What Is Phu Quoc Famous For? 11+ Reasons Why Phu Quoc Is "Emerald Island”!

The main content of the article

1. Phu Quoc - Home to World-Famous Beach Paradise
2. Diverse and Rich Cuisine, One of the Best in the Country
3. Many Beautiful Craft Villages Offering Unique Experiences
4. A Place Preserving Historical and Cultural Relics
5. A Plenty of Relaxing Accommodation Options
6. A Featured UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
7. A Destination for Endless Marine Activities
8. A Lively Island with Many Entertainment and Leisure Areas
9. A Place to Admire Breathtaking Sunsets
10. A Destination for Nightlife Fun
11. Friendly and Hospitable Local People
FAQs When Visiting "Emerald Island" Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc is a beautiful island blessed with numerous picturesque landscapes, a place that has received much favor from nature. In Phu Quoc, visitors can admire a rare natural beauty with the perfectly harmonious combination of emerald blue sea, vast clear skies, and a diverse ecosystem of flora and fauna. But, what are the most unique aspects of Phu Quoc? What is Phu Quoc famous for? Let's explore the details through the article below with Joytime Travel Agency!

Phu Quoc Island is located offshore in the Gulf of Thailand, belonging to Kien Giang province, in southwestern Vietnam. Its coordinates span from latitude 9°53′ to 10°28′ North and longitude 103°49′ to 104°05′ East.

The distance from the mainland to the island is about 55 nautical miles (100km), the island is about 120km from Rach Gia and 45km from Ha Tien.

1. Phu Quoc - Home to World-Famous Beach Paradise

Phu Quoc is dubbed the emerald island in the western sea, possessing long stretches of beaches with fine white sand, clear blue water, and peaceful, pristine natural scenery. The famous beaches appear like paintings with turquoise sea water, gentle waves lapping the shore, and rows of leaning coconut trees creating an ideal relaxing space. The abundant sunshine, clear blue sky, and the salty taste of the sea breeze make this an ideal destination for nature lovers.

Not only beautiful during the day, but Phu Quoc's sea also possesses an enchanting beauty when sunset falls. The fiery red sun slowly sinks below the horizon, dyeing the entire sky with dreamy orange and purple hues. Small boats gently floating on the waves create a rare peaceful picture. It is the perfect harmony between natural colors, the gentle sound of lapping waves, and the fresh air that has made the Phu Quoc archipelago a masterpiece of creation.

Below are some famous islands and beaches in Phu Quoc that visitors can choose to visit:

Beach Name	Overview
Bãi Vem	Address: Phu Quoc, Kien Giang Overview: One of the famous fine sandy beaches in Phu Quoc, with pristine beauty and cool blue seawater.
Bai Ganh Dau	Address: Ganh Dau, Phu Quoc City, Kien Giang Overview: Located in the Northwest of Phu Quoc, jutting out to sea, famous for its peaceful and picturesque beauty.
Hon Doi Moi	Address: Ganh Dau, Phu Quoc City Overview: A small, undeveloped island that retains its rustic and pristine beauty.
Bai Dai	Address: Northwest of the island, Phu Quoc City, Kien Giang Overview: About 15km long, one of the most famous beaches of the "Pearl Island" with many resorts and vast blue sea beauty.
Bai Ong Lang	Address: West of Phu Quoc, Phu Quoc City, Kien Giang Overview: Famous for its mild weather and calm waves year-round, a suitable destination for sea activities.
Hon Mot	Address: Bai Thom, Phu Quoc City, Kien Giang Overview: An undeveloped tourist spot with a rich primeval forest ecosystem and unique emerald blue seawater.
Bien Vung Bau	Address: Cua Can, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang Overview: Has a nearly 6km long crescent-shaped coastline, one of the most pristine and lesser-known beaches.
Bai Khem	Address: South of Phu Quoc Island, Kien Giang Overview: A crescent-shaped beach with a warm atmosphere, a wide coastline, clear blue sea, and year-round sunshine..
Bai Sao	Address: Bai Sao Hamlet, An Thoi Ward, Phu Quoc City, Kien Giang Overview: A beautiful beach, famous for its nighttime scenery when tens of thousands of starfish move onto the white sand, enjoying the cool and peaceful atmosphere under the bright moonlight.
Bai Truong	Address: Tran Hung Dao Street, Duong To, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang Overview: The longest beach in Phu Quoc with a length of up to 20km, possessing clear blue seawater and large coconut trees. It is also a gathering place for many famous resorts.

