A Full Day of Authentic Phu Quoc Experiences: Starfish Beach, Mangroves, and Countryside
When planning a day on Phu Quoc, many travelers are drawn to its famous beaches and lush landscapes. This full-day private tour offers a well-rounded taste of the island’s untouched nature, local culture, and scenic vistas. For $75 per person, you’ll spend about six to seven hours exploring the most beautiful spots outside the crowded resorts, guided by knowledgeable locals who are passionate about sharing their island.
What makes this experience stand out? First, we love the chance to visit seasonal Starfish Beach, where crystal-clear waters and thousands of starfish create a spectacle that’s hard to find elsewhere. Second, the private farm tour delivers a hands-on look at Phu Quoc’s famous pepper plantations and tropical fruits, along with tasting sessions that give you a real flavor of local life. The casual, personalized vibe and the chance to skip the tourist crowds genuinely enhance the value of this tour.
One thing to consider: the journey involves some off-road driving and paddling, which may not suit those with mobility issues or a strong dislike for dirt tracks. Also, since the day is packed with diverse activities, it’s best for those who enjoy outdoor adventures and authentic cultural encounters rather than a purely relaxing beach day.
This tour is perfect if you’re looking for an immersive experience that balances nature, local culture, and scenic beauty. It suits travelers who want to get away from the crowds and see what life is really like in northern Phu Quoc—a countryside filled with farms, mangroves, and pristine beaches.
Key Points

- Authentic rural experience with visits to pepper plantations and tropical farms
- Exclusive access to Starfish Beach, avoiding crowded tourist spots
- Knowledgeable guides who share local stories and photography tips
- All-inclusive price with transportation, farm visits, kayak, and boat rides
- Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
- Ideal for outdoor lovers and those wanting a quieter, more genuine side of Phu Quoc
Exploring Phu Quoc’s Northern Secrets: A Deep Dive
Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Phu Quoc
What to Expect from the Tour: An Overview
This private tour offers a full taste of the northern part of Phu Quoc, blending nature, agriculture, and coastal beauty. For $75, you’re treated to a personalized experience that covers a bit of everything—mangroves, beaches, farms, and local eateries.
The pick-up is convenient, with transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, making it easy to relax as you move between stops. The small group or private setting means more tailored attention from your guide, who will be eager to share insights and help you capture the best photos.
The Itinerary in Detail
Stop 1: Cua Can Mangrove Kayaking
Your adventure begins at Cua Can, a large mangrove river that offers two kayak options: paddling to the ocean mouth (which is more strenuous) or a shorter paddle to the War Heroic Temple. According to reviews, this stop is a highlight—“many types of birds, flora, mushrooms,” and a chance to enjoy some gentle paddling in a tranquil setting.
While the ocean paddle is described as very hard, the easier route still provides a wonderful introduction to the island’s natural waterways. Plus, the one-hour free admission means you can enjoy the scenery without extra costs.
Stop 2: Phu Quoc Countryside Farm Tour
Next, you’ll visit a tropical farm, where you can see pepper plantations, orchards, and herb gardens. You’ll learn about the pepper-making process, which is a signature product of the island, and get to sample various fresh fruits and pepper-based drinks.
According to those who’ve taken this tour, the admission is included, and the tasting makes it a particularly memorable experience—“a refreshing drink and a glimpse into local farming.” The farm visit lasts about an hour, giving you enough time to explore and ask questions.
Stop 3: Starfish Beach
The star of the day is Starfish Beach—a seasonal, pristine stretch of white powdery sand and calm waters. After a rough off-road drive of about 30 minutes, you arrive at the initial part of the beach, where you’ll find on-water restaurants serving fresh seafood—prawns, squid, big fish, snails, and clams.
Once you’ve had a hearty seafood lunch, you’ll hop on a speedboat to reach the most famous part of Starfish Beach, where thousands of starfish cover the seabed. This is what makes the tour special—“literally every step has starfish,” creating a surreal, almost otherworldly photo opportunity.
Many travelers comment on the stunning views and the relaxing atmosphere of this beach—perfect for photography, wandering, or simply soaking up the sun while surrounded by nature. The entire beach stop is about five hours, giving plenty of time to chill, take photos, and enjoy the water.
What It Means for You: Practical Insights
Transport is included for all stops, with private vehicle pickup and drop-off, offering comfort and convenience. The kayak and boat fees are covered, so there are no hidden costs. You’ll also receive bottled water throughout the day, keeping you hydrated in the tropical heat.
The lunch is optional and can be ordered at the water restaurant, allowing for flexibility depending on your appetite and schedule. The entire experience is designed to give you a taste of local life and stunning scenery, away from overly commercialized beaches.
Authenticity and Authentic Encounters
Reviews praise the guides—“Linh was very informative and looked after us,” and “really cares about his job and does it well,” highlighting the value of local expertise. Their passion shows in the stories they share and their photography tips, making your experience richer.
