{"id":9273,"date":"2021-09-27T15:06:58","date_gmt":"2021-09-27T07:06:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/thesmartlocal.com\/vietnam\/?p=9273"},"modified":"2021-11-15T13:42:10","modified_gmt":"2021-11-15T05:42:10","slug":"phu-quoc","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/thesmartlocal.com\/vietnam\/phu-quoc\/","title":{"rendered":"19 Things To Do In Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c: Beach Adventures, Seafood Markets, Serene Temples & Hiking Trails"},"content":{"rendered":"

Things to do in Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c<\/h2>\n
\n

Visitors to Vietnam itching to hit up the beach should head south to Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c,<\/strong> with its large dive-friendly coasts and fresh seafood markets. But there\u2019re many more things to do in Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c besides swimming and surfing – the island is packed with heritage attractions to discover that will reveal a side of Vietnamese culture and history you can\u2019t find in the big cities.<\/p>\n

Here are 19 things to do in Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c<\/strong> for your next relaxing coastal vacation, including natural sights, museums, and amusement parks for everyone in your travel crew to find something they enjoy.<\/p>\n

We\u2019ve organized this list by geographical location, starting from D\u01b0\u01a1ng \u0110\u00f4ng Town, the west coast, east coast, south, then north.<\/p>\n

\n

– D\u01b0\u01a1ng \u0110\u00f4ng Town –<\/h3>\n
\n
\n

1. Watch the harbor from the Dinh C\u1eadu Temple<\/h4>\n
\n

\"phu
\nImage credit: @karinost1969<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Despite being just a teeny temple on an odd-shaped rock, Dinh C\u1eadu Temple is a good place to get a generous view of the harbor. Locals and tourists also drop by to get blessings from the sea goddess Thi\u00ean H\u1eadu whom the temple is dedicated to. This dates back to its history since it was built in 1937, when local fishermen began coming here to pay their respects to the goddess before heading out to sea.<\/p>\n

\"phu
\nThe lighthouse beside the temple<\/em>
\nImage credit: Tuan Anh<\/a>
\n<\/em>
\nTo get to Dinh C\u1eadu Temple, walk up the 28 winding steps to find a stubby little shrine coupled with a bright blue and white lighthouse.<\/p>\n

\"phu
\nImage credit: @night2stay<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Take a moment to enjoy the charming view of the sea and the harbor below, or lounge about the beach till sunset to snap those Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c sunset photos.<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re lucky enough to be here during T\u1ebft<\/a> (the Lunar New Year) or the Dinh C\u1eadu Festival (falling on the 15th and 16th days of the 10th lunar month, usually in November), you\u2019ll find the place teeming with festive activity. Fishermen will gather to pray for a large catch and for their safety at sea, and locals hold games such as boating and stilt-walking races that you can cheer on.<\/p>\n

Tip: As with all sites of worship in Vietnam, be sure to dress appropriately when visiting the temple.<\/p>\n

Address: <\/strong><\/span>Khu ph\u1ed1 2, Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c, Kien Giang
\nGPS coordinates:<\/strong> <\/span>10\u00b0 13′ 1.9806″N, 103\u00b0 57′ 23.0106″E
\nOpening hours:<\/strong> <\/span>7AM-6PM, Daily
\nEntrance fee:<\/strong> <\/span>Free<\/p>\n

\n

2. Fill up on seafood at Dinh C\u1eadu Night Market (Ch\u1ee3 \u0111\u1ec1n Dinh C\u1eadu)<\/h4>\n
\n

\"phu
\n<\/em>Image credit: @tom_leiby<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

After the sunset at the Dinh C\u1eadu Temple, walk 5 minutes inland and fill your stomach at the Dinh C\u1eadu night market. You\u2019ll find tables laden with all kinds of raw seafood. Choose whatever catches your fancy, and it will be cooked for you right in front of your eyes. You can pick whole live fish, crabs, or shrimps from the tanks as well.<\/p>\n

\"phu
\nImage credit: @edyta2106<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

To quench your dessert cravings, head to the ice cream stalls for Thai-style rolled ice cream.<\/p>\n

