Sightseeing to the South of Phu Quoc Island and Relax on Sao Beach

Traveling through Phu Quoc often means spending time on its gorgeous beaches, but if you’re eager to see a different side of the island, this full-day tour of southern and eastern Phu Quoc offers a balanced mix of cultural discovery, local flavors, and beachside relaxation. With a focus on authentic experiences and a small-group setting, it’s perfect for those who want more than just sunbathing—although, you’ll still get plenty of that too.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to visit unique sites like pearl farms and fish sauce factories—both vital to Phu Quoc’s local economy and culture. Second, the historical visit to the Coconut Prison provides a sobering insight into Vietnam’s past, which many reviews highlight as a moving experience. Third, the combination of sightseeing with a relaxing stop at Sao Beach offers a balanced day that satisfies curiosity and craving for leisure.

However, a quick consideration is the early start and packed schedule, which might be a bit rushed for those wanting a more laid-back or focused exploration. Also, some of the shopping stops, often early in the day, could feel a little promotional, but most find them interesting rather than intrusive. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy learning about local culture, history, and traditions while also appreciating some downtime on beautiful beaches.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures more personalized attention from your guide.
• Diverse itinerary covers cultural, historical, and natural attractions.
• Authentic experiences like pearl farming, wine tasting, and fish sauce production.
• Balance of sightseeing and relaxation with ample time at Sao Beach.
• Insightful guides provide context and stories that bring the sites to life.
• Cost-effective at $24 per person with many attractions and entrance fees included.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Visiting Ngoc Hien Pearl Farm

The day kicks off around 9 am with hotel pickup (or a meeting point if you’re outside Duong Dong). The Ngoc Hien Pearl Farm is a highlight—here, you can not only admire the shiny, cultivated pearls but also see how local artisans extract pearls from the sea. According to reviews, the guide explains this process clearly, making it an engaging learning experience. Plus, watching a local “sea boy” harvest a pearl is a surprisingly captivating moment, especially for those unfamiliar with pearl cultivation.

For many, this visit feels authentic and educational rather than commercial. The admission is free, but the insights into how pearls are farmed and the chance to browse handcrafted jewelry add value for those interested in local crafts.

Sampling Sim Wine at Sim Son Phu Quoc

Next, the tour takes you to the Sim wine factory. Here, you taste Rose Myrtle wine, a unique product made solely on Phu Quoc from local myrtle fruit. Reviewers mention that the tastings range from light to stronger alcohol levels, which is perfect for wine enthusiasts or the curious. If you enjoy discovering local beverages, this stop offers a genuine taste of island life. And if you fall in love with the wine, you can buy bottles from the store—an easy souvenir to remember your trip.

Pepper Farm Visit

Followed by a visit to a pepper farm, where the lush green rows of pepper plants create a vivid landscape. The farm is a sensory experience, with the aroma of green pepper filling the air. Travelers note that the farm’s beauty and the quality of the pepper are impressive, and it’s a great chance to see how this essential ingredient is grown and harvested. For those who love cooking or spice, this is a small but flavorful highlight.

Ho Quoc Temple: The Largest Buddhist Pagoda

Mid-morning, the tour heads to Ho Quoc Pagoda, a sprawling Buddhist temple perched at the foot of a mountain, facing the sea. The views from here are stunning, with the temple’s architecture blending with the natural surroundings. Visitors often comment on the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to learn about local religious practices. It’s a serene spot that offers both spiritual insight and picturesque scenery.

Relaxing at Sao Beach & Lunch Break

Then comes a well-earned break at Sao Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches on the island—crystal-clear water, powdery white sand, and tranquil surroundings. Here, you can choose to relax, take a swim, or even try some water sports (at your own expense). Reviewers frequently mention how relaxing this part of the day is, with many appreciating the chance to unwind after a morning of sightseeing.

If you selected the lunch option, a meal at a local restaurant awaits, typically seafood-heavy but with options for non-seafood eaters. The reviews praise the quality and freshness of the food, describing it as a highlight of the day. For some, the lunch menu is more than enough value for the price, especially considering the scenic location.

Visiting Phu Quoc Prison (Coconut Prison)

The afternoon begins with a visit to the Phu Quoc Prison, a site steeped in history. This former detention center was used by French colonists and later by the South Vietnamese government. The experience can be intense, with artifacts, reconstructed scenes of torture, and stories shared by the guide. Many reviewers find this stop moving and educational, offering a chance to reflect on Vietnam’s turbulent past. It’s advised to be mentally prepared, as some scenes are quite graphic.

Fish Sauce Factory: A Local Specialty

Next, you’ll walk to a fish sauce factory, where the production of Phu Quoc’s famous fish sauce is showcased. This artisanal product is considered an iconic ingredient in Vietnamese cuisine—think of it as the island’s culinary gold. Visitors often find it fascinating that local fish sauce is produced with such care and tradition, akin to Italy’s olive oil or France’s champagne. The free factory visit includes a brief tasting, although some mention that the experience is quite brief.

Ending the Day at Sun Premier Village Primavera

The tour concludes with a check-in at Sun Premier Village Primavera around 3:45 pm, where you can take a walking tour of highlights like the Kiss Bridge and Clock Tower. For those with extra time and interest, options to visit the Sunset Sanato or the Night Market in Duong Dong are available at your own expense. The group generally returns to the hotel by 4:30 pm, making this a full but well-rounded day.

The Experience: What Travelers Are Saying

Several reviews praise the knowledgeable guides—most notably, a guide named Ren, who was described as very explanatory and enthusiastic about Vietnamese culture. Travelers appreciate the diverse stops that include sites they wouldn’t visit independently, like the pepper farm and fish sauce factory. The lunch is often highlighted as delicious, with many describing the menu as plentiful and well-prepared.

Some mention the early shopping stops as a minor irritation, feeling they take up too much time at the start of the day. Still, most agree that these stops are interesting and add to the overall experience. The small group size of up to 20 travelers means that questions are welcomed, and the guide can adapt to the group’s interests.

Travelers also love the opportunity to relax at Sao Beach, which many describe as a paradise-like spot—quiet, clean, and perfect for unwinding after a morning of exploration. The mix of culture, history, and leisure makes this tour stand out as a comprehensive way to see Phu Quoc.

Practical Aspects: Transportation, Cost, and What to Expect

The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off within Duong Dong town, which is convenient and hassle-free. The price of $24 per person is quite reasonable considering the number of stops and included entrance fees, making it a good value for travelers wanting an introduction to the island’s highlights.

The duration of approximately 6 hours 30 minutes means you’ll cover a lot without feeling overwhelmed. Groups are small, allowing for more personal interaction with guides who are knowledgeable about the sites and local culture.

You can choose to upgrade to include lunch, which many reviews say is worth it, especially given the scenic setting and quality food. Be aware that outside certain areas, there are extra charges for pick-up and drop-off, and the tour only visits some attractions during the rainy season (May to October), so it’s worth planning accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience appeals most to travelers who want a well-rounded introduction to Phu Quoc, combining culture, history, and relaxation. It’s ideal for those who enjoy learning about local traditions, such as pearl farming and fish sauce production, and for anyone interested in Vietnam’s past.

If you prefer more relaxed, beach-focused days, the stop at Sao Beach offers a perfect break. Conversely, history buffs or curious travelers will appreciate the insights shared at the prison and temples. The group size ensures a friendly atmosphere, making it suitable for solo travelers, couples, or small groups.

The Sum Up

This tour offers an excellent way to cover a variety of highlights in a single day on Phu Quoc. From the stunning pearl farms and pepper plantations to the sobering history at Coconut Prison, every stop provides a meaningful glimpse into the island’s culture and past. The inclusion of relaxing time at Sao Beach balances the day, making it suitable for those who want a mix of discovery and leisure.

For the price, you get a lot—engaging guides, diverse sites, tasteful local food, and a chance to see parts of Phu Quoc you might not discover on your own. The small group size and flexible itinerary make it a practical choice for travelers who value authentic experiences and personal attention.

If you’re after a day of culture, history, and beach relaxation, this tour is a solid investment in exploring the real Phu Quoc beyond the usual beaches.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 9:00 am with hotel pickup within Duong Dong town.

Is lunch included in the price?
Yes, you have the option to include lunch at a local restaurant, which many reviews say is delicious and plentiful.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, covering multiple attractions and a beach stop.

Are there any additional costs?
Extra charges may apply for pick-up outside Duong Dong or for visits to certain areas like Sunset Sanato or Night Market if you choose to visit those after the tour.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, hat, water, and comfortable footwear. The tour provides a bottle of mineral water and includes all entrance fees.

Is this suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, with a small group size, solo travelers will find the atmosphere friendly and engaging.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The order of stops may change, but all attractions are usually visited. Customization isn’t specified but flexible scheduling is possible within the group.

Does the tour operate during the rainy season?
Yes, but some sites like Tranh Stream may only be visited in the dry season (May to October). Always check for seasonal updates.

How do I get back to my hotel?
The tour ends with drop-off at your hotel within Duong Dong around 4:30 pm, included in the price.

This tour makes for a great introduction to Phu Quoc, blending cultural insights with beachside lounging, all wrapped up in a well-organized, value-packed package.