Off the Beaten Path: Explore Phu Quoc’s Hidden Gems in 2026

Sitting just off Vietnam’s southern coast in the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc has grown from a sleepy island to one of the country’s most talked-about beach destinations. By 2026, it is no longer just “a nice place for a few lazy days.” With new infrastructure, smarter tourism planning and a stronger focus on sustainability, Phu Quoc has become a place where beach time, local life and modern comforts all fit into one trip.

In this updated Phu Quoc 2026 travel guide, we look at what has changed, what is still worth your time, and how to experience both the big-name attractions and the quieter corners that locals are proud of. Whether you are a family, couple, group of friends or digital nomad, this is how to make the most of Phu Quoc now.

New Developments and Infrastructure in 2026

Over the last couple of years, Phu Quoc has seen major upgrades in how you get there and how you move around the island. The goal is simple: better access without losing the island’s relaxed feel.

• New international direct flights from hubs such as Tokyo, Seoul, Frankfurt and Sydney keep Phu Quoc firmly on the map for long-haul travelers.
• Improved roads and public transport have cut travel time between key areas like Duong Dong town, the north of the island and beaches such as Bai Sao and Bai Khem.
• The Phu Quoc Smart Travel app has expanded, now offering real-time bus information, suggested eco-routes, basic safety alerts and updates on weather or sea conditions.
• Island-wide 5G coverage supports remote workers, travel creators and anyone who needs a stable connection while still wanting sand between their toes.

These changes make life easier for visitors, but the best news is that most upgrades have been planned to work with the landscape, not against it. You can still find quiet stretches of road, small cafés and local markets just a short ride away from the main tourist strips.

Grand World – one of the most popular entertainment hubs when visiting Phu Quoc

Hidden Gems and Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions

Phu Quoc built its name on wide beaches and big resorts, and those are still there. But in 2026, more travelers are asking for something quieter and more grounded in local life. While headline spots such as Long Beach, VinWonders and Grand World remain busy, there is growing interest in villages, small bays and simple nature escapes where you can slow down properly.

Popular Attractions: Still Worth a Visit

Before you head off the main route, it is fair to say that Phu Quoc’s largest attractions are still world-class when you know what to expect:

• VinWonders continues to expand, with new themed areas, more water rides and interactive shows for children and adults. It is a full-day outing, best for families and travelers who enjoy big-park energy.
• Vinpearl Safari, Vietnam’s largest wildlife conservation park, now runs night safari experiences and upgraded educational programs focused on endangered species and responsible wildlife viewing.
• Sun World Hon Thom Cable Car, one of the longest sea-crossing cable cars in the world, still delivers sweeping views of coral reefs, fishing boats and tiny islands as you glide over the water toward Hon Thom (Pineapple Island).
• Grand World Phu Quoc has grown into a busy 24/7 entertainment complex with parades, cultural shows, shopping streets and nightlife. It is loud, bright and fun when you are in the mood for it.
• The striking Kiss Bridge has quickly become a favorite sunset spot, especially for couples and photographers looking for a modern landmark to frame the sky.

These places offer polished, developed experiences. They are easy to enjoy and easy to reach. But if you want to understand why locals still love the island, you should balance them with time in quieter areas.

Paradise Island Hon Thom – a classic day trip from Phu Quoc

Rach Vem Fishing Village: Life on Stilts

Known as the “Starfish Village”, Rach Vem sits on the quieter northern coast and feels far from the resort strip. Here, stilt houses stretch out over clear, shallow water, and in the right season bright red starfish dot the sandy seabed.

By 2026, Rach Vem has grown gently – not with giant hotels, but with more organized local activities. Families offer sea urchin and seafood tastings, simple floating restaurants cook what has just been pulled from the sea, and you can still watch fishermen heading out in the early hours. It is a good place to slow down, talk to people and see a version of island life that existed long before tourism took off.

Bai Khem (Khem Beach): Quiet Elegance

On the southern coast, Bai Khem – or Khem Beach – remains one of Phu Quoc’s most beautiful bays. Compared with busier stretches such as Bai Truong, Bai Khem feels more sheltered and refined, with white sand, calm, clear water and hills of green behind.

