Your Ultimate Guide to Phu Quoc in May

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What’s special about Phu Quoc in May? Thanks to its coastal location, Phu Quoc Island enjoys a year-round pleasant climate with an average temperature of 28°C. You can visit Phu Quoc any time of year. And of course, May in Phu Quoc is also a great time to go.

What to Expect in Phu Quoc in May?

Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s largest island, is situated in the Gulf of Thailand. Along with smaller nearby islands and the Tho Chu Archipelago, located 55 nautical miles to the southwest, it forms the city of Phu Quoc in Kien Giang Province. It is also Vietnam’s first island city.

Experiencing Phu Quoc in May
Experiencing Phu Quoc in May Experiencing Phu Quoc in May

May falls within the dry season on the island, but is heavily influenced by the monsoon, resulting in high temperatures and sunny, hot weather. However, the gentle sea breeze makes it ideal for swimming and enjoying island life. May typically sees the highest temperatures in Phu Quoc.

Enjoying the Phu Quoc sunshine in May
Enjoying the Phu Quoc sunshine in May Enjoying the Phu Quoc sunshine in May

May marks the start of the rainy season in Phu Quoc, with rainfall gradually increasing to around 15 days per month. Temperatures consequently drop slightly compared to the previous months, averaging between 25°C and 30°C. Increased rainfall leads to higher humidity, around 83%. Despite the transition to the rainy season, the weather remains suitable for most tourist activities, such as visiting Phu Quoc National Park, Cua Can, Long Ong Hai Nam Temple, and Cao Temple.

Phu Quoc's lush landscapes in May
Phu Quoc’s lush landscapes in May Phu Quoc’s lush landscapes in May

This time of year is still a great time for tourists to visit Phu Quoc for relaxation and holidays. You can choose from Phu Quoc’s stunning resorts to enjoy a wonderful holiday. > Related: What to Do in Phu Quoc in April? TOP 10 Hottest Spots

Must-See Attractions in Phu Quoc in May

North Phu Quoc

North Phu Quoc is a fertile land with pristine forests, rich flora and fauna, and countless beautiful beaches hidden behind the jungle canopy. Visiting North Phu Quoc is an immersion into unspoilt nature. A North Phu Quoc itinerary includes:

  • Khu Tuong Pepper Farm

Phu Quoc pepper is renowned for its intense heat and richer aroma compared to pepper grown elsewhere. On the road from Duong Dong to Ganh Dau, you’ll see beautiful pepper farms on both sides. After your visit, you can buy some dried peppercorns as souvenirs.

Khu Tuong Pepper Farm in Phu Quoc
Khu Tuong Pepper Farm in Phu Quoc Khu Tuong Pepper Farm in Phu Quoc

Location: Khu Tuong, the area with the most pepper plantations, is about 15km north of Duong Dong town.

  • Ganh Dau Cape

This cape, jutting out into the sea in the northwest of the island, attracts visitors with its pristine and unique natural beauty. From here, you can see the Cambodian maritime border. Ganh Dau boasts a 500m-long crescent-shaped beach and is a fantastic spot to enjoy fresh seafood.

Scenic view of Ganh Dau Cape, Phu Quoc
Scenic view of Ganh Dau Cape, Phu Quoc Scenic view of Ganh Dau Cape, Phu Quoc

Location: Ganh Dau Commune, Phu Quoc District, about 15-20km north of Duong Dong town.

  • Dinh Cau Sunset

Dinh Cau Cape is a famous scenic spot in Phu Quoc. Watching the sunset at Dinh Cau is an experience no visitor to Phu Quoc should miss.

Breathtaking sunset at Dinh Cau, Phu Quoc
Breathtaking sunset at Dinh Cau, Phu Quoc Breathtaking sunset at Dinh Cau, Phu Quoc

Location: Dinh Cau Cape is located in Duong Dong town, about a 5-minute walk from Duong Dong Market.

  • Hon Thom Island

Hon Thom Island is located south of Phu Quoc. Here, you can snorkel, see local aquaculture farms, and visit pearl farms. A 10-minute boat ride from Hon Thom will take you to the famous Phu Quoc squid fishing village.