Tip: Unless you have an iron stomach, pay attention to cleanliness and hygiene. Check the smell and color of seafood to find the freshest picks.<\/p>\n

Address:<\/strong> <\/span>30 \u0110\u01b0\u1eddng Tr\u1ea7n H\u01b0ng \u0110\u1ea1o, TT. D\u01b0\u01a1ng \u0110\u00f4ng, Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c, t\u1ec9nh Ki\u00ean Giang
\nGPS coordinates:<\/strong> <\/span>10\u00b0 12′ 49.0458″N, 103\u00b0 57′ 31.2762″E
\nOpening hours:<\/strong> <\/span>5PM-12AM, Daily<\/p>\n

\n

3. Go people-watching at D\u01b0\u01a1ng \u0110\u00f4ng Market (Ch\u1ee3 D\u01b0\u01a1ng \u0110\u00f4ng)<\/h4>\n
\n

\"phu
\nImage credit: @ashleechil<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

For an authentic local market experience, don\u2019t miss out on the D\u01b0\u01a1ng \u0110\u00f4ng Market<\/strong>. This is the busiest outdoor market in the area where locals get their daily groceries. You\u2019ll also find vendors selling famed Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c products, ranging from fish sauce and dried fish to pepper and cashew nuts.<\/p>\n

\"phu
\nFishing boats docking on the D\u01b0\u01a1ng \u0110\u00f4ng River<\/em>
\nImage credit: @lotusnapper<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

The stretch of the market by the D\u01b0\u01a1ng \u0110\u00f4ng River is the wet market section. Come early in the morning and see swarms of fishing boats pulling in to drop off their daily catch.<\/p>\n

\"phu
\nGrilled sea urchins (left) and sea urchin porridge (right)<\/em>
\nImage adapted from: @phamduchuy1688<\/a> and @anbitran1261997<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

When you\u2019re done exploring, stop for a cheap breakfast at the food and dessert stalls. Must-tries include echinus porridge (ch\u00e1o nhum<\/em>) made with a kind of sea urchin, and cylindrical sticky rice cakes.<\/p>\n

Address:<\/strong> <\/span>21 \u0110. Tr\u1ea7n Ph\u00fa, TT. D\u01b0\u01a1ng \u0110\u00f4ng, Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c, t\u1ec9nh Ki\u00ean Giang
\nGPS coordinates:<\/strong> <\/span>10\u00b0 13′ 14.4978″N, 103\u00b0 57′ 34.8948″E
\nOpening hours:<\/strong> <\/span>7AM-late, Daily<\/p>\n

\n

4. See a uniquely Vietnamese religion\u2019s place of worship – the Cao Dai Temple of Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c (Th\u00e1nh Th\u1ea5t Cao \u0110\u00e0i D\u01b0\u01a1ng \u0110\u00f4ng)<\/h4>\n
\n

\"Th\u00e1nh
\n<\/em>Image credit: yves frombelgium<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

If you see a temple in Vietnam with a bright technicolour exterior, chances are that it belongs to the Cao \u0110\u00e0i religion. Also known as Caodaism, it\u2019s a syncretic religion founded in Vietnam in 1926, combining Buddhism, Christianity, Taoism, Confucianism, and Islam.<\/p>\n

\"cao
\nImage credit: Tu\u1ea5n Ng\u00f4 Anh<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Even if you\u2019re not religious, history and culture buffs will have much to see at the Cao Dai Temple of Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c (Th\u00e1nh Th\u1ea5t Cao \u0110\u00e0i D\u01b0\u01a1ng \u0110\u00f4ng)<\/strong>, such as images of its patron saints such as Vietnamese poet Trang Trinh, the Republic of China\u2019s late president Sun Yat-Sen, French poet Victor Hugo, and Jesus Christ. Visitors are allowed to watch morning worship ceremonies from a respectful distance to see the proceedings.<\/p>\n

Address:<\/strong> <\/span>40 Nguyen Trai Street, D\u01b0\u01a1ng \u0110\u00f4ng Town, Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c
\nGPS coordinates:<\/strong> <\/span>10\u00b0 13′ 3.8136″N, 103\u00b0 57′ 35.6718″E
\nOpening hours:<\/span> <\/strong>7AM-6PM, Daily
\nEntrance fee:<\/span><\/strong> Free\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

