peace and quiet, we suggest you look elsewhere for a beach. Such as the Mui Ong Doi or Ganh Dau beaches or the small Islet May Rut. Any good tour guide will be more than happy to give you directions.
The Phu Quoc Islands have a UNESCO protected biosphere reserve. On top of that there's an UNESCO protected marine reserve. The Islands are beautiful natural landscapes, each ideal for trekking. Not an outdoor enthusiast? It doesn't matter, you would still appreciate the idyllic beauty. The mountainous jungles are inescapable, and curiosity will get the better of you.
And to give you a glimpse of what is coming, the first thing you'll come across is the Suoi Tranh waterfall. Pack a picnic and swimwear and head off in search. At the waterfalls you can go swimming in some of the pools, splash around in others. Complete holiday fun for everyone. If you are not confident in finding the waterfall on your own, look online for a Phu Quoc nature tour. Book in advance to avoid disappointment.
If the rainforests aren't for you don't fret. You can rent a boat and go diving instead to enjoy the underwater reefs along the 150km coast. There's something to do to fill your time preventing you from being bored.
The Phu Quoc Islands have a worldwide reputation for the quality. Many of their local dishes are specialty seafood dishes, and unique to the Islands. One of the more enjoyable tours we had during our stay was one of a local factory. It's recommended, to understand why the Island's local sauces have gained international recognition. The experience is all about the different flavors of the sauces, you can't find anywhere else.
Eating out on the Islands, at one of the restaurants in town is a complete pleasure, for example. The hotel or resort you stay at too; the quality of food and service is exceptional. We even saw Vietnam's national dish, Pho on the menus. A little different to what we ate in Hanoi on a previous holiday, but Pho all the same. Pho is Pho, you develop a taste and love for it.
This Island is easy to reach, in thanks to the international airport on the Phu Quoc Island. There are daily flights from many of Vietnam's cities, such as Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi City and Da Nang City. You can even reach Phu Quoc Islands from Nha Trang's Cam Ranh International Airport. You'll notice when on the Islands, how many local HCMC residents there are. Particularly on a weekend. It's a point in case young professionals make the short journey to spend a few days relaxing in the sun.
If they can, you can too when holidaying in Vietnam. Does Da Nang City to Phu Quoc Islands sound good to you, in less than 5 hours? Of course, it does. Young professionals coming and going can push up accommodation prices on the Islands. Plan a head and book your stay in advance to grab a deal.
If you tire of beach life or you want a distraction there are many Island attractions that may interest, you. Continue reading to discover what attractions there are on the Islands. Retire your day with a lazy evening on this beach watching the sunset in the distance. Picturesque, the sunset is slow in setting, painting the sky in an orange bonanza. Every sunset is beautiful and feels as if it'll never be repeated.
Returning to your hotel your thoughts are full of new emotions of this Island paradise.
The largest town and central tourist hub for the whole archipelago area. It's where many tourists travel to the Islands chose to stay, in town. There is a hotel for every pocket. Pick one, from budget friendly 3-star establishments to sheer luxury. The international airport isn't far out of town, our taxi driver took only 20 minutes.
Did you book your holiday retreat in a jungle resort? You'll need to make your way there by cable car or rent a boat. But bare a thought, the town has nice cafes and restaurants, they shouldn't be shunned. It would be a shame to not visit the town before leaving the Islands for good.
A sensational experience so elevated. Enjoy beautiful panoramic views of the clear blue pristine ocean below. From the height of the 19th floor, you can see everything far and wide. The bar and restaurant serve fresh seafood all day and into the evening. Whilst you relax enjoying a meal, keep looking out over at an amazing sunset.
Now a museum but back in its day life was brutal on political prisoners. The narrative tells a story of how the French tortured their Vietnamese prisoners. Anyone who disagreed with French rule was subjected to punishment. The most prolific agitators faced a long prison sentence:
You can find the museum close to the Bai Sao beach. Without any doubt, it's one of those attractions you must go and visit. If for no other reason than to understand the impact colonial rule has on indigenous people.
Learn more about the local seafood specialties from the men who bring in their daily catches. The village pier is lined with a multitude of color hulled boats as they arrive and sail out.
There is so much to see and do on the tropical Islands you are spoilt rotten. A best choice for everyone: couples, solo backpackers and families. Phu Quoc has it all. It would be silly to brush it off without further investigation. Why is that? Ask yourself why so many residents from HCMC congregate on this Island archipelago.
They arrive in large numbers on many occasions, for a weekend of relaxation. Life in one of Vietnam's largest cities is hectic. Stressful jobs as well, with an inadequate work/life balance.
Outside the south's monsoon season, there is a climate most favorable. When your holiday plans bring you to Ho Chi Minh City, or Da Nang City most definitely Phu Quoc isn't out of your way. You can get to the main Island direct from Vietnam itself. And from other destinations found in Thailand, Cambodia and China and South Korea.
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