Paradise found at Hon Thom Island, Phu Quoc
Paradise found at Hon Thom Island, Phu Quoc Paradise found at Hon Thom Island, Phu Quoc

Location: A 30-minute boat trip from Phu Quoc pier.

  • Suoi Tranh Stream

Suoi Tranh is formed by many small streams winding through forests and ravines. It flows from June to September each year. With its beautiful natural scenery of flowers, forests, sea, and streams, it’s a great spot for camping and picnics. Location: Suoi Tranh is located in the Ham Ninh mountain range, in the northeast of Phu Quoc Island. It’s about 10km from Duong Dong town, along the Duong Dong – Ham Ninh road.

  • Suoi Da Ban Stream

Named for its large, flat rocks that resemble tables (“Da Ban” means “stone table”), Suoi Da Ban is a must-see attraction within Phu Quoc National Park.

The unique rock formations of Suoi Da Ban Stream
The unique rock formations of Suoi Da Ban Stream The unique rock formations of Suoi Da Ban Stream

Location: From Duong Dong town, head north and follow the signs to Suoi Da Ban.

  • Suoi Da Ngon Stream

With its seven waterfalls, the majestic and breathtaking Suoi Da Ngon remains a hidden gem for adventurous travellers. The best time to visit is from November to April, as the rocks become slippery during the rainy season.

The cascading waterfalls of Suoi Da Ngon Stream
The cascading waterfalls of Suoi Da Ngon Stream The cascading waterfalls of Suoi Da Ngon Stream

Location: Northeast of Phu Quoc Island.

  • Long Beach (Bai Dai)

Immerse yourself in the sand and sea of a beach voted one of the world’s 10 most pristine and beautiful by the BBC. Long Beach boasts a 1500m-long shoreline fringed by tall, straight rows of casuarina trees.

The stunning Long Beach in Phu Quoc
The stunning Long Beach in Phu Quoc The stunning Long Beach in Phu Quoc

Location: Northwest of the island. A 45-minute to one-hour motorbike ride from central Duong Dong, heading towards Chen Sea Resort, Chez Carole Resort, and Mai Phuong Resort.

  • Nguyen Trung Truc Temple

This temple was built by the people of Phu Quoc to commemorate a national hero. Every year, on the 28th day of the 8th lunar month, locals gather here to pay tribute to him.

Nguyen Trung Truc Temple in Phu Quoc
Nguyen Trung Truc Temple in Phu Quoc Nguyen Trung Truc Temple in Phu Quoc

Location: 25km from Duong Dong towards Ganh Dau.

  • Coi Nguon Museum

The 9th private museum in Vietnam, Coi Nguon Museum preserves the stories and “soul” of Phu Quoc Island. It houses over 3,000 artefacts, including 300 valuable documents about Phu Quoc in Chinese, Vietnamese, English, and French. There are also exhibition areas dedicated to driftwood art, seashell art, souvenirs, pearl products, traditional Phu Quoc stilt houses, and the conservation of Phu Quoc ridgeback dogs, sea eagles, and sea turtles. Location: Tran Hung Dao Street, Duong Dong town, Phu Quoc.

Coi Nguon Museum in Phu Quoc
Coi Nguon Museum in Phu Quoc Coi Nguon Museum in Phu Quoc

East and South Phu Quoc

East and South Phu Quoc are characterized by lowlands interspersed with secondary forests and are the most populated areas of the island. Beautiful beaches like Long Beach, Sao Beach, Khem Beach, and Gieng Ngu are unique attractions of Phu Quoc. A South Phu Quoc itinerary includes:

  • Sao Beach

Sao Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Phu Quoc. It features over 7km of powdery white sand and a gentle curve resembling a crescent moon. During peak season, Sao Beach is crowded, so arrive early if you want to secure a hammock for relaxing.

The pristine sands of Sao Beach, Phu Quoc
The pristine sands of Sao Beach, Phu Quoc The pristine sands of Sao Beach, Phu Quoc

Location: Sao Beach is located on the South Phu Quoc tourist route, about 30km from Duong Dong town. Tip: If you’re heading to Sao Beach, it’s recommended to hire a taxi or travel from An Thoi. The road is smaller but less dusty. Larger vehicles occasionally pass through, but it’s still more comfortable than the dirt road (the coastal route via Long Beach is shorter but much dustier).

