My Journey: A Beach Getaway in Phu Quoc

James Pham, destination editor at Dinogo Planet, recently visited Phu Quoc, an island off the southern coast of Vietnam. He shares tips and insights for anyone considering a similar adventure.

Seeking refuge from the intense Saigon heat, I booked a one-hour flight to Phu Quoc. Nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, Vietnam’s largest island has rapidly become a top beach destination over the past decade, boasting 150km (93 miles) of stunning coastline, a visa waiver for all nationalities, and an abundance of tourist attractions.

Where did you stay? What was the atmosphere like?

While most hotels are clustered around the main town of Duong Dong, I opted to stay at the southern tip of the island, a gateway to the smaller islands. I was also eager to explore the newly developed Sunset Town, intriguingly inspired by Italy's Amalfi Coast. Having just vacationed on the real Amalfi Coast a few months earlier, I initially wanted to dislike the idea (really, a piece of Italy recreated in tropical Vietnam?). To my surprise, I found the authentic vibe captivating, strolling along cobblestone streets lined with pastel-colored homes, terracotta roofs, and vibrant bougainvillea.

I spent several days at La Festa Phu Quoc, the first Southeast Asian property in the Curio Collection by Hilton. The hotel felt like a dream, featuring a towering clock tower, grand arched ceilings, and a sparkling infinity pool overlooking the ocean. I appreciated the variety of nearby entertainment options, including a cable car to Hon Thom Island and the harbor where boats set off for island-hopping adventures.

Leaving behind the faux-European charm, I embraced another surreal experience at the JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa. Created by renowned architect Bill Bensley, this design-centric resort has a unique backstory – it imagines a fictional 19th-century university, with each building themed around a different academic department (picture a lobby filled with vintage bookcases reminiscent of a dean’s library, and a bar evoking a chemistry lab, all wrapped in art deco flair). It’s a paradise for design enthusiasts (and Instagrammers), a visual delight at every turn. Equally impressive is its setting at the end of Kem Beach, often hailed as the island’s most beautiful spot, with soft sands, swaying palms, and crystal-clear waters.

What was my favorite activity from the trip?

Although I had enjoyed snorkeling excursions to several of Phu Quoc’s nearly two dozen islands, I had yet to experience the cable car ride to Hon Thom (Pineapple Island). Recognized by Guinness World Records as the longest non-stop three-rope cable car in the world, this nearly 8km (5-mile) journey offers breathtaking views, soaring over fleets of fishing boats, lush islands, and an expansive stretch of vibrant blue water.

At the end of the picturesque 20-minute ride lies Sun World Hon Thom, an amusement park featuring 20 water slides, an exhilarating wooden roller coaster, a beach area, an observation deck, and much more. I was also thrilled to try a new adventure: sea walking among the colorful coral and schools of fish in the waters of a UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve. Best of all, a family-friendly day here is incredibly affordable, costing just 1,000,000d ($39) for adults and $26 for children, covering the cable car ride, park entry, and buffet lunch.

What surprised you the most?

I didn’t anticipate having so many nighttime activities available. Previously, going out meant an expensive taxi ride to the main town. However, in Sunset Town, there were daily Jet Ski and flyboard shows, along with complimentary water puppet performances by the beach.

Another unexpected delight was the top-notch production quality of Kiss of the Sea, an extraordinary multisensory show blending stunning pyrotechnics, Cirque du Soleil-style acrobatics, and sound and lights projected onto curtains of cascading water in a futuristic venue right by the sea. The performance ended with an exhilarating fireworks display (also visible from the town), after which we headed to the vibrant night market filled with budget-friendly street food stalls and free street art performances.

What was the highlight of your culinary experience?

While Phu Quoc is known for its fresh seafood, world-class fish sauce, and peppercorns, my most unforgettable meal was actually French fine dining at Pink Pearl. In a delightful twist, I didn’t expect to enjoy one of the best meals of my life, featuring Japanese wagyu and French scallops, on this small tropical island. The beautifully presented dishes were complemented by the all-pink ambiance, complete with servers in sequined flapper dresses and whimsical decor (think a shell-encrusted flamingo, a quirky penguin, a stuffed peacock, and an oversized white owl—elements that shouldn’t mesh but somehow do), all beneath a soaring ceiling with live piano and violin music.

What are your top recommendations for someone planning a similar trip?

If it’s your first visit to Phu Quoc, consider dividing your time between the bustling town of Duong Dong, known for its lively night market and diverse dining options, and the stunning southern beaches like Kem Beach and the popular Sao Beach, frequented by day tourists. This way, you’ll experience both the local culture and a more laid-back beach holiday. For a budget-friendly stay, look into the mini hotels in Sunset Town or search for packages that combine lodging with activities such as Kiss of the Sea and excursions to Hon Thom Island.

James Pham visited Phu Quoc at the invitation of Sun Group. Dinogo Planet does not accept freebies in exchange for favorable reviews.