Full-Day Discover Northern Phu Quoc Island - The Sum Up

Full-Day Discover Northern Phu Quoc Island

Discover the Northern Wonders of Phu Quoc on a Full-Day Tour
This full-day adventure costs around $52 per person and takes you through the best of what northern Phu Quoc has to offer — from lush national parks to pristine beaches, and traditional farming villages. Guided by friendly, knowledgeable locals, you’ll explore iconic spots like Cape Ganh Dau and Starfish Beach, while also learning how local products like fish sauce, honey, and Sim wine are made. The tour lasts about 8 hours, with hotel pickup included, making it a convenient way to see the island without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What we love about this tour is the chance to experience local life firsthand — from paddling along the Cua Can River in a basket boat to tasting authentic honey at the bee farm. Plus, the scenic views from Ganh Dau are unforgettable, providing some excellent photo opportunities. The included Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant keeps you energized for the day’s adventures.

A potential consideration is the bumpy ride to Starfish Beach, which might not be suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those seeking a very relaxed day. Also, since the tour can run slightly longer than scheduled, it’s best for those prepared for a full, active day.

This experience appeals most to travelers who love a blend of nature, culture, and local flavor. If you’re keen to see a less touristy side of Phu Quoc, enjoy guided insights, and don’t mind a bit of travel time, this tour should fit the bill nicely.

Key Points

  • Variety of stops: Includes beaches, farms, national parks, and villages for a well-rounded experience.
  • Authentic local insights: Learn how fish sauce, honey, and wine are made, supported by artisan demonstrations.
  • Stunning scenery: From the forest at Phu Quoc National Park to Ganh Dau Beach’s views of Cambodia, the scenery is a highlight.
  • Convenient logistics: Hotel pickup and round-trip transport make the day easy to manage.
  • Limited walking: Most stops involve short walks, but the ride to Starfish Beach can be bumpy.
  • Suitable for most: The tour is designed for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 30 and options for additional pickup fees outside central areas.

A Detailed Look at the Full-Day Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins promptly at 8:00 am with hotel pickup in Duong Dong town. For guests staying outside this area, extra fees apply—ranging from $5 to $9 per person depending on the location. This may seem like a small inconvenience, but it ensures you start your day with minimal fuss and head straight toward your first stop. The small group size (up to 30 travelers) helps keep things intimate, and the guide’s English skills, as noted by a reviewer, are excellent, making explanations clear and engaging.

First Stop: Cua Can River

The day kicks off with a visit to Cua Can River — a peaceful spot perfect for observing local river life. We loved the way the guide explained the significance of this spot and the opportunity to paddle in a basket boat or kayak. The one-hour experience was leisurely, giving us time to soak in the natural surroundings and listen to the gentle sounds of the water. One reviewer mentioned that the ride into Starfish Beach was “very bumpy,” so if you’re prone to discomfort, be prepared for that little adventure.

Phu Quoc Bee Farm and Honey Tasting

Next, we headed to the Bee Farm. Here, the artisans demonstrated how honey is produced — a process that’s surprisingly fascinating. Sampling fresh honey right from the hive was a highlight, especially for those who appreciate authentic local products. The 30-minute stop is both educational and tasty, and it’s a great way to support local producers.

Phu Quoc National Park

Passing through the National Park, you’ll get a glimpse of the forest’s dense greenery. Although only a 30-minute visit, it’s enough to appreciate the biodiversity and tranquility of this protected area. It’s a brief but memorable part of the day, especially if you’re a nature lover.

Relaxing at Starfish Beach

The star of the tour for many is Starfish Beach. We loved the clear waters and soft sands—an ideal spot for relaxing and swimming. Be aware, as one reviewer pointed out, the ride there can be bumpy, but the view makes it worth the discomfort. The 30-minute stay allows just enough time to paddle and snap some photos of the iconic starfish, which in itself makes this beach a must-see.