  • Khem Beach

Khem Beach remains unspoilt, with powdery white sand. One downside is the presence of litter and leaves, which can detract from the pristine feel. However, the seafood at Khem Beach is excellent. Local stalls offer grilled fish and herring salad at reasonable prices. Try Cuc Man restaurant for delicious sea snails and relax in a hammock afterwards. You should also visit the interesting pearl farm at Khem Beach.

The tranquil Khem Beach in Phu Quoc
The tranquil Khem Beach in Phu Quoc The tranquil Khem Beach in Phu Quoc

Location: South of Phu Quoc Island, 25km from Duong Dong and 5km from An Thoi port.

  • Long Beach (Bai Truong)

Long Beach is another unmissable destination in Phu Quoc, just a 7-minute drive from the airport. From October to April, Long Beach is the perfect choice, as it’s the most beautiful during this period, with calm seas and gentle waves. It’s also the best sunset viewing spot on the island, with the sky transforming into a spectacle of colours reflected on the sea. Sunset Sanato Beach Club, located within Long Beach, is renowned as the most unique beach in Phu Quoc, with impressive art installations and hosting Epizode, Phu Quoc’s largest beach music festival, held annually during New Year’s. Address: Duong Bao Hamlet, Duong To, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang

  • Ham Ninh Fishing Village

Life in Ham Ninh Fishing Village remains largely unspoilt, with simple thatched houses. The main occupations are pearl diving, sea cucumber fishing, and crab netting. Visit Ham Ninh early in the morning to watch the sunrise or enjoy the moonlit nights to fully appreciate its beauty. The local speciality is freshly caught and boiled crab, bright red and meaty, best enjoyed with salt, pepper, and lime.

Ham Ninh Fishing Village in Phu Quoc
Ham Ninh Fishing Village in Phu Quoc Ham Ninh Fishing Village

Location: Ham Ninh Fishing Village is located on the east coast of the island, 20km northeast of Duong Dong town.

  • Fish Sauce Factories

Here, you can learn about the traditional method of fermenting fish to create the rich flavour of Phu Quoc’s famous fish sauce. You can purchase fish sauce directly from the factory.

Traditional Phu Quoc Fish Sauce Factory
Traditional Phu Quoc Fish Sauce Factory Traditional Phu Quoc Fish Sauce Factory

Address: Phung Hung Fish Sauce – On the Duong Dong – An Thoi road, opposite Phu Quoc Prison.

  • An Thoi Archipelago

The An Thoi Archipelago comprises 15 large and small islands along the southwest coast. The sea here is very clear and deep, reaching depths of almost 30m in some areas. It’s ideal for activities like nature exploration, sightseeing, fishing, squid fishing, swimming, and diving. Some of the larger islands in the An Thoi Archipelago include Hon Dan, Hon Dua, Hon Roi, Hon Thom, Vang, Mong Tay, Gam Ghi, May Rut, and Chan Qui. Location: South of Phu Quoc Island.

Island hopping in the An Thoi Archipelago
Island hopping in the An Thoi Archipelago Island hopping in the An Thoi Archipelago
  • Mong Tay Island

Mong Tay Island is almost entirely unspoilt, with no inhabitants and no modern conveniences. It’s the perfect place for outdoor activities like camping, swimming, and exploring the wild interior with its vast grasslands.

The untouched beauty of Mong Tay Island
The untouched beauty of Mong Tay Island The untouched beauty of Mong Tay Island

Another must-do activity is snorkelling to admire the rich coral reefs, with 17 hard and soft coral species and numerous colourful sea anemones. The diverse shapes, sizes, and colours of the coral will leave a lasting impression of your “desert island” adventure.

  • Coconut Tree Prison (Phu Quoc Prison)

At Phu Quoc Prison, you’ll witness the remnants of the Vietnam War and learn about the brutal torture methods used there 50 years ago.

