A Wild Escape to Starfish Beach in Phu Quoc

When we think of Vietnam’s Phu Quoc Island, pristine beaches and vibrant nightlife often come to mind. But if you’re craving a quieter, more natural experience, the Starfish Beach Trip offers a fantastic alternative. For just $45 per person, this 5 to 6-hour adventure takes you behind the usual tourist spots, into the heart of nature’s quiet corner—where thousands of starfishes adorn a hidden beach behind the National Park.

The tour begins early, with hotel pickup in an air-conditioned minibus, making the journey comfortable and hassle-free. From there, you’ll hop on a local motorboat at Rach Vem floating fishing village, heading toward a more secluded stretch of the coast. What we love about this tour is its intimate small-group size—a maximum of 12 travelers—which keeps it personal and flexible. Plus, the mix of scenic boat rides, snorkeling gear, and free photos ensures you’ll come back with more than just memories.

One of the most striking features is the opportunity to see and gently hold starfishes—an experience that’s hard to find elsewhere, especially if you respect the environment and avoid keeping them out of water too long. The snack lunch (including fresh spring rolls, tropical fruits, and refreshing drinks) and the relaxing music make the whole day easygoing. However, if you’re not keen on boat rides or walking on uneven beaches, this trip might require a bit of a soft spot for adventure.

This experience is perfect for nature enthusiasts, snorkeling lovers, and anyone wanting to escape the crowds. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate authentic outdoor scenery and a guided experience that balances fun with environmental respect.

Key Points

Secluded Access: The trip takes you to a quieter, more natural section of Starfish Beach behind the National Park.
Expert Guidance: An English-speaking guide ensures you get the most out of your day, sharing insights and making the experience more meaningful.
Snorkeling & Photos Included: You’ll have access to snorkeling gear and free professional photos to capture your adventure.
Relaxed Atmosphere: Cold beers, tropical drinks, and chill music create a laid-back vibe perfect for unwinding.
Small Group Size: With a maximum of 12 travelers, expect personalized attention and a friendly environment.
Eco-Conscious: Respect for starfishes and environment is encouraged, with tips on handling marine life gently.

A Deep Dive into the Starfish Beach Experience

Location and Access

The journey begins with a hotel pickup in a comfortable air-conditioned minibus around 10:00-10:30 am. This is a good choice if you appreciate hassle-free transportation, especially after a night of exploring or relaxing on the island. The ride to Rach Vem floating fishing village is straightforward, leading to the harbor where the adventure really begins.

The boat ride is about 10 minutes—a short but scenic trip that gives you a glimpse of local life afloat. We loved the way the guide highlighted the floating village’s charm and explained how these fishermen live and work, adding a cultural dimension to the trip.

The Boat Trip to Ham Rong Cape

Once on the local motorboat, you’ll cruise toward Ham Rong Cape, where the quieter, more pristine part of Starfish Beach awaits. This segment is especially appealing because it avoids the more crowded, commercialized sections of the island. The boat provides a relaxed, breezy perspective of the coastline, and you might spot some fishing boats or the distant silhouette of Cambodia, adding a touch of regional context.

Time at the Beach: Snorkeling and Sunbathing

From around 11:45 am to 2:45 pm, you’ll have free time to enjoy the beach, swim, snorkel, and take stunning photos. The emphasis here is on relaxed exploration. The snorkeling gear is provided, and you’ll find the waters teeming with colorful starfishes, which is a major highlight.

The reviews repeatedly mention how special it is to see such a large number of starfish up close—some even quote the experience as “a beautiful day” and “a rare chance to see and hold starfishes”. Remember, the guide advises not to keep starfishes out of water for long, so enjoy observing and gently handling them.

Food and Refreshments

The snack lunch is included, with spring rolls, chips, biscuits, nuts, and fresh tropical fruits—perfect for fueling your beach day. Cold beers and fun drinks are always available, making it easy to cool down and unwind. The music, paired with the natural setting, creates an atmosphere that’s both lively and peaceful.

Return Trip and Drop-off

Around 3:00 pm, you’ll head back to the harbor, arriving around 3:30-4:00 pm. The journey back is a good time to reflect on the day and share stories with fellow travelers. The tour concludes with drop-off at your hotel or meeting point, making logistic planning straightforward.

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What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic Nature Experience
Most travelers love the feeling of discovering a hidden paradise. The fact that this tour takes you behind the main tourist spots and to a more untouched section of the beach makes it special. The chance to see thousands of starfishes in their natural habitat, combined with the coral-rich snorkeling, creates a sense of adventure you won’t forget.

Knowledgeable Guide and Friendly Atmosphere
The reviews highlight guides like “WeWe,” who’s described as caring and attentive. Having a guide who speaks fluent English and genuinely cares about the environment enhances the quality of the experience. They often bring fresh fruits and drinks, which adds a personal touch.

Environmental Respect and Photos
The free photos allow you to capture the moment without the pressure of trying to snap the perfect shot yourself. The emphasis on not removing starfishes from water shows respect for nature, aligning well with eco-conscious travelers.

Possible Considerations

While most reviews are glowing, a potential drawback is the boat ride—for those sensitive to waves or motion sickness, the short trip might be uncomfortable. The uneven, sandy beach can also be a challenge if you have mobility issues or prefer flatter terrain.

Another point to consider is that peak season runs from December to May, which is when the best weather and marine life sightings are most likely. Visiting outside this window might mean less visibility of starfishes and more chance of weather-related cancellations.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers and snorkelers eager to see marine life up close in a relatively untouched setting. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy small-group outings and value personalized attention. The relaxed pace, friendly guides, and focus on environmental respect make it perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a meaningful day off the beaten path.

If you’re a traveler who values authentic outdoor experiences over commercialized attractions, this trip will resonate with you. It’s also a great choice if you want to combine sightseeing, swimming, and cultural appreciation in one easy-to-access package.

Final Thoughts: Why Choose This Tour?

This Starfish Beach trip offers a genuine connection to nature—with the bonus of expert guides, free photos, and a relaxed vibe. It’s a chance to escape the crowds and discover a lesser-known corner of Phu Quoc, where the marine life is abundant and the scenery is breathtaking.

The overall value is excellent considering the cost of $45, especially when you factor in snorkeling gear, lunch, drinks, and the personalized service. For travelers who want an adventure that combines marine beauty, cultural insight, and environmental respect, this tour checks all the right boxes.

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FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins with hotel pickup around 10:00-10:30 am, making it easy to plan your day.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride from the harbor to the beach takes approximately 10 minutes, offering a quick, scenic crossing.

Is snorkeling included?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided, allowing you to explore underwater and get a closer look at the starfishes and marine life.

What is the duration of the entire tour?
The whole trip lasts about 5 to 6 hours, including pickup, boat transfer, beach time, and return.

Can I take photos of the starfishes?
Absolutely. Free professional photos are included, and you’re encouraged to take your own snapshots as well.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers participate comfortably, and the relaxed pace makes it suitable for families, provided the children are comfortable with water and walking on uneven sand.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, a hat, and your camera. Wearing flip-flops or water shoes helps on the beach, and a towel or change of clothes is handy after snorkeling.

What is the best season to visit?
The prime time is from December to June, when the weather is most predictable and marine life sightings are at their best.

To sum it up, this tour offers a genuine glimpse into Phu Quoc’s natural beauty—a perfect choice for travelers seeking quiet beaches, colorful marine life, and memorable outdoor moments. Whether you’re snorkeling among starfish or simply relaxing with a cold drink, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for this island’s wild charm.