Phu Quoc Land 1: Southern Tour & Sao Beach

Travelers seeking a manageable yet enriching way to explore Phu Quoc’s southern highlights will find the Land 1: Southern Tour & Sao Beach a solid option. Priced at just $14 per person, this 7.5-hour trip packs in a variety of local sights, from historic sites to relaxing beach time, with a focus on authenticity and value.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the knowledgeable guides bring the island’s stories to life, making each stop more meaningful. Second, the stunning Sao Beach offers a perfect haven for swimming and sunbathing, appealing to those craving some R&R. Third, local visits like the pearl farm and fish sauce factory provide insight into Vietnam’s island industries, often overlooked in quick trips.

That said, one potential consideration is the organized shopping stops—some travelers might find the brief visits to farms and factories more geared towards sales than education. Also, the tour is quite packed, which leaves little room for spontaneous exploration.

This experience suits travelers who want a rundown of Phu Quoc’s highlights without the hassle of organizing transport or multiple bookings, especially first-timers or solo travelers who prefer guided comfort. If you’re after a balance of history, nature, and beach leisure, this tour offers a lot for its modest price.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $14, the tour offers excellent value for multiple attractions and a full-day experience.
• Diverse Itinerary: From the Coconut Tree Prison to Sao Beach, every stop offers a different perspective on the island.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Ren and Tai are praised for their humor, knowledge, and friendliness.
• Authentic Local Experiences: Tours include visits to a pearl farm, fish sauce factory, and wine-making facilities.
• Relaxing Beach Time: Sao Beach provides a peaceful spot to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy lunch.
• Convenient Logistics: Round-trip transportation, with pickup options in Duong Dong Town, make the trip smooth.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Close Look at the Tour Itinerary

Pickup and Departure

The tour begins early, around 8:45 to 9:00 AM, with pickups from central locations like John’s Tours office or your hotel in Duong Dong town. The convenience of included transportation simplifies your day and minimizes hassle, though pickups from outside the town may incur extra fees. Travelers should be ready 15 minutes before departure to keep things on schedule, as buses run tight on time.

Pearl Farm & Sim Wine Factory

First stop is the Pearl Farm, where you’ll get a firsthand look at how pearls are harvested and how jewelry is crafted. Reviewers highlight the engaging explanations of the process and the opportunity to see pearls up close. One guest mentioned winning a pearl at the museum, which adds a fun twist. You’ll also visit the Sim Wine Factory, where local wine is produced. Tasting the wine gives insight into this traditional craft, and it’s included in the tour.

Pepper Farm & Fish Sauce Factory

Next, you’ll explore a local family garden pepper farm—a chance to see how pepper is harvested and processed sustainably. Guests can learn about traditional farming methods, making this stop both visual and educational. The fish sauce factory reveals the island’s signature condiment, with guided explanations on the fermentation process. As one reviewer put it, sampling fish sauce and tasting local products adds a genuine flavor to the tour’s culinary aspect.

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Coconut Tree Prison & War Museum

A poignant stop is the Coconut Tree Prison, a historic site that once held prisoners of war. Visitors often note how the site’s somber atmosphere contrasts with the lively market or beach scenes, providing a sobering reminder of the island’s past. The war museum further contextualizes this history, making it a meaningful experience without feeling overly heavy. One reviewer said it was “saddening but important to visit.”

Ho Quoc Pagoda and Local Temples

The Buddhist temple at Ho Quoc offers tranquility and panoramic views, great for photos and a moment of reflection. Guided explanations help visitors appreciate the cultural significance of the site.

Sao Beach – The Highlight

By mid-day, the tour reaches Sao Beach, often praised as one of the island’s most beautiful beaches. Here, travelers get a generous lunch break—usually featuring a variety of local dishes, seafood, and fresh fruit—giving ample time to relax, swim, or sunbathe. Multiple reviews mention how relaxing and stunning the setting is, with clear waters and soft sand making it ideal for unwinding.

Sunset Town & Local Landmarks

Later in the afternoon, you’ll explore Sunset Town, taking a walking tour around Kiss Bridge and the Clock Tower—iconic sights perfect for photos. Some travelers opt to visit Sunset Sanato or the Night Market in Duong Dong Town on their own, at their own expense, to extend their evening experience.

