Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc: Sunsets, Seafood & Island Days

(A relaxed island escape in southern Vietnam, Phu Quoc blends beachside luxury, fresh seafood, and slow, sun-filled days)

I visited Phu Quoc at the end of December 2021, when travel was cautiously reopening and COVID was still around – just not at its peak. It turned out to be the perfect window: fewer crowds, calm energy, and just enough activity to feel alive without feeling chaotic.

November to April is the best time to visit Phu Quoc – its dry season.

I flew into Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC), which is about 10 km from the city center. At the time, I flew Bamboo Airways from Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) which was a solid airline back then.

I checked into the InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach, and honestly this is where a large chunk of my trip happened.

• Private beach

• Huge pool overlooking the ocean

• Poolside relaxation booths

• Spa, bars, restaurants, etc.

Phu Quoc Night Market

📍 6 Bạch Đằng Street

This is a must-do. The night market is crowded in the best way, busiest after 8pm. Think of it as a food paradise + souvenir hunt combined.

Must-try foods:

• Hải sản nướng (grilled seafood)

• Kẹo chỉ

• Bánh tráng nướng

• Kem cuộn (rolled ice cream)

• Bánh khéo (local pastries)

• Dừa sáp / thốt nốt

• Ốc (snails)

Go hungry. Regret nothing.

Sunset Sanato (Long Beach / Bãi Trường)

After the night market, we headed to Sunset Sanato on Long Beach for cocktails, beach-bar energy, and open-air seating. It’s a popular hangout for Westerners with bonfires and music.

Local Favorite: Bún Quậy KIẾN – XÂY

Phu Quoc’s most iconic dish.

Bún Quậy originated from Central Vietnam, traditionally made with ground shrimp. But everything changed, when the Kiến Xây family began experimenting with Phu Quoc’s fresh seafood and local seasonings...

Bún Quậy features fresh noodles, shrimp, fish, squid, herbs, and aromatic herbs and onions. Simple but incredibly flavorful. The real star is the DIY sauce, mixed individually with chili, sugar, fish sauce, and citrus – balancing spicy, sweet, salty, and sour in one bowl.

Grand World Phu Quoc

Grand World is a free-to-enter entertainment complex with canals, shops, restaurants, and evening shows like “Kiss of the Sea.” Great for a night stroll and soaking in the energy. Plenty of dining options, so choose wisely and eat what you’re comfortable with.

Island Hopping & Water Adventures

Set aside a full day for island hopping. Popular stops include:

• Hòn Mây Rút

• Hòn Móng Tay (great for snorkeling)

• Hòn Gầm Ghì

• Hòn Thơm (sea walker experience + water sports)

Activities range from snorkeling and sea walking to parasailing and jet skiing, even unique games like banana surfer and ski tube surfer. There are different boat options. We chose a bigger, slower boat – safer and more relaxed. Lunch was included, and very generous.

Hidden Gem: Bittersweet Hidden Cocktail Bar

A cozy speakeasy-style cocktail bar with creative drinks and a relaxed vibe. It fills up quickly, so plan ahead or book if possible. Perfect for a low-key nightcap after a full day out.

✨ Why Phu Quoc Is Worth It

Phu Quoc feels like a place where you’re allowed to slow down.

Whether you’re lounging at a resort, eating your way through night markets, chasing sunsets, or floating between islands, it’s a destination that doesn’t rush you, and doesn’t need to.