\n

5. Explore the eccentric, private C\u1ed9i Ngu\u1ed3n Museum (B\u1ea3o t\u00e0ng C\u1ed9i Ngu\u1ed3n)<\/h4>\n
\n

\"C\u1ed9iImage credit: Eleven_13<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Curious culture buffs and archaeology fans should head for the C\u1ed9i Ngu\u1ed3n Museum (B\u1ea3o t\u00e0ng C\u1ed9i Ngu\u1ed3n)<\/strong>, the Mekong Delta\u2019s first private museum opened by private collector Hu\u1ef3nh Ph\u01b0\u1edbc Hu\u1ec7.<\/p>\n

\"phu
\nImage credit: Bernard_Sierentz<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Here you\u2019ll find displays showing the history of Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c Island, such as medicine, ancient tools, ceramics and shipwreck artefacts, and a quirky set of shiny shell-covered furniture.<\/p>\n

\"C\u1ed9i
\nImage credit: Helen C<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Head up to the observation deck on the top floors to take in a 360-degree view of the island. A hotel and small souvenir shop that visitors can poke around are also attached to this building.<\/p>\n

Address:<\/span><\/strong> 149 Tr\u1ea7n H\u01b0ng \u0110\u1ea1o, Khu ph\u1ed1 7, Th\u1ecb tr\u1ea5n D\u01b0\u01a1ng \u0110\u00f4ng, Huy\u1ec7n Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c, T\u1ec9nh Ki\u00ean Giang, D\u01b0\u01a1ng T\u01a1, Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c, t\u1ec9nh Ki\u00ean Giang
\nGPS coordinates:<\/strong> <\/span>10\u00b0 11′ 34.3206″N, 103\u00b0 58′ 1.8294″E
\nOpening hours:<\/span> <\/strong>7AM-5PM
\nEntrance fee:<\/strong> <\/span>VND20,000 (~USD0.86)<\/p>\n

\n

– West coast –<\/h3>\n
\n
\n

6. Get your tan on at Long Beach (B\u00e3i Tr\u01b0\u1eddng Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c)<\/h4>\n
\n

\"B\u00e3i
\nImage adapted from @ngoclinh.pham<\/a> and @hngocanhh<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

You\u2019ll be able to practice safe distancing while working on your tan on this beach, aptly called the Long Beach (B\u00e3i Tr\u01b0\u1eddng Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c)<\/strong> for its 20KM length stretching from D\u01b0\u01a1ng \u0110\u00f4ng to An Thoi. Plenty of unblocked sunset photography ops can be found here.<\/p>\n

Those who see themselves spending a lot of time on the beach can pick from the many resorts located here, such as the InterContinental Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c Long Beach Resort and Long Beach Resort Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c, to make the most of the yellow sand, palm trees, and calm water in the dry season from November to May each year. Seafood restaurants with ocean views are also aplenty.<\/p>\n

GPS coordinates:<\/span><\/strong> 10\u00b0 6′ 47.0592″N, 103\u00b0 58′ 52.8276″”E<\/p>\n

\n

7. Browse local pearl products at pearl markets and farms<\/h4>\n
\n

\"Ngoc
\nNgoc Hien Pearl Farm\u2019s gallery<\/em>
\nImage credit: Tuan Tran<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

With plenty of beaches, it\u2019s no surprise that Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c boasts pearls as one of its famous products. Head to any pearl market or farm<\/strong> on the island – Ng\u1ecdc Hi\u1ec1n Pearl Farm (Ng\u1ecdc trai Ng\u1ecdc Hi\u1ec1n)<\/strong> and Qu\u1ed1c An Pearl Shopping Mall (CS Nu\u00f4i C\u1ea5y Ng\u1ecdc Trai Qu\u1ed1c An)<\/strong> are two famous stops – and you can be treated to a live introduction of how pearls are cultivated.<\/p>\n

\"quoc
\nQu\u1ed1c An Pearl Shopping Mall<\/em>
\nImage credit: Ph\u00e1t Th\u00e1i<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Of course, this is also your chance to shop for souvenirs that include not just your usual earrings and necklaces, but also sculptures made with pearl shells.<\/p>\n

