Phu Quoc Island-Hopping Guide: The An Thoi Archipelago & Southern Islands

At the southern tip of Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s largest island, a scatter of around fifteen islands rises from clear green water. This is the An Thoi Archipelago, and it is the island’s best answer to the question of what to do besides lying on a beach. Boats leave from the fishing port of An Thoi each morning for sandbar-fringed islets, coral gardens and quiet fishing hamlets. Above them runs one of the longest sea-crossing cable cars in the world. This guide covers where to stay, which islands are worth your time, how to pick a tour, what to eat, and how the seasons shape the plan.

The Southern Tip: What Sets the An Thoi Archipelago Apart

Phu Quoc has several personalities. The west coast is the resort strip, with sunset bars and hotel towers. The north is greener and emptier, and Duong Dong in the middle handles markets and nightlife. The south is working Vietnam. An Thoi is a fishing and ferry town where boats crowd the harbour, ice trucks rumble through at dawn, and the smell of drying squid hangs over the waterfront. The archipelago sits just offshore, and for the people who live there it has always been a place to fish rather than a postcard.

That working character is still visible, even as tourism pushes in. Many islands in the group have no development at all. A few have a single beach shack, a coconut grove or a handful of houses on stilts. Others have been developed heavily, most obviously Hon Thom, which has a theme park and a resort cluster. Island-hopping here means moving between those extremes in a single day: a crowded cable-car station in the morning, a deserted stretch of sand at noon, and a seafood lunch cooked on a boat deck.

The water is the draw. Visibility changes with the season, but in the calm months from roughly November to April the shallows around the islands turn turquoise and the sea is often flat enough that even nervous swimmers feel comfortable snorkelling. Much of the area falls within the Phu Quoc National Park and marine protection zone, which is a good reason to treat the reefs with care.

Where to Base Yourself: South Coast Neighbourhoods

You do not have to sleep in the south to visit the islands, but it saves a long morning transfer. Each pocket of the south coast has a different feel.

An Thoi Town

An Thoi is the port itself, and it is the least polished option. Streets are busy and unglamorous, with motorbike repair shops, small hotels and plenty of cheap eateries. It suits travellers who want to be at the dock before the first boat and who care more about local atmosphere than a pool. Guesthouses here tend to be simple and inexpensive, often around $15 to $35 a night.

Bai Sao and the Southeast Coast

Sao Beach, on the southeast shore, is the most famous stretch of sand on the island, with fine white sand and shallow water. Bars and loungers line parts of it, and the beach is busy on weekends. A handful of resorts and smaller guesthouses sit along the coastal road, making it a comfortable middle ground. You can reach An Thoi port within a short ride, and you have a beach to return to in the afternoon. Nearby Khem Beach is quieter, softer and a bit more refined, with a few upscale resorts.

Ong Lang and Rach Vem

Ong Lang, on the west coast, is a calmer, greener area of small bungalows, garden hotels and low-key cafes. It is farther from the southern docks, so day trips mean a longer drive, but the atmosphere is relaxed. Rach Vem, on the northwest side, is known for its squid-ink-coloured fishing boats and the starfish that sometimes show up in shallow water. It is better as a stop than a base for island-hopping.

Duong Dong and Long Beach

Duong Dong is the island’s main town, with the night market, the most restaurants, and the widest choice of hotels, from hostels to chain properties. Long Beach, stretching south from the town, concentrates the island’s resorts. If you are splitting your time between island tours and general sightseeing, this is the easiest base, though expect a 30 to 45 minute drive to An Thoi. Many tour operators include hotel pickup from this area.

The Islands, One by One

Tour itineraries vary by operator and weather, but a handful of islands appear again and again. Boat captains also adjust stops depending on sea conditions, so treat the descriptions below as a guide to what you might see rather than a fixed schedule.

Hon Thom (Pineapple Island)

The largest island in the group is Hon Thom, named for its supposed pineapple shape. It is the most developed of the southern islands, with a nature park and water park complex, a resort area and a cable car landing. A huge part of the island is still wooded hillside. Visitors who want a polished, structured day with rides, a beach club and easy facilities tend to go here. Those looking for a sense of discovery generally prefer the smaller islands.

Hon Mong Tay

Mong Tay is a small island with a long, calm beach, and it is among the better places to swim when the water is clear. It makes a typical first stop on boat tours. The beach is simple, with a few shaded areas and some basic food and drink stalls. The shallow bay is useful for beginners and children.

Hon Gam Ghi

Gam Ghi is known for its snorkelling reputation. Corals and reef fish sit close to shore, and many tours stop here for an hour or more of swimming. A small fishing community and a couple of simple beach spots add local colour. On busy days, numerous boats anchor at once, so the earlier you arrive, the better the water tends to look.

Hon May Rut

May Rut is actually two islands, often called May Rut Trong (inner) and May Rut Ngoai (outer). They are among the most photographed islands in the group, with soft sand, clear shallows and good swimming. Operators often use May Rut for lunch stops and beach time. Facilities range from simple shacks to small resorts, depending on which part you visit.

Hon Dua and the Smaller Islets

Hon Dua and other minor islands round out the group. Some tours stop at them for snorkelling or a quick swim; others only sail past. The smaller islets are valuable mainly for what they do not have. There are no crowds and no development, and the sense of open sea is strong. If your boat offers a choice, ask the captain for the quietest spot of the day.

Riding the Hon Thom Cable Car

The cable car from Phu Quoc’s southern tip to Hon Thom is one of the island’s signature experiences, and its length is its claim to fame. It runs roughly eight kilometres, making it one of the world’s longest three-wire sea cable cars. The ride takes around 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the day and the operator’s pace.

The station on the main island sits near An Thoi, and the cabins glide above fishing boats, small islands and open water before touching down on Hon Thom. The best views come on clear days, when the colour shift in the sea is easy to see: pale sand-shallows, deep blue channels, green islets. Even on hazier days the ride is atmospheric. Window seats are not guaranteed, but cabins are large enough for groups to shuffle for views.

Ticket prices are usually in the range of $20 to $35 for adults, with a higher tier that includes the nature park and water park. Check the current price and what is included, because packages change. The cable car can pause or close in strong wind, so arrive earlier in the day and leave room in the schedule. If you want the cable car and also a traditional boat day, treat them as separate outings. Combining both usually leaves you rushed.

Under the Surface: Snorkelling, Diving and Reef Etiquette

Snorkelling is the main in-water activity, and most island-hopping tours supply masks, snorkels and life jackets. Fit is variable, so if you own a mask, bring it. The best coral generally lies in shallow water near Gam Ghi and some of the smaller islets, with reef fish, urchins and the occasional sea cucumber. Do not expect Great Barrier Reef conditions. Some reefs show the effects of storms, anchors and heavy foot traffic, and quality changes by spot and season.

Scuba diving is offered by several operators based in Duong Dong and the south. Dive sites around An Thoi suit beginners and those working toward certification, and the calm months bring the best visibility. Discover Scuba sessions typically cost around $60 to $100, and fun dives are often cheaper than in Thailand. Choose operators that brief clearly, keep groups small and use registered instructors.

• Use reef-safe sunscreen or wear a rash guard, since chemical sunscreens harm coral.
• Never stand on coral, even if the water is shallow.
• Do not collect shells, starfish or urchins. Photographing starfish in the water is fine, but lifting them out is not.
• Keep your fins away from the bottom when the water is shallow.
• Take your rubbish back to the boat.

Choosing How to Go: Group Boats, Speedboats and Private Charters

Island trips come in several formats, and the differences are bigger than they look on a brochure.

Group Boat Tours

The standard option is a wooden or fibreglass boat carrying 15 to 40 people. Departure is around 8:30 or 9:00 a.m., with return around 4:00 or 4:30 p.m. Most include three or four island stops, snorkelling gear, a seafood or set lunch, fruit and sometimes a short fishing session. Prices usually run $20 to $40 per person, depending on whether the tour includes the cable car, lunch and hotel pickup. This is the best value, and the atmosphere is usually sociable.

Speedboat Tours

Smaller speedboats cover more distance and spend less time in transit, so you can reach several islands in a day. They cost more, commonly $40 to $70 per person, and the ride can be bumpy in choppy water. If you get seasick, think twice.

Private Charters

Chartering a boat for a family or group gives you control over the route and timing. You can ask the captain to skip busy spots, linger where the water is beautiful, or arrange a quiet lunch on a beach. Prices vary widely by boat size and season, but a half-day charter generally starts around $100 and a full day can climb to $200 to $400. Agree on the price, route and what is included before departure.

What to Ask Before Booking

• Which islands are on the route, and how long is the snorkelling stop?
• Is lunch included, and what is on the menu?
• Is there a life jacket for every passenger, including children?
• What happens if the weather turns? Is there a refund or reschedule?
• Does the price include hotel transfers and cable car tickets?

Be wary of very cheap tours. The lowest prices usually mean crowded boats, short stops or add-on charges later in the day. Reputable hotels and well-reviewed local operators tend to be more reliable than street touts.

After the Boat: Sunset, Squid Fishing and Evenings in the South

Many visitors assume the day ends when the boat docks. In the south, the evening has its own rhythm. Sunset Town, built on the southern shore near An Thoi, is a Mediterranean-styled development with a pedestrian promenade, restaurants, cafes and the arched Kiss Bridge, which extends out over the water. It is touristy and unmistakably designed for photographs, but the sunsets are real and the atmosphere at dusk is lively. Weekends are busy, so expect crowds on the bridge.

For something more traditional, join a night squid fishing trip. Boats head out as dusk falls, drop lines under bright lights and wait for the squid to rise. Even if your catch is modest, the lights on the dark water and the work of the crew are memorable. Tours typically last two to three hours and cost around $15 to $30 per person. Some include a light meal. Go on a calm night, as rough water makes the experience less pleasant.

If you prefer an early night, a seaside massage, a beer at a beach shack in Bai Sao or a simple dinner in An Thoi is a good counterpart to a day on the water.

Eating the South: Seafood and Local Dishes

Phu Quoc’s food is built on the sea, and the south has some of the freshest seafood on the island. Fish and shellfish come off boats at An Thoi each morning, and many restaurants have tanks of live crab, shrimp and fish so you can choose what you want.

Dishes worth seeking out include:

• Grilled sea urchin (nhum nuong): opened over charcoal and topped with spring onion oil and crushed peanuts, creamy and briny.
• Herring salad (goi ca trich): raw herring dressed with herbs, coconut and peanuts and wrapped in rice paper.
• Bun quay: a local noodle dish, with house-made sauce and seafood toppings, popular in Kien Giang province.
• Ghe (blue crab): steamed or sauteed with salt, pepper or tamarind. Phu Quoc is known for it, particularly in the east near Ham Ninh.
• Grilled squid and cuttlefish: often served with a pepper-and-lime dip, a good use of the island’s famed pepper.
• Fish sauce: the island’s most famous export, used in almost every savoury dish and a good thing to buy as a souvenir.

Prices are fair but not rock-bottom. A simple noodle or rice meal might cost $2 to $4, while a seafood feast for two can reach $30 to $60, depending on what you order. Always confirm the price per kilo before you choose live seafood and watch the weighing. Ask for the total in advance to avoid disputes. Prices at beachfront restaurants are often higher than in town.

The boat lunch on a group tour is usually decent, with grilled fish, shrimp, rice and vegetables. If you have dietary restrictions, tell the operator at booking.

Mainland Stops Between Island Days

Island days are tiring, and a day of mainland sightseeing balances the schedule. The south has a few worthwhile stops that take little time.

Phu Quoc Prison (Coconut Tree Prison)

Near An Thoi, this former prison dates to the French colonial era and was used again during the Vietnam War. Today it is a museum with reconstructed cells, photographs and exhibits that deal frankly with detention and suffering. It is sobering, and a short visit adds historical depth to a trip dominated by beaches.

Ham Ninh Fishing Village

On the east coast, Ham Ninh is a small village with a long wooden pier, crab restaurants and stilt houses. It is more rustic than An Thoi, and a good place to eat crab straight from the boats. Go at lunch or in the late afternoon.

Pepper Farms and Fish Sauce Factories

Phu Quoc’s pepper farms and fish sauce factories lie on the island’s middle roads, between Duong Dong and the south. Visits are quick and usually free, and you can buy peppercorns and sauce at fair prices. They are worth a stop if you are driving through.

Getting There and Getting Around

Reaching Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc International Airport is on the west side, a short drive from Duong Dong. Direct domestic flights connect it with Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang and other cities, and some international routes operate seasonally. Fast ferries run from Ha Tien and Rach Gia on the mainland, and the crossing takes around 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on the route and operator. Ferry timetables shift, so check ahead.

Getting to An Thoi

From the airport, An Thoi is roughly 25 to 35 kilometres away, about 40 to 50 minutes by car. Taxis and ride-hailing services are available, and a taxi or private transfer often costs $12 to $20. Hotels can arrange pickups.

Local Transport

• Motorbike rental: the most flexible option, around $6 to $10 a day. You need an appropriate licence, and roads can be busy, so ride carefully. Insurance is a must.



• Taxis and ride-hailing: Grab and local taxi companies operate on the island, though coverage in the far south can be thinner. Agree on fares or use meters.
• Tour transfers: most island tours include hotel pickup, which removes the logistics.
• Private driver: practical for a full day of mainland sightseeing and affordable if split between several people.

Weather and Seasons

Season is the biggest factor in an island-hopping trip. The dry season, from roughly November to April, brings calmer seas, blue skies and the best snorkelling visibility. December to February is cooler and comfortable, while March and April are hotter and busier with Vietnamese holiday travel.

From about May to October, southwest monsoon conditions bring rain, wind and rougher water. Showers often arrive in the afternoon, and some days are bright, but sea conditions can make tours bumpy or lead to cancellations. Visibility underwater drops, and boat operators may skip distant islands. Prices and crowds are lower, and the island is greener. Those who go in this season should allow flexibility and check weather the day before.

The cable car and boats may pause when winds rise, so avoid scheduling a tight connection, such as a flight, on the same day as a major boat tour.

Practical Tips Before You Go

• Cash: carry Vietnamese dong for island stalls, small restaurants and tips. Cards are accepted at larger hotels and some restaurants, but not on small islands.
• Sun protection: the sun is intense on the water. Bring a hat, long-sleeved rash guard, reef-safe sunscreen and sunglasses.
• Seasickness: take medication before departure if you are prone, and sit near the middle of the boat.



• Waterproofing: use a dry bag for phones and cameras. Boats get splashy.
• Footwear: pack sandals or water shoes. Some landing spots are rocky.
• Safety: check that life jackets are available and wear one while snorkelling, especially if you are a weak swimmer.
• Water and snacks: boats usually provide water, but a spare bottle is useful.
• Waste: bring a small bag for rubbish, and avoid single-use plastics where possible.
• Restricted zones: the south has military installations. Follow signs and local instructions, and do not fly drones or photograph restricted areas.
• Booking timing: in peak season, book tours one or two days ahead. Off-season you can usually arrange them the day before.

Beyond the Archipelago: Longer Day Trips

If you have extra days, the wider region offers more. Ha Tien, on the mainland coast near the Cambodian border, is reachable by ferry from Phu Quoc. It is a laid-back riverside town with markets, caves and seafood, and it makes an easy overnight excursion or route to Cambodia. Check border and visa requirements if you plan to cross.

Further out, the Nam Du Islands are a remote cluster in the Gulf of Thailand, reached by boat from Rach Gia on the mainland rather than from Phu Quoc. They are quieter and more basic than the An Thoi group, with simple homestays, rocky coastlines and little tourism infrastructure. They suit travellers with spare time who want something rougher, and transport is weather dependent.

For most visitors, though, the An Thoi Archipelago is enough. A single boat day gives you swimming, snorkelling and a seafood lunch on the water, and a second day can add the cable car, the sunset promenade or a squid-fishing evening. Phu Quoc’s south rewards a slower approach: pick a calm season, choose a reputable boat, and leave room for the unplanned stop at a quiet beach.

📷 Featured image by Khai Hoan Chu on Unsplash.