What is Phu Quoc famous for - The bustling Phu Quoc sea scene

The bustling Phu Quoc sea scene with many boats - Image source: Pixabay

You can explore the beautiful beaches of Phu Quoc and also elevate your experience with Joytime's tours such as:

2. Diverse and Rich Cuisine, One of the Best in the Country

Phu Quoc is also a paradise for seafood dishes, such as the sweet and firm Ham Ninh crab, the rich and creamy sea urchin, the refreshing herring salad, and the crunchy grilled scallop cartilage.

Thanks to its rich marine ecosystem and clean source materials, the local cuisine is not only delicious but also a combination and blend of rustic tradition and modern creativity. Each dish tells a story about the land, people, and sea of Phu Quoc – making the journey to explore the pearl island more complete and memorable than ever.

Some specialty dishes in Phu Quoc that visitors can enjoy include:

Phu Quoc crab noodle soup (Banh canh ghe Phu Quoc)
Raw crab blood pudding (Tiet canh cua)
Ken noodles (Bun ken)
Free-range chicken (Ga ray)
Ham Ninh crab (Ghe Ham Ninh)
Grilled slipper lobster (Tom mu ni nuong)
Grilled scad (Ca song nuong)
Tram mushrooms (Nam tram)
Stirred noodles (Bun quay)
...

Dishes are cooked with fresh, top-quality seafood

Dishes are cooked with fresh, top-quality seafood - Image source: Pixabay

3. Many Beautiful Craft Villages Offering Unique Experiences

Traditional craft villages in Vietnam today are still preserved and developed daily, becoming one of the famous tourist destinations, attracting many international visitors to bring the most realistic and authentic experiences of local life. In particular, in Kien Giang, famous craft villages are concentrated in Phu Quoc, turning this "Pearl Island" into a place that preserves, conserves, and develops craft villages, especially in fishing villages with many interesting activities.

Each craft village in Phu Quoc possesses its own unique charm with pristine landscapes and traditional activities. Some famous craft villages include:

Craft Villages	Information
Fish Sauce Craft Village	With a history spanning over 200 years, the craft of making fish sauce in Phu Quoc has been recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage. Visitors can tour famous fish sauce production houses (nhà thùng) such as Khai Hoan and Phung Hung to learn about the traditional fermentation process and enjoy the rich, authentic flavor of pure fish sauce.
Coastal Fishing Villages	Fishing villages like Ham Ninh and Rach Vem offer visitors an experience of local fishermen's lives, from participating in seafood catching to enjoying fresh dishes right on the spot. This is an opportunity for visitors to better understand the culture and have complete experiences of the local people's lives.
Sim Wine Craft Village	Phu Quoc Sim wine is made from ripe wild sim berries, undergoing a natural fermentation process, creating a sweet and aromatic flavor. Sim wine production facilities like Bay Gao, Thanh Long, and Sim Son are not only production sites but also attractive tourist spots where visitors can taste and buy sim wine as gifts.
Pearl Farming Craft Village	Phu Quoc is dubbed the "kingdom of pearls" with a strongly developed pearl farming industry. Visitors can visit facilities such as Ngoc Hien and Long Beach to learn about the pearl farming and processing procedures, as well as shop for exquisite jewelry products.
Pepper Cultivation Craft Village	With a pepper cultivation area of about 500ha, Phu Quoc is famous for its pungent and distinctively aromatic black pepper. Visitors can tour pepper gardens in Cua Duong, Cua Can, and Duong To to learn about the pepper cultivation and harvesting processes, as well as buy pepper as gifts.

