Ho Chi Minh City: Phu Quy Island 2-Day Tour with Meals

Experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Phu Quy Island with a thoughtfully planned 2-day tour from Ho Chi Minh City. For $120 per person, you get a blend of comfort, culture, and adventure that’s hard to beat. The trip includes a private limousine transfer, high-speed boat rides, visits to spiritual landmarks, relaxing beach time, and tasty local meals. It’s an excellent choice for travelers craving an authentic escape that balances relaxation with cultural insights.

What we love most about this tour is how smoothly it combines the different elements — the comfort of the limousine ride from the city, and the thrill of a quick boat journey to the island. Plus, the opportunity to explore spiritual sites like Linh Son Pagoda and Thay Sai Nai Tomb adds a meaningful dimension. One potential drawback? The boat schedules can vary depending on the weather, so be prepared for possible changes. This experience suits those who enjoy nature, cultural sites, and a touch of local lifestyle, all wrapped into a compact, well-organized trip.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transportation: Limousine transfer from Ho Chi Minh City and high-speed boat rides make the journey hassle-free.
• Authentic Cultural Engagement: Visits to historic pagodas and spiritual sites offer insight into local traditions.
• Secluded Beach Relaxation: Bai Nho Beach provides peaceful swimming and photography opportunities amidst limestone scenery.
• Gourmet Local Cuisine: Enjoying a DIY BBQ lunch and fresh seafood dinner adds a fun, tasty twist.
• Flexible and Authentic: Optional activities like seafood gathering on full moon nights offer real local flavor.
• Ideal For: Nature lovers, cultural explorers, and those seeking a gentle escape from city life.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Details of the 2-Day Tour

Starting the Adventure: From Ho Chi Minh City to Phan Thiet

The journey kicks off with a limousine pickup from District 5, Ho Chi Minh City, providing a smooth and comfortable start that sets the tone for the trip. The ride to Phan Thiet is relaxed, avoiding the usual chaos of regular bus or car travel. This part of the journey is especially appreciated for its comfort and ease, giving you more energy to enjoy your time on the island.

Once at Phan Thiet Port, you’ll hop aboard a high-speed boat. This boat ride is a highlight in itself — quick and scenic, with that satisfying sense of leaving behind the city’s hustle behind you. The boat’s speed and reliability depend on weather conditions, so it’s wise to be flexible with timing, but generally, it’s a swift transit that gets you to the island in style.

Arrival and First Impressions on Phu Quy Island

Stepping onto Phu Quy, you’re greeted with a different pace of life. The island’s small size makes it easy to explore, and the local vibe is laid-back and welcoming. You’ll check into a hotel, where, interestingly, motorbike rentals are included — two guests per bike, which means you can explore at your own pace or join guided tours if preferred.

The hotel stay is straightforward, but enough to refresh after your travel. You then get a chance to indulge in a local BBQ lunch at Bo Nong Phu Quy, which is a real treat. The interactive element — slicing your own beef and cooking it to your liking — makes dining here fun and memorable. It’s a simple, authentic way to enjoy local flavors away from touristy spots.

Visiting Spiritual and Cultural Sites

The island’s spiritual sites are a major highlight. The Linh Son Pagoda, built over a century ago, is perched atop Cao Cat Mountain at 61 meters, offering impressive views of the surrounding landscape. The climb to the pagoda’s peak at 85 meters affords panoramic vistas that include the sky, sea, and land — perfect for photography and quiet reflection.

Next, the Thay Sai Nai Tomb offers insight into local spiritual reverence. Surrounded by nature, the site is peaceful, with Hon Den Rock offshore serving as a scenic backdrop. Visitors often comment on the serenity and the beauty of these spots, making them meaningful stops on your cultural journey.

More Great Tours Nearby

Evening Activities and Local Flavors

After dinner at a local restaurant, you’re free to explore the island’s nightlife or relax at your hotel. A particularly memorable experience occurs on full moon nights when locals gather along the shoreline to catch seafood like snails, clams, or crabs. The freshly caught seafood is then enjoyed around a campfire, grilled in true Vietnamese style — a lively, authentic activity that captures the island’s simple pleasures.