\"Ng\u1ecdc
\nImage credit: @anuhyun<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

We recommend coming with a guide or trusted local, as prices may be exaggerated and product demonstrations may be rushed – so this is best for folks who already know what they\u2019re prepared to buy and who already have some knowledge of the market.<\/p>\n

Ng\u1ecdc Hi\u1ec1n Pearl Farm<\/strong>
\nAddress: <\/span><\/strong>D\u01b0\u01a1ng T\u01a1, Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c, t\u1ec9nh Ki\u00ean Giang
\nGPS coordinates:<\/span> <\/strong>10\u00b0 10′ 12.1902″N, 103\u00b0 58′ 14.1564″E
\nOpening hours:<\/span> <\/strong>8AM-10PM, Daily<\/p>\n

Quoc An Pearl Shopping Mall<\/strong>
\nAddress: <\/span><\/strong>Su\u1ed1i M\u00e2y, Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c, t\u1ec9nh Ki\u00ean Giang
\nGPS coordinates:<\/span><\/strong> 10\u00b0 11′ 12.6846″N, 103\u00b0 59′ 32.2686″E
\nOpening hours:<\/span> <\/strong>7.30AM-7.30PM, Daily<\/p>\n

\n

– H\u00e0m Ninh\/East coast –<\/h3>\n
\n
\n

8. Hike to Su\u1ed1i Tranh Waterfall (Khu Du L\u1ecbch Su\u1ed1i Tranh)<\/h4>\n
\n

\"suoi
\nImage credit: @hungvu_21<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Past visitors to the east coast of Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c would probably have stopped by the H\u00e0m Ninh Pier and fishing village with seafood restaurants, but the area\u2019s authentic charm has faded.<\/p>\n

So skip the seafood touts and instead head for the 4-meter-high Su\u1ed1i Tranh Waterfall<\/strong>, where you can camp among a lush rainforest, caves, and rock pools. Bring along swimwear, plenty of mosquito repellent, and food, and visit closer to rainy season when the falls are more majestic.<\/p>\n

The adventurous can hike 15 kilometres further in to reach Hang D\u01a1i (Bat Cave), a cave formation 200 metres in height with stalactites.<\/p>\n

Address: <\/span><\/strong>D\u01b0\u01a1ng T\u01a1, Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c, t\u1ec9nh Ki\u00ean Giang
\nGPS coordinates:<\/strong> <\/span>10\u00b0 11′ 1.5534″N, 104\u00b0 0′ 56.4618″E
\nEntrance fee:<\/strong> <\/span>From VND10,000 (~USD0.44)<\/p>\n

\n

9. Climb Ti\u00ean S\u01a1n \u0110\u1ec9nh (Mount Heaven) for a view of the island and coast<\/h4>\n
\n

\"Ti\u00ean
\nImage credit: @kevinhjung<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Turns out, Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c isn\u2019t all about beaches and seafood after all. Forest hiking fans should pack for Ti\u00ean S\u01a1n \u0110\u1ec9nh (Mount Heaven), or H\u00e0m Ninh Mountain<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Here, a challenging four-hour trek through the evergreen forest awaits, ending with a climb up a 10-meter bamboo ladder for a magnificent view from the 565 m-high peak.<\/p>\n

\"Ti\u00ean
\nThe final part of the hike is a ten-meter ladder climb to the top<\/em>
\nImage credit: Huong Nguyen<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

To get here, bike from H\u00e0m Ninh fishing village and park at any local business that offers parking spots that you’re comfortable with. Do skip the flip-flops and come in hiking shoes, and bring along trash bags to keep the environment spotless after you leave.<\/p>\n

Address: <\/span><\/strong>H\u00e0m Ninh, Tp. Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c, t\u1ec9nh Ki\u00ean Giang
\nGPS coordinates:<\/strong> <\/span>10\u00b0 10′ 55.6062″N, 104\u00b0 1′ 32.5266″E<\/p>\n