Ham Ninh fishing village is one of the most famous villages with a long history of formation - Image source: Ham Ninh Fishing Village, Phu Quoc Fanpage

4. A Place Preserving Historical and Cultural Relics

Besides its natural beauty and unique cuisine, Phu Quoc is also a land rich in tradition with many historical and cultural imprints preserved over thousands of years. Ancient architectural works with historical depth are evidence of a heroic past and the rich culture of the Vietnamese people in general and the local people in particular.

Some famous relics and attractions that visitors can explore when coming to the "Pearl Island" of Phu Quoc include:

Attraction	Overview
Mui Dinh Cau (Dinh Cau Cape)	Address: Khu pho 2, Phu Quoc City, Kien Giang Overview: Mui Dinh Cau is a sacred relic, located on the highest point of a large rocky outcrop at the mouth of the Duong Dong River facing the sea, with many ancient legends.
Phu Quoc Prison	Address: 350 Nguyen Van Cu Street, An Thoi, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang Overview: Phu Quoc Prison is a famous historical site, where thousands of revolutionary soldiers were once imprisoned. Here, visitors will gain a better understanding of the heroic and tragic years of the Vietnamese nation.
Duong Dong Port Historical Site	Address: To 15 Nguyen Van Troi Street, Duong Dong, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang Overview: Duong Dong Port is closely associated with the process of exploring and developing the pearl island's economy since ancient times. This is one of the most important trading hubs in Phu Quoc.
Suoi Tranh (Tranh Stream)	Address: Duong To, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang Overview: Suoi Tranh stands out with its wild beauty; the clear, cool stream winds through the green forest, making it an ideal place for picnics, relaxation, and enjoying nature.
Musical Water Fountain Stage	Address: DT45, Ganh Dau, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang Overview: The Phu Quoc Musical Water Fountain stage is famous for its stunning light, sound, and water performances. It is a unique artistic and cultural entertainment highlight not to be missed when visiting the island.
Truc Lam Zen Monastery - Ho Quoc Pagoda	Address: Truc Lam Ho Quoc Zen Monastery, Duong To, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang Overview: Truc Lam Ho Quoc Zen Monastery is the largest Buddhist complex in Phu Quoc, noted for its solemn architecture. The peaceful atmosphere here brings a sense of tranquility to visitors.
Cau Nguon Museum (Coi Nguon Museum)	Address: 149 Tran Hung Dao Street, Quarter 7, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang Overview: Cau Nguon Museum displays thousands of artifacts, reflecting the history of Phu Quoc's formation and development. It is also a place that preserves many unique cultural values of the "Pearl Island".

Solemn beauty at Ho Quoc Pagoda - Image source: Facebook Dinh Cua Dinh

5. A Plenty of Relaxing Accommodation Options

Phu Quoc is a large island with many ideal resort areas for tourists. Thanks to its advantage of spacious areas, beautiful natural landscapes, and developed services, it gathers a wide range of resorts and hotels, from high-end to mid-range, meeting the needs of both luxury travelers and explorers. Accommodation facilities in Phu Quoc are well-invested, integrating full amenities such as swimming pools, spas, Asian-European restaurants, bars, healthcare services, and entertainment areas.

