1. Ride the World’s Longest Cable Car to Hon Thom Island
Watch as paradise unfolds below your feet with Hon Thom Cable Car
The journey itself is a masterpiece in the sky. Gliding high above the sea on the world’s longest three-wire cable car is one of the most iconic and unusual things to do in Phu Quoc. Stretching nearly eight kilometers from An Thoi to Hon Thom Island, the ride feels like floating through a dreamscape of blue and green. Below, fishing boats dot the sea like confetti, coral reefs shimmer in the sunlight, and the An Thoi archipelago spreads out in a chain of emerald islets. The cabin windows offer a 360-degree panorama, capturing every detail of this tropical masterpiece. It is not just a mode of transport but an experience that defines the wonder of Phu Quoc itself.
Price: Adults VND 600,000-650,000 (USD 24-26); children VND 550,000–600,000; under 1.0 m free. Tip: Take the earliest cable car for golden light and clear visibility, the photographs will look ethereal.
2. A world-class entertainment hub awaits at Sun World Hon Thom
Vietnam’s first and only wooden roller coaster
At Sun World Hon Thom, you could find thrilling adventures despite your tastes. Exotica Village’s Angry Wooden Snake is Vietnam’s first wooden roller coaster, stretching more than 900 meters and reaching speeds of up to 80 km/h, an adrenaline rush through twists and turns between forest and sea. Meanwhile, Aquatopia Water Park is hailed as Southeast Asia’s most modern, with over 20 rides ranging from thrilling slides to safe children’s pools. Its themed zones make it a complete experience for multi-generational Indian families, balancing fun for kids and excitement for young adults.
People from all ages could enjoy the rides from Aquatopia Water Park
Price: Included in the cable car trip.
Tip: Come on weekdays for shorter lines and a more peaceful experience.
3. Watch Breath-taking Ocean Shows at Sunset Town
The Kiss of the Sea won a Guinness World Records as the largest permanent water projection theater in the world
When the sun goes down, Phu Quoc turns into a stage of light and music. The Kiss of the Sea brings over sixty international artists together in a dazzling fusion of acrobatics, fountains, fireworks, and 3D mapping. The show tells a poetic story of love between the sea and sky, and every element, from the shimmering lights to the choreography of water, feels larger than life.
A spectacular performance featuring water and light as the main elements
Nearby, the Symphony of the Sea delivers a shorter but equally mesmerizing performance of laser lights, music, and flyboard stunts that turn the bay into a luminous concert. Together, they transform the night into something magical, ranking among the most unusual things to do in Phu Quoc.
Price: Kiss of the Sea - VND 1,300,000 for two (≈ USD 50). Symphony of the Sea - VND 700,000 for two (≈ USD 26).
Tip: Get ready to get splashed by the performances!
4. Stroll Through Sunset Town’s Mediterranean Charm
Set on Phu Quoc’s southwestern coast, Sunset Town is where European elegance meets tropical sunshine. Its pastel-hued buildings, iron balconies, and cobblestone streets cascade gently toward the sea, creating a cinematic backdrop at every corner. This is not just a place to visit, it is a place to wander slowly and savor every scene. Photographers will find endless inspiration.
Sunset Town seen from above, highlighted by the architectural beauty of the Kiss Bridge
Take a golden-hour portrait on the Kiss Bridge, whose twin arches stretch over the water; capture the Campanile Tower, a red-brick clock tower glowing beneath the afternoon light; or frame the Dragon Stairway with bougainvillea spilling down both sides. The Sunset Bay Beach offers silhouettes of people walking along the waterline as the sun dips below the horizon, while the La Festa Square evokes the charm of southern Europe. Every view is like a movie, one of the most romantic and unusual things to do in Phu Quoc.Tip: Visit between 4:30 and 6:00 PM for the best light and wear pastel colors to match the town’s warm tones.
5. Visit Phu Quoc Bee Farm and Sip Forest Honey Tea
Hidden in the green heart of Cua Can village, the Phu Quoc Bee Farm is a quiet sanctuary where you can learn how local farmers live in harmony with nature. Surrounded by fruit trees and forest flowers, this eco-garden protects native stingless bees and promotes organic farming.
Harvesting honey is a rare and unique experience that requires a high level of safety
Visitors can walk through the gardens, watch the bees at work, and taste raw honey directly from the comb. The small on-site café serves refreshing herbal drinks like honey lemongrass tea and iced ginger honey, made entirely from ingredients grown nearby. Sitting under the shade of bamboo huts, sipping a cool drink while listening to the hum of the bees, you will feel time slow down, a side of Phu Quoc that few tourists ever see.