\n

– South –<\/h3>\n
\n
\n

10. Bask on the white sand of Sao Beach (B\u00e3i t\u1eafm Sao)<\/h4>\n
\n

\"B\u00e3i
\nImage credit: @rieke.mit.ie<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

A popular alternative to Long Beach on the west, Sao Beach (B\u00e3i t\u1eafm Sao)<\/strong> boasts fine white sand and rows of palm trees. You can spend all day here thanks to the rental sunbeds and refreshments from beachside restaurants and roving vendors.<\/p>\n

\"Sao
\nImage credit: @juggiggo<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

An easy stop after you take the world’s longest non-stop three-rope cable car ride – for deets, see #11 below – the beach is best visited from November to March to avoid the summer rainy season tourist crowds.<\/p>\n

There are a few guesthouses here such as My Lan Hotel & Restaurant, but the fewer accommodation choices here mean Sao Beach will be more of a day-trip destination rather than your Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c base.<\/p>\n

Address: <\/span><\/strong>B\u00e3i t\u1eafm Sao
\nGPS coordinates:<\/strong><\/span> 10\u00b0 3′ 25.9956″N, 104\u00b0 2′ 10.9422″E<\/p>\n

\n

11. Take a 7.9km-long cable car ride – the H\u00f2n Th\u01a1m Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c Cable Car<\/h4>\n
\n

\"H\u00f2n
\n<\/em>View facing the Sun World H\u00f2n Th\u01a1m Nature Park cable car departure terminal<\/em>
\nImage credit: @sheepoying<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

A steal compared to other famous cable car rides, the H\u00f2n Th\u01a1m Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c Cable Car is the world\u2019s longest non-stop three-rope cable car ride – as recorded by the Guinness Book of World Records on 3 January 2018, at 7.899.9 m long.<\/p>\n

\"phu
\nImage credit: Huyen Trang Chu Thi<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

It\u2019ll take you from Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c to H\u00f2n Th\u01a1m, the largest of the An Th\u1edbi Islands, on a trip lasting 15 minutes each way. After catching this birds-eye view, you can shop at Sun World H\u00f2n Th\u01a1m Nature Park<\/a>\u2019s Roman castle-like cable car terminal and European seaside resort-like buildings.<\/p>\n

\"Sun
\nImage credit: Duc Hung Nguyen<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Rest assured that the cable cars, which can seat 30 people each, are made by global manufacturer Doppelmayr that\u2019s also built many Austrian, Swiss, and US ski lifts.<\/p>\n

Address: <\/span><\/strong>B\u00e3i \u0110\u1ea5t \u0110\u1ecf, Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c, Kien Giang
\nGPS coordinates (Sun World H\u00f2n Th\u01a1m Nature Park departure terminal):<\/strong> <\/span>10\u00b0 1′ 41.4366″N, 104\u00b0 0′ 29.556″E
\nTicket price:<\/span><\/strong> VND150,000 (~USD6.60)\/adult or child over 1.3m tall, round trip
\nVND100,000(~USD4.40)\/child from 1-1.3m tall
\nFree for children under 1m
\nOpening hours:<\/span> <\/strong>8AM-12PM, 1.30PM-5.30PM, Daily<\/p>\n

\n

12. Snorkel and boat around the An Th\u1edbi Islands (Qu\u1ea7n \u0111\u1ea3o An Th\u1edbi)<\/h4>\n
\n

\"An
\n<\/em>Image credit: @zhuk_sergey_travel<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Snorkel, swim, or fish your way around the An Th\u1edbi Islands (Qu\u1ea7n \u0111\u1ea3o An Th\u1edbi)<\/strong>, a group of 15 islands off Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c\u2019s southern shore. Here, private island-hopping tours are available from USD139 per group, and usually come with hotel pick-ups, an English-speaking guide, snorkeling gear, and fruit for your final sunset viewing stop.<\/p>\n

\"An
\nImage credit: @lorenzachiarello<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Ask your guide to take you beyond the more popular islands of Coconut Island (H\u00f2n D\u1eeba) known for its coconut tree forests and shipwreck off its western beach, and R\u01a1i <\/span>Island (H\u00f2n R\u01a1i) with as-yet-undisturbed coral reefs. There are smaller, uninhabited islands that are less frequently visited but better for diving thanks to their clearer waters – worth the longer trip.<\/p>\n