When coming to Phu Quoc, visitors can stay at the following popular accommodations:

Hotel/Resort Name	Information
L'Azure Resort and Spa	Address: Tran Hung Dao Street/64 town, Duong Dong Town, Phu Quoc Overall review: The resort has a private beach, diverse spa and dining facilities, and provides free airport shuttle service.
Star Hill Phu Quoc	Address: 91/5B Tran Hung Dao Street, Quarter 7, Phu Quoc Overall review: The resort is surrounded by lush green trees, has an outdoor swimming pool, and is located near many attractions.
Sen Phu Quoc Hotel	Address: Alley 63 Tran Hung Dao Street, Duong Dong Town, Phu Quoc Overall review: An accommodation with reasonable cost, dedicated customer service, and located near the beach area.
Vinpearl Resort & Spa Phu Quoc	Address: Bai Dai, Ganh Dau, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang Overall review: The resort is designed with a strong East Asian beauty, offers a variety of room types, and provides full amenities in each room.
Sheraton Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort	Address: Bai Dai Area, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang Overall review: The resort features neoclassical European architecture and has many different amenities including an outdoor swimming pool, a private beach, and several restaurants within the premises.
JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa	Address: Khem Beach, An Thoi, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang Overall review: Located along Khem beach, the resort has a private beach with a large number of rooms, designed with a science fiction inspiration creating an impressive feel for visitors.
New World Phu Quoc Resort	Address: Khem Beach, An Thoi, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang Overall review: The resort impresses with its rustic, friendly design style, rich in Vietnamese identity.

Peaceful and tranquil scenery at Star Hill Phu Quoc resort - Image source: Star Hill Resort Phu Quoc Fanpage

6. A Featured UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

Phu Quoc is recognized by the world as one of the important biosphere reserves, with more than half of the island's area protected as part of the Kien Giang coastal and island biosphere reserve – which was recognized by UNESCO in 2006. This is one of the largest biosphere reserves in Vietnam, possessing rich ecosystems, pristine landscapes, and high biodiversity.

Some notable experiences for visitors when exploring the Phu Quoc biosphere reserve include:

Trekking in the primary forest, enjoying the cool atmosphere and discovering rare flora and fauna.
Kayaking or swimming in winding streams through the forest such as Tranh stream, Da Ban stream.
Snorkeling to see coral in the southern and southwestern sea areas of the island.
Visiting the marine protected area, learning how the local people preserve the environment and marine ecosystem.

Kayaking to explore the surface ecosystem in Phu Quoc

Kayaking to explore the surface ecosystem in Phu Quoc is one of the interesting and meaningful activities - Image source: Du lich Vina Phu Quoc Fanpage

7. A Destination for Endless Marine Activities

Possessing a long coastline, clear blue waters, and a rich marine ecosystem, Phu Quoc is one of the top destinations in Vietnam for water sports and exploration activities. Many beaches here still retain their pristine beauty, making them ideal places to admire natural coral reefs and explore the vibrant marine life under the crystal-clear water.

Visitors to Phu Quoc can participate in a series of attractive activities such as:

Scuba diving and snorkeling: Visitors can go diving to see vibrant coral reefs in the southern sea areas of the island such as Hon Mong Tay, Hon Gam Ghi. You can experience it with Day Tour | Experience Sea Walking Or Scuba Diving In Phu Quoc.
Fishing: In Phu Quoc, fishing with local fishermen is an interesting experience, allowing visitors to play the role of true coastal villagers and fully enjoy the results after fishing. You can experience squid fishing at Day Tour | Sunset Viewing Experience & Night Squid Fishing or Day Tour I Coral Fishing Experience at South Island I Phu Quoc.
Kayaking, jet skiing, or paragliding: These are unique water entertainment activities that help visitors feel the excitement of gliding on the clear blue sea surface. Try Kayaking right at Day Tour | North Island Tour - Kayaking - Explore Rach Vem Fishing Village - Pristine Forest - Grand World | Phu Quoc!
Watching the sunset from a yacht: A romantic activity, most suitable for couples or groups of friends when setting foot on the "Pearl Island" Phu Quoc because the vibrant, picturesque sunset here will surely be an unforgettable moment.
Exploring wild islands by speedboat: This activity is for those who love adventure and pristine nature, and can experience thrilling sensations.

You can explore more at Joytime’s Phu Quoc tour.