Price: Free entry.
Tip: Visit between 8:00 and 10:30 AM for a guided tour and the chance to join a mini beekeeping workshop.
6. Catch the Morning Rush at Duong Dong Market
The best way to meet the island’s soul is at Duong Dong Market. From the first light of dawn, the air fills with the sound of bargaining, chopping, and laughter. Fishermen unload their catch directly onto the docks, and locals flock here for the freshest seafood and breakfast. Wander through rows of tropical fruits, pepper, and fish sauce barrels, or sit down for a bowl of noodle soup steaming beside the pier. Watching daily life unfold here is one of the most authentic and unusual things to do in Phu Quoc, a moment when you glimpse the island as it truly is, energetic, flavorful, and alive.
Duong Dong Market overflows with fresh seafood every early morning, attracting large crowds of locals and visitors alike
Price: Free; local breakfasts 15,000-40,000 VND.
Tip: Arrive by 6:00 AM when the morning light and market bustle are at their peak.
7. Visit Rach Vem During Starfish Season
At Rach Vem, known as Starfish Beach, nature puts on a quiet show. During the dry season from December to April, hundreds of crimson starfish appear in the shallow turquoise water. Wooden piers extend over the sea to floating seafood huts, where you can enjoy grilled crab, sea urchin, or hotpot while the water sparkles below.
The starfish at Rach Vem stand out with their vibrant red color against the emerald-green water
The atmosphere is slow and serene, perfect for travelers seeking peace far from the crowds. Watching the sunlight dance across the clear sea as the starfish rest beneath the waves is pure magic, one of those simple yet unusual things to do in Phu Quoc that stay with you long after you leave.
Price: Free; food extra.
Tip: Visit early morning for calm water and better light for photography.
8. Take a Scenic Motorbike Ride to Ganh Dau Cape
If you love the open road, rent a motorbike and head north to Ganh Dau Cape, where dense jungle gives way to open sea. The road passes pepper plantations, fruit stalls, and quiet fishing hamlets before ending at a peaceful beach overlooking Cambodia in the distance. Stop for a coconut or a seafood lunch by the shore and breathe in the silence. The combination of winding roads, sea breeze, and natural beauty makes this one of the most rewarding and unusual things to do in Phu Quoc for adventure seekers.
With just a motorbike, anyone can enjoy the natural beauty and fishing villages of Phu Quoc
Price: 120,000-150,000 VND per day.
Tip: Leave early to enjoy the soft morning light and cooler temperatures.
9. Drink Honey Coffee in a Hidden Jungle Café
In the hills of Cua Duong, family-run jungle cafés hide behind pepper farms and banana groves. These small wooden houses feel more like homes than businesses, with hammocks, open terraces, and the soft sound of birds echoing through the forest. Try a cup of strong Vietnamese coffee sweetened with local honey, or an iced lime soda made from fruit picked that morning. Without Wi-Fi or noise, these cafés offer a pause from the world, one of the most peaceful and unusual things to do in Phu Quoc.
Hidden cafés in the forest offer a sense of privacy and comfort, perfect for those who enjoy solo trips
Price: 30,000-60,000 VND.
Tip: Go early in the morning when sunlight filters through the leaves, creating a golden shimmer over your cup.
10. Make Your Own Sauce at Bun Quay Kien Xay
At Bun Quay Kien Xay, dining becomes an experience. Before your bowl arrives, you prepare your own dipping sauce from fish sauce, lime, chili, sugar, and freshly ground Phu Quoc pepper. Stir it until it foams, tastes, and adjust, everyone’s mix is unique. When the noodles arrive, filled with freshly stirred shrimp paste, the flavor is light yet rich, and your homemade sauce elevates every bite. This meal is not just delicious, it is interactive and deeply local, one of the most unusual things to do in Phu Quoc for food lovers.
Bun Quay Kien Xay is famous for its fresh seafood and unique way of dining
Price: 50,000-60,000 VND.
Tip: Visit mid-morning to avoid the rush, and watch how locals mix their sauces for inspiration.
11. Try Goi Ca Trich - Raw Herring Salad
Phu Quoc’s famous raw herring salad is a masterpiece of balance. Thin slices of fresh herring are marinated in lime juice and tossed with shredded coconut, herbs, onions, and peanuts, then wrapped in rice paper with greens. The flavor is bright, tangy, and deeply refreshing, perfectly paired with the island’s sea breeze. Sitting by the ocean, eating with your hands, you will understand why this dish has become a symbol of the island’s culinary identity.