Address: <\/span><\/strong>Qu\u1ea7n \u0111\u1ea3o An Th\u1edbi, Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c, Ki\u00ean Giang
\nGPS coordinates:<\/span> <\/strong>9\u00b0 59′ 41.1246″N, 104\u00b0 0′ 36.381″E (Coconut Island)<\/p>\n

\n

13. See war history up close at Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c Prison (Nh\u00e0 t\u00f9 Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c)<\/h4>\n
\n

\u00a0\"phu
\n<\/em>Live-sized figurines depicting prison torture
\nImage credit: @tram_ngoc96<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Built by the French in 1949, the Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c Prison (Nh\u00e0 t\u00f9 Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c)<\/strong>\u00a0is where then-North Vietnamese soldiers were imprisoned during the Vietnam War, and now serves as a museum. Once holding over 32,000 prisoners, the prison also was the site of crude torture and punishments by colonial forces from 1967 to 1973 that led to many deaths and also permanent disabilities among its living survivors.<\/p>\n

\"phu
\nImage credit: @koganei_kr<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

History buffs can browse the exhibits of torture instruments, photographs of former prisoners, and graphic life-size mannequins set up to show how prisoners were treated in wartime. Do dress conservatively – as this is a solemn, historical site despite being on a holiday island – and bring plenty of sun protection as it can get hot here.<\/p>\n

Address: <\/span><\/strong>465, \u0110T46, An Th\u1edbi, Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c, t\u1ec9nh Ki\u00ean Giang
\nGPS coordinates:<\/strong> <\/span>10\u00b0 2′ 41.8344″N, 104\u00b0 1′ 7.989″E
\nOpening hours:<\/span> <\/strong>7.30AM-11AM and 1.30PM-5PM, Daily
\nAdmission fee:<\/span><\/strong> Free<\/p>\n

\n

14. Find a slice of peace at H\u1ed9 Qu\u1ed1c Pagoda (Thi\u1ec1n vi\u1ec7n Tr\u00fac L\u00e2m – Ch\u00f9a H\u1ed9 Qu\u1ed1c)<\/h4>\n
\n

\"H\u1ed9
\n<\/em>Image credit: @_dasha_shch_<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Located in the island\u2019s largest Buddhist temple and monastery complex Thi\u1ec1n vi\u1ec7n Tr\u00fac L\u00e2m H\u1ed9 Qu\u1ed1c that was opened on 14 December 2012, H\u1ed9 Qu\u1ed1c Pagoda<\/strong> is located on a mountain on Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c\u2019s eastern coast, facing the sea. This means excellent sunrise views for early risers to visit and get their snaps in.<\/p>\n

\"Thi\u1ec1n
\nImage adapted from @caohathuy<\/a> and @imisna_<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Those needing a dose of spiritual healing can tour the temple grounds dedicated to the Vietnamese Zen Buddhist sect of Tr\u00fac L\u00e2m. Here, you\u2019ll find a Jade Buddha statue, a gigantic Guan Yin statue, an outdoor dragon staircase, and a huge worship bell.<\/p>\n

\"Thi\u1ec1n
\nImage credit: @___celinus___<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

As photogenic as the temple is, do dress appropriately for the religious site, and bring easily removable shoes as you\u2019ll need to slip them off when entering any building.<\/p>\n

Address:<\/span><\/strong> D\u01b0\u01a1ng T\u01a1, Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c, Kien Giang
\nGPS coordinates:<\/span> <\/strong>10\u00b0 6′ 37.281″N, 104\u00b0 1′ 43.7232″E
\nOpening hours:<\/strong> <\/span>6AM-6PM, Daily
\nAdmission fee:<\/strong> <\/span>Free<\/p>\n

\n

– North –<\/h3>\n
\n
\n

15. Take an eco-tour around bee and pepper farms<\/h4>\n
\n

\"phu
\nImage credit: @eveabsentia<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Bees are crucial to our ecosystem, enabling a wide variety of plants to grow thanks to their role as pollinators. See them up close and personal by touring Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c’s bee farms<\/strong>, where you can learn how honey is made.<\/p>\n