What is Phu Quoc famous for - Scuba diving to see coral

Scuba diving to see coral helps visitors explore the vibrant, colorful ocean world - Image source: Pexels

8. A Lively Island with Many Entertainment and Leisure Areas

Recently, with the increasing demand for tourism, "Pearl Island" Phu Quoc has increasingly focused on providing the most perfect and complete experiences for visiting tourists. In addition to enhancing experiential activities, Phu Quoc has added many large-scale planned entertainment areas with a variety of exciting games.

Below are some prominent destinations visitors can visit on Phu Quoc island:

Entertainment Area	Overview
VinWonders Phu Quoc	Address: Bai Dai Area, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang Overview: VinWonders Phu Quoc is a leading large-scale theme park in Asia. Here, visitors will have completely different experiences with 06 zones and 12 diverse game themes.
Phu Quoc Bee Farm	Address: Hamlet 2, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang Overview: Phu Quoc Bee Farm is a special attraction in the North of the island. Visitors can learn more about honey, and also enjoy fresh and quality honey.
Phu Quoc Pepper Gardens	Address: Duong Dong, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang Overview: Pepper gardens are one of Phu Quoc's "specialties". Visitors to the pepper gardens can learn about the cultivation process, play the role of a local, or take photos among the tall, green pepper rows.
Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc	Address: Bai Dai, Ganh Dau, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang Overview: Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc is considered the common home of thousands of animal species, including many rare ones. It is the first zoo in Vietnam to be certified by the SEAZA Association.
Grand World Phu Quoc	Address: Bai Dai, Ganh Dau, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang Overview: Grand World Phu Quoc is an ideal destination for tourists who love entertainment integrated with shopping and participating in unique festivals. Grand World offers a series of exciting experiences, operating continuously 24/7 with 23 different entertainment areas.

Beautiful flock of flamingos at Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc - Image source: Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc Fanpage

9. A Place to Admire Breathtaking Sunsets

Phu Quoc is considered a "resort paradise" because it possesses rich landscapes, abundant ecosystems, and especially incredibly romantic sunsets - a favored "specialty" that tourists definitely shouldn't miss. Phu Quoc's sunset has long been famous as one of the most romantic and beautiful scenes in Vietnam. However, at different times, its beauty changes.

Typically, around June (when there is not much rain) from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM is when visitors can fully admire the sunset. Or, visitors can choose to watch at the following specific times:

From 5:00 PM - 5:20 PM: The sunset has a dazzling, brilliant yellow color due to the remaining strong sunlight.
From 5:20 PM - 5:35 PM: The sunset has a golden-orange hue under the cool weather, with significantly gentler rays of sunlight.
From 5:35 PM - 5:55 PM: The sunset turns to an orange-pink color - the most beautiful, brilliant, and romantic moment. From 5:55 PM onwards: The sun gradually cools down, meaning the sunset also gradually fades, leaving the sky with the beauty of late afternoon clouds in shades of pink and purple.

Besides knowing the best time to watch the sunset, below are some of the most ideal viewing locations that visitors can consider:

Ong Lang Beach
Kiss Bridge
Long Beach Ham Ninh fishing village
Dinh Cau
Resorts: Felicity Movenpick Phu Quoc, Sun Grand City Hillside Residence, etc.

Romantic, colorful sunset scenery in Phu Quoc

Romantic, colorful sunset scenery in Phu Quoc - Image source: SunsetTown - Hoang Hon Town - Phu Quoc Fanpage

10. A Destination for Nightlife Fun

Not only is it famous for its sun-drenched beaches during the day, but Phu Quoc also captivates visitors with its vibrant and colorful nightlife. When the sun sets below the horizon, "Pearl Island" seems to put on a completely different appearance – youthful, liberal, and filled with lively music and lights. From bustling night markets to beachfront bars, from luxurious lounges to outdoor music events, Phu Quoc becomes a lively playground for those who love night time experiences. Whether visitors are looking for a relaxing place to unwind or want to party hard with friends, there are suitable options here.