A handful of eco-luxury resorts and wellness retreats now line parts of the bay. Many emphasize low-rise architecture, local materials and quieter experiences: seaside yoga sessions, spa treatments using island herbs and long, unhurried swims. If you are ready for a couple of days of nothing much, this is where to do it.

Suoi Tranh Waterfall: Easy Jungle Escape

Suoi Tranh Waterfall offers a simple nature break just a short drive from Duong Dong. Recent improvements to walking paths, safety railings and basic facilities have made the area more accessible, while still keeping the feeling of stepping into a small pocket of jungle.

Expect gentle cascades over rock, shaded pools, moss and tropical plants – a good setting for a half-day walk or picnic. Go earlier in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy the sound of water and birds rather than speakers and tour groups.

Suoi Tranh Waterfall – an easy nature break away from the beach

Cay Sao: Wellness and Simple Living

On the less-developed east coast, Cay Sao is slowly becoming a wellness hideaway. You will find small herbal spas, meditation and yoga retreats and farm-to-table kitchens that use vegetables, herbs and seafood from nearby farms and waters.

The village still feels low-key and open. Days here fall into an easy pattern: sunrise walks, quiet treatments, long lunches and evenings spent looking out over the water. Many visitors come for a few nights and end up staying longer. It is that kind of place.

Why the Quiet Side of Phu Quoc Matters

As Phu Quoc grows, there is a real risk that the island could lose the very things that made it special in the first place. The quieter beaches, working villages and small family businesses are not just “nice extras” – they are the island’s roots.

Spending time in lesser-known areas helps you support local communities, spreads income more fairly and reduces pressure on a few packed spots. It also gives you the chance to travel in a way that feels more human: slower meals, real conversations, the odd surprise that never appears in a brochure.

Tip: Plan your trip so you experience both sides. Enjoy a day at VinWonders or Grand World, then balance it with a day in Rach Vem, Cay Sao or on a quiet stretch of sand. The contrast is what makes the whole trip feel complete.

Adventure and Nature Experiences

In 2026, Phu Quoc is putting more emphasis on experiences that connect you with nature without damaging it. Many operators now follow clearer guidelines on group size, waste and reef protection.

• Kayaking tours along the Cua Can River and through mangrove forests give you a close look at birdlife and coastal ecosystems.
• Snorkeling and diving trips around Hon Thom and Hon Xuong focus more on restored coral areas and basic reef etiquette, so visitors can enjoy the underwater world responsibly.
• Forest walks and treks in Phu Quoc National Park now come with more educational signage about plants, animals and conservation challenges.
• Bird-watching tours highlight some of the 200+ species recorded on the island, ideal for travelers who prefer binoculars to roller coasters.

Choose smaller groups where possible and ask direct questions about safety and environmental practices. Good guides will be happy to explain. If they cannot, pick another tour – it is your money and your impact.

Culinary Delights: What’s New in 2026

Phu Quoc’s food scene has grown quickly, but it still starts with fresh seafood, local pepper and the island’s famous fish sauce. In 2026, there is more variety and more ways to eat well, whatever your style.

• Floating seafood restaurants around Ham Ninh have improved hygiene and service while keeping the “catch-your-own” feel. You can see nets and baskets pulled from the water and choose what goes on your plate.
• Night markets in Duong Dong and An Thoi have expanded, with clearer layouts, QR-code menus and a better mix of local dishes and international snacks.
• Fusion restaurants blend Vietnamese flavors with Japanese, Mediterranean and Korean influences – good for longer stays when you want something different for dinner.
• Fish sauce producers offer more structured tours and tastings, explaining how this key ingredient is made and how to choose a good bottle to bring home.

If you are vegetarian or just want lighter meals, you will now find more plant-focused cafés and restaurants than in previous years. It is still worth checking menus before you go, but things are moving in a good direction.

Culture and Community Engagement

Beyond beaches and theme parks, Phu Quoc offers simple but meaningful ways to connect with local culture. These experiences are often small-scale and better booked through trusted operators or local contacts.

• Cooking classes with families in Ham Ninh or Duong Dong, where you shop at the market together and then cook dishes you can repeat at home.
• Temple visits and festivals tied to the lunar calendar, giving insight into how islanders balance modern life with spiritual traditions.
• Art and craft workshops where you can try woodcarving, shell jewelry or painting under the guidance of local artists.
• Community-based homestays that give you a room in a village house, shared meals and a clearer view of everyday life.

These activities are not about big shows or perfect English. They are about real encounters – sometimes a bit messy, always more memorable.

Island Hopping and Day Trips

Island-hopping around Phu Quoc is easier and more comfortable in 2026, with options for every budget and comfort level.

• Yacht and catamaran tours offer higher-end day trips with snorkeling stops, barbecue lunches and sunset sailing.
• Hon Thom features a developed beach area, water park and a marine zone where you can observe sea life from dry land.
• Hon May Rut Trong is known for simpler glamping setups and access to nearby coral gardens, especially attractive if you like sleeping close to the sea.
• Private speedboat charters allow you to customize your route, target quieter coves and choose how long to stay at each stop.

Kiss Bridge – a favorite sunset spot for many visitors

Sustainability and Green Travel

Phu Quoc’s environmental record has not always been perfect. Rubbish, plastic use and rapid building have all been real problems. The good news is that more businesses and local groups are trying to fix this, and visitors play a part too.

• Low-waste and eco-conscious resorts such as Mango Bay and similar properties continue to lead the way in limiting plastic, managing waste and designing with the landscape, not against it.
• Regular beach clean-ups invite both locals and travelers to help clear trash from popular stretches of sand.
• Electric scooters and bikes are now easier to rent, especially around the main tourist areas.
• Plastic-reduction campaigns have been adopted by many hotels, cafés and markets, with refill stations and reusable containers becoming more common.

You can support this shift by bringing your own bottle, saying no to single-use plastic where possible and choosing operators who clearly care about the island’s future – not just today’s profits.

2026’s Most Photo-Friendly Spots

Phu Quoc still has plenty of “wow” locations for photos and videos, but in 2026 there is a little more awareness about where drones and large shoots are allowed.

• Sunset Sanato Beach Club continues to add new installations and artistic structures that frame the sunset.
• Phu Quoc United Center now includes rooftop gardens with wide views across the complex and surrounding areas.
• Cafés in Ong Lang and Cua Lap use more natural materials and open designs, with swings, decks and jungle-inspired corners ideal for a quiet coffee and a few photos.
• Designated drone zones allow aerial photography while protecting sensitive wildlife areas and respecting privacy.

Why Visit Phu Quoc in 2026?

Right now is a good moment to experience Phu Quoc. The island in 2026 offers:

• New stays, routes and tours that did not exist a few years ago.
• Cultural events such as seafood festivals, beach concerts and lantern nights that bring locals and visitors together.
• Better sustainability practices at many hotels and tour companies, without losing the easygoing island mood.
• A welcoming atmosphere for families, couples, solo travelers and digital nomads looking for a mix of rest and activity.

Phu Quoc – one of the most attractive island escapes in Vietnam

Phu Quoc in 2026: A Fresh Take on Paradise

In 2026, Phu Quoc feels like a destination that is growing up. There are bigger parks, brighter lights and more choice than ever before. But there are also serious conversations about coral, plastic, fishing and how to keep the island livable for future generations.

Whether you start with one of our tailored Vietnam tours or design your own trip from scratch, Phu Quoc fits naturally into a wider journey through the south. Many travelers now combine Phu Quoc tours with time in Ho Chi Minh City or the Mekong Delta, using the island as a softer landing at the end of a busy route.

As more people travel to Vietnam looking for meaningful experiences, Phu Quoc stands out as a place where you can still have both: comfort and depth. One day you might be snorkeling above coral or walking through forest, and the next you are wandering a night market or sitting with a coffee watching motorbikes roll past in Duong Dong.

Phu Quoc also slots neatly into many curated South Vietnam tours, rounding off city and delta days with warm water and slower evenings. Its mix of accessibility, relaxed pace and growing focus on sustainability makes it suitable for almost any style of traveler.

From quiet sunrises to busy parks, from fishing villages to rooftop bars, Phu Quoc in 2026 offers a full spectrum of moments. Not all of them are perfect – and that is exactly why the island still feels real.