A sombre visit to the Coconut Tree Prison
A sombre visit to the Coconut Tree Prison A sombre visit to the Coconut Tree Prison
  • Gam Ghi Island

Located at the southernmost point of the An Thoi Archipelago, Gam Ghi Island captivates visitors with its pristine beach, strangely shaped rock formations, white sand, and an underwater world teeming with dense coral reefs extending far from the shore. The coral density is so high that you can see it just by looking down into the water.

  • May Rut Island

May Rut Island is located south of Phu Quoc Island, about 3 nautical miles from An Thoi town. The beaches on May Rut Island remain relatively untouched, with stretches of pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters reflecting the graceful curves of coconut trees. The sea around May Rut Island boasts a diverse ecosystem with over 100 species of hard and soft coral, 125 species of fish, 150 species of molluscs, and many rare marine creatures like giant clams, dugongs, and sea turtles. > See more: What to Do in Phu Quoc in March? A Detailed Review from A to Z

Exciting and Unique Activities in Phu Quoc in May

Vinpearl Safari

Vinpearl Safari is Vietnam’s largest open zoo, covering approximately 500 hectares and housing around 130 species with over 2,200 rare animals. It’s divided into two main sections: an open zoo where visitors can walk among open animal enclosures integrated with nature; and a safari park where visitors are transported in specialized vehicles, experiencing the unique “animals roam free, people are caged” concept, a first in Vietnam. 16-seater Phu Quoc sightseeing car rental16-seater Phu Quoc sightseeing car rental At Vinpearl Safari, enjoy activities like taking a panoramic tour on modern trams, watching captivating animal shows, feeding animals, and taking photos with rare creatures.

Vinpearl Phu Quoc Amusement Park

Built on an area of 170,000m², Vinpearl Phu Quoc Amusement Park offers attractions like a water park, aquarium, outdoor playground, cinema, food and shopping street, and fairytale castle. Vinpearl Land in Phu Quoc also features a dolphin show stadium with a capacity of 1,152 seats and a water music stage with a capacity of 2,337 seats, suitable for international cultural events.

Dinh Cau Night Market

Dinh Cau Night Market is a bustling market on Vo Thi Sau Street, extending over 200m from Bach Dang Street to the Tran Hung Dao intersection. Located near the beach in the heart of Duong Dong town, it’s about 100m from Dinh Cau. The market operates from 5 PM to 9-10 PM. Over 100 stalls line both sides of the street, selling souvenirs, handicrafts, cosmetics, jewellery, and Phu Quoc pearls. The most popular section is the food court, serving unique seafood dishes like seafood porridge, seafood rice, and fish cake soup. Be aware that prices here are relatively high. For more affordable options, buy fresh seafood at Duong Dong Market near the ferry bridge at the end of Nguyen Trung Truc Street and have it cooked at Thien Hai Son Resort for a fee of around 50,000 to 100,000 VND/kg.

Snorkelling and Diving

Diving in Phu Quoc in May
Diving in Phu Quoc in May

The diverse marine ecosystem of the An Thoi Archipelago in the south, or Mong Tay Island, Doi Moi Island, and Thay Boi Island in the north, are ideal for exploring the underwater world. Phu Quoc’s coral reefs are particularly remarkable, boasting the highest diversity in Vietnam with 17 hard and soft coral species and various sea anemones. Snorkelling and diving tours are offered by hotels and resorts in Phu Quoc, priced from 350,000 to 500,000 VND per person.

Fishing and Island Hopping

This tour takes you to an island or coastal area teeming with fish like grouper, tram fish, catfish, and pomfret. Your catch will be cooked and served on board. Combine fishing with camping, picnics, and exploring the surrounding areas. Popular destinations include Mui Ong Doi, Hon Dam, and Hon Thom. Fishing adventures in Phu QuocFishing adventures in Phu Quoc

Exploring the Pristine Forest

For the adventurous, book a North Island exploration tour or visit the Suoi Da Ngon or Ganh Dau ecological reserves. Some adventurous travellers prefer to explore the pristine forest independently or hire a local guide for their journey.

Squid Fishing at Night

As night falls, experience the thrill of squid fishing with local fishermen. There’s nothing quite like catching squid hunting under the sea or scooping up flying fish and skipjack tuna surfacing on the water. Your catch will be cooked and served on board.

Phu Quoc Food Guide: 10 Delicious and Affordable Seafood Restaurants

Seafood is a must-try in Phu Quoc, with its delicious variety and freshness. Here are some “can’t-miss” seafood restaurants in Phu Quoc that offer consistently good food at reasonable prices without overcharging. Save this list!

Seafood Restaurants in Duong Dong Town Centre

For those who prefer to stay in the central area but still want to enjoy delicious Phu Quoc seafood:

  • Phu Quoc Night Market
What to Do in Phu Quoc in April? TOP 10 Hottest Spots
What to Do in Phu Quoc in April? TOP 10 Hottest Spots

Phu Quoc Night Market not only offers a wide range of food and local specialities but also boasts a plethora of seafood options. Experience the bustling atmosphere, savour the fresh and delicious seafood, and enjoy the reasonable prices. Remember to choose fresh seafood and ask for the price before ordering!

  • Quan 93 International Pier

Address: Alley 93 Nguyen Van Troi. Quan 93 is a beachfront restaurant where you can dine with your feet in the sand, enjoying fresh seafood accompanied by the soothing sound of waves. Recommended dishes: herring salad, grilled prawns with chilli salt, sea urchin grilled with mỡ hành (scallops and spring onions in butter), and cobia hotpot. Excellent prices and enthusiastic service.

Grilled sea urchin with mỡ hành
Grilled sea urchin with mỡ hành Grilled sea urchin with mỡ hành
Herring Salad - A Phu Quoc delicacy
Herring Salad – A Phu Quoc delicacy Herring Salad – A Phu Quoc delicacy
  • Thuy Diem Floating Restaurant
Dining with a view at Thuy Diem Floating Restaurant
Dining with a view at Thuy Diem Floating Restaurant

Address: 231 30th of April Street – Ward 1 – Duong Dong Town. This establishment offers various services, including tours, diving services, and fresh seafood. They also provide dining services on their floating restaurant, situated amidst the sea for convenient sightseeing in the area. The restaurant offers a wide selection of seafood, including sea urchins, abalone, fish, prawns, squid, oysters, and various types of shellfish characteristic of Phu Quoc.

  • Ra Khơi Seafood Restaurant
Fresh seafood at Ra Khơi Restaurant
Fresh seafood at Ra Khơi Restaurant

Address: 131Bis 30th of April Street, Duong Dong. Ra Khơi is one of the most famous seafood restaurants in Phu Quoc. Centrally located, it’s easy to find and accessible, with a spacious dining area. The seafood is fresh and well-prepared. Recommended dishes include herring salad, oysters, and crabs. Prices are reasonable considering the location and quality. The downside is that due to its popularity, the restaurant is often crowded, service can be slow, and some staff members may not provide the best service.

Seafood Restaurants in Ham Ninh Fishing Village

Ham Ninh Fishing Village is renowned for offering the freshest and most affordable seafood in Phu Quoc, significantly cheaper than in Duong Dong town centre. The area is characterized by floating restaurants where you can dine while enjoying the sea views. With the growth of tourism in Phu Quoc, Ham Ninh has seen a rapid increase in restaurants, leading to potential price gouging and the use of lower-quality seafood. Choose your restaurant carefully. Here are some notable restaurants in Ham Ninh:

  • Thuan Kieu 2 Floating Restaurant
Dining by the sea at Thuan Kieu 2
Dining by the sea at Thuan Kieu 2

Address: Pier, Ham Ninh Fishing Village, Phu Quoc. Thuan Kieu 2 is a beachfront restaurant offering a cool and breezy dining experience. While it’s a floating restaurant, it’s stationary, so there’s no risk of seasickness. There’s even a “stairway to heaven” for taking memorable photos. All seafood is live and cooked to order, ensuring freshness. Recommended dishes: grilled octopus with chilli salt, steamed crab, geoduck, and mantis shrimp with garlic. Prices are clearly displayed, eliminating concerns about overcharging.