Suggestions for some nightlife spots in Phu Quoc:

Duong Dong Night Market: A paradise of street food and souvenirs.
Sunset Sanato Beach Club: A check-in spot for watching the sunset and lively night parties.
Rory's Bar: A famous beachfront bar with a friendly atmosphere, chill music, and delicious drinks.
Ocean Beach Bar: An ideal place to sip cocktails while admiring the sparkling night sea.
Chain of restaurants & lounges in the Long Beach and South Island area: Offering many high-end entertainment options.

Rory's Bar is a beachfront bar with many chill music tracks

Rory's Bar is a beachfront bar with many chill music tracks - Image source: Rory's Bar Phu Quoc Fanpage

11. Friendly and Hospitable Local People

One of the key factors contributing to Phu Quoc's great appeal is not only its natural scenery or modern entertainment systems, but also the friendliness, hospitality, and sincerity of the local people. Whether in the bustling markets or at famous tourist spots, visitors will always feel the warm, welcoming reception and dedicated service attitude from the people here.

It is this simple, amiable, and hospitable way of life that has contributed to shaping a distinct culture and identity for Phu Quoc tourism – a place not just for sightseeing, but also for connecting and feeling the true breath of life. This closeness helps visitors feel safe, comfortable, and easily "fall in love" with the pearl island from the first time they set foot on it.

The warmth and hospitality of the local people

Visitors' experience in Phu Quoc is complete when they receive the warmth and hospitality of the local people - Image source: Visit Phu Quoc Fanpage

FAQs When Visiting "Emerald Island" Phu Quoc

Below are some questions related to traveling, exploring, and visiting "Pearl Island" Phu Quoc that visitors can refer to for a complete journey on the island:

When is the best time to visit Phu Quoc?

The ideal time to visit Phu Quoc is from late October to April of the following year. This is the dry season on the island, with beautiful sunny weather, calm seas, and clear blue skies, very suitable for outdoor activities such as swimming, snorkeling to see coral, exploring the primary forest, or enjoying seafood at the night markets.

However, the rainy season from June to September often has heavy rain and rough seas, which can easily affect your sightseeing schedule. Visitors should consider limiting travel during this period if they want to have a complete and convenient experience when exploring Phu Quoc pearl island.

What should you keep in mind when traveling to Phu Quoc?

Here are some notes visitors should be aware of before coming to Phu Quoc for the most complete experience:

Choose transportation: You can go by plane or high-speed ferry, depending on your departure location. From Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi, there are many direct flights daily.
Plan in advance: Create a clear itinerary to save time and costs.
Book tickets early: Especially plane tickets and hotel rooms if traveling during peak season.
Bring identification: Such as your Citizen Identity Card or passport (if you are an international visitor).
Prepare necessary items: Sunscreen, swimwear, personal medication, comfortable shoes.
Learn about local culture: To behave appropriately and communicate easily, and to respect local customs.
Safety notes: Do not swim when there are warning signs, avoid contact with strange creatures in the water if you do not have a guide.

How many days are needed to fully explore Phu Quoc?

To fully discover the beauty of Phu Quoc, visitors should spend about 3 – 5 days. This time is enough to visit famous beaches, experience water activities, explore the primary forest, visit craft villages, and enjoy local cuisine.

Spend about 3-5 full days to explore Phu Quoc

To explore Phu Quoc, visitors should spend about 3-5 full days - Image source: Pixabay

We hope this article has provided useful information about the reasons and outstanding special features of Phu Quoc island, helping visitors choose a suitable destination for an ideal vacation. For a more comfortable and convenient trip, visitors can choose to travel with Joytime Travel Agency through Day tour services in Phu Quoc. Joytime will assist with everything from selecting hotels, planning the itinerary, to arranging every detail for the trip. Contact Joytime Travel Agency now for more details and booking!

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