Lunch in Rach Vem Village

Then, it’s time to indulge in Vietnamese cuisine at a local floating village. The one-hour lunch provides a break to enjoy authentic dishes with a view. The relaxed pace here is appreciated, giving you a chance to chat with locals and observe their village life.

Ganh Dau Beach and Viewpoint

In the afternoon, we traveled to Ganh Dau Beach, which offers spectacular views of Cambodia across the water. The 30-minute stop here is perfect for photos and soaking in the scenery, especially the calm waters and rugged coastline.

Optional Visit to Grand World

On the way back, guests can choose to visit Grand World, an entertainment complex. However, as noted, you’ll need to pay admission yourself and arrange transportation. If you prefer to relax or head straight to your hotel, the guide will return you there instead.

The Value of the Experience

At $52, the tour offers excellent value considering the range of stops, the included lunch, and entrance fees. The hotel pickup adds convenience, especially for those unfamiliar with local transport options. The small group size ensures a more personal experience, and the knowledgeable guide makes a noticeable difference—adding context and answering questions.

While the itinerary might shift slightly (some experienced travelers noted it ran longer than scheduled), this flexibility often enhances the experience rather than detracts. The artisan demonstrations add a genuine local touch, and the scenic viewpoints make it clear why people fall in love with Phu Quoc’s northern coast.

Who is this tour best suited for?

It’s perfect for travelers who want a rundown of northern Phu Quoc without the hassle of organizing separate excursions. It suits those interested in nature, local culture, and scenic views, and those willing to tolerate a bit of bumpy riding for the sake of authentic experiences. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find value here, especially if they appreciate guided insights and a relaxed pace.

The Sum Up

Full-Day Discover Northern Phu Quoc Island - The Sum Up

This full-day tour of northern Phu Quoc delivers a well-rounded taste of the island’s natural beauty and local way of life. It balances scenic stops with cultural insights, all wrapped in a comfortable, guided format. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of how local products are made, see breathtaking beaches, and experience the tranquility of national parks.

For those seeking an affordable, organized way to explore the northern part of the island, this tour offers value and authenticity. It’s particularly ideal for travelers who want to see diverse sights without the stress of planning every detail, and who enjoy engaging guides and meaningful encounters.

If you’re looking to connect with local culture, enjoy beautiful scenery, and prefer a comprehensive yet relaxed day, this tour could be a highlight of your trip to Phu Quoc.

FAQ

  • What time does the tour start?
    The tour begins at 8:00 am, with hotel pickup usually scheduled in the morning.

  • Is hotel pickup included?
    Yes, hotel pickup is included for central Phu Quoc hotels. Extra fees apply if your hotel is outside the center.

  • How long does the tour last?
    The full-day experience lasts approximately 8 hours.

  • What is the price?
    The tour costs about $52 per person, which includes all entrance fees, a Vietnamese lunch, and guide services.

  • Are there any additional costs?
    Yes, extra fees may apply for pickup outside the main area and for visits to Grand World if you choose to go.

  • What should I bring?
    Comfortable clothes, sunscreen, a hat, swimwear for beaches, and some cash for optional extras or souvenirs.

  • Is this tour suitable for children?
    Most travelers can participate, but consider the bumpy ride to Starfish Beach if traveling with very young children or those with mobility issues.

  • Can I customize the stops?
    The tour runs on a fixed itinerary, but you can inform your guide if you’d like to spend more time at certain locations.

  • What are the highlights?
    The Starfish Beach, Ganh Dau Viewpoint, and local artisan demonstrations are among the most praised parts.

  • How do I book?
    Booking is simple in advance, with most travelers booking about 11 days ahead to secure their spot. You can do so through the provided link or via the tour provider directly.

Exploring northern Phu Quoc with this guided tour offers a mix of scenic beauty, local culture, and adventure — a wonderful way to make the most of your island visit without missing out on its authentic spirit.