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\nImage adapted from Worldschooling with Queenie Tan<\/a> and Dano<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

You can sample honey drinks and snacks here, and buy the hardworking bees’ fresh honey as a souvenir.<\/p>\n

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\nPepper farms<\/em>
\nImage adapted from @bilazism<\/a> and @von_hannover_nach<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Pepper farms<\/strong> are also dotted all over the island – so it\u2019s no wonder why pepper is a major Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c export. The island\u2019s quartz-rich soil makes it well-suited to grow the essential crop, which you can of course buy on-site.<\/p>\n

You can enquire with most hotels and travel agencies about bee and pepper farm tours, and they\u2019ll be happy to set one up for you. We recommend Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c Bee Farm for its sustainable farming practices and stance against destructive honey-gathering methods. Plus, it\u2019s conveniently located near a pepper farm too so you can hit up both spots in one trip.<\/p>\n

Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c Bee Farm<\/strong>
\nAddress:<\/span><\/strong>Ap 2, Cua Can, Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c
\nGPS coordinates:<\/span> <\/strong>10\u00b0 18′ 53.3478″N, 103\u00b0 56′ 28.1178″E
\nOpening hours:<\/span><\/strong> 9AM-5PM, Daily
\nAdmission fee:<\/span> <\/strong>Free<\/p>\n

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16. Wade with starfish at R\u1ea1ch V\u1eb9m fishing village (L\u00e0ng ch\u00e0i R\u1ea1ch V\u1eb9m) and beach<\/h4>\n
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\"R\u1ea1ch
\n<\/em>Image credit: @mie_nguyen03<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Located in a less-developed part of the north coast, R\u1ea1ch V\u1eb9m fishing village (L\u00e0ng ch\u00e0i R\u1ea1ch V\u1eb9m) and beach <\/strong>are best known for its floating fish farms and seafood restaurants – another alternative spot where you can experience simple village life and eat fresh seafood on the island.<\/p>\n

It doesn\u2019t hurt that the beach offers white sand and shallow waters with lots of starfish you can see up close. Do avoid picking them up and if they are stranded, release them back into the water quickly and gently.<\/p>\n

\"R\u1ea1ch
\nWooden walkway to the floating fishing village<\/em>
\nImage credit: @aleks.koziura<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Take a walk on the wooden walkways of the village and catch the sunset views here too.<\/p>\n

Address: <\/span><\/strong>R\u1ea1ch V\u1eb9m, Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c, Kien Giang
\nGPS coordinates:<\/span><\/strong> 10\u00b0 21′ 53.9958″N, 103\u00b0 55′ 52.7052″E
\nAdmission fee:<\/span> <\/strong>Free<\/p>\n

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17. Explore UNESCO-recognized Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c National Park (V\u01b0\u1eddn qu\u1ed1c gia Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c)<\/h4>\n
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\"Ph\u00fa
\nImage credit: @michaelkey10<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Located 30 minutes\u2019 drive from Ganh Dau, Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c National Park<\/strong> occupies most of the northern part of the island, boasting evergreen forest and dense mountains. It is part of the Kien Giang Biosphere Reserve that in 2006 earned its UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status and was formally awarded in 2010.<\/p>\n

\"Ph\u00fa
\nImage credit: @thewilddaisylover<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Most of the park\u2019s over 314,000 square metres of flora and fauna are strictly protected by the government, aside from the trail open to visitors. Here, you can camp, hike, and animal-watch and spot long-tailed macaques, silver langurs, slow lories, otters, hornbills, and more wildlife. Jeep tours are also available for people who\u2019d like to go further into the reserve.<\/p>\n

Do check with your local tour guide before visiting Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c if the park will be open, as intermittent closures have been observed by visitors in 2021.<\/p>\n

Address: <\/span><\/strong>Huy\u1ec7n Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c, Kien Giang
\nGPS coordinates:<\/span> <\/strong>10\u00b0 19′ 54.897″N, 103\u00b0 58′ 26.8068″E (Guardhouse)
\nAdmission fee:<\/span><\/strong> Free<\/p>\n

