Located of the southwest coast, in the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc is the largest island of Vietnam. It is possible to access by boat from Rach Gia (5h) or Ha Tien (4h), many prefer to fly from Ho Chi Minh City (45min)
Phu Quoc Island, also known as Jade Island because of its natural resources and its tourist potential. In 2006, the island was recognized as a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO.
Phu Quoc is not only a tourist destination, known as the paradise of sunshine, but it also contains many mysteries that we cannot explore. On Phu Quoc Island, there are many beautiful beaches that stretch from north to south as well as a hundred hills, forests, mountain ranges with abundant flora and fauna. The south of the island is composed of 12 different small islands of An Thoi archipelago, or Mong, Doi Moi, and Thay Boi islands … in the north. These places are ideal for navigation, fishing, diving, coral admiration, discovery of the island and picnic. The beaches are sparsely populated and very quiet, which is the feature of this beautiful place.
Also, 37ha of the mountainous area north of the island belong to a nature reserve established in 1986. With rich fauna and flora, this huge forest can be an opportunity for trekking in dry season only.
The coastline also allows various activities: swimming, diving or fishing. In addition, the island is full of different places of worship, such as Sung Hung Pagoda and Cua temple.
Finally, excursions in An Thoi archipelago are proposed. 30 minutes by boat from the south of Phu Quoc, you can explore one of these five islands, including Thom Island populated by fishermen. Thus, Phu Quoc is an ideal place to enjoy South Vietnam.
Recreational activities in Phu Quoc Island
Discovery of underwater corals
Various marine ecosystems in An Thoi archipelago in the south or Mong Tay, Do Moi Islands to the north are ideal for exploring the ocean floor, in particular, of the most abundant corals in Vietnam with 17 hard and soft sorts and various sea anemones.
With a team of sailors, visitors can explore the most deserted corners of the ocean and then land on a wild island to enjoy the holiday experience on the beach in their own way.
Fishing and discovery of wild islands
Fishing is a particularly interesting hobby. A very experienced sailor will situate the reef that is home to many fish, so that tourists can catch fish such as grouper… Fish caught will be served on board. This is an opportunity to understand the lives of hardworking fishermen in remote islands.
In addition, for those who love the quietness, a sea cruise will definitely be one to remember for a journey full of enthusiasm.
An Thoi archipelago with 12 islands in the south or Mong Tay, Doi Moi Islands in the north which are still intact with white sand will be quite suitable for couples of groups of friends.
Night squid fishing
When night falls, Phu Quoc Island becomes very quiet but distance off, the life of fishermen is always bustling with twinkling lights that resemble a bustling city. This is also the time to relax and experience the night squid fishing.|
What a pleasure to fish yourself squid or catch blue bone fish floating on the surface of the sea. The calamary or fish will be cooked and eaten on board.
Exploration of forests
If you like adventure, explore forests is the best choice for you. The multilingual ecological reserve located downstream of the flow from Ham Ninh mountain is ideal for outdoor activities, hiking, exploring the forest and swimming. Visitors have the joy of being immersed in cold water, and also the opportunity to enjoy a fresh feeling of nature.
Exploration of northern wild island
North of Phu Quoc Island is a land rich in forests with abundant flora and fauna and many beautiful beaches hidden behind the forest. We can say that arriving to the North of this island is the arrival in the pristine nature. Tourist attractions in the north of the island are numerous: Khu Tuong pepper garden, Ganh Dau Ecological Reserve, Nguyen Trung Truc Temple (Vietnamese hero in the fight against the enemies), Dai beach (voted by BBC as one of the 10 beaches in the world).
Note: Due to conflicts between Thai, Khmer and Vietnamese, part of Phu Quoc is classified military zone and therefore forbidden to civilians. Also, you cannot access all the beaches of the island.
Accommodation
Hotel facilities free of large-scale, the island remains welcoming for tourists. Most hotels are located on the west coast, more precisely south of Duong Dong and near the airport.
Transportation
The roads of the island mainly built down to dirt tracks. Also, the ideal is to move by bike. There are many motorcycle taxis. Moreover, it is possible to rent a motorbike at a low cost.