Return and Drop-off

The tour wraps up around 4:30 PM with return to your accommodation or designated drop-off points. The flexible schedule allows for optional visits to local markets or sunset spots, which many guests enjoy as a perfect end to the day.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The package offers round-trip transportation, an English-speaking guide, and a bottle of water—all ensuring comfort and convenience. Lunch, additional personal expenses, and souvenirs are not included but can be purchased at various stops.

Travelers are advised to bring sunscreen, a towel, and swimwear for the beach and sea activities. Since the tour involves several stops with shopping opportunities, a modest amount of extra cash is recommended for purchases and tips.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

While the tour incorporates several stops that are popular with visitors, reviewers appreciate the depth of local insights offered by guides like Ren and Tai. One reviewer praised Ren for his humor and detailed explanations, emphasizing that the tour provided a genuine glimpse into the island’s culture and history. The visits to the pearl farm and fish sauce factory are more than just quick photo ops; they include guided explanations that enrich understanding of local industries.

The Coconut Tree Prison stands out as a meaningful site, reminding visitors of Phu Quoc’s complex past. Although somber, many appreciated the opportunity to reflect, with some noting how the site’s European-like architecture and open spaces make it a compelling visit.

For beach lovers, Sao Beach remains the star attraction. Its pristine sands and clear waters earn frequent praise, and the included lunch there means you get to enjoy the scenery with zero hassle.

The Value Proposition

At just $14, including transportation, guide service, and a variety of sites, this tour offers outstanding value. It balances sightseeing, cultural education, and relaxation, making it an efficient way to see much of what southern Phu Quoc has to offer without the stress of planning each detail yourself.

The reviews reflect consistent satisfaction, with many mentioning how the tour exceeded expectations, especially regarding the knowledgeable guides and the chance to sample local products like wine, pepper, and fish sauce. For those seeking an affordable, well-organized introduction to the island, this trip hits the right notes.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors who want a broad overview in one day. Solo travelers or small groups will appreciate the social aspect and guided insights. It’s perfect for budget-conscious travelers seeking good value, and those interested in local culture, history, and natural beauty.

However, if you’re a beach fanatic, Sao Beach alone might be worth an independent trip, but combined with the cultural stops, it makes for a balanced day. Those with mobility issues should note that the tour involves walking around several sites, but there’s no strenuous activity involved.

Final Thoughts

The Phu Quoc Land 1: Southern Tour & Sao Beach offers a practical, insightful, and enjoyable way to explore the southern part of the island. It combines history, local industries, and stunning scenery into a compact package that delivers more than its price suggests. The guides’ knowledge and friendly demeanor elevate the experience, making it feel personal rather than overly commercial.

For travelers who want a full day of sightseeing, cultural insights, and beach relaxation without breaking the bank, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy learning about local life and history while soaking up the sun on a beautiful beach. With flexible options and positive reviews backing its authenticity, it’s a solid choice for making the most of your time in Phu Quoc.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip transportation is included from central locations in Duong Dong Town, with additional fees if pickup is outside these areas.

How long does the tour last? The full experience takes approximately 7.5 hours, starting around 8:45-9:00 AM and returning by 4:30 PM.

What should I bring? You’ll want to bring sunscreen, a towel, swimsuit, comfortable walking shoes, and some cash for extras or shopping.

Are meals included? No, lunch is not included, but you’ll have a chance to enjoy a generous meal at Sao Beach during the stop.

Can I customize or extend the tour? The schedule is fixed, but optional visits to Sunset Sanato or the Night Market are available at your own expense after the tour.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women? It’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with mobility impairments due to the walking involved.

What language are guides available in? Guides speak both English and Vietnamese, with reviews praising their knowledge and humor.

Are there shopping opportunities? Yes, several stops include brief visits to farms and factories where shopping is encouraged, but no pressure is applied.

What is the tour’s capacity? The reviews mention groups of around 30 people, which can feel busy, but guides manage the flow well.

How do I book or confirm pickups? You should contact the provider after booking with your hotel info or to arrange pickup points at least 24 hours in advance.

This tour offers a balanced glimpse into Phu Quoc’s culture, history, and natural beauty—all at a very reasonable price. Whether you’re snapping photos at Sao Beach or learning about pearl cultivation, you’ll come away with a richer appreciation of this charming island.

You can check availability for your dates here: