Vietnam's Breathtaking Island Offers An Idyllic Getaway For Beach Lovers

Vietnam may be one of the cheapest travel destinations in the world, but make no mistake, it absolutely abounds with idyllic islands, lush jungles, intricate rice terraces, vibrant cities, and internationally loved cuisine. But even with so much to explore, Phu Quoc, the country's largest island, consistently draws travelers seeking Vietnam's most idyllic beach escape.

Once a little-known hidden gem, Phu Quoc is now a must-see destination, boasting five-star resorts, a casino, an amusement park, and even the longest cable car ride in the world, while still striving to balance drawing tourism and the economic boost the industry brings with the preservation of the island's natural beauty and allure. Despite its rising popularity, the island is one of the safest beach destinations in the world, and one of the most sought-after beach getaways in the country. Phu Quoc was also named the most beautiful island in Asia and the third most beautiful in the world, according to Conde Nast Traveler's 2025 Reader's Choice Awards.

While there are no direct flights from the United States to Phu Quoc Island, visitors can fly into one of mainland Vietnam's major cities, including Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi, and then take a direct flight to the idyllic island. Getting around Phu Quoc itself is fairly easy, with ridesharing platforms like Grab and local taxis operating throughout the island. Electric buses, scooters, and private cars are also readily available.

Ham Rong Beach, also called Starfish Beach for the thousands of red starfish that call the velvety sands home, is a breathtaking, secluded beach on the northern coast of Phu Quoc. Accessible by motorbike, Ham Rong's calm waters make it an ideal location for swimming and sunbathing, as well as more active endeavors, including stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling, hiking, and camping. Its unobstructed shoreline also makes it an exceptional place to take in Vietnam's mesmerizing sunrises and sunsets.

Located on the southern tip of the island, Sao Beach is an idyllic island getaway that keeps some visitors returning year after year. Split into three distinct sections, the beach's southern end offers plenty of areas to lounge, seek refuge from the heat under sun umbrellas, and take a break from the crowds. Eateries, water sports, and entertainment are found toward the center of the more than 4-mile stretch of immaculate sands. On Sao Beach's northern tip, towering coconut trees and rope swings are set against rolling hills and lush jungles, creating a postcard-worthy backdrop perfect for an idyllic day relaxing on the pristine white sands and in the crystal-clear, calm waters.

While not considered one of Phu Quoc's prettiest beaches, Long Beach, also referred to as Bai Truong, is one of the island's most popular. Spanning over 12 miles and various topographies, including lush jungles, jagged cliffs, and more than a few fishing outposts, Long Beach is a great choice for those on a budget, with affordable accommodations scattered across its northern end, and its close vicinity to Phu Quoc's infamous night markets. Staying and playing in the area of Duong Dong will ensure the cleanest beaches and most spectacular sunsets.

On Phu Quoc, you will be spoiled for choice when it comes to food. With countless five-star Google reviews, Mai Hương Beachfront is a standout restaurant for tourists and locals alike. Another great choice is Grand World Mai Hương, which serves the freshest seafood and offers some of the best sunset viewing on the island. Located in the Wyndham Grand Phu Quoc, Nautilus is also a very highly-rated restaurant that specializes in international buffets and the freshest local seafood.

After indulging in the island's signature seafood and Southeast Asian dishes, Ricordo Restaurant provides a welcome change of pace with its thoughtful, flavor-forward Italian and Korean cuisine. Located in the Mojo Boutique Hotel on the south end of the island, Ricordo boasts a standout 4.8-star rating backed by almost 4,900 Google reviews, and serves a variety of wood-fired pizzas, Korean fried chicken, tteokbokki, and mango ​​bingsoo, a traditional Korean dessert comprised of shaved ice, condensed milk, and fresh fruit. Nearby, Nora's Cafe is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and specializes in fresh, bright, healthy smoothie bowls, mango and banana dumplings, spicy coffee, plenty of Avocado-forward fare, and stuffed Vietnamese donuts.

The rainy season in Vietnam stretches from May to September, and the heavy rains, coupled with waste from the Mekong River, flow into the waters around northern Phu Quoc, making the water less than desirable for swimming, snorkeling, and other ocean activities. This seasonal shift also influences travel patterns and pricing. While Phu Quoc is generally considered an affordable vacation destination, prices tend to surge during the summer and around Lunar New Year, which takes place according to the lunar calendar sometime between January and February.