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18. Spot Cambodia from afar on G\u00e0nh D\u1ea7u Beach (B\u00e3i bi\u1ec3n G\u00e0nh D\u1ea7u)<\/h4>\n
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\"G\u00e0nh
\n<\/em>Image credit: @lucilermn<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Located on Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c\u2019s extreme northwestern tip, Ganh Dau Beach (B\u00e3i bi\u1ec3n G\u00e0nh D\u1ea7u)<\/strong> is removed from modern amenities and relatively undeveloped. Just 4km away lies the Cambodian coast that you can spot on the horizon from the beach.<\/p>\n

While here, drop by the fishing village and market, and also a small temple dedicated to national hero Nguy\u1ec5n Trung Tr\u1ef1c who fought against the French in the 1860s. Admission to this spot is free.<\/p>\n

\"Mun\u2019s
\nMun\u2019s Cafe<\/em>
\nImage credit: Kyle Byrnes<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

A few cafes and restaurants have also taken advantage of this view and set up shop in the scenic area. We recommend Mun\u2019s Cafe, a beachside spot with open-air seating, pina coladas, and sunset views.<\/p>\n

Address: <\/span><\/strong>B\u00e3i bi\u1ec3n G\u00e0nh D\u1ea7u, Kien Giang
\nGPS coordinates:<\/strong><\/span> 10\u00b0 22′ 21.4536″N, 103\u00b0 50′ 17.8368″E<\/p>\n

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19. Let loose at Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c United Center\u2019s theme parks and safari<\/h4>\n
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\"VinWonders
\nImage credit: Vinpearl Land Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Touted as the country\u2019s first \u201csleepless city\u201d, Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c United Center<\/strong> comprises theme parks such as Vietnam\u2019s largest theme park VinWonders Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c, shopping areas, casinos, golf courses, resorts, hotels, and even a safari called Vinpearl Safari promising non-stop fun.<\/p>\n

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\nImage credit: Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c United Center<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

VinWonders Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c might be the main draw, thanks to its 6 component parks including a European street recreation, a water park, Viking-inspired village, and a fantasy-themed area.<\/p>\n

\"Ph\u00fa
\nImage credit: Vinpearl Safari Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

We have to give Vinpearl Safari a shoutout for being Vietnam\u2019s largest zoo, home to indigenous and rare plants and animals, including endangered species that you can see on foot or via their zoo and safari rides.<\/p>\n

Animal shows start at 10AM and 2PM besides Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and visitors can also dine in a restaurant right beside curious giraffes.<\/p>\n

\"Vinpearl
\nImage credit: Vinpearl Safari Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

You\u2019ll have no problem heading to Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c United Center if you\u2019re staying at D\u01b0\u01a1ng \u0110\u00f4ng town, thanks to its free shuttle service from the town to the park. Alternatively, if you want to make the complex your base for a few days so you can explore it thoroughly, there are over 12,000 hotel rooms here across multiple accommodation options ready for you to rest in.<\/p>\n

Admission fee (VinWonders Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c):<\/span> <\/strong>VND500,000\/adult, VND400,000\/child (1-1.4m tall) or senior citizen
\nAdmission fee (Vinpearl Land & Vinpearl Safari combo ticket):<\/span><\/strong> VND900,000\/adult, VND750,000\/child or senior citizen
\nAddress: <\/span><\/strong>\u0110T45, G\u00e0nh D\u1ea7u, Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c, t\u1ec9nh Ki\u00ean Giang
\nGPS coordinates:<\/span> <\/strong>10\u00b0 19′ 40.2888″N, 103\u00b0 51′ 55.839\u201dE
\nTelephone:<\/span> <\/strong>90 699 41 13
\nPh\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c United Center website<\/a> | Facebook page<\/a><\/p>\n

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Things to do in Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c<\/h3>\n
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Although Vietnam isn\u2019t the first place Southeast Asia\u2019s tourists think of when it comes to beach holidays, the island of Ph\u00fa Qu\u1ed1c will make you think otherwise.<\/p>\n

And there\u2019s more than just suntanning here – the nature hikes, temples, museums, and historical tours will show you a new side of Vietnam you can\u2019t see in the big, crowded cities.<\/p>\n