The Value of This Tour
At $75, this experience offers a lot of value—a full day of diverse activities, transportation, and insider access. The small group or private setting ensures a personalized feel, which many travelers appreciate. Since reviews mention excellent guides and stunning scenery, it seems to deliver on its promise of an authentic, memorable day.
Potential Drawbacks
The off-road drive to Starfish Beach, taking about 30 minutes, might be bumpy for some. Also, paddling in the mangroves requires some physical effort, so those with mobility concerns may want to consider this. The seasonal aspect means that starfish encounters depend on the time of year, but even without the starfish, the beaches are still beautiful.
Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who want more than just a beach day, especially those interested in local agriculture, wildlife, and untouched scenery. If you enjoy guided storytelling, photography, and being in nature away from crowds, this tour hits all those marks. It’s particularly suited for couples, families, or solo travelers eager for a personalized, authentic look at northern Phu Quoc.
FAQs

- What is included in the tour price?
All fees, transportation, kayak ticket, boat to Starfish Beach, farm entry, and bottled water are included. - Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. - Is lunch included?
No, but you can order seafood or other dishes at the on-water restaurant at Starfish Beach. - How long is each activity?
Kayaking is about 15 to 40 minutes depending on your choice, farm tour lasts around an hour, and beach time is approximately five hours. - What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear if you want to swim, and a camera for photos. The tour provides bottled water, but snacks are not included. - Are children allowed?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but consider their comfort with paddling and off-road driving. - How physically demanding is the tour?
Some paddling and off-road driving are involved, so it may be less suitable for those with mobility issues or dislike for physical activity. - Is the tour suitable during the off-season?
It depends on weather and sea conditions, but travelers report that the northern beaches are beautiful around January. - What makes this tour different from other beach trips?
The focus on local culture, nature, and small-group intimacy sets it apart from typical beach excursions. - Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, especially those interested in outdoor activities and cultural experiences.
This full-day tour strikes a great balance between adventure, relaxation, and cultural insights. It’s a fantastic way to see a different side of Phu Quoc—away from the resorts and into the heart of local life and stunning scenery. Whether you’re eager to photograph starfish, walk through pepper fields, or paddle along mangroves, this experience offers real value and memorable moments.
More Private Tours in Phu Quoc
- RED RIVER TOUR (Private tour): 4 ISLANDS TOUR BY SPEEDBOAT
- Red River Private Tour : Sunset and Night Squid Fishing
- Phu Quoc- Private airport transfer 7-16- 29 seater car
- Phu Quoc: Private Half-Day City Tour with Hotel Pickup
- Phu Quoc Private Trekking Tour
- RED RIVER TOUR (Private Tour): LAND ISLAND TOUR AROUND THE SOUTH
More Tours in Phu Quoc
- Amazing 1 Day Phu Quoc Three Island with Cable Car Tour
- 3-Island Hopping By Speedboat In Phu Quoc | Shared Tour
- Sunset Town Tour With Kiss Of The Sea Show Phu Quoc Island
- RED RIVER TOUR (Private tour): 4 ISLANDS TOUR BY SPEEDBOAT
- Red River Private Tour : Sunset and Night Squid Fishing
- Phu Quoc: 3-Day 2 Night with Boat Tour
More Tour Reviews in Phu Quoc
- Amazing 1 Day Phu Quoc Three Island with Cable Car Tour
- 3-Island Hopping By Speedboat In Phu Quoc | Shared Tour
- [DISCOVERY SNORKELING] 4 Islands-2 Reefs & BBQ [MAX 12 PAX]
- Trip 3 : 3 Islands by boat
- 4 Islands & 2 Reefs – Discovery Snorkeling & Relaxing (MAX 12)
- Sunset Town Tour With Kiss Of The Sea Show Phu Quoc Island
More Phu Quoc experiences we've covered
- Amazing 1 Day Phu Quoc Three Island with Cable Car Tour
- 3-Island Hopping By Speedboat In Phu Quoc | Shared Tour
- [DISCOVERY SNORKELING] 4 Islands-2 Reefs & BBQ [MAX 12 PAX]
- Trip 3 : 3 Islands by boat
- 4 Islands & 2 Reefs – Discovery Snorkeling & Relaxing (MAX 12)
- Sunset Town Tour With Kiss Of The Sea Show Phu Quoc Island
- Full-Day Discover Northern Phu Quoc Island
- Phu Quoc: Starfish Beach, Kayaking, and Lunch Day Trip
- RED RIVER TOUR (Private tour): 4 ISLANDS TOUR BY SPEEDBOAT
- Red River Private Tour : Sunset and Night Squid Fishing
- Phu Quoc- Private airport transfer 7-16- 29 seater car
- Phu Quoc: 3-Day 2 Night with Boat Tour
