Discover Vietnam’s Most Stunning Island: Where Pristine Beaches Meet Lush Jungles
Located in southern Vietnam, Phu Quoc Island resembles a small slice of heaven. Often referred to as the “Jade Island” due to the lush forests enveloping its pristine white sand shores, this destination serves as an ideal retreat.
Over the past few years, Vietnam has successfully kept pace with fellow Southeast Asian nations like Thailand and Indonesia in terms of tourism appeal. Its advantageous location provides easy access as it shares boundaries with China to the north and Laos and Cambodia to the west. This geographical placement attracts visitors globally. Beyond its rich historical legacy spanning millennia, stunning temples, and picturesque terraced rice paddies, Vietnam offers idyllic island getaways for exploration. Of particular note is Phu Quoc Island, which stands out as our top pick amongst them.
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An island
with an air of
paradise
Boasting an area of 567 square kilometers, Phu Quoc stands as Vietnam’s biggest island. Situated in the Gulf of Thailand, approximately 400 km southwest of mainland Vietnam, it claims the title for the world’s longest cable car system. Its unspoiled white sand shores, crystal-clear waters, and dense tropical forests create a paradise-like atmosphere akin to a deserted island. This idyllic setting offers ideal conditions for relaxation, swimming, hiking, and exploration.
snorkelling
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In the northwest part of the island lies one of the nation’s loveliest national parks, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This park houses approximately 1,000 plant species and around 200 animal varieties. It serves as an ideal destination for hiking enthusiasts. For those seeking adventure, climbing to the summit of Mount Nui Chua, known as the highest point in Phu Quoc, offers breathtaking views. From up there, visitors can admire panoramic vistas of rolling hills covered with forests, rugged mountain chains, and distant seas glistening under the sun.
The most stunning shores on Phu Quoc Island
Although every beach on Phu Quoc boasts remarkable charm, certain ones distinguish themselves from the others. Below are only a handful of these exceptional locations.
Cua Can beach
To the north of Phu Quoc, about 11 kilometers from Duong Dong, lies a pristine and wild beach. Its uniqueness stems from its location where the Cua Can River meets the sea; visitors can traverse the river using unstable wooden bridges here.
Ong Lang beach
This beach likely ranks among the top spots for admiring the island’s gorgeous sunset. Its vibrant coral reefs in multiple colors draw scuba divers to Ong Lang as well. It’s a enchanting location and an essential visit.
Rach Vem beach
Situated in a quaint fishing hamlet up north, Rach Vem Beach offers a tranquil escape composed purely of pristine white sands, crystal-clear waters, and an abundance of starfish scattered along the shoreline. This secluded locale is perfect for those seeking peaceful moments as they dip their toes into the gentle waves.
Sao Beach (also known as Bai Sao)
To the southern part of the island lies Sao Beach, which offers another wonderful opportunity for exploration. Spanning 7 kilometers with pristine white sands, this picturesque coastline is bordered by swaying coconut trees. As evening falls, countless starfish make their way onto the shore—an incredible spectacle to witness.
Additional activities available on the island include
- Embark on a boat journey to discover the island’s perimeter and stop at other hidden bays.
- Fishing for squid during nighttime (particularly when the water is peaceful).
- Explore the nightly market in Dong Duong, which operates from 5 pm to 11 pm each evening.
- Sample the local delicacies of Phu Quoc, which primarily include sea urchin, crab, and pickled herring.
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Explore Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc, a vast 380-hectare wildlife sanctuary home to more than 3,000 creatures representing approximately 150 distinct species native to both Africa and Asia.