Nestled off the captivating coastline of Binh Thuan Province, Phu Quy Island is an appealing destination for an enchanting Vietnam travel escapade. With its unspoiled beaches, thriving marine ecosystem, and tranquil charm, this hidden gem offers an irresistible invitation to explore the coastal allure of South Central Vietnam on your next adventure.
1. About Phu Quy Island: Location and weather
Situated 120 kilometers east of Phan Thiet, Phu Quy Island emerges as a pristine gem in the East Sea. Recently opened to tourism, its ovoid, gently undulating terrain is graced with a grand lighthouse and Cao Cat Mountain. The coastline reveals sweeping bays, while volcanic bluffs shape dramatic escarpments at the tips. Inland, a lush agricultural expanse complements the island’s green forested charm.
Phu Quy Island enjoys a consistently refreshing and cool climate. The ideal period to discover its wonders spans from December to June, while the storm-prone months from September to November should be steered clear. Spring and summer unveil serene waters and gentle breezes, ensuring smooth exploration. Nevertheless, occasional rough seas warrant a Phu Quy Island weather check in advance.
Phu Quy experiences bright skies and gentle breezes during spring and summer
2. How to get to Phu Quy Island and get around?
Phu Quy Island, the farthest district of Binh Thuan Province, boasts untamed beauty that remains relatively untouched by tourism. The sole route to Phu Quy Island is a ferry ride from Phan Thiet City.
To travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quy Island, tourists can take a bus to Phan Thiet City. From there, you will need to take a ferry to get from Phan Thiet to Phu Quy Vietnam.
Ferry options include Superdong-PQI, Superdong-PQII, and Phu Quy Express, which typically depart from Phan Thiet from 6:30 am to 7:30 am. There are occasional early trips at 5:30 am or late trips at 3:00 pm. A ferry ride will take from 2.5 to 3.5 hours.
Taxis are absent on the island, but motorbike rentals are widely available. The island’s ample roadways make navigation effortless. Engaging the locals for guidance is always advisable.
Take a ferry to Phu Quy Island Vietnam
3. Top 10 recommended attractions to visit on Phu Quy Island
3.1. Trieu Duong Bay
Upon reaching Phu Quy Island, your initial stop should be Trieu Duong Bay. It presents pristine white shores that extend gracefully, offering a picturesque spectacle. Here, the sea boasts unparalleled clarity, adorned with a turquoise hue that unveils the seabed. Sunny days provide ideal conditions for a refreshing swim in its cool waters.
3.2. Small Beach (Bai Nho), Ganh Hang
Picture a crescent of white sand between jutting rocky cliffs with waters so clear you can see to the bottom… That’s Small Beach, possibly one of the prettiest on the island, situated southwest. There aren’t many boats here, so it’s safe for swimming and snorkeling. Popular selfie spots nearby include the 22.6m concrete flagpole and the natural “infinity pool” at Ganh Hang hill (about 650m away). The flagpole is one of seven such poles erected across Vietnam. While the ‘infinity lake’ is a stream of water spilling into the sea, resembling a hotel pool
3.3. Cao Cat Peak
At 106m above sea level, this sacred mountain is one of the highest spots on the island. Over time, the volcanic rocks have eroded to form deep grooves featuring visually arresting horizontal lines. Climb to the top to see why it’s dubbed, “the Grand Canyon of Vietnam”. This is also the location of the Linh Son Pagoda, a monastery boasting a particularly majestic statue of Buddha. Worshippers pilgrimage here to pay for peace. But there are plenty of benches and lookout points for simply enjoying an epic sunset.
3.4. Phu Quy Lighthouse
Perched atop Cam Mountain, Phu Quy Lighthouse commands a vantage point 100 meters above sea level, offering a mesmerizing panoramic vista of the island’s picturesque expanse. This venerated site provides an unmissable opportunity to immerse yourself in Phu Quy’s captivating beauty. The lighthouse doors swing open for all, inviting exploration at no cost, yet a modest contribution to the dedicated maintenance crew is always appreciated.
The exquisite Phu Quy Lighthouse
3.5. Long Hai Fish Market
A visit to Phu Quy Island is incomplete without experiencing the vibrant Long Hai Fish Market. As the sun graces the horizon, this bustling marketplace awakens to the rhythmic dance of fishing boats arriving. As a treasure trove of culinary delights, the market showcases an impressive assortment of coveted seafood.
Here, affordability meets excellence, as prices stand as a testament to the island’s generosity, while the seafood quality ensures an unforgettable gastronomic journey. Long Hai Fish Market has become a symphony of colors and flavors of the ocean’s bounty, captivating visitors in a sensory celebration of the island’s coastal riches.
The jaw-dropping scenery of Phu Quy Wind Farm
Phu Quy Island presents an authentic sanctuary away from the bustling city life. The island’s serene ambiance, diverse landscapes, and warm locals weave an enchanting tapestry of experiences. Balancing natural splendor with cultural authenticity, it offers a rejuvenating retreat that will leave an indelible mark on every traveler’s soul.