Sunrise and Secluded Beach on Day Two

The next morning begins with breakfast at your hotel, followed by a visit to the sovereignty marker where a flag-raising ceremony takes place. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch a stunning sunrise over the sea — a moment that feels both patriotic and profoundly peaceful.

Afterward, you’ll head down a hidden pathway to Bai Nho, one of the island’s best-kept secrets. Enclosed by towering limestone formations, this quiet cove offers soft sands, crystal-clear waters, and calm surroundings perfect for swimming, photography, or just relaxing away from crowds.

Optional visits may include the Phu Quy Lighthouse, a viewpoint worth the trek, or the floating fish farms where you can see local fishing life in action.

Return Journey and Final Thoughts

As your trip concludes, you’ll check out, head back to Phu Quy Port, and board the return boat to Phan Thiet. The limousine transfer back to Ho Chi Minh City makes the entire experience seamless and stress-free.

The Value of This Tour

At $120, this tour offers a balanced mix of comfort, cultural exposure, and natural beauty. The transportation arrangements are designed for ease, and the included meals are local, fresh, and engaging. The flexibility of optional activities and the small group size create an intimate experience that feels more personal than a big bus tour.

The highlight for many travelers is the chance to see unspoiled beaches like Bai Nho, with its limestone cliffs and turquoise waters. The visits to spiritual sites like Linh Son Pagoda also add depth, allowing you to appreciate how locals connect with their cultural roots.

Practical Considerations

Boat schedules can vary depending on weather, which is typical in island trips, so patience and flexibility are key. Also, riding motorbikes requires a valid driver’s license, adding a touch of adventure if you choose to explore independently. The tour’s duration — around two days — suits those with limited time but wanting a meaningful escape from city life.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re seeking a peaceful getaway that combines natural beauty with cultural insights, this tour is a great pick. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy scenic views, quiet beaches, and authentic local food. It’s also perfect if you’re interested in spiritual sites or want to experience Vietnam’s island life without the hassle of planning every detail.

While it’s not a luxury resort experience, the comfort of the transportation and the authenticity of the activities make it an excellent value for the price. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate small-group tours, genuine cultural interactions, and a chance to see a less commercialized side of Vietnam.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the total tour?
The trip is designed for two days, including transfers, sightseeing, meals, and travel time, with return to Ho Chi Minh City in the late afternoon or evening of the second day.

What transportation is included?
Round-trip limousine transfer from District 5 in Ho Chi Minh City to Phan Thiet, and round-trip high-speed boat tickets between Phan Thiet and Phu Quy Island are included for a smooth, comfortable journey.

Are meals covered?
Yes, the tour includes three meals: a local BBQ lunch on the island, dinner at a local restaurant, and breakfast before heading back to the city.

Can I explore the island on my own?
Motorbike rentals are provided (two guests per bike), allowing for independent exploration if you have a valid driver’s license. Otherwise, guided tours at each site are available.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like a hat, swimwear, camera, snacks, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothing suitable for walking and outdoor activities.

Are there activities on full moon nights?
Yes, if your visit coincides with a full moon, you might join locals in seafood gathering along the shoreline, an authentic and lively experience.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
The tour involves some walking and climbing at certain sites, so it’s best suited for those physically able to handle light hikes and outdoor conditions.

What if the weather affects the boat schedule?
Boat departures depend on weather conditions. Flexibility and patience are advised, and the tour provider typically adjusts schedules to ensure safety.

To sum it up, this 2-day Phu Quy Island tour offers a well-rounded escape into Vietnam’s lesser-known island life. It’s a chance to enjoy stunning coastal scenery, connect with local culture, and indulge in fresh seafood, all without sacrificing comfort. Whether you’re a nature lover, a cultural explorer, or simply in need of a peaceful retreat, this adventure delivers a genuine taste of island tranquility that’s hard to find elsewhere.

You can check availability for your dates here: