Phu Quy Island is a small, picturesque island located in the South China Sea, off the coast of Binh Thuan Province in Vietnam. The island has rather average beaches and rugged rocky landscapes. However, it offers a laid-back and peaceful environment, making it a perfect destination for those seeking relaxation and tranquillity away from the crowds on the mainland. The population is small, and its inhabitants are mainly involved in fishing and farming.
How to get to Phu Quy Island?
The Island can be comfortably reached with Superdong Ferries or Phu Quoc Expresses from Phan Thiet. Check the schedule on their website as it varies depending on the season.
When to go?
You will get more sun and a more pleasant experience from December to May, during the dry season. This period offers ideal conditions for enjoying beaches and engaging in water sports without being affected by the intense heat of the Vietnamese summer.
Where to stay?
I stayed for one night at Thành Trinh Hotel đảo Phú Quý and for the price I paid (9 EUR), it was of amazing quality. The owner picked me up from the port and once we got to the accommodation, he also rented me his scooter so I was able to explore the island independently. The room was spacious and bright.
How to get around the island?
Without a doubt, the best option is to rent a motorbike. Ask for one at your accommodation. They will either have one or get in touch with someone who can deliver it to you within minutes.
Taking your own motorbike on the ferry doesn’t make sense as it’s too expensive for a short-term trip. If you have one, it’s better to park it at your hotel and then rent one on Phu Quy.
What to do on Phu Quy Island?
Fishing village
The narrow streets with houses around Phu Quy Port are mainly built in the traditional style, creating a beautiful space for photography. You may follow the concrete embankment which is especially pleasant at sunset.
Hon Tranh Island
That small island can be reached by boat from the beach on the eastern part of Phu Quy Port. There should be two trips per day, at about 8 AM and 2 PM but double check with your hotel. On the island, there are two sandy beaches and that’s about it.
Trieu Duong Bay
Further east is a big beach where local people like to gather. You can buy some grilled seafood or Vietnamese pizza made with rice paper and relax in the shade. Good idea to take mosquito repellent.
Flagpole Viewpoint
Continue following the main road around the island to reach that viewpoint with the Vietnamese flag. It can get quite windy but the panorama of the sea and beach below is decent. Here I met a super nice Vietnamese who visited Poland once before, when they used to live in the Czech Republic. The world is small!
Ganh Hang (The Happy Slot)
You will need to go down the cliff to reach a natural pool among the rocks. Swimming shoes are recommended as the rocks may be sharp.
Ben Cano Hon Tranh
A small fishing area with a market operating from dawn. Nearby, there are floating rafts that serve affordable seafood. You can also participate in SUP or snorkelling to see the coral during the high tide. A few kilometers further north, you may make another stop at the beach called: Bai Tam Lach Xanh.
Mo Thay
One of the nicest places to visit in Phu Quy Island. The temple with Master Nai’s Tomb is more than 300 years old. It provides spiritual support for the fishermen before each trip to the sea and is a place symbolizing the cultural interference between the Vietnamese and the Chinese. On the side of the cliff, you will find photogenic ponds with seafood.
Linh Son Pagoda and Cao Cat Mountain
Cao Cat Mountain is the second highest point on the island. Therefore, it provides a panoramic view of Phu Quy and the sea surrounding the island. The mountain is considered sacred to the people living on the island and Linh Son Pagoda, which was built more than 100 years ago, sits near its top.
Linh Buu Pagoda and the Lighthouse
The temple is located at the foot of Cam Mountain, which is the highest point of Phu Quy Island. You may follow the path with over 120 stone steps to reach the lighthouse at its top. The views are worth the effort!
Linh Quang Pagoda
Popular temple among locals, where major festivals take place every year such as Buddha’s Birthday, Vu Lan Festival, and Thanh Minh Festival.
