Phu Quoc beaches: west, north and south - where to swim, where it's beautiful, and where the best beach club is.
Phu Quoc is cleverly designed: the same sea on the map, but completely different beaches in terms of feel. In the west, you will find sunsets, soft sand and a long ‘hotel’ line, which many call Long Beach Phu Quoc (locals often say Bãi Trường / Bai Truong). In the north, there is the spacious Bai Dai Beach near Grand World and the feeling of a 24/7 resort. In the south, there are postcard-perfect white sand beaches like Sao Beach Phu Quoc and more private bays like Khem Beach.
And one more important point: seasonality in Phu Quoc is not just about rain/sun. It's about when it's really pleasant to swim, when the sea is calm and clear, and when the wind, waves, jellyfish appear and the sandy strip is eaten away by the water.
Below is my guide to beaches, with an emphasis on swimming, water clarity, depth, infrastructure and, of course, where to enjoy a cocktail on a sun lounger in comfort.
Quick guide to the seasons (from a beach holiday perspective)
Dry season (roughly November-May)
Swimming: usually more comfortable, calmer sea.
Water: usually cleaner and clearer, especially on the west and north-west coasts.
Wind/waves: gentler, less rough sea.
Beach line: often wider and more comfortable to lie on.
Nuance: jellyfish may be encountered at certain times (not every day and not everywhere, but it does happen on the island).
Rainy season (roughly July–September)
Swimming: depends on the week - sometimes calm and lovely, sometimes wavy and murkier.
Water: may be less transparent after heavy rain.
Wind: stronger, especially in bad weather.
Beach line: in some places, the water comes closer, and there is visually less sand.
Plus: fewer people, more ‘air’ and a chance to take/catch the beach without crowds.
West Coast - Long Beach as an entirely beach-oriented region.
On the west coast of Phu Quoc, almost everything revolves around the long beach line, which tourists commonly refer to as Long Beach. In reality, it is not a single point, but a large coastal area stretching from Duong Dong and Cua Lap areas above the airport to the Sonasea and Phu Quoc Marina clusters, and further south to Sunset Town. This is where people most often catch the best sunsets and seek that comfortable resort rhythm.
Long Beach (Bãi Trường / Bai Truong): sunsets, convenience, and the best “beach base camp”
Long Beach is loved for its simple, very pleasant logistics: you live by the sea, surrounded by dozens of cafes and restaurants, and almost any day you can go to the beach “without a plan” and still have a beautiful evening.
In their reviews, tourists most often mention the relaxed vacation atmosphere, long walks along the shore, and spectacular sunsets when the sun slowly sinks into the sea and everything around turns golden. Many write that this place is ideal “for a first encounter with Phu Quoc” because there is no need to complicate anything here.
Sand, depth, water: the shore is mostly soft sand with a fairly gentle slope, so it's comfortable to swim and just walk along the water's edge.
Seasons and swimming: during the dry season, swimming at Long Beach is usually more pleasant, and the good weather is more stable, so the sea often looks calmer and “cleaner” in photos. During the rainy season, swimming depends on the specific day: sometimes everything is fine, and sometimes after the rain, the water seems less transparent and waves appear, but the beach feels freer and calmer.
Hotels nearby:
InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort
Regent Phu Quoc
Pullman Phu Quoc Beach Resort
Novotel Phu Quoc Resort
Best Western Premier Sonasea Phu Quoc
SOL by Meliá Phu Quoc
Salinda Resort Phu Quoc
Where to hang out in comfort (beach club / beach bar):
OCSEN Beach Bar & Club
Lumera Beach bar
Sunset Beach Bar & Restaurant
How to get there: Long Beach is very easy to reach: it takes 10-20 minutes by Grab/taxi from the airport to most hotels. It is also quick to get there from Duong Dong, as VinBus routes 17 and 19 (green) pass through here.
Sunset Sanato is the most Instagrammable spot on Long Beach for watching the sunset.
Even those who are indifferent to beach attractions single out Sunset Sanato. The reason is clear: here, the sunset turns into a show - art installations on the shore make the shots recognizable, and the evening light almost always works in your favor.
In their reviews, tourists most often mention the wow effect, the beautiful “postcard-like” picture, and the comfortable atmosphere for the evening - come with friends, have a cocktail, walk along the shore, and watch the sky change.
