Phu Quoc Island

Phú Quốc

A picturesque island in the Gulf of Thailand known for pristine beaches, seafood restaurants, and lush hills, famous for its fish sauce production. It combines tropical relaxation with local culture and outdoor activities like snorkeling and hiking.

Things to do

• Snorkel at An Thoi Islands — Explore the coral reefs and tropical fish around the southern archipelago of 16 islands, accessible by boat tour from the main island.
• Visit Phu Quoc Prison — Tour the restored French colonial-era prison that housed Vietnamese political prisoners during the war, now a moving historical museum.
• Hike Chua Mountain — Trek to the island's highest peak for panoramic views of the coastline and jungle canopy, with a Buddhist pagoda at the summit.
• Relax at Long Beach — Stretch out on the island's most popular and developed white-sand beach lined with resorts, seafood shacks, and water sports vendors.
• Tour a Fish Sauce Factory — Watch the traditional fermentation process at a local nuoc mam producer to understand Phu Quoc's signature export and taste different varieties.
• Visit Duong Dong Night Market — Wander the bustling evening market in the main town to sample fresh seafood, street snacks, and buy local souvenirs and handicrafts.
• Beach Camp at Sao Beach — Experience the island's most unspoiled stretch on the eastern shore with crystal-clear water, soft sand, and minimal development.

Food to try

• Phu Quoc Fish Sauce (Nuoc Mam) — The island's most famous product, a pungent fermented fish condiment used in Vietnamese cooking, best purchased directly from factories or markets.
• Grilled Squid — Fresh local squid marinated in fish sauce, garlic, and lime, then grilled over charcoal and served at seaside restaurants and night markets.
• Pepper Crab — Whole fresh crab stir-fried with black pepper, garlic, and butter, a specialty dish showcasing the island's abundant seafood.
• Phu Quoc Pearls (Tapioca Dumplings) — Chewy tapioca balls filled with shrimp and pork, steamed and served with dipping sauce, a local delicacy found in restaurants and markets.
• Fresh Catch Seafood — Choose from the daily catch at waterfront restaurants where vendors display ice-packed fish, shrimp, and shellfish prepared to order.
• Scallops with Garlic Oil — Sweet, tender scallops sautéed in aromatic garlic oil and garnished with herbs, highlighting the island's premium seafood offerings.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Fish Sauce Heritage — Fish sauce production is central to Phu Quoc's identity and economy; visiting factories and purchasing authentic nuoc mam directly supports local families and traditions.
• Dress Modestly at Temples — When visiting Chua Mountain pagoda or local temples, wear covered shoulders and knees as a sign of respect to Buddhist customs.
• Learn Basic Vietnamese Phrases — English is less common outside tourist areas, so learning greetings and food-related phrases helps you connect with locals and navigate markets more easily.
• Visit Markets Early Morning — Local markets are most vibrant and stocked before 8 AM when fishermen sell the night's catch and villagers shop for fresh ingredients.