Phu Quoc Beyond the Postcard: Seven Ways to Discover Vietnam's Island Escape

For many Indian travellers, Vietnam usually means Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City or Da Nang. Off the country's southwestern coast, however, Phu Quoc, the island known as the Pearl Island, offers a very different holiday, with days spent moving between beaches, fishing villages, local seafood and boat trips to smaller islands nearby. Sun PhuQuoc Airways, Vietnam's newest full-service airline, was established to strengthen connectivity to the island and make it more accessible to international travellers. Here are seven experiences worth considering.

1. Visit Sao Beach

One of the island's most recognisable spots, Sao Beach has white sand and clean waters, ideal for a day by the sea. Khem Beach, also in the south of the island, is another option. Both suit a relaxed day of swimming, sunbathing and enjoying the coastline without a schedule.

2. Ride the cable car to Hon Thom

The cable car between An Thoi and Hon Thom Island travels above the sea, with views of the surrounding islands and fishing vessels. On arrival, visitors can swim, try water sports or explore the island's entertainment attractions.

3. Explore the greener side of Phu Quoc

Beyond its beaches, the island has plenty of greenery. Phu Quoc's national park has streams, dense forests and varied wildlife, with trails for those who want something other than the coast.

4. Visit Ham Ninh fishing village

Ham Ninh offers a look at the island's fishing traditions, with a waterfront lined with fishing boats and small restaurants serving freshly caught seafood. Crab is a local speciality. The setting is simple, which is precisely what makes it a pleasant stop between the island's more developed attractions.

5. Try local food at Duong Dong Night Market

In the evenings, the stalls at Duong Dong Night Market serve everything from grilled seafood and oysters to local snacks and desserts. Shops sell souvenirs, pepper and Phu Quoc fish sauce, products closely associated with the island.

6. Watch the sunset at Sunset Town

In southern Phu Quoc, Sunset Town has colourful European-inspired buildings, waterfront restaurants and open spaces overlooking the sea. The Kiss Bridge is one of its best-known landmarks for sunset views, and the area also hosts evening performances and entertainment.

7. Go island-hopping around An Thoi

Boat trips around the An Thoi Archipelago take visitors to smaller islands to swim, snorkel or spend time on quieter beaches. The surrounding waters are known for coral reefs and marine life, so a day set aside for an island excursion is worthwhile.

A different side of Vietnam

Phu Quoc does not demand a packed sightseeing schedule. Its appeal lies in having different experiences within easy reach, from a morning at the beach to an afternoon exploring local food and an evening by the waterfront. For travellers who have already explored Vietnam's cities, or those planning a first visit, the island offers a reason to see the country from a different perspective.

Image: courtesy of Sun PhuQuoc Airways