Seasons and swimming: during the dry season, it is easier to catch the “perfect” sunset and spend a quiet evening by the water. During the rainy season, it is better to keep an eye on the forecast and catch breaks without rain: the sky can be particularly expressive.
How to get there: this is part of the west coast of Long Beach, most often conveniently reached by Grab/taxi.
Phu Quoc Marina + Sailing Club (Bãi 3 Cây Dừa / Three Coconut Tree Beach) - a well-maintained beach and stylish beach club.
If you want more than just a beach, but a resort “turnkey day” with sun loungers, service, and music, the Phu Quoc Marina and Sailing Club Phu Quoc area now looks particularly appealing. The beach here feels more well-kept and “put together,” and it's easy to keep up with the pace of vacation life - breakfast, sea, lunch, cocktails, sunset.
Tourists most often note the comfort and beautiful presentation of this area: clean territory, comfortable recreation areas, and the feeling of “being in a good beach club, only in Phu Quoc.”
Seasons and swimming: during the dry season, the water here is usually calmer, swimming is more pleasant, and a typical beach day can be planned without surprises. In the rainy season, the mood depends on the weather on a given day, but thanks to the infrastructure, “plan B” is always close at hand.
Hotels nearby:
Regent Phu Quoc
InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort by IHG
Sailing Club Signature Resort Phu Quoc
Soul Boutique Hotel Phu Quoc
Novotel Phu Quoc Resort
Pullman Phu Quoc Beach Resort
The Residence Resort & Villas Phu Quoc
Andochine Resort & Spa Phu Quoc
Novotel Phu Quoc Resort
Best Western Premier Sonasea Phu Quoc
Muong Thanh Luxury Phu Quoc Hotel
Where to hang out:
Sailing Club Phu Quoc
How to get there: Phu Quoc Marina is easily accessible by Grab/taxi. It usually takes 15-25 minutes from Duong Dong, and even less from the airport. Near Phu Quoc Marina Beach, there is also the last stop of VinBus No. 19, which runs through the airport, Duong Dong to Grand World.
North of the island - Bai Dai Beach and Grand World (movement, space, and resort town)
Bai Dai Beach (Bãi Dài): a wide northern beach with a lively atmosphere.
Bai Dai in the Grand World area is often chosen by those who like to have “everything nearby”: the beach, entertainment, walking areas, and evening lights. This is a different Phu Quoc - brighter and more eventful.
In their reviews, tourists most often mention Bai Dai's wide sandy strip, spaciousness, pleasant areas near hotels, and the feeling that you can combine a beach vacation with evening life without long trips.
Seasons and swimming: during the dry season, swimming at Bai Dai is usually more pleasant and calmer, and the water often seems cleaner. During the rainy season, the sea can be more “lively” due to the wind, but thanks to the size of the beach and the infrastructure, it is still easy to have a comfortable day here.
Hotels nearby:
Crowne Plaza Phu Quoc Starbay by IHG
Sheraton Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort
Vinpearl Wonderworld Phu Quoc
Vinpearl Discovery Phu Quoc
Melia Vinpearl Phu Quoc
Wyndham Grand Phu Quoc
Radisson Blu Resort
Wyndham Garden Grandworld Phu Quoc
Where to hang out (beach club / bar):
Amber Sands Beach Club
Grand World Food Court
Siren Beach Club
The Haven Beach Club
Palm Beach Club (Bai Dai)
How to get there: from Duong Dong, head north for 45–70 minutes. If you are staying in the Grand World/Vinpearl cluster, you are already there. There is a VinBus No. 19, 17, 20 stop right in front of the beach, and there is also an eco-friendly electric car free tour around Grand World.
Starfish Beach in Rach Vem District
Starfish Beach in Rach Vem is one of those places that people remember not for its beach clubs, but for its atmosphere: shallow, clear water, a quiet fishing village, and that moment when starfish appear in the lagoon and you exclaim, ‘Wow, they really do exist!’
In their reviews, visitors most often mention the calm water in the dry season, the unusual shallow bottom that looks beautiful in photos, and the best impressions in the early morning when there are fewer people and the light is softer. Many also say that it is worth going here specifically for the atmosphere of the north-western coast, rather than for classic swimming.
Seasons and swimming: during the dry season, the water is usually calmer and clearer, and the likelihood of seeing starfish is higher. Swimming is not the main purpose here - rather, it is a walk in shallow water and enjoying the scenery. During the rainy season, the sea can look more turbulent and visibility is reduced, so the place no longer seems like a picture-perfect postcard.
❗️Starfish are marine animals, so exposure to the air - and especially to the scorching sun - is fatal for them. It is best to observe them directly in the water.
How to get there: Most people get to Rach Vem by car and then by boat to the shallow water where visitors usually gather to look at starfish. The roads on the last stretch can be bumpy, so it is best to allow extra time.
Western North - Ong Lang Beach and relaxation without the hustle and bustle.
Ong Lang Beach (Bãi Ông Lang): quiet, green and very pleasant for peaceful evenings.
Ong Lang appeals to those who want a relaxed atmosphere, greenery and a beach without constant noise. It is one of those beaches that is often recommended as a smart alternative to Long Beach: everything is nearby, but the feeling of relaxation is more intimate.
In their reviews, tourists most often mention the silence and space, cosy resorts and that feeling when you can just sit by the water in the evening and watch the sunset without crowds.
Seasons and swimming: during the dry season, swimming at Ong Lang is usually more pleasant and calmer, and the warm weather is more stable. During the rainy season, the sea can be rough, but thanks to the atmosphere and fewer people, the beach is still very pleasant.
Hotels nearby:
Mövenpick Resort Waverly Phu Quoc
Ocean Bay Resort & Spa Phu Quoc
Grand Ocean Bay Resort Phu Quoc
Mango Bay Resort
Where to hang out by the sea (very atmospheric):
On The Rock (Mango Bay)
Ocean Bar & Grill, Ong Lang
Tree House Restaurant - By Ocean Bay
How to get there: from Duong Dong, it usually takes 15-25 minutes by Grab/taxi. It is very convenient to get there by VinBus buses. Buses No. 17, 19, and 20 pass nearby, and it is convenient to get from Ong Lang to Grand World, Duong Dong, Phu Quoc Express Port, where ferries depart for the mainland, and the Marina area in the south.
Secluded bays: Vung Bau (for peace and quiet)
Vung Bau Beach (Half-Moon / Crescent Beach): a quiet bay with natural surroundings located above Ong Lang.
Vung Bau is a holiday destination where no one rushes you. There is more nature and fewer random tourists here, so the coast feels particularly peaceful.
In their reviews, tourists most often mention the silence, space and natural backdrop of Vung Bau, as well as the fact that you can really ‘reboot’ here - without noise and bustle.
Seasons and swimming: during the dry season, swimming at Vung Bau is usually more pleasant and stable, the water often seems clearer, and the sea is calmer. During the rainy season, it is better to choose a good day without heavy rain: then the beach remains beautiful, and there are almost no people.
Hotels nearby:
Green Bay Phu Quoc Resort & Spa
Chez Carole Beach Resort
How to get there: from Duong Dong, it usually takes 30-50 minutes by taxi/transfer or VinBus.
Eschuri Vung Bau Golf is being built here, and unfortunately, many of the beach access points are now impassable.
South of the island - postcards and resort bays
Sao Beach (Bãi Sao): white sand and that very turquoise
Sao Beach is the island's calling card and one of the most frequent search terms, such as Sao Beach Phu Quoc. It really does look like a dream: light sand and brightly colored water on good days.
In their reviews, tourists most often mention the snow-white sand, beautiful shades of water, and the “wow” effect even for those who have seen many beaches.
Seasons and swimming: during the dry season, swimming at Sao Beach is usually more pleasant, the water often looks clearer, and the weather is consistently beachy. During the rainy season, the impression depends on the day: after rain, the sea may be less clear in color, but when the weather is good, the beach remains very beautiful.
How to get there: it usually takes 40-60 minutes from Duong Dong. It is convenient to travel south by Grab/taxi or motorbike.
Khem / Kem Beach (Bãi Khem) - soft sand and premium south.
Many choose Khem Beach for its tranquil resort atmosphere and the feeling that everything around it is beautifully designed. When tourists search for Khem Beach Phu Quoc resort, they almost always have this style in mind: relaxed, neat, and expensive in appearance.
At Khem Beach, tourists most often note the soft light sand, well-groomed atmosphere, and sense of privacy, especially when staying at a resort.