  • Be Be Ghe Floating Restaurant

Address: Rach Ham Hamlet – Ham Ninh Fishing Village – Phu Quoc. Be Be Ghe receives excellent reviews for its fresh, delicious seafood, well-prepared dishes, and reasonable prices. The spacious restaurant can accommodate up to 400 guests and specializes in fresh seafood like prawns, crabs, fish, squid, and various shellfish. Prices fluctuate seasonally but are clearly displayed. Reference prices: crab from 350k-450k/kg, mantis shrimp 450k-500k/kg, oysters and other shellfish around 150k/kg, lobster 1.2 million VND/kg (smaller size, enough for one dish) or 1.9 million VND/kg (larger size, enough for 2-3 dishes).

  • Hanh Nhung Restaurant
Fresh seafood selection at Hanh Nhung Restaurant
Fresh seafood selection at Hanh Nhung Restaurant

Address: Ham Ninh Fishing Village, Phu Quoc. Considered a relatively upscale seafood restaurant in Ham Ninh, Hanh Nhung has slightly higher prices than other establishments. Live seafood is displayed in tanks for customers to choose from. The restaurant offers a cool, clean, and beautiful dining environment. The seafood dishes are flavourful, especially the signature soft-shell crab with wasabi and abalone with wasabi, featuring a unique sauce that will leave a lasting impression. Enjoy your meal with a stunning view of Ham Ninh Fishing Village, a charming and nostalgic place that evokes a sense of timeless simplicity while exuding elegance.

Seafood Restaurants in An Thoi

  • Kim Dao Restaurant

Address: Nguyen Van Cu, An Thoi, Phu Quoc. Kim Dao boasts a large space accommodating over 800 guests, divided into three areas: a banquet area, an outdoor grilling area, and a reception area. Located on the main road connecting North and South Phu Quoc, opposite the 5-star JW Marriott resort and 300m from Sun World Cable Car, it’s easily accessible. Kim Dao offers delicious food at very reasonable prices for the area. The fresh seafood, sourced daily, results in exceptional dishes. Don’t miss this restaurant.

  • Nga Lam Restaurant
Dining al fresco at Nga Lam Restaurant
Dining al fresco at Nga Lam Restaurant

Address: 333 Nguyen Van Cu, Hamlet 6, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang Province. Nga Lam, located on Nguyen Van Cu Street in An Thoi town, about 400m from the entrance to Khem Beach, is a popular choice for delicious food in An Thoi, Phu Quoc. The restaurant provides a cool and comfortable dining experience. It specializes in fresh seafood dishes. With its simple yet cosy and breezy atmosphere, Nga Lam offers seafood dishes with the distinct flavours of Phu Quoc, such as salt-roasted prawns, stuffed snails, and steamed clams. The highlight is the scallop grilled with butter and spring onions. Nga Lam’s affordable prices make it hard to resist.

Seafood Restaurants in Rach Vem Fishing Village

After starfish spotting in Rach Vem, enjoy a seafood meal at one of these restaurants:

  • Con Sao Restaurant

Address: Hamlet 5, Rach Vem, Phu Quoc. This floating restaurant offers stunning sea views. The owner is known for their enthusiasm and hospitality. Fresh seafood is caught to order and expertly prepared. Enjoy complimentary games and boat rides.

  • Son Hai Restaurant

Address: Hamlet 5, Rach Vem. Located next to Con Sao Restaurant, Son Hai is another floating restaurant specializing in fresh seafood. It offers reasonable prices, well-prepared dishes, and friendly service.

Tips for Choosing Seafood in Phu Quoc

With the development of tourism comes potential downsides, such as overcharging and the use of lower-quality seafood. Keep these tips in mind:

  • Choose restaurants with reputable reviews.
  • Always ask for the price beforehand.
  • Opt for restaurants that display live seafood and cook it on-site.
  • Choose busy restaurants.
  • To ensure flavour and freshness, choose grilled or steamed dishes.

Conclusion

KK2Trip has provided a comprehensive guide to activities, attractions, and culinary delights in Phu Quoc during May. We hope this information helps you have a truly fulfilling experience. Have a wonderful trip!

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