Introducing Phu Quoc opens up a fascinating story about Vietnam’s famous Pearl Island. With its stunning beaches and pleasant tropical climate, Phu Quoc has become an unmissable destination for those who love to explore and experience something new. 

1. General Introduction to Phu Quoc
1.1. Geographical Location – Introduction to the Pearl Island of Phu Quoc

Which province does Phu Quoc belong to, and what is its total area?
Phu Quoc City is part of Kien Giang Province and is known as the “Pearl Island” — the largest island in Vietnam and also the biggest in the Gulf of Thailand. With a total natural area of 589.27 km², Phu Quoc is nearly the same size as Singapore.

The island is divided into North Island, South Island, and the central area, with Duong Dong Ward at the center — the most vibrant and developed part of the island. The Phu Quoc archipelago is located about 400 km west of Ho Chi Minh City.

1.2. Population of Phu Quoc

What is the population of Phu Quoc Island?
As of the end of 2023, the population of Phu Quoc City reached 294,419 people, meeting the standard for an urban population scale. The overall population density of the city is about 1,402 people per square kilometer, while the inner-city density reaches 5,217 people per square kilometer — exceeding the minimum requirement, reflecting the island city’s rapid development.

1.3. Climate

What is the climate like in Phu Quoc?
Located at a low latitude, surrounded by the sea, and deep within the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc enjoys a tropical monsoon climate that is pleasantly cool and comfortable all year round. The weather here is divided into two distinct seasons:

• Dry Season (from November to April in the lunar calendar):
  The weather is dry and sunny, perfect for outdoor activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and visiting famous beaches. This is also the ideal time to join island-hopping tours and enjoy luxurious seaside resorts.
  
  

• Rainy Season (from May to October in the lunar calendar):
  During this period, there is frequent rainfall, making it ideal for exploring indoor attractions, historical sites, and cultural landmarks. It’s also a quieter time with fewer tourists — perfect for those seeking privacy and relaxation.

2. The Formation and Development History of Phu Quoc

A brief introduction to Phu Quoc Island – how did its history unfold?
Below is a summary of the key milestones in the formation and development of the “Pearl Island”:

• 1680: Mac Cuu established settlements along the coast from Vung Thom, Can Vot to Rach Gia and Ca Mau. He set up seven trading houses (casinos) and chose Man Kham (Ha Tien) as the capital. The region was named Can Khau Quoc, and Koh Tral Island was renamed Phu Quoc.

• 1836: During the Nguyen Dynasty, the Phu Quoc administrative map was established with 10 villages, of which An Thoi was the most populated. Phu Quoc belonged to Ha Chau District, Ha Tien Province.

• 1867: After occupying the western provinces, the French colonial government made Phu Quoc a district under Ha Tien.

• 1921: The French officially established Phu Quoc District.

• After April 30, 1975: Phu Quoc became a district under Kien Giang Province, including Duong Dong Town and three communes: Cua Duong, Duong To, and Ham Ninh.

3. Introduction to the Culture and People of Phu Quoc

The culture of Phu Quoc is a unique blend of Vietnamese traditions and strong maritime influences, creating a distinctive identity closely tied to nature and the livelihoods of local fishermen. This rich cultural character is reflected through traditional fishing villages and age-old crafts such as fish sauce making and pepper cultivation.

The people of Phu Quoc are known for their gentle, friendly, and hospitable nature, carrying a deep affection for the sea. Their close connection with nature has shaped an open-minded, generous, and sincere way of life.

Spiritually, Phu Quoc residents maintain deep-rooted beliefs and practices, evident in the many ancient temples and communal houses scattered across the island. Among its many cultural events, the Nghinh Ong Festival stands out — a vibrant celebration honoring the Whale God, reflecting the islanders’ profound respect and gratitude toward the sea.

Phu Quoc’s local specialties are also an indispensable part of the island’s charm. The island is famous for its fresh seafood and unique local dishes such as herring salad and grilled sea urchin with scallion oil.

In addition, fresh seafood and Phu Quoc pepper are among the island’s signature products, offering visitors an unforgettable culinary experience that captures the authentic flavor of this tropical paradise.

4. Introduction to Phu Quoc Tourism

What makes Phu Quoc so special? Why is it called the “Pearl Island” of Vietnam?

Phu Quoc earns this name because it is truly a tropical paradise, blessed with natural beauty as precious as a pearl in the middle of the sea. With over 150 km of coastline, Phu Quoc boasts many stunning beaches such as Bai Dai (Long Beach), Bai Sao, Bai Khem, Ong Lang Beach, and Vung Bau.

Many of these beaches have remained untouched and pristine, preserving their natural charm and offering visitors a peaceful escape away from the crowds.

When exploring information about Phu Quoc tourism, beyond its natural beauty, the island also captivates visitors with its historical and cultural attractions such as Phu Quoc Prison, Ho Quoc Pagoda, and traditional fishing villages.

You can easily visit Ham Ninh Fishing Village or Rach Vem Fishing Village to enjoy swimming, snorkeling among coral reefs, and savoring fresh, delicious seafood right by the sea.

In 2024, Phu Quoc was honored to be ranked as the second most beautiful island in the world by the renowned American travel magazine Travel + Leisure, just behind the Maldives. Additionally, Condé Nast Traveller listed Phu Quoc among the must-visit islands in 2025.

Notably, a 3-day, 2-night vacation in Phu Quoc costs only about one-third to one-fourth of what travelers would spend in other famous destinations such as Singapore or Koh Samui, Thailand, making it an excellent choice for those seeking breathtaking natural beauty at a reasonable cost.

In particular, Phu Quoc attracts visitors with the world-class entertainment complex Phu Quoc United Center, home to famous attractions such as VinWonders Phu Quoc, Vinpearl Safari, and Grand World Phu Quoc.

Phu Quoc United Center is not only a vibrant shopping destination featuring many renowned international brands, but also a hub of festive energy, hosting lively street festivals and performances. Moreover, it serves as a cultural bridge, showcasing the essence of Vietnamese heritage through captivating shows like “The Essence of Vietnam” and the stunning “Colors of Venice” performance.

At Phu Quoc United Center, visitors can enjoy a luxurious stay at the 5-star Vinpearl Phu Quoc Resort. The resorts and hotels here stand out with their modern, elegant designs and world-class amenities, including expansive swimming pools, premium spas, international restaurants, and exclusive private services.

Every detail is meticulously crafted to create a space that is both luxurious and relaxing, allowing guests to fully enjoy a perfect vacation surrounded by nature and top-tier comforts.

Coming to Phu Quoc is not just a journey to explore a beautiful island, but also an opportunity to deeply feel the natural beauty, culture, and people of this land. With its diverse and unique experiences, Phu Quoc truly deserves to be a must-visit destination on your travel journey.