Seasons and swimming: during the dry season, swimming at Khem Beach is usually more pleasant and smoother, and the good weather is more stable. During the rainy season, the sea sometimes changes due to the wind, but the resort infrastructure makes your stay comfortable.
Hotels nearby:
JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa
Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Managed by Accor
New World Phu Quoc Resort
Where to hang out by the sea:
Istanbul Beach Club Phu Quoc
Saawaan Phu Quoc - Seafood & Chill
Kaisun Restaurant & Bar
The Deck Phu Quoc - Kitchen & Beach Bar
Ann Seafood
Draft Beer Bai Khem Phu Quoc
How to get there: from the north and center of the island, only by taxi/transfer. From the south of the island, you can take a shuttle bus that runs between Khem Beach and Sunset Town.
Cay Dua Beach (Bãi biển Bai Cay Dua)
Cay Dua Beach is part of the southern coast of the island, which looks more secluded and ‘wild’ compared to the main tourist areas. It is quiet, picturesque and very photogenic when the weather is calm - soft sand, tropical vegetation and a coastline resembling a hidden bay.
In their reviews, travellers often mention the peaceful atmosphere, the feeling of being away from the crowds, and how pleasant it is to come here for a walk along the water, especially in the morning or closer to golden hour.
Seasons and swimming: during the dry season, the sea is usually calmer, and the beach seems cleaner and more comfortable for relaxed swimming. During the rainy season, the waves can be stronger, and the water may appear less transparent after heavy rain, so it is better to choose a period with good weather.
Nearby hotels:
Premier Village Phu Quoc Resort
How to get there: The easiest way to get to Cay Dua Beach is by Grab taxi if you are staying in the southern part of the island. There is a naval base located here, so access to the beach is often restricted. Access to the beach is mainly limited to locals and guests staying at the Premier Village Resort.
Sunworld Beach on Hon Thom Island (Bãi tắm Sunworld)
If you live in Sunset Town, this is one of the most beautiful day trips you can take, without long journeys or complicated logistics. First, there is the Hon Thom cable car: you ride above the sea, seeing islands, turquoise patches of water and panoramic views that are like a mini-excursion in themselves.
Next, Aquatopia Water Park is the perfect fit - noisy, lively, with slides and thrills. Here, it's easy to let loose, laugh, burn off energy, and really feel like you've had a full day.
After that, it's especially nice to slow down at Sunworld Beach. The beach here feels like a gentle finale: warm sand, the sea, a calm rhythm. Take a dip, stroll along the shore, grab a cold drink and just hang out by the water.
Seasons and swimming: in the dry season, it is usually easier to catch calm weather and a calmer sea. In the rainy season, it is better to keep an eye on the forecast and choose clear windows - then the whole route works perfectly.
How to get there: the start is as convenient as possible - the cable car station is next to Sunset Town, then everything is in one clear route: the cable car, Aquatopia, the beach, and back the same way. It is best to check the cable car schedule before planning your trip.
An important section for tourists: the best beach clubs in Phu Quoc (where to go for comfort)
If you want a beach with “service” rather than just sand and water, these places usually best meet the requirements of a Phu Quoc beach club:
Bai Dai / Grand World / North
Amber Sands Beach Club
Siren Beach Club
Ong Lang
On The Rock (Mango Bay)
Long Beach / Bai Truong
OCSEN Beach Bar & Club (Duon Dong)
Sunset Sanato
Sailing Club Phu Quoc (Marina)
Khem Beach
Istanbul Beach Club Phu Quoc
Kaisun Restaurant & Bar
Read also the article about Night Markets and Walking Streets of Phu Quoc ➡️
Top 5 beaches in Phu Quoc (conclusion)
- Long Beach is the most convenient beach for staying, walking, and watching sunsets; there are many 4–5* hotels and beach bars.
- Sao Beach has white sand and bright water in the dry season; it is best to visit in the morning.
- Khem Beach — the “premium south” with top 5* resorts and a relaxed resort atmosphere.
- Bai Dai Beach — a wide northern beach with traffic and entertainment within easy reach of Grand World attractions.
- Ong Lang Beach — a green, intimate west coast with atmospheric bars and good 4-5* eco-style hotels.
If you would like to have a photo shoot for yourself or your family during your wonderful vacation on one of Phu Quoc's beaches, please contact me.
Eduard Stelmakh: Professional photographer on Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam.