Nestled in the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc emerges as one of Vietnam’s most enchanting secrets, a tropical paradise where unspoiled beauty still reigns. While Vietnam’s mainland beaches may be bustling with travellers, Phu Quoc retains a rare tranquillity, with stretches of powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters that remain blissfully undisturbed—a true haven for those seeking the hidden, the quiet, and the authentic.
Untouched Shores: Seeking the Hidden Gems
Bai Sao is arguably the island’s most celebrated beach, famed for its sugar-soft sands and tranquil waters so clear you can see your feet. But veer off the well-trodden path, and you’ll find beaches where the crowds thin and nature takes centre stage. Bai Khem (also known as Khem Beach) is a prime example—accessed via an unmarked path, this secluded stretch of sand offers calm, emerald waters and a sense of peace that feels miles away from the bustle of modern life. It’s the sort of place where you can spend hours undisturbed, listening to the gentle waves and enjoying the gentle rustle of the surrounding forest.
Rach Vem—sometimes called Starfish Beach—is another quiet escape, where the shallows are dotted with starfish and the atmosphere is slow, local, and deeply relaxed. Here, the shoreline is lined with simple seafood shacks serving the freshest catch, and the turquoise water is perfect for a lazy afternoon dip. Further north, Ong Lang offers a wilder, more rugged coastline, with fewer resorts and a strong sense of solitude. The beach here is framed by dense jungle, and the few beachfront bars serve drinks at sunset for those who appreciate a simpler, slower pace.
Beyond the Beach: Discovering Phu Quoc’s Authentic Side
Phu Quoc is more than sand and sea. The island’s fishing villages—such as Ganh Dau and Cua Can—offer a glimpse into traditional Vietnamese life, with wooden boats bobbing in the harbour and markets brimming with local produce. The journey to Dai Beach in the north rewards the adventurous, with quiet coves and panoramic sunsets that feel far from the resort crowds.
New infrastructure—such as the Hòn Thơm cable car—has brought more attention to the island, but pockets of raw beauty remain for those willing to explore. Bai Xep on the west coast is a working fishing beach, less polished than the tourist favourites, but authentic, with the rhythm of local life unfolding at its edges.
Preserving Paradise
While Phu Quoc is growing in popularity, its hidden beaches still offer a sense of discovery. Early risers at Bai Khem can witness the island’s fishing community in action, hauling in nets at dawn. It’s a sight that may fade as development continues, making these moments all the more precious.
Travellers seeking solitude and authenticity will find Phu Quoc to be a rare blend of natural wonder and local charm. With each hidden cove and quiet stretch of sand, the island invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and savour Vietnam’s coastal beauty as it was meant to be experienced—untouched and unforgettable.
So pack your sense of adventure, leave your timetable behind, and let Phu Quoc show you Vietnam’s quieter, wilder side—a paradise still waiting to be explored.