Best Things to Do in Phu Quoc: From Cable Cars to Luxury Villas

Vietnam, a nation celebrated for its vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes, harbours a special jewel along its coastline: Phu Quoc Island. Whilst Nha Trang, Hoi An and Da Nang have long captured the international spotlight, a different kind of magic awaits here. Often called Vietnam’s “Pearl Island”, Phu Quoc beckons with pristine beaches, lush greenery and a tranquillity that’s truly unparalleled.

Here’s the thing: interest in Phu Quoc is absolutely soaring. Vietnam welcomed 2.5 million international visitors in January 2026 alone, and Phu Quoc itself expects 8.5 million guests in 2026, including two million from abroad. The island has even overtaken historic favourites like Hoi An to rank among the top five most-searched destinations in Vietnam. This tropical pearl combines natural beauty with refined luxury – perfect for your unforgettable island getaway. ?

Why Phu Quoc stands apart as an ultimate getaway

Phu Quoc distinguishes itself from other Vietnamese coastal destinations through its unique blend of raw natural beauty and a serene, less commercialised atmosphere. Whilst Da Nang and Hoi An offer cultural heritage and urban buzz, and Nha Trang is known for nightlife, Phu Quoc presents a tranquil, unspoilt tropical escape.

The beaches here are expansive and exclusive – quite different from the bustling My Khe in Da Nang. Con Dao may be wild and undeveloped, but Phu Quoc combines accessibility with high-end luxury. The island’s charm lies in its undeveloped coastlines and commitment to preserving nature. With nearly 6 million visitors by the end of 2024, Phu Quoc balances growth with preservation, offering a sophisticated experience that rivals its mainland counterparts.

Unveiling Phu Quoc: what to see & do

Phu Quoc brims with experiences that go far beyond lounging on beaches (though we won’t judge if that’s your vibe). From world-record cable cars to hidden fishing villages, the island’s most captivating adventures await. Here’s where it gets exciting.

Five experiences you absolutely can’t skip

Let’s cut to the chase – these are the must-dos that define Phu Quoc:

1. The world’s longest sea-crossing cable car to Hon Thom Island

This isn’t just transport, it’s an experience. The 7.9-kilometre cable car soars up to 164 metres above turquoise waters, offering jaw-dropping aerial views you’ll talk about for years. Pro tip: ride between 3-4 PM when the sun illuminates the water below. Your ticket (around 800,000 VND/£25) includes access to Aquatopia Water Park with 20+ modern attractions.

2. Sao Beach (Bai Sao) – Southeast Asia’s stunner

Often ranked among the region’s most beautiful beaches, this 7-kilometre stretch of powdery white sand and crystal-clear water lives up to the hype. Arrive before 10 AM or after 3 PM to enjoy it without the crowds. The name means “Star Beach” – locals say star-shaped patterns sometimes form in the sand at low tide. Trust me, your camera will thank you. ?

3. Grand World & Sunset Town after dark

Now it gets magical. This 1,000-hectare entertainment complex transforms at night with its Venice-inspired canal, gondola rides (200,000 VND/£6), and the spectacular “Kiss of the Sea” show. The Urban Sky Light Show uses 500+ synchronised drones and it’s absolutely free to watch. This is where Phu Quoc shows its modern, glamorous side.

4. Island hopping to hidden paradises

Forget generic tours. Head to Hon Mong Tay (Fingernail Island) for its distinctive crescent beach, or Hon Gam Ghi where rare black coral formations attract sea turtles. Full-day snorkelling tours cost around 900,000-1,200,000 VND (£29-38) including lunch and equipment. Water visibility reaches 10-15 metres between November and May.

5. Sunset at Long Beach with your toes in the sand

This 20.7-kilometre coastline offers Vietnam’s most dramatic sunsets with distant Cambodian islands on the horizon. Grab a spot at Coco Bar with its swing seats and live acoustic music from 5:30 PM, or splurge at Sunset Sanato Beach Club (minimum spend 300,000 VND/£10). The best bit? New “sunset viewing platforms” at 1-kilometre intervals make finding your perfect spot effortless. ?

Hidden gems where tourists don’t go

Here’s where you’ll feel like a proper insider:

Ganh Dau Cape at the island’s northwestern edge is where time genuinely slows down. Stand on rugged coastal rocks and gaze across to Cambodia – on clear days, it feels close enough to touch. The humble village, dusty roads, and fishermen mending nets offer authentic island life without the polish. Don’t miss the Dinh Cau Shrine on its rocky outcrop – especially magical at sunrise.

Rach Vem (Starfish Beach) in the tranquil north is where thousands of bright red starfish blanket the shallow seafloor like living jewels. Narrow wooden bridges stretch to floating restaurants on stilts where you can feast on grilled squid and steamed crab whilst waves lap beneath your feet. Visit December to March for clearest waters, and remember: never pick up the starfish.

Ham Ninh Fishing Village, one of Phu Quoc’s oldest settlements, dates back centuries. Weathered stilt houses perch over the water, creating scenes that feel timeless. Arrive at dawn to witness the sunrise over the Gulf of Thailand – it’s the kind of beauty that asks for stillness. The village speciality is crab, served simply boiled with salt, pepper, and lime, eaten right by the water.

Phu Quoc Bee Farm offers sweet learning in the jungle. This zero-waste eco-sanctuary teaches you about sustainable beekeeping whilst you sip chilled lemongrass-honey tea and try homemade honey cake. It’s cosy, meaningful, and perfect for conscious travellers. Combine it with nearby Suoi Tranh Waterfall for a full nature day.

Adventures for nature lovers

Phu Quoc National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve covering 31,422 hectares, preserves over 1,164 plant species and 208 animal species. The Mount Chua Trail offers a challenging 4-hour trek to the 603-metre summit with panoramic island views, whilst the easier Da Ngon Stream Trail (2km) follows a crystal-clear stream with natural swimming pools. Guided tours cost 350,000-500,000 VND (£11-16) and include transport and refreshments.

Kayaking through Cua Can River’s mangrove forests is eco-tourism at its purest. This winding river carves through 7,500 hectares of mangroves – vital fish nurseries teeming with birdlife. Paddle through narrow channels where walls of greenery surround you, watching for kingfishers, herons, and the occasional monkey. Tours cost 550,000-800,000 VND (£17-25) for 2-3 hours, with early morning trips offering the best wildlife viewing.

Ho Quoc Pagoda sits perched on a hillside with sweeping sea views. This stunning temple complex features traditional Vietnamese architecture with dragon-carved pillars and a grand staircase leading to panoramic coastal vistas. Arrive at sunrise when golden light bathes the temple and wind chimes create a meditative atmosphere. Dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees) to show respect.

Cultural immersion and culinary discoveries

Duong Dong Night Market spans 1.2 kilometres with over 100 stalls operating 5 PM to midnight. Must-tries include grilled sea urchin with spring onions (80,000 VND/£2.50), Phu Quoc pepper crab (450,000 VND/£14 per kg), and coconut ice cream served in a fresh coconut shell (50,000 VND/£1.60). A new cultural performance area hosts traditional Vietnamese music at 7 PM and 9 PM nightly.

Fish sauce factory tours reveal why Phu Quoc’s nước mắm holds Protected Designation of Origin status (like Champagne or Parmesan). The island produces over 40 million litres annually. Visit Khai Hoan Factory, established in 1909, to see 85 traditional wooden barrels, each holding 14,000 litres. Tours last 45-60 minutes, cost 50,000-100,000 VND (£1.60-3.20), and often include tastings.

Pepper farm experiences showcase the island’s volcanic soil magic. Phu Quoc pepper is legendary amongst chefs – the island produces over 1,100 tonnes annually. Tour Khu Tuong Pepper Farm (established 1937) for tastings of black, white, red, and rare green pepper in brine. The harvest season (February-May) offers the most complete experience when you can observe picking and processing. ☕️

Entertainment and family fun

Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s first safari park, sprawls across 380 hectares housing over 3,000 animals representing 150 species. The Open Safari Zone offers a 2.5-hour guided tour through habitats for free-roaming giraffes, zebras, and white rhinos. Entrance is 850,000 VND (£27) for adults, 650,000 VND (£21) for children, including all internal transport.

Grand World’s night parade features a spectacular 45-minute procession with 200+ performers and elaborate floats at 7:30 PM daily. The Teddy Bear Museum houses over 500 unique teddy bears in themed displays (350,000 VND/£11 entrance). A dedicated shuttle runs from major hotels every 30 minutes until midnight (100,000 VND/£3.20 round-trip).

Sunset dinner cruises combine spectacular views with fresh seafood and entertainment. Emperor Cruises offers 2.5-hour voyages on traditional wooden vessels with 5-course Vietnamese fusion dinners (1,950,000 VND/£62 per person). Most cruises depart around 4:30-5:00 PM from Duong Dong Harbour, returning after sunset.

Your exclusive sanctuary: the TUI BLUE Villa Retreat

Now that you’re inspired by everything Phu Quoc offers, here’s where you should make your base: the TUI BLUE Villa Retreat.

Luxury villa living redefined

This isn’t just accommodation – it’s your private island sanctuary. The retreat offers 91 exclusive villas ranging from 180 m² to 252 m², each featuring two to three bedrooms, private plunge pools, and elegantly furnished living spaces. Think morning coffee on sun-drenched terraces, butler service that anticipates your every need, and architectural design that maximises both privacy and natural light.

The “The BLUE®” concept means every moment is curated for you. Five outdoor pools (plus a children’s pool), state-of-the-art fitness facilities, revitalising yoga sessions, and soothing spa treatments ensure your days flow between adventure and rejuvenation. Dining celebrates both international gastronomy and vibrant Vietnamese flavours using fresh, locally sourced ingredients – from fine dining to relaxed beachfront meals with expertly crafted cocktails. ✨

Your perfect base for island exploration

Location matters, and the TUI BLUE Villa Retreat delivers. Just 15 minutes’ drive from Sao Beach and strategically positioned for accessing the island’s treasures, it’s the ideal launching point for your Phu Quoc adventures. The attentive concierge team arranges everything from private island-hopping tours to motorbike rentals, whilst complimentary WiFi and 24-hour front desk service ensure seamless stays. Check-in begins at 3:00 PM, check-out at noon.

Here’s the magic: you transition effortlessly from thrilling cable car rides to your private villa sanctuary, from cultural market explorations to butler-served sunset cocktails. It’s where adventure meets tranquillity – and where your Phu Quoc story truly comes alive. ?

Your unforgettable Phu Quoc journey awaits

Phu Quoc isn’t just another beach destination – it’s Vietnam’s premier island paradise where natural splendour, authentic culture, and refined luxury converge. From the world’s longest sea-crossing cable car to hidden fishing villages where time stands still, from UNESCO-protected rainforests to night markets bursting with flavour, this island delivers experiences that linger long after you depart.

And with the TUI BLUE Villa Retreat as your exclusive base, you’re not just visiting Phu Quoc – you’re living it in style. Whether you seek tranquil relaxation by your private pool, thrilling adventures across turquoise waters, or cultural immersion in centuries-old villages, this Vietnamese pearl has it all waiting for you.

So pack your camera and let’s go! Your ultimate island getaway is calling. Start planning your unforgettable Phu Quoc escape today and discover why this tropical treasure has everyone talking. ?✨

Planning your perfect Phu Quoc escape