Herring salad is a must-try local dish when visiting Phu Quoc
Price: 150,000-200,000 VND for two.
Tip: Ask for extra herbs and try it with tamarind fish sauce for the true local taste.
12. Taste Sim Wine and Walk Through the Orchards
Phu Quoc’s red soil nurtures a special fruit, the hồng sim, or wild myrtle berry. From March to May, the hills are covered in purple blossoms, and small family wineries open their gates for visitors. At Sim Son and Bay Gao, you can walk among the berry trees, learn about fermentation, and sample sweet-sour sim wine that pairs perfectly with seafood. The atmosphere is rustic, warm, and authentically local, a reminder that Phu Quoc’s heart still beats in its small family traditions.
Visit sim fruit gardens and local production workshops
Price: Free entry; tastings optional.
Tip: Visit in spring for blooming flowers and freshly bottled wine.
13. Pick Live Seafood and Dine on a Floating Raft
In Ganh Dau, seafood comes straight from the sea to your plate. Floating raft restaurants let you choose live fish, crab, or shrimp from netted cages suspended in the water. While you wait, the breeze carries the scent of garlic and lemongrass from nearby grills. The meal is simple and fresh, cooked with island-style seasonings, and served above the gentle waves. Each bite tastes of the sea, the salt air, and the freedom of open water. Dining here while the sun sets behind fishing boats is an experience that captures the spirit of island life better than any fancy restaurant. It is rustic, real, and one of the most authentic and unusual things to do in Phu Quoc.
Instead of visiting luxury restaurants, many travelers prefer to experience local life and dining in seaside fishing villages
Price: 100,000-200,000 VND per dish.
Tip: Arrive before noon for the best seafood selection and calm seas, and bring cash as card payments are not always available.
14. Dare to Try Tiet Canh Cua - Raw Crab Blood Pudding
For the adventurous traveler, Phu Quoc offers a dish that few dare to try: Tiet Canh Cua, or raw crab blood pudding. This delicacy is made from freshly drawn crab blood mixed with herbs, lime, peanuts, and minced crab meat. The texture is smooth and the taste combines the ocean’s saltiness with a touch of sour citrus and nutty crunch. Locals consider it a delicacy and a source of strength, often served at early morning gatherings in fishing villages like Ham Ninh. It may sound daring, but trying this dish is like tasting a piece of Phu Quoc’s heritage, where food tells the story of life by the sea.
Fresh, flavorful crabs are carefully prepared and processed to create tiet canh cua – a renowned delicacy of Phu Quoc.
Price: Varies depending on freshness and season.
Tip: Only try this dish at clean, reputable seafood restaurants recommended by locals, and eat it fresh for the best flavor and safety.
15. Hike to Suoi Tranh Waterfall and Picnic Like a Local
Tucked within the forest about ten kilometers southeast of Duong Dong, Suoi Tranh Waterfall offers a peaceful escape from the heat. A short hike leads you through lush greenery, wooden bridges, and mossy rocks before arriving at the gentle cascade. Locals often gather here for picnics, spreading mats on smooth stones, grilling small snacks, or simply napping in hammocks strung between trees. The sound of running water blends with birdsong and rustling leaves, creating a calm rhythm that melts away stress. Bring your camera, a picnic basket, and your curiosity, because Suoi Tranh feels like a secret world of its own — a must for anyone seeking the quiet side of Phu Quoc.
Instead of visiting the beaches, many families choose to camp by the waterfalls and take part in outdoor activities
Price: 10,000 VND per person.
Tip: Visit in the morning for cool air and soft light, and avoid rainy days when the path can become slippery.
16. Kayak Along the Peaceful Cua Can River
Glide along the calm waters of Cua Can River, one of Phu Quoc’s most serene natural wonders. Kayaking here takes you through mangrove forests, fishing hamlets, and quiet stretches of reflective water where palm trees bend toward the sky. The river moves slowly, so it is perfect even for beginners. Along the way, you might spot herons, kingfishers, or monitor lizards sunbathing on the banks. This peaceful activity reveals a different side of the island, far from its beaches and resorts. As the paddle dips gently into the water, you will find yourself immersed in nature’s rhythm — slow, soothing, and unforgettable.
The Cua Can River is an appealing destination for those who wish to explore the riverine landscapes on their own
Price: 100,000-150,000 VND per hour.
Tip: Go early in the morning for calm water and soft light, or late afternoon to enjoy the sunset reflecting on the river.
17. Climb Ham Ninh Mountain for Sunrise Views
For a truly rewarding adventure, wake before dawn and climb Ham Ninh Mountain, one of the island’s tallest peaks. The trail winds through dense bamboo forest and over moss-covered rocks, challenging but worth every step. When you reach the top, the view opens to the eastern coast, where the sun rises over the ocean in waves of pink and gold. Morning mist rolls across the trees, and you can hear the distant sound of fishing boats heading out to sea. Few travelers make this climb, which makes it even more special - a moment of solitude above the island, surrounded by clouds and light.
Ham Ninh Mountain overlooks the sunrise above the fishing village, creating a poetic and picturesque scene
Price: 300,000-500,000 VND for a local guide.
Tip: Begin hiking by 4:30 AM to catch the sunrise, and wear good shoes as the path can be slippery.
18. Soak in a Natural Mud Bath at Galina Wellness Spa
After days of exploring, there is no better reward than a natural mud bath at Galina Wellness Spa. Nestled among tropical gardens near Long Beach, this spa uses mineral-rich mud known for its skin-softening and detoxifying qualities. You will sit in open-air tubs surrounded by green trees and birdsong while the warm mud eases tension from your muscles. Afterward, rinse off in a mineral pool and enjoy a herbal steam. The gentle breeze, floral scent, and tranquil setting make it easy to forget time altogether. It is both relaxing and rejuvenating, one of the most restorative and unusual things to do in Phu Quoc.
Mud bathing not only offers a unique experience but also helps enhance the health of both your skin and body
Price: 200,000-400,000 VND depending on the package.
Tip: Visit in late afternoon when the sunlight is soft and the garden is shaded.
19. Stand-Up Paddleboard into the Sunset
Few experiences compare to watching the day fade from the water. Rent a paddleboard at Sunset Town and float across the calm bay as the sky glows with shades of orange, pink, and violet. The Mediterranean-style buildings along the shore reflect on the water like a painting, and the air feels still except for the gentle splash of your paddle. Whether you are standing tall or sitting to rest, it is a meditative experience that captures the island’s quiet beauty. Perfect for couples, this is one of the most romantic and unusual things to do in Phu Quoc.
A majestic scene where the sunlight reflects on the vast ocean surface
Price: 200,000-400,000 VND per hour.
Tip: Start around 5:00 PM for the best light and calmest sea.
20. Watch Sunrise and Hear Bells at Ho Quoc Pagoda
Built on a seaside cliff in the island’s southeast, Ho Quoc Pagoda is both a spiritual and scenic wonder. The temple’s tiled roofs curve gracefully toward the ocean, and stone dragons guard its stairways. As dawn breaks, monks ring the temple bells and chants echo softly through the mountain air. Standing on the terrace, you can watch the sun rise over the sea while the scent of incense drifts around you. It is a deeply moving experience that connects travelers to the spiritual side of Phu Quoc and reminds them to slow down and breathe.
The sound of the temple bell at Ho Pagoda awakens the morning peace each dawn
Price: Free.
Tip: Arrive before 6:30 AM for sunrise and dress modestly to show respect.
21. Join Afternoon Prayer at Duong Dong Cao Dai Temple
In the heart of Duong Dong town, the Cao Dai Temple opens its colorful doors to visitors curious about this unique Vietnamese religion. Inside, pastel walls of pink, blue, and yellow glow beneath the morning light, and at 4:00 PM, local worshippers gather for their daily prayer. Dressed in white robes, they bow and chant in harmony under the watchful symbol of the Divine Eye. The temple represents unity among all faiths, blending Buddhist, Christian, and Confucian elements into one peaceful philosophy. Observing the ceremony offers a moment of stillness and cultural insight that few tourists ever witness.
Cao Dai Temple is an ideal place for those seeking to explore spiritual destinations
Price: Free.
Tip: Remove your shoes before entering, keep quiet during prayers, and avoid flash photography.
22. Visit Dinh Cau Shrine and Hear Sea Guardian Legends
Perched on a rocky outcrop where the Duong Dong River meets the sea, Dinh Cau Shrine has watched over fishermen for more than 300 years. Dedicated to Thien Hau, the sea goddess, it is both a symbol of faith and a stunning viewpoint. To reach the shrine, climb a short flight of stone steps while the sound of waves and scent of incense fill the air. Inside, locals leave offerings of fruit and flowers before setting out to sea. From the terrace, you can see fishing boats returning home as the sun dips below the horizon. It is a scene of faith, resilience, and connection to nature that captures the island’s heart.
Dinh Cau is an iconic seaside shrine perched on rugged rocks, where locals and travelers alike come to watch the sunset and pray for safe voyages
Price: Free.
Tip: Visit before sunset to enjoy both the ceremony and the panoramic sea view.
23. Take a Local Cooking Class and Make Goi Ca Trich
Immerse yourself in island life by joining a cooking class at local spots like The Spice House or Cassia Cottage. Start your day at the market, guided by a local chef who shows you how to choose the freshest seafood, herbs, and vegetables. Back in the kitchen, you will learn to prepare traditional dishes such as goi ca trich (raw herring salad) and caramelized fish in clay pots. The process is hands-on, fun, and filled with laughter. When the cooking is done, sit down with your group to share the meal you have created, accompanied by stories about island traditions. This experience is more than a lesson in food; it is a window into Phu Quoc’s community spirit.
Not only do visitors get to enjoy the dish, but they can also try making goi ca trich themselves under the guidance of local residents
Price: 600,000-900,000 VND including lunch.
Tip: Choose a morning class to include the market visit and enjoy your dishes for lunch.
24. Meet the Phu Quoc Ridgeback Dogs
Animal lovers will adore visiting the Phu Quoc Ridgeback Conservation Center near the old airport. This rare breed, native to the island, is known for the unique ridge of fur that grows backward along its spine. Agile, loyal, and intelligent, these dogs were once trained to hunt in the island’s dense forests. At the center, visitors can watch demonstrations of agility, learn about their history, and even play with the puppies under staff supervision. Meeting these dogs is a memorable experience that celebrates one of Vietnam’s proudest native species.
Phu Quoc Ridgeback Dog is Vietnam’s native island breed, known for its distinctive ridge of hair along the back, agility, and loyal nature.
Price: Donation appreciated.
Tip: Call ahead or ask your hotel to confirm visiting hours or training sessions.
25. Go Night Squid Fishing Under the Stars
After dark, head to the harbor at Duong Dong or An Thoi for a night squid fishing tour. Under a canopy of stars, local fishermen guide you into calm waters where green lamps illuminate the sea surface. Using simple rods and hooks, you will try your luck catching squid as they rise toward the light. The crew grills your catch right on deck and serves it hot with lime, salt, and chili. Even if you do not catch anything, the quiet night breeze and endless starlit horizon make this one of the most peaceful and unusual things to do in Phu Quoc.
Night squid fishing tours are very popular in Phu Quoc - just hop on a boat, and all the necessary gear will be provided.
Price: 300,000-400,000 VND per person including dinner.
Tip: Bring a light jacket, and avoid slippery shoes while moving around the deck.
26. Eat Bun Ken for Breakfast
Begin your morning like a true local with bun ken, one of Phu Quoc’s rarest noodle dishes. Minced mackerel is cooked in coconut milk with turmeric and lemongrass, creating a rich golden sauce that is poured over rice noodles and topped with fresh herbs, green papaya, peanuts, and crispy shallots. The dish is slightly spicy, aromatic, and uniquely flavorful. Locals often enjoy it as a quick breakfast, eaten on small stools at sidewalk stalls while chatting with neighbors. The most famous place to try it is Bun Ken Ut Luom, a humble shop that serves steaming bowls to lines of early risers.
Alongside Bun Quay, Bun Ken is also a local specialty in Phu Quoc
Price: 25,000-30,000 VND.
Tip: Arrive before 9:00 AM, as bun ken is sold out quickly every day.
27. Ride the Island Loop by Motorbike
For the ultimate sense of freedom, rent a motorbike and explore the Phu Quoc island loop. The route runs from Duong Dong to Ham Ninh, then south to An Thoi, passing beaches, pepper farms, and roadside cafés along the way. Every turn reveals a new surprise: children waving by the roadside, hidden coves, and tiny bridges leading to fishing hamlets. Stop whenever something catches your eye, swim in the sea, or sip coconut water under palm trees. Riding the loop is not about reaching a destination but about embracing the journey itself. It is one of the most liberating and unusual things to do in Phu Quoc, the kind of experience that reminds you why travel matters.
For adventure seekers, driving along the Island Loop offers a thrilling way to enjoy the island’s scenic views
Price: 120,000-150,000 VND per day.
Tip: Start early, wear sunscreen, and take breaks often to enjoy the scenery.
