Phu Quoc (Phú Quốc) is the largest island in Vietnam, located in the Gulf of Thailand near the border with Cambodia. It is popular for its clear water, coral reefs, wonderful beaches and rich nature. Administratively, the island is divided into several communes (communes) and urban areas, each with its own atmosphere and "chips". Below is a guide to the main locations.
- Duong Dong Zone (Dương Đông) – the “capital” of the island
- The administrative and commercial center of Fukuoka. It is here that the majority of the city's infrastructure is concentrated: official institutions, banks, a bus station, and large supermarkets.
- Phu Quoc Night Market. The heart of the nightlife, where you can try seafood delicacies, buy pearls, souvenirs or just stroll, soaking up the aroma of tropical air and fried squid.
- Harbour and fishing port. One of the most colorful places: fishing boats, authentic cafes, the morning bustle of unloading the fresh catch.
- Long Beach. The most popular beach line, which actually starts right in Duong Dong and stretches to the south. Here you will find hotels of different price categories, restaurants for every taste and atmospheric beach bars.
Who will suit: For lovers of an active life, night markets, a large selection of cafes and restaurants, as well as those who want to always be in the epicenter of island events.
- Airport and area south of Duong Dong
- Phu Quoc International Airport. Situated about 10 km from Duong Dong, the area around it is actively developing with the emergence of new hotels, entertainment complexes and business centres.
- Availability of transport. Quick access to main roads leading to the north and south of the island; plenty of taxi and transfer options.
- Emerging urbanism. It's not as lively as Duong Dong itself, but shopping malls, conference complexes, cafes and international chain hotels are already popping up.
Who will suit: For those who value proximity to the airport, who want to move around the island without unnecessary fuss, and who prefer new, modern hotels.
- South-East of the island: An Thoi commune
- An Thoi Port. The second "capital" of Phu Quoc, an important port hub, from where ferries and boats depart to neighboring islands (for example, Hon Thom). The famous cable car to Hon Thom Island starts from here - one of the longest in the world over the sea.
- Bãi Khem Beach. White sand, more secluded atmosphere, popular place for photo shoots. Many 5-star resorts are hidden in the coastal palm groves.
- Fishing village. Near An Thoi you can find typical fishing villages and try very fresh seafood in family cafes.
Who will suit: For those who want to experience a cable car over the sea, explore the nearest islands of the archipelago, immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the southern beaches and relax in luxury resorts.
- Northern Phu Quoc: Gành Dầu, Cửa Cạn and surrounding areas
- Phu Quoc National Park. The main natural attraction. Rare species of birds, animals and exotic plants live here. The best location for trekking, including routes through tropical forests.
- Bãi Dài Beach. One of the most beautiful and longest in the north. Calm sea, clean water, opportunity to go snorkeling or fishing.
- Vinpearl and Safari Park. Large entertainment complex (VinWonder Phu Quoc): water park, rides, safari park and everything you need for an all-inclusive family holiday.
- Fishing villages and border views. The north is closer to Cambodia, so you can experience the color of the border zone, see traditional fishing boats and enjoy the silence away from the main crowd.
Who will suit: Families with children (because of the parks and safaris), lovers of untouched nature, those who prefer a more relaxing beach holiday with the sound of the surf.
- East Coast of Fukuoka: Ham Ninh commune
- Fishing village Ham Ninh. It is known for its historical color: according to legends, the village is already several centuries old. There is a gorgeous panorama of mountains, sea and fish farms.
- Seafood. Ham Ninh is famous for its lobsters and crabs, which are cooked right on the coast. For gourmets, it is almost a must-see.
- Quiet beaches. The water is often a little murkier than on the west coast, but there are fewer tourists and the experience is more authentic.
Who will suit: For lovers of simplicity, seafood cuisine and secluded corners.
- South Coast: Duong To Commune (Dương Tơ)
- Bai Truong (Bãi Trường) – “continuation” of the Long Beach beach strip, but closer to the airport and southern areas. New hotels are being built here, clubs are appearing on the shore.
- Pearl farms. Duong To is famous for its pearl production, you can visit the farms, learn about the growing processes and buy certified Vietnamese pearls.
- New resorts. In recent years, luxury hotels have appeared and the area is being actively developed, competing with the central area.
Who will suit: For those who want to combine proximity to Duong Dong, relative privacy and interest in the pearl business.
Additional points
- Transport: Phu Quoc is heavily populated by taxis, motorcycle taxis (xe ôm), scooters and bicycles. Roads are improving, but there may be unpaved sections in remote areas.
- Infrastructure: The closer to Duong Dong and An Thoi, the higher the density of shops, restaurants, pharmacies and banks. In the north and east, everything is a little simpler and calmer.
- Food: Be sure to try the local sauces (Phu Quoc fish sauce is one of the most famous brands throughout Vietnam), as well as local fruits, coffee and seafood.
- Weather: The dry season (mainly November-April) is the tourist peak. The rest of the time, showers are not uncommon, but the island still remains attractive to those who love tropical flavor.
Conclusion
Phu Quoc is divided into several key areas:
- Duong Dong (center) – for those who love the city rhythm, markets and nightlife.
- An Thoi (south) – starting point to the islands, cable car, luxury resorts and picturesque beaches.
- North (Gan Zau, Kua Kan, etc.) - national park, silence, safari park and wild landscapes.
- East (Ham Ninh) – authentic fishing atmosphere, fresh crabs and a leisurely pace.
- Duong To (South-Central) - pearl farms, fast-growing resorts, new opportunities for recreation.
Keep these features in mind when planning your trip, so you can tailor your itinerary to your desired experience. Some people prefer glamorous hotels and bars, others like to leisurely wander through markets and try unusual seafood delicacies, and others want to escape into the wild nature of the park and drown in the greenery of the jungle. Phu Quoc is ready to